A casino is a place where people can gamble on games of chance, or on games that have an element of skill, such as poker. Its customer base is made up of both regular patrons and tourists. In addition to gambling, casinos offer food, drink, and entertainment. They also provide security and surveillance. Some have sophisticated cameras that give them a “eye-in-the-sky” view of the entire floor. Other cameras focus on specific suspicious patrons, and the video feed can be reviewed for any evidence of cheating or other illegal activity.
The casino industry is booming. In 2002, about 51 million people (a quarter of all Americans over 21) visited casinos in the United States. Worldwide, the figure is probably much higher. Casinos are often located near tourist attractions, and they attract tourists with their bright lights, exotic games, and lavish amenities.
Despite the glamour, most casinos are built on a foundation of mathematics, engineered to slowly bleed customers. Many mathematically inclined minds have tried to beat the house edge, but it’s a difficult task.
The casino industry has changed dramatically since the mob’s heyday. In the 1970s, large real estate investors and hotel chains began to realize the potential of casinos. They bought out the mobsters, and mob influence faded. Today, large casino businesses are run by businessmen with deep pockets. They can afford to offer luxuries such as free drinks, elaborate stage shows, and even private jets for high rollers.
