Gambling in its many forms has been part of human culture for millennia. From dice to baccarat, casinos offer high stakes and high glamour. But behind the flashing lights, free drinks and opulent suites lie a complex web of mathematics designed to slowly bleed patrons of their hard-earned cash. Fortunately, mathematically inclined people have been trying to turn the tables on these rigged games for years.
Casinos rely on customer service to drive business and keep gamblers coming back for more. They reward frequent players with “comps,” or complimentary goods and services, such as food, hotel rooms, show tickets and limo service. The amount of time and money a gambler spends at the casino determines how often he or she receives comps. Some casinos even have VIP programs with special gifts like electronics and vacations.
Until recently, most casinos favored the volume of customers over their quality. The goal was to fill hotel rooms and the casino floor with as many people as possible to increase profits. Now, casinos are choosier and concentrate on the “high rollers,” who play with large sums of money. These big spenders are given special treatment and gambling rooms that are separate from the main casino floor.
Casinos also try to create a mesmerizing experience by using bright colors and gaudy wall and floor coverings. Red is especially popular because it stimulates the senses and makes people lose track of time. Some casinos don’t even have clocks on the walls because they want patrons to stay longer. However, staying too long can be physically and emotionally draining, so it’s important to make smart choices and take a break from the games whenever possible.