Under the glitter of flashing lights and free cocktails, casinos are built on a bedrock of mathematics, engineered to slowly bleed their patrons of cash. For years mathematically inclined minds have sought to turn the tables, using their knowledge of probability and game theory to outwit a rigged system. But it turns out that casinos have the same defenses as any other business: if you can’t beat them, don’t play them.
Casinos use a lot of technology to monitor their patrons. The machines themselves are wired to a central computer so that security can quickly discover any statistical deviation from expected results. Casinos also have catwalks in the ceiling that allow security people to look down, through one-way glass, on the activity on the floor.
Many casinos try to make their games look as attractive as possible to entice gamblers. The ones with the worst odds, such as slots and craps, are buffed up with bright colors and flashing lights.
A few years ago, the mob owned a large share of the gambling business. But real estate investors and hotel chains with deeper pockets bought out the mobsters and began running their own casinos without mob interference. Casinos have also started to appear on American Indian reservations, which aren’t subject to state antigambling laws.
The typical casino gambler is a forty-six-year-old woman from a family with above-average income. They tend to be married with children, and gamble for longer periods of time. Casinos use a variety of incentives to keep their gamblers coming back, including special offers like “Game of the Week” promotions and loyalty programs that offer extra betting credits.