Casinos are gambling establishments that offer games of chance or a combination of chance and skill. Games include table games (like blackjack and roulette), video poker, craps, baccarat, and some types of card games. The casino makes money through the games and also from food, drink, and entertainment. A large percentage of the profits, however, come from the games themselves. Most games have a built-in advantage for the house that ensures it will win over players over time. This is known as the house edge, and it varies by game.
Casino patrons may cheat, steal, or collude with each other in an attempt to beat the odds and take home more winnings than they lose. This is why casinos spend a great deal of money on security. They also have high-tech surveillance systems that give them an eye-in-the-sky view of the entire casino floor from a control room filled with banks of monitors.
Another way casinos try to manipulate gamblers is by creating an enticing atmosphere. Many casinos feature lavish decorations and exotic locales that create a euphoric experience. They also waft scented oils through their ventilation systems to make customers feel comfortable. Casinos also encourage people to stay longer by giving out free goods and services, called comps. These can include hotel rooms, dinners, show tickets, and even limo service for big-spenders. Many casinos do not put clocks on the casino floor, because they want gamblers to lose track of time and play for as long as possible.