Casinos are the big money makers in the gaming industry, bringing in billions of dollars in profits each year. While the glitz of musical shows, lighted fountains and shopping centers are what draws in the crowds, casinos would not exist without games of chance. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat and other gambling games provide the winnings that keep casinos in business. This article looks at the history of casinos, how they make their money, what types of games they have and some of the dark secrets of the casino business.
One of the main goals of a casino is to trick its patrons into gambling more money than they have in their pockets. This is why casinos use bright, sometimes gaudy floor and wall coverings that stimulate the senses. They often avoid using clocks in their buildings because they do not want people to know the time. Players are also encouraged to gamble by giving them chips instead of cash. This psychologically tricks them into thinking they are not gambling with real money and encourages them to bet more.
Casinos make a lot of their money from high rollers who spend tens of thousands of dollars at the tables. These big spenders are rewarded with comps such as free hotel rooms, food and drinks. They are allowed to gamble in separate rooms where the stakes are much higher than on the main casino floor and the attention they receive is more lavish. Casinos also spend a large amount of money on security. Cameras watch the building, special cards keep track of who is playing and paper shredders protect customer records.