What You Could Expect to See at a Casino

Casinos are places where you can play a variety of games of chance. They are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, providing billions of dollars in profits to casinos across the country every year.

The History of the Casino

Gambling is not a new idea, with carved six-sided dice and protodice dating back to ancient archaeological sites all over the world [Source: Schwartz]. However, the concept of gambling as a public place did not emerge until the 16th century. During this time, Italian aristocrats held private parties in gambling clubs called ridotti. The closure of these clubs pushed gambling into smaller venues that were subsequently known as casinos.

How Casinos Make Their Money

The key to a successful casino is having a statistical advantage over the player, or the house edge. This mathematical advantage means that, in most cases, the casino will always make money. This allows the casino to offer expensive entertainment, lighted fountains, elaborate hotels, shopping centers and extravagant themes to attract tourists.

Popular Casino Games

There are a wide variety of casino games available to players, with many more being added all the time. They range from the simple slot machines and blackjack to more sophisticated games that require strategy and skill.

What You Could Expect to See at a Casino

While musical shows, lighted fountains and lavish hotels draw in most visitors, gambling is the main attraction of casinos. The majority of their profits are derived from the games of chance that they offer. The games themselves include slots, blackjack, roulette, craps and keno.