A casino is a facility where people can gamble by playing games of chance, often with a skill element. Most games have a mathematically determined house edge that gives the casino a long-term profit margin, while offering players the possibility of a short-term gain. Casinos also earn money by taking a commission on the winning bets, known as the vigorish. Some casinos, particularly those in the United States, have a high degree of security, with cameras monitoring all areas of the property and requiring players to keep their faces visible at all times.
The word casino may refer to:
In a sense, the term casino is a modern invention. It derives from the Italian cazino, diminutive of casa (“house”). However, gambling has existed in many societies throughout history. The precise origin is unknown, but it is widely believed to have been the result of social pressures to compete and to achieve status through group activities such as a game.
There are three general categories of casino games: gaming machines, table games, and random number games. Gaming machines are machines that accept cash or casino chips for a chance to win a prize based on the selection of random numbers generated by a computer program or by other mechanical means. Table games, such as blackjack and craps, involve one or more players who are competing against the house (the casino), and are conducted by croupiers or dealers. Random number games, such as roulette and baccarat, are based on the selection of random numbers from a random number generator.
A large part of the revenue of a casino comes from gambling, but some also earn income through food, drinks, lodging, and other amenities. Some casinos are located in hotels or other buildings with a full range of amenities, and some are freestanding establishments.
The earliest reference to a casino as a place for music and dancing was in a letter of 1762 from Lord Chiswick to the Duke of Richmond:
In the nineteenth century, the Monte Carlo Casino became a major source of income for Monaco. It was depicted in numerous novels and films, including the 1956 film “Casino” starring Frank Sinatra. In recent decades, it has become an important tourist attraction in the city. In addition to the traditional gambling, the casino has become a center for entertainment, with concerts by such artists as Cher, Celine Dion, Elton John, and Rod Stewart, and other events such as family shows and magic acts. It has also been the venue for the first performances of some Broadway shows. In addition, Caesars Palace hosts residencies for entertainers such as The Illusionists and Blue Man Group. These live acts and other amenities make the casinos a destination for millions of people. They also create jobs and stimulate the economy of their host cities and states. Some casinos even feature their own theme parks. For example, WinStar in Oklahoma features a golf course and a hotel, and the Las Vegas Strip is home to several themed attractions.