A casino is a large facility that offers gambling. Games played at casinos include slot machines, blackjack, roulette, poker, craps, baccarat and other table games. The facility may also offer entertainment, shopping and dining. Many casinos are operated by large corporations, investment firms or Native American tribes. State and local governments may also regulate casinos. Casinos generate billions of dollars each year in profits for the companies, investors and Native American tribes that operate them. They also provide jobs and boost economic development in areas where they are located.
The word casino derives from the Italian “casa del gioco,” which means “house of game.” Gambling has been popular throughout history, and casinos reflect that. They can be found in places as diverse as Venice’s Grand Canal, Singapore’s waterfront and the Las Vegas strip. The casinos in these destinations have an aura of luxury and excitement, with gourmet restaurants and dazzling shows.
In the past, mobster money funded some casinos in Reno and Las Vegas. However, mobsters weren’t content to simply provide the bankrolls; they became personally involved and often took sole or partial ownership of the casinos and even controlled the outcome of some games. The mobsters’ involvement gave the casino business a seamy image that was hard to shake.
Today’s casinos are much more sophisticated in their business practices. They focus on high rollers, attracting them with free luxury suites and other VIP amenities. They also have elaborate surveillance systems that use a variety of cameras to keep track of every move of every patron. This “eye in the sky” is designed to prevent cheating and theft, either by customers or staff.