The word Casino is a Latin phrase meaning “to place a bet.” Although casinos include entertainment like musical shows and lighted fountains, the vast majority of their profits—billions of dollars each year—come from gambling. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps and baccarat are the games that generate the most money.

The Thrill of the Games

Casinos are designed to be exciting, with flashing lights and engaging sounds that stimulate the senses. The fast pace and strategic decisions of blackjack, the pure chance of a roll of the dice or the anticipation of a spinning wheel all create a sense of thrill. Whether you’re trying to hit the jackpot or simply test your luck, casino games can offer an adrenaline rush that can leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Security and Segregation

Casino patrons handle large amounts of cash, so both employees and guests may be tempted to cheat or steal. This is why casinos spend a lot of time and money on security. Elaborate surveillance systems include high-tech eye-in-the-sky cameras that can be adjusted to focus on suspicious patrons and to record video of any crimes or illegal activities.

Casinos also segregate patrons by offering extravagant inducements to big bettors, such as free spectacular entertainment and transportation. This practice is controversial because it shifts spending from other forms of local entertainment to the casino and depresses property values in nearby neighborhoods. It is also harmful to society because compulsive gamblers consume public assistance and increase the cost of treating problem gambling.