Casino is a Martin Scorsese thriller about gambling in Vegas. It focuses on three key characters and the vast, complicated web of corruption that they’re caught up in, but the movie never feels sluggish or runs out of steam. It’s a great history lesson and a riveting entertainment experience.

While casino games are fun, they can also be costly. Fortunately, you can reduce the risk of going over budget by setting a timer on your phone or watch to help you keep track of how long you’ve been playing. You can also limit how much you spend by limiting the number of games you play at one time, or only play with money that you can afford to lose.

The word “casino” dates back to the 16th century, when a gambling craze swept Europe. Originally, the term meant a villa or summer house, but it quickly expanded to include gaming and other pleasurable activities. Today’s casinos are far more than just gambling establishments—they are luxury resorts with dining, events, and spa services.

Casinos have a wide variety of games to choose from, but table games like poker and blackjack are the most popular. These require skill and strategy, while slot machines are more relaxed and offer a chance to win big with just the pull of a lever. Casinos are also known for their flashy displays and lavish inducements for high-rollers, such as free spectacular entertainment and limousine transportation.