As anyone who’s ever stepped inside a casino can tell you, it’s an intoxicating place. The flashing lights, the clinking of coins, and the scent of excitement are enough to make you want to gamble away all your money. But while casinos may provide a lot of extras to encourage gambling, there’s one thing they can’t change: the house always wins.

The people that play in a casino are a diverse bunch, from the regulars who strut around confidently expecting to win big, to the jaded folks trying to win back their losses. But whatever their motives, they all share the same desire: to have a good time. That’s why casinos are designed around noise, light, and excitement.

Besides the obvious glitz and glamour, casinos also feature plenty of security measures to keep their guests safe. Elaborate surveillance systems offer a high-tech “eye-in-the-sky,” and the cameras can be easily adjusted to focus on suspicious patrons by security workers in a room filled with banks of monitors. Even the most casual players can find games that require skill, from poker and blackjack to roulette and slots. But no matter how much you gamble, there is no guarantee that you will win, and that’s what makes it so exciting.

Humans use hobbies as a form of escapism, and many people turn to gambling to relieve stress. But a recent study found that gambling can lead to mental health problems, including substance abuse and depression. For those who want to enjoy the thrill of gambling without the risk, online casinos are an excellent option.