A casino is a facility where people can gamble for money. In addition to providing games of chance, some casinos also offer a variety of other entertainment options. These can include shows, bars and restaurants.

Despite some games having an element of skill, the mathematical expectation of a player in any casino game is uniformly negative (also known as the house edge). In games such as blackjack that have a significant skill component, players who can eliminate the inherent long-term disadvantage by using advanced techniques such as card counting are referred to as advantage players.

The large amount of currency handled within a casino can make both patrons and staff susceptible to theft, either in collusion or independently. As a result, casinos have extensive security measures. Security personnel usually consist of a physical force and a specialized surveillance department that operates the casino’s closed circuit television system.

The dazzling lights and joyful sounds of casino gambling create a manufactured blissful experience that draws players in and can prevent them from thinking rationally about their decisions, especially when they are nearing a win or losing streak. It is important for players to know their limits and stick to them. Otherwise, they risk losing more than they can afford to lose. This is known as responsible gambling.