A casino is an establishment for gambling. In the United States casinos are licensed and regulated by state governments. There are many kinds of casino games, including slot machines and poker. Some are considered skill games, but most depend on chance. A casino can also offer other forms of entertainment, such as concerts and sporting events.
In the twentieth century casinos became more upscale and focused on customer service. High rollers were offered free spectacular entertainment, transportation in limousines, and elegant living quarters. Casinos are a major source of revenue in the United States, with 24% of adults visiting them in 2008. They are most popular in Atlantic City and Nevada, but are found worldwide. Some are on American Indian reservations, which are not subject to state anti-gambling laws.
Most casinos have security measures to prevent cheating and theft by patrons and staff. These measures include cameras. Some casinos also have catwalks that allow surveillance personnel to look down on the tables and slots through one-way glass. In addition to these physical measures, modern casinos usually have a dedicated security force and a specialized department for closed circuit television.
Most casino games have a house edge, which is the mathematical expectation of losing money on any given wager. The house edge differs by game, but it is always positive and never zero. The house edge can be minimized by skillful play, but even then it cannot be eliminated entirely. Casinos make money by combining this advantage with a commission, called the rake, on the games.