A casino is a facility for playing games of chance. These games are usually played with cash or casino chips and the outcome is determined by a combination of chance and skill. In the United States, casinos are licensed and regulated by the state in which they operate. According to the American Gaming Association, in 2002 about 51 million people visited a casino—a quarter of all Americans over 21 years old. These visits generated about $26.5 billion in gambling revenue.
Casinos make their money by charging an hourly rake on poker and other games that require some level of skill, or by taking a percentage of the total amount wagered on slot machines. They also charge a “vig” or a percentage of the total amount wagered at table games, including blackjack and roulette. Casinos may also offer complimentary items or comps to gamblers, especially high rollers who spend large amounts of money.
In the 1990s, casinos significantly increased their use of technology for both security and the supervision of games themselves. For example, “chip tracking” systems enabled casinos to monitor the exact amount of money wagered on each game minute-by-minute and quickly detect any statistical deviation from expected results. Casinos also use computers to monitor the physical condition of casino games and machines, and to track player habits.
Since the early 1960s, casinos have operated on the assumption that although black jack and roulette might be their main source of income, they also must compete with other gambling destinations for patrons’ dollars. As a result, they have sought to offer a wide variety of attractions, such as free shows and all-you-can-eat buffets, as well as plush accommodations and transportation.