A casino is a gambling establishment offering a variety of games. Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia. The earliest evidence dates to 2300 BC, with dice appearing shortly thereafter and playing cards by the 1400s. In modern times, casinos are mostly designed to provide a predictable long-term advantage to the house (or “banker”), with a small chance of a short-term gain for players. Those who possess sufficient skills to eliminate the inherent long-term disadvantage are known as advantage players.
Casinos have become increasingly reliant on technology since the 1990s. Video cameras and computers routinely monitor games to ensure honesty and to warn staff of any deviations from expected results. Roulette wheels are electronically monitored minute-by-minute to discover any statistical discrepancies, and blackjack tables use special chips with built-in microcircuitry to record the exact amounts wagered at each position in a hand. Slot machines and video poker remain the economic mainstay of American casinos, with revenue derived from high-volume play at sums ranging from five cents to a dollar or more.
Casinos vary in size and structure, but all have a common theme of stimulating atmosphere and customer service. In addition to providing a variety of gambling activities, many offer food and beverage services, entertainment, and other amenities for the guests. Guests may also be offered free or discounted items (referred to as comps) to encourage them to spend more time and money at the establishment.