A casino is a gambling establishment where people can play games of chance for money. It is usually located in an area that is licensed to allow casinos to operate. In modern times, casinos feature elaborate themes and attractions that rival amusement parks, with musical shows, lighted fountains and shopping centers. Although many people associate casinos with gaming, the vast majority of their revenue comes from other sources such as dining, entertainment and hotel rooms. This article will explore how casinos make their money, popular casino games and their history, the dark side of the business, and some tips on how to gamble responsibly.

Casinos use technology to monitor and supervise their patrons. In some cases, this technology is built right into the games themselves. For example, casino table chips have microcircuitry that allows them to interact with electronic systems that enable casinos to oversee the exact amounts wagered minute-by-minute and to warn players immediately of any statistical deviation from expected results. Casinos also use sophisticated video cameras and computers to watch and analyze their gaming operations.

Casinos earn money by taking a percentage of the bets they accept from patrons, a practice known as the house edge. The house edge in most casino games is quite small, usually less than two percent. However, the millions of bets made each year add up to a significant profit for the casino. The house advantage can be smaller in games that require skill, such as baccarat or blackjack, or it can be higher in games of pure chance, like roulette and craps.