The casino is a specialized building where a variety of games of chance can be played. Although musical shows, restaurants and shopping centers help lure gamblers, the majority of profits for casinos come from gambling: slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, keno and more. Although some people gamble for fun, most are trying to make money. Gambling addiction is an ongoing concern for casino owners.
Modern casinos have gone to great lengths to enhance the experience of their patrons, but even the most elaborate casino would not exist without games of chance. To this end, sophisticated technology is employed. For example, chip tracking technology allows a casino to monitor exact amounts wagered minute by minute; electronic systems can detect statistical deviations in the results of roulette wheels.
These technologies are used for security purposes as well as to provide comps (free or discounted meals, drinks and show tickets) for frequent players. In order to receive comps, patrons are required to sign up for a casino’s membership program. By doing so, the casino can track the amount of money that is being gambled and determine the patron’s game preference and spending patterns.
Casinos are crowded places and security is an important aspect of the operation. Casino employees have to keep a watchful eye on the games and the patrons, looking for blatant cheating, such as palming, marking or switching cards and dice. Elaborate surveillance systems allow security personnel to have a high-tech “eye in the sky” that can look down on the tables and slot machines, adjust to focus on suspicious patrons, and record everything for later review.