A casino is a place where a wide variety of games of chance can be played for money. Some casinos also offer food, beverages and stage shows. Many countries regulate the operation of casinos. Some, like Nevada and Atlantic City, have developed into major gambling destinations.
The most famous casino is in Las Vegas, but there are also casinos in many other cities around the world. The casinos in these cities vary in size and style, but they all offer the same basic amenities: gambling, food, drinks and entertainment.
Many casino games are based on chance, although there are some that involve skill as well. Some are banked games, in which the house takes a percentage of each bet. These include blackjack, craps, keno and traditional slot machines. Others are not banked, in which case the payout and the house’s cut depend on the number of players and the amount wagered. In table games, patrons sit around a table, which is usually designed for the game being played, and a croupier or dealer enables the game and manages payments.
During the Mob era, Mafia figures controlled most of the casino business in Reno and Las Vegas. But federal crackdowns and the risk of losing a gambling license at even the hint of mob involvement meant that legitimate businessmen were more willing to invest in casinos. These businesses strove to add a glitzy veneer to attract big bettors. The result was a dazzling array of inducements that included free spectacular entertainment and luxurious living quarters.