A casino is a place where a wide range of games of chance are played and gambling is the primary activity. Though casinos may offer other attractions to lure guests, they can’t survive without the billions of dollars they make from gambling. Slot machines, table games and dice are the source of those billions. Successful casinos also pull in revenue for owners, investors and Native American tribes. They also bring in taxes for state and local governments.
Modern casinos rely on sophisticated marketing to lure and keep gamblers. They waft scented oils through ventilation systems, create artificially euphoric lighting and use music to set the mood. Players are offered complimentary items (compliments) to encourage them to gamble more. Casinos focus on high-stakes gamblers who spend the most money. They reward these gamblers with free hotel rooms, meals and show tickets. Some casinos will even provide limo service and airline tickets.
Many people assume that casinos are all about flashy lights and glitzy decor, but the truth is more complex. Casinos are a collection of psychological tricks and design elements that work together to help guests forget that the house always wins.
Few movies have done a better job of portraying the dark side of Las Vegas than Martin Scorsese’s Casino. This film is a taut, relentless thriller that never lags in the middle. In fact, it manages to hold your attention throughout its three-hour runtime.
