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21st Century Casinos

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A casino is a place where people can play gambling games. The modern casino is often modeled after an indoor amusement park, complete with musical shows, lighted fountains and shopping centers. But it would not exist without the billions of dollars in profits raked in by games of chance. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette, baccarat and other games of chance provide the bulk of casino revenues.

In the 21st century, casinos are becoming more choosy about whom they allow to gamble in their facilities. They focus their investments on the “high rollers,” those who bet large sums of money, generating much of their profits. These patrons are given special treatment, including comps such as free rooms and meals.

Casinos also spend a lot of time and money on security. They have many cameras mounted in the ceiling, called the eye in the sky, to watch players and their winnings. There are also floor security guards and cameras in the pit, a special area where high-stakes players play.

While table games are the mainstay of casinos, some offer a variety of other games, such as Asian games, which include sic bo (which gained popularity in Europe and America in the 1990s), fan-tan, pai gow poker and banca francesa. They may also offer electronic versions of traditional games, such as video poker and keno. In addition, many casinos have restaurants that feature gourmet foods. They also feature bars, where patrons can enjoy cocktails and alcoholic beverages while playing their favorite casino games.