A casino is an establishment where gambling is legal and the patrons can bet real money on games of chance or skill. Most casino games have a house edge, which ensures that the casino will win at least some of the bets placed by its customers. The exact odds of a given game are determined by mathematically-determined probability, and casinos use computerized systems to keep track of these probabilities.

Casinos vary in size and offerings, but most operate according to the same basic principles. The largest casinos often specialize in high-stakes gambling. These “high rollers” gamble in special rooms away from the main casino floor and are offered a variety of enticing inducements, such as free spectacular entertainment, limousine transportation, and luxurious living quarters. The profits made by these customers can far exceed the average gambling income of a given city.

In addition to standard casino games such as blackjack, roulette, and poker, some casinos offer unique variants on these classics. They may also offer a variety of other entertainment, such as live music and top-notch hotels and restaurants.