A casino is a facility where people can gamble by playing games of chance, in some cases with an element of skill. Those games include video poker, slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat. Most games have mathematically determined odds that ensure the house has a consistent advantage over players, which is known as the house edge. The house earns money by taking a small commission on each wager, called the rake. Casinos also give out complimentary items or comps to gamblers, depending on the game and their status.
Although casinos add a variety of entertainment options and luxurious amenities to draw in customers, they would not exist without the games that make them money. Slots, table games such as baccarat and pai gow poker, and card games like blackjack and trente et quarante provide the billions in profits that casinos rake in each year.
Originally, casinos were run by organized crime groups with deep pockets and an interest in gambling as a source of income. However, real estate investors and hotel chains realized the potential of this industry and began buying up casinos. Today, the mafia still operates casinos in some places, but strict federal regulations and the threat of losing a gaming license at even the hint of mob involvement keep these businesses out of reach for many legitimate players.
The largest casinos in the world are now a major tourist attraction, often with multiple hotels and restaurants. They race to outdo each other by providing bigger buffets, more casino games, and star performers.