A casino is a gambling establishment that offers patrons the opportunity to gamble on games of chance. It also provides other entertainment, such as live performances and sporting events. Many casinos offer their patrons upscale restaurants and buffets as part of an integrated resort experience.
Casinos use a variety of security methods to keep their customers safe from cheaters and thieves. They watch tables and slot machines through a network of security cameras with pan, tilt, zoom and night vision capabilities. They use sophisticated software to analyze game play patterns and player behavior to prevent cheating, theft and other crimes. Elaborate surveillance systems use an “eye-in-the-sky” design, with catwalks in the ceiling and banks of monitors that allow casino personnel to see everything from a remote control room.
The casino industry relies heavily on repeat customers, so customer service is a top priority. They reward loyalty with free drinks, show tickets, hotel rooms and other perks. These rewards help keep revenue coming in from regular players who are less likely to go to competing casinos.
Some people who gamble in casinos become addicted to the game, and that can have serious repercussions on their lives. Compulsive gambling generates a proportionally large share of casino profits and can cost the community in lost productivity, social services and other costs. Critics argue that casinos do more harm than good, by sapping spending from other forms of local entertainment and by reducing jobs and wages. However, studies at the county level have found that casinos increase employment and raise average wages.