Casino is a gambling establishment that offers gamblers the opportunity to win money by playing games of chance or skill. The games played in casinos generally include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, and video poker. The odds of winning or losing a game in a casino are usually mathematically determined and always uniformly negative from the point of view of the player, as is the case with most forms of gambling. Casinos make most of their profits from high-rollers, who play in special rooms separate from the main gambling area and can gamble for tens of thousands of dollars a hand. These people are offered a variety of comps, such as free luxury suites and personal attention from staff.
Gambling has a long history and is widespread throughout the world, although some states have banned it. In the United States, casinos were first introduced in Atlantic City in 1978 and later spread to other parts of the country during the 1980s. During this period, casinos also appeared on American Indian reservations and in other countries where state antigambling laws did not apply.
The most famous casino is probably the Bellagio in Las Vegas, which has become internationally renowned for its luxurious accommodations, high-end dining options, and breath-taking art installations. It is a popular destination for both casual and high-stakes gamblers. Like other entertainment centers, casinos try to attract and retain patrons by offering a wide variety of games. They use bright and sometimes gaudy floor and wall coverings that stimulate the senses, as well as loud and repetitive music and noises. Humans are naturally drawn to bright lights, and more than 15,000 miles (24,000 km) of neon tubing adorns the casinos along the Las Vegas Strip.