Whether you’re a high roller looking for the thrill of gambling or a tourist seeking a night of opulence, casinos have a certain allure. With flashing lights, the pulsating beat of slot machines, and the hypnotic scent of scented oils wafting through the air, casinos create an experience that lures people in. But while it’s a fun place to be, it can also be addictive and lead to unintentional losses.
Gambling has been part of human culture for millennia. The earliest evidence dates back to 2300 BC in China, when wooden blocks were discovered used in games of chance. Dice appeared in Rome around 500 AD, and playing cards became popular in the 1400s. Modern casinos still use the same basic principles, but have added modern conveniences like a centralized cashier and video poker.
While the games are not completely random, they all have built-in advantages that ensure the house will win over time. This is known as the house edge. Casinos know this, and make every effort to keep gamblers playing longer. For example, they often lack clocks and windows to prevent players from realizing how much time has passed. They offer free drinks, which can numb the senses and slow down judgment. They even give players loyalty rewards, or comps, which can include free meals and hotel rooms.
Although Casino depicts the mafia’s relationship with Las Vegas, it’s a fascinating story of how a desert city grew into a massive gambling corporation. Martin Scorsese has said that the film was inspired by true events, and it feels just like a documentary at times, with narration by Sam “Ace” Rothstein (Robert De Niro) and others. It’s a riveting three hours that captivates until the very end.