A casino is a public room or building where gambling games are played. The games are mainly of chance, although some require skill. The casinos are usually regulated and audited by governments to ensure fairness. They also provide security and other services to their patrons.
There are three general categories of casino games: gaming machines, table games, and random number games. Gaming machines are played by one player at a time and do not require the involvement of a dealer or croupier. Table games are games of chance that involve a minimum amount of skill, such as blackjack and craps. Random number games are based on the selection of random numbers by a computerized generator or other means.
The majority of revenue generated by casinos comes from the operation of gaming machines. These machines are programmed to accept bets up to an established limit, so that a patron cannot win more than the house can afford to pay. Because of this, it is very rare for a casino to lose money on its machines for any period of time. Casinos also offer big bettors extravagant inducements in the form of free spectacular entertainment, transportation, and elegant living quarters.
Modern casinos use sophisticated technology to monitor their operations and to detect any suspicious or criminal activity. They employ a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department that operates closed circuit television. In addition, chip tracking systems enable them to supervise exactly how much is wagered on a game minute by minute and to immediately discover any statistical deviation.