Casinos earn billions of dollars in profits from games of chance.

Whether it’s slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps or even horse racing, casinos thrive on the gambler’s money. These games rely on four things to make them profitable: popularity, odds, player skill, and pure luck.

Game rules, physical design and lighting are all designed to lure gamblers into spending more money and making decisions they would otherwise not. Whenever someone hits the jackpot on a machine, lights flash and cheers erupt; when someone rakes in a winning hand at a table, roars of approval echo from the crowd.

The Dark Side of Casinos

Casinos are a prime target for organized crime. Mobsters and other mafia members have no problem getting their hands on large amounts of money, and they have no qualms about using it to influence gambling outcomes.

Security at Casinos

The floor of a casino is monitored constantly by a variety of people, from dealers to pit bosses. Dealers watch the games with a narrow focus, looking for cheats like palming or marking cards or dice. The floor staff also monitors patrons who are playing table games.

Booze at Casinos

Alcohol lowers inhibitions and lowers the risk of losing money. It also helps to keep the mood light and happy, a factor that makes casinos particularly popular with women. Throughout the day, casinos serve free drinks to patrons at card tables and slot machines. This is an easy way to increase profits and keep players coming back for more.