A casino is a facility where people can play games of chance and win money. There are three general categories of casino games: gaming machines, table games, and random number games. Gaming machines are operated by computer or mechanical devices, while table games involve human dealers and are conducted on a surface that is not a machine, such as a poker table. Random number games use numbers generated by a random number generator (RNG).
The most popular casino games are roulette, craps and blackjack. Most of these are based on chance, but some have a skill element. Some casinos offer only one type of game, while others offer both types. Casinos can also offer live entertainment and other attractions to attract customers.
Casinos are primarily interested in maximizing their gross profit. To do so, they typically employ mathematicians who specialize in the mathematical analysis of casino games and their rules. These analysts calculate the house edge and variance for each individual game, and rely on this information to determine how much of a profit a casino can expect to make.
To maximize profits, casinos focus on high-stakes gamblers. These high-rollers often gamble in special rooms that are isolated from the main casino floor, and can bet tens of thousands of dollars per hand. In return for their large wagers, high-rollers receive perks such as free spectacular entertainment, reduced-fare transportation and luxury suites. These perks are known as comps.
