A casino is a gambling establishment where patrons gamble by playing games of chance for cash or other valuables. Most casinos offer a wide variety of gambling activities, including poker, blackjack, and slot machines. In addition, some casinos have race tracks and other entertainment options. Many of these facilities are combined into large complexes, which feature multiple gaming areas and restaurants. Some casinos specialize in particular types of games, such as baccarat or craps. These games are conducted by dealers, or croupiers, and may be assisted by a pit boss.

Casinos rely heavily on technology to monitor and supervise their operations. In addition to the video cameras that are used for general security, electronic systems are often employed to ensure the accuracy of bets placed at table games. These include “chip tracking,” in which betting chips are fitted with microcircuitry that interacts with the gaming system; and roulette wheels are electronically monitored regularly to discover any statistical deviation from their expected results.

Most casino games have a mathematically determined house edge, which gives the casino an expectation of long-term profitability, even when players win some of their bets. The casino makes money by charging a commission on these bets, known as the vigorish or rake. The house edge varies from game to game and is determined by the rules of the game, the number of decks used, and other factors. Players who understand and use skills to overcome the house advantage are referred to as advantage players.