Beneath the veneer of flashing lights and free cocktails, casinos stand on a bedrock of mathematics engineered to slowly bleed patrons of their cash. For years mathematically inclined minds have tried to turn the tables on a rigged system by using game theory and probability to beat the house.

Casinos feature a wide range of games, from card and dice games to wheel and tile games. The most popular games are characterized by their social aspect: gamblers sit around a table and interact with each other or with the dealer. Some of the most popular table games are poker, blackjack and craps. These games require strategic thinking, decision making skills and a certain amount of luck.

To help ensure that games are conducted fairly, casinos use a variety of security measures. Security personnel patrol the floor of a casino, watching over patrons and looking for any blatant cheating or dishonesty. In addition, casinos employ a variety of electronic security measures, including video cameras and other sensors, to track bets and monitor the activities of players. Some casinos even have catwalks built into the ceiling that allow surveillance personnel to look directly down through one-way glass at the games below.

Gambling is a multibillion-dollar industry that brings in millions of visitors annually. Many of these tourists spend money on hotels, restaurants and other attractions in the area. However, critics argue that compulsive gambling hurts local economies and depresses property values.