A casino is a place where people can play games of chance, and win or lose money. It may be an elegant room in a five-star hotel or a seedy basement in an alleyway, but it will have the same basic features: a variety of gambling games, such as blackjack, roulette and poker, and a high-end restaurant or bar. It may even include a stage show or dramatic scenery. But it is not just about the games themselves; casinos also employ strict rules and routines to ensure that players are following the expected patterns of the game, and that no one is cheating or stealing.

During the 1990s, casinos dramatically increased their use of technology. Video cameras monitor gaming tables, and electronic systems record and oversee the exact amounts wagered minute-by-minute; roulette wheels are electronically monitored to quickly discover any statistical deviation from their expected results. Casinos are also a lot more choosy about who they let inside. They expect their customers to dress appropriately for the type of games they play, and they may require visitors to sign a code of conduct.

The most famous casino is in Las Vegas, but there are many more throughout the world. These casinos have become more and more elaborate, with impressive decor and a staggering number of games. Some have hotels, restaurants, non-gambling entertainment areas, and even pools and spas. Others cater to a more exclusive clientele, with rooms and suites that are worth more than the average home.