A casino is a place where people play gambling games. It may have additional luxuries, such as restaurants and free drinks, but it is always a place where the primary activity is gambling.

There are three broad categories of casino games: gaming machines, table games and random number games. Gaming machines, such as slots and video poker, are played by one player at a time and do not require the involvement of casino employees. Table games, such as blackjack and craps, involve one or more players who compete against the house (the casino), and are conducted by croupiers or dealers. Random number games are based on the selection of numbers, either by a random number generator or by other casino equipment.

Casinos make money by taking a percentage of the bets placed by patrons. This advantage is usually very small, but it adds up over the millions of bets placed in a casino each year. The casino advantage is often called the vig or rake.

Something about casinos seems to encourage some people to cheat, steal or scam their way into a jackpot. Because of this, casinos spend a great deal of money and effort on security. Modern casinos have a dedicated physical security force as well as a specialized surveillance department that monitors closed circuit television. These departments work closely together and are often able to spot suspicious or definite criminal behavior before it even gets to the casino floor.