Casino is a game of chance and some degree of skill where patrons wager cash or casino chips on the outcome of various random events or combinations of outcomes. In some cases the house has a built in advantage over the players that can be calculated mathematically as expected value or, more precisely, the house edge. In games where the house is not in competition with the players, as in poker, it earns money via a commission or rake.
The casino industry is a major source of revenue in many countries, with the highest concentration being in Nevada and Atlantic City, New Jersey. In addition, casinos exist in a number of other states, with California being home to some of the most famous (particularly Las Vegas).
A casino has an important role in society and is a popular form of entertainment. However, gambling is not without risks and should be avoided by minors. It is possible to gamble responsibly by following a few simple rules.
Security at casinos is extensive. Casino employees watch the games from a number of angles, not only to look for blatant cheating like palming or marking cards but also for betting patterns that could indicate collusion between players at the table. In addition to video surveillance, computer technology helps keep track of the action. For example, “chip tracking” enables the casino to oversee exactly how much is bet minute-by-minute and to detect any statistical deviation from expectations; roulette wheels are electronically monitored regularly to spot any anomalies.