A casino is a gambling establishment offering a wide range of games of chance to its patrons. Its operations are regulated by governments in most countries. Some casinos also offer skill-based games such as poker. Casinos make their profits by taking a percentage of each bet or charging an hourly fee for use of equipment. Casinos use sophisticated security measures to protect their customers and property. Security guards patrol the premises and monitor video cameras.

Casinos have a significant influence on the economy of cities in which they are located. They attract tourists and are major sources of employment. Some casinos also operate restaurants and other recreational facilities. They may provide a variety of entertainment, including high-profile musical acts and televised sporting events. In addition, they often offer five-star hotel rooms and other luxurious amenities.

Besides gaming machines, a casino offers tables that are conducted by employees called croupiers. Several different games are played at these tables, such as blackjack and craps. Some casinos even feature baccarat, which has simple rules and huge payouts for the high roller.

Most casino games provide a predictable long-term advantage to the house, known as the house edge or vigorish, and give players a chance to win short-term gains. However, some casino games have a skill element, and those who can eliminate the house edge or reduce it to zero are referred to as advantage players. These skills include card counting, analyzing game outcomes and other methods.