A casino is a place where people gamble on various games of chance or skill, and in some cases both. It is also an entertainment venue and may include stage shows, a variety of restaurants and bars, and other features. Casinos have existed nearly throughout recorded history, with primitive protodice and carved six-sided dice appearing in archaeological sites, but the modern casino as an establishment that offers a wide range of ways to gamble under one roof did not develop until the 16th century during a gambling craze that swept Europe.

The majority of casinos make their money from slot machines, which have a built-in statistical advantage for the house of less than two percent, and a smaller percentage from table games such as blackjack and roulette. Many casinos use electronic monitoring systems to oversee each game minute-by-minute and alert supervisors to any statistical deviation; some even employ “chip tracking” technology that electronically links each player’s betting chips with their corresponding computer system at each table.

While a casino’s main business is gambling, it must also provide entertainment to attract and keep customers. For this reason, a variety of table games are offered, including poker, baccarat, and keno. Many casinos also feature a wide selection of video slots and electronic bingo games, and some have a full-service sportsbook. The bright and often gaudy floor and wall coverings used in casino decoration are meant to stimulate the eye and promote excitement, as is the music that plays at most casinos.