Beneath the flashing lights and free cocktails, casinos are built on a bedrock of mathematics, engineered to slowly bleed their patrons. For years, mathematically inclined minds have tried to turn the tables by using their knowledge of game theory and probability to exploit weaknesses in this rigged system. They’ve failed, of course, but in the process they’ve had a good time.

Casino is the most apocalyptic of Martin Scorsese’s movies, but it is also his most unflinchingly accurate. The film lays bare the intricate web of corruption centered in Las Vegas, with tendrils reaching into politicians, the Teamsters unions, and Chicago mob members. It also shows how Vegas has morphed into an entertainment mecca dominated by giant gambling corporations that are essentially minting money by the billions.

A modern casino has a specialized security department and an electronic surveillance system, known as the eye in the sky, that is designed to prevent crime. These specialized departments work together to monitor the casino and respond quickly to calls for assistance or suspicious or definite criminal activity.

Casinos typically offer a variety of table games, including blackjack, roulette, and craps. In addition, many of them feature a range of Asian games, such as sic bo, fan-tan, and pai gow. Some casinos also host events that focus on a specific game, such as poker tournaments. In addition, some casinos provide non-gambling activities for their guests, such as dining and live entertainment.