A casino is a large gambling establishment that features a variety of games of chance and is designed to appeal to the senses. Musical shows, lighted fountains, shopping centers and elaborate themes help draw in the crowds, but casinos would not exist without games of chance such as slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps and baccarat, which provide the billions in profits raked in by casinos each year.

The majority of casinos are found in Las Vegas, although there are many other gambling destinations including Atlantic City, New Jersey; Chicago; and the Chinese Special Administrative Region of Macau. Most casinos feature a range of gambling options, but some also include non-gambling activities such as spas, pools and hotels.

Security is a major concern for casinos, as they are often the target of both collusion and outright theft by patrons and staff alike. Security measures are designed to deter such behavior and casinos employ a variety of methods, from physical security forces to specialized surveillance departments. Most casinos also use high-tech “eye in the sky” cameras that allow security workers to view every table, change window and doorway at once.

However, there is a more subtle aspect of casino security. Even when gamblers aren’t trying to cheat, their actions generally follow certain patterns that make it easier for security personnel to spot any deviations from the norm. For instance, the way that dealers shuffle and deal cards and the locations of betting spots on the tables all fall into familiar patterns.