A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. These casinos may be standalone or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other tourist attractions. Casinos may also feature a variety of games, including baccarat, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, and video games. Some casinos offer live entertainment, such as stand-up comedy shows and concerts. They may also offer an array of dining options, from gourmet to fast-food.

Most casino games are based on chance, but some allow for a certain degree of skill. In any case, the house has a built-in advantage over players, which is mathematically determined and known as the “house edge”. Some casinos hire mathematicians to calculate the house edges of their games; others contract with companies specializing in gaming analysis.

In some jurisdictions, casinos are regulated by law to ensure that their business practices are fair. The casinos must also submit to periodic audits by independent third parties to maintain their licenses. These audits cover financial records, game play, and payouts.

In addition, casinos must rely on technological advances to help them stay competitive. For example, they use video cameras to monitor players and games, and have computerized systems that oversee the exact amounts of money wagered minute-by-minute so that any statistical deviations are quickly detected. Some casinos also use chips with embedded microcircuitry to track player bets and alert supervisors when someone is attempting to cheat. They may also have electronic roulette wheels that are monitored electronically to discover any tampering or sabotage.