A Casino is a place where people can gamble and play games of chance. They may also offer food and drinks. In the past, some of these establishments were run by organized crime groups. However, as large corporations such as real estate developers and hotel chains became more interested in the profits they could make from casinos, they began buying out mafia interests. Federal crackdowns on mob involvement in casinos have also helped to keep these gambling facilities out of the hands of mafia families and other organized criminal groups.
Modern casinos feature a wide variety of games of chance and skill, with some having an element of strategy as well. Many of these games are played on a computer, but some are traditional table games such as roulette, blackjack, poker and craps. Others are video poker machines or bingo. The casino makes money by taking a small percentage of bets placed by players, a practice known as the house edge. Those who can use their skills to reduce the inherent long-term advantage of the casino are known as advantage players.
According to a 2002 survey by Gemini Research, the most popular casino games are slot machines, with 50% of Nevada gamblers choosing them as their favorite. Card games, such as blackjack and poker, were second at 30%. Other popular games included keno and pari-mutuel betting on horse races and sporting events. In some casinos, the best bettors are rewarded with comps, which include free room and meals, shows or transportation.