A casino (or gambling house) is a place where people can gamble. Casinos are usually built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops and other entertainment facilities. In some countries, casinos are licensed by government-regulated gaming control boards or commissions.
A casino game is any of a wide variety of games in which players bet real cash or other items of value against the house, with the house having a mathematical advantage over the player at all times. This advantage is known as the house edge or vigorish, and it is the main source of income for casinos. Some casino games have a skill element, such as blackjack, where players can reduce the house edge by learning basic strategy and counting cards. Players who are able to eliminate the house edge entirely are called advantage players.
Casinos are most often found in cities and large towns, and are open to anyone of legal age who is willing to risk money or property. The legal gambling age varies by country and type of game, but most states require players to be at least 21 years old to participate in regulated gambling activities. The casino industry also employs a variety of security measures, including physical security forces and specialized surveillance departments, to deter crime. Many casinos also have entertainment or other attractions that draw in crowds, such as golf courses, circus acts, night clubs, or spas. These extras are a way to attract more customers and generate revenue, and to distinguish themselves from competitors.