From Monte Carlo to Las Vegas, the world’s finest casinos offer non-stop fun and excitement. Whether you like to hit the slots, place your bets on roulette, roll the dice at the craps table or play poker, these opulent resorts provide a swanky escape with plenty of great food and drink options.
The modern casino has come a long way since the archeological discovery of wooden blocks used for gambling in 2300 B.C. The first recorded game of chance was a simple game of dice, followed by the introduction of playing cards around 500 A.D. Casinos today are more than just gambling halls; they feature restaurants, theaters, stage shows and even spas. And the most popular of all casino games, slot machines, brings in billions in profit every year.
Most casino games involve a combination of luck and skill, but some are more dependent on the former than others. Regardless, each game gives the casino a mathematical edge over players, known as the house advantage. This advantage is not consistent and varies with rules, number of decks and other factors. In games with a significant skill element, such as blackjack and video poker, the house edge is often less than 1 percent.
In an effort to lure big bettors, some casinos offer them free spectacular entertainment and other inducements. Other casinos race to be the largest in their region or the world, and they boast enormous buffets, luxurious hotels, and numerous star names.