The casino, also called a gambling house or a gaming establishment, is a public room where people can play various gambling games. These games are usually played with cards, dice or slot machines. Some casinos also offer entertainment, such as shows or parades. The term is derived from the Italian cazino, diminutive of casa (house).
A casino may be regulated by a government body. In the United States, these bodies are often referred to as gaming control boards or commissions. These regulators create and enforce rules and regulations for gambling operators based on the state’s laws. They also oversee casino employees and vendors.
While most games in a casino are determined by chance, there are some that involve a degree of skill. Players who possess sufficient skills to eliminate the inherent long-term disadvantage of a casino game are sometimes referred to as advantage players.
While some casinos specialize in certain games or amenities, others are known for their glitz and glamour or their historic architecture. In the United States, the most famous casino is probably the Bellagio in Las Vegas, which has been featured in countless movies and television shows. The casino offers a wide variety of entertainment and luxury accommodations, and its gambling revenues have made it one of the most profitable businesses in the world. Other notable casinos include the Monte Carlo in Monaco, and the Casino de Paris and the Casino Lisboa in Portugal.