A casino is a facility that houses and accommodates gambling activities. It may also refer to a specific game played within the casino. Gambling is a popular pastime worldwide and there are many different games that can be played in a casino. Knowing how casinos operate can improve your experience and help you take a responsible approach to gaming.

There are three general categories of casino games: gaming machines, table games and random number games. Gaming machines are usually played by one player at a time and do not require the involvement of casino employees. Table games are generally conducted by croupiers and involve one or more players competing against the house (the casino itself) rather than each other. Random number games are based on the selection of random numbers, either from a computerized random number generator or another source.

Some casinos have specialized security departments to protect their patrons and property from theft and cheating. This may include a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department that uses closed-circuit television to monitor activity throughout the facility.

A casino is a place where people go to gamble, and it can also be a social gathering place. Many cities have one or more casinos. In the United States, there are more than 900 casinos. Some are owned by Native American tribes, while others are operated by commercial enterprises. Most casinos offer a variety of casino games, such as blackjack and craps. Some also have more exotic games, such as baccarat and sic bo.