Gambling has been a part of human civilization for millennia. Evidence of dice games was found in China as early as 2300 BC, and the game that would become blackjack appeared in the 1500s. Modern casinos, or gambling houses, are often built near or combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants and other tourist attractions. Casinos are regulated by laws that govern their operations and provide protection for players. They may also be supervised by governmental agencies. Some casinos are run by private corporations, while others are operated by a government body such as a national lottery operator.

Many casinos offer a wide range of games, including poker, bingo, baccarat, craps, roulette, blackjack and slot machines. Some casinos specialize in particular games, such as keno or horse racing. They may offer players the opportunity to win big jackpots or other prizes. Casinos are also known for promoting responsible gaming through programs and promotions. Some casinos use cameras to monitor player activity and enforce rules of conduct, and some offer electronic versions of table games, such as baccarat or roulette, which are monitored electronically for any statistical deviation from their expected results. In general, most casino games have a built-in long-term advantage for the house, and those who have the skills to eliminate this edge are called advantage players. Some casinos have dedicated staff to assist with this effort.