A casino is a public room or building where gambling games (such as roulette, baccarat, blackjack, and poker) are played. It is also a facility for entertainment and relaxation, with food and drink. Some casinos also have a sports book and horse racing track. A casino may also offer a variety of other games, such as video poker and electronic gaming machines.

In a casino game, the player competes against the house. In some games of skill, such as blackjack, the house edge can be reduced by learning basic strategy. Some casinos employ mathematicians and computer programmers who specialize in this field, known as gaming analysis.

Modern casinos have a number of security measures in place to protect their guests and property. These usually include a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. The surveillance department monitors the casino through closed circuit television, and is able to respond quickly to any suspicious or definite criminal activity.

Some casinos have catwalks built in the ceiling above the casino floor, which allow surveillance personnel to look directly down, through one way glass, on the activities at the tables and slot machines. Other security features include hidden cameras and a system in which the names of players are written on their hands as they play. Casinos have strict rules regarding the appearance of their employees. Casino security is often depicted in popular culture, such as in the novel Busting Vegas by Ben Mezrich.