What Makes a Casino So Exciting?

In a casino, you’ll find flashy lights, upbeat music and the thrill of chance. People mix and mingle, trying their luck at games ranging from poker to roulette. There are always new games to try, so even seasoned players never lose their desire for adventure and a chance at fortune.

Something about casinos makes otherwise rational people — people who work hard for their money and make reasoned financial decisions on a day-to-day basis — throw hundreds or even thousands of dollars away based on the roll of a dice, the spin of a wheel or the draw of a card. How do they do it?

Despite this mathematical expectancy of winning, casinos are still hugely profitable. They can afford to pay out winnings and offer big bettors lavish inducements like free spectacular entertainment, transportation and elegant living quarters. It’s not unusual for a large casino to generate billions of dollars in revenue.