When it comes to epic crime dramas, few are as gripping or powerful as Martin Scorsese’s Casino. This movie shows the seedy underbelly of gambling and organized crime that once ruled Las Vegas. It lays bare an intricate web of corruption that connected politicians, the Teamsters unions, and even the Midwest mafia with the mob in Sin City. This movie, based on a non-fiction book, is a must-see for any serious student of Vegas history.
Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia. The earliest evidence dates back to 2300 BC China, with wooden blocks used in games of chance. Later, dice appeared in Rome around 500 BC and playing cards became popular in the 1400s. Today, casinos offer a wide variety of games that are mostly based on luck and in some cases involve some skill. Players can play slots, video poker, baccarat, blackjack, and roulette. In most cases, casinos have mathematically determined odds that give them an edge over the players.
In order to keep customers gambling for longer periods of time, casinos offer loyalty programs that reward players with free meals, drinks, rooms, or access to exclusive events. This tactic, known as comping, encourages gamblers to keep spending money at the casino and increases their chances of winning.
Another trick casinos use is strategically placing toilets, restaurants, and cash machines deep within the gaming floor. This forces players to walk past many enticing slot machines and tables, increasing the likelihood of spur-of-the-moment decisions to make just one more bet. In addition, casinos often eliminate the sense of time by keeping the lights dim and not informing players about how much time has passed.
