The allure of world-class casinos goes beyond the games. They provide an experience—whether you are a high roller looking to win big or a tourist seeking opulence and luxury. Casinos are a place where the odds are stacked against you, but it is possible to come out ahead if you play smart. Here are some tips on how to do just that.
Beneath the varnish of flashing lights and free cocktails, casinos are built on a bedrock of mathematics, engineered to slowly bleed their patrons of cash. For years mathematically inclined minds have tried to turn the tables, harnessing their knowledge of probability and game theory to exploit weaknesses in a rigged system. But, as this amusing newspaper headline from 1986 demonstrates, even the most intelligent physicists eventually realize the best way to beat a casino is to not play at all.
Gambling has been around for millennia. Archeologists have discovered wooden blocks used in gambling in 2300 BC and dice in 500 BC, while playing cards showed up in the 1400s. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that casinos became popular.
The most well-known of all casinos is in Las Vegas, where it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Many people visit the glitzy casinos to experience its opulence, neon signs and games of chance. While other movies may have portrayed the seedy underbelly of Las Vegas, Casino takes it to the next level with a plot full of greed and treachery. From Robert de Niro’s attention to detail and his false bedrock of marriage to Sharon Stone’s Nicky’s hounding after Ginger, this is one of the most captivating depictions of scumbaggery ever filmed.