The casino (in Latin, casa) is a building where people can gamble and play games of chance. Its walls may be adorned with richly colored, sometimes gaudy floor and wall coverings designed to stimulate the senses, cheer the patrons on, and keep them from noticing how long they have been gambling. Clocks are generally not displayed on the casino walls because it is thought that they will encourage players to lose track of time and make more mistakes.
Casinos are primarily places where people can play poker, blackjack, roulette, and other table games. Some casinos also offer video poker and slot machines. The casino industry is highly competitive and is regulated in most jurisdictions. Casinos must have licenses to operate and are subject to strict security regulations. Some casinos, such as the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden in Germany, have a history that dates back to the 19th century and once attracted royalty and European aristocracy.
In 2008, 24% of Americans reported having visited a casino in the past year. In addition to the gaming tables and machines, modern casinos offer entertainment in the form of musical shows, lighted fountains, shopping centers, and replicas of famous pyramids, towers, and castles. Some casinos have restaurants and bars as well. Comps, or complimentary goods and services, are given to frequent players; these may include free hotel rooms, meals, tickets to shows, or even limo service and airline tickets. Gambling is not without its critics, however. Some economists believe that casinos divert spending away from other forms of entertainment, and that the costs of treating problem gamblers and lost productivity from their addiction undermine any economic benefits they may bring.