When asked what they enjoy about playing in a casino, Americans’ answers varied from mildly amused to utterly bewildered. One study found that 24% of Americans have visited a casino in the past year. Compared to 1989, this is an increase of about four percentage points. In 1989, only 12% of Americans had graduated from college. Now, almost half of all American casino goers are older, and they have more free time and money than ever.
These “good players” at casinos earn “comps,” or comps. These are incentives that reward them for spending more money. Comps are often awarded to high rollers. A typical high roller is willing to spend tens of thousands of dollars to play in a casino. As a result, casinos reap a large profit from these players. In addition to freebies, high rollers often receive lavish personal attention and receive large comps that cover the cost of hotel accommodations.
While some casinos still use traditional casino security measures, more modern facilities employ sophisticated technology. Video cameras and computers are routinely used to supervise casino games. A newer technique known as “chip tracking” involves placing betting chips with built-in microcircuitry so that casinos can track their bets minute-by-minute. Roulette wheels are monitored regularly to detect statistical deviations. Other casino security measures include enclosed versions of casino games. Instead of having dealers, these machines use computer chips that determine payouts.
