Whether you prefer to hit the slots or put on your poker face, there are few places better to satisfy that gambling itch than in a casino. But be careful: these lavish temples of temptation have a dark side beneath their flashing lights and free drinks.

Despite the allure of high-stakes table games and a dazzling nightlife, casinos are built on a bedrock of mathematics designed to slowly bleed patrons of their hard-earned cash. For years mathematically inclined minds have tried to turn the tables, utilizing probability theory and game theory to expose weaknesses in this rigged system. But most of these efforts have failed.

Gambling in one form or another has been a part of human society for millennia, with evidence dating back as far as 2300 BC in China. Dice and playing cards came into widespread use in ancient Rome and Elizabethan England, but it wasn’t until the early 1600s that what would become known as blackjack emerged as a casino staple.

Most casinos offer a variety of gaming activities, including slot machines, blackjack, and video poker. They also feature a full range of dining options and entertainment venues. Some even have their own theaters for live performances and concerts. Due to the large amount of money handled within a casino, both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. To deter this, most casinos have strict security measures.