Like most businesses in a capitalist society, casinos are in business to make money. They rake in billions of dollars every year for the companies, investors, and Native American tribes that own and operate them, as well as state and local governments that collect taxes and fees. Unlike most other forms of gambling, however, a casino’s games are designed with one thing in mind: the house will always win.

The movies that showcase Las Vegas’ glitz, glamour, and excess typically portray only the good side of the city. But the Martin Scorsese film Casino lays bare the darker truth about Vegas and its past ties to organized crime. It also manages to stay a lean, mean thriller throughout its almost three-hour length, thanks to a combination of taut storytelling and masterful editing.

Casinos go to great lengths to keep their customers gambling as long as possible. They employ a range of psychological tactics, including stimulating atmospheres and perks. The latter are often in the form of free meals, drinks, and entertainment. In addition, they offer discounted transportation and hotel rooms to encourage gamblers to spend more money on their tables.

Whether or not you gamble, it’s important to understand what motivates people to visit casinos. Having the right data will help you to develop your marketing and improve customer acquisition and retention. Fortunately, there are plenty of tools available to help you gather the right data. You can even hire a professional to do your casino marketing for you.