In the 1950s, the gambling industry began expanding in Nevada. But legitimate businessmen resisted entering the fray, since the industry was illegal in every other state. But organized crime figures had plenty of cash from illegal rackets, and they didn’t care about the casino industry’s shady reputation. As gambling increased in popularity, mafia money flowed steadily into Reno and Las Vegas. In some cases, mafia members bought part ownership of a casino.

The types of games offered in a casino vary from one to the next. Most offer roulette, slots, and video poker. But you can also find specialty games, such as scratch tickets, lottery games, and keno. Some casinos also have arcades or special categories for these games. If you’re a first-time player, it’s probably best to stick to the traditional casino games, like video poker and slot machines. They’re a great way to learn the rules of the game before playing for real money.

Technology has changed the game playing experience. In the 1990s, casinos began using computers and video cameras to supervise games. Some even use “chip tracking,” whereby betting chips contain microcircuitry that allows casinos to monitor every minute’s wagering activity. Roulette wheels are also regularly monitored to identify statistical deviations. Enclosed versions of popular casino games like roulette and blackjack allow players to place bets by pressing buttons instead of talking to dealers. This technology is a significant boost for casino gaming.