It’s happened to all of us: You stride into a Luxor, Mohegan Sun or Tropicana with a wallet full of cash and plans for a little enjoyable, sensible gaming and maybe two rounds of drinks. Hours later, you’re sloshed and have no idea what time it is or how much money you’ve spent. Casinos are expertly designed to influence the behavior of visitors. They use sounds, lights and physical design to create an environment that is at once welcoming yet hard to step away from. Here are nine tricks casinos use to keep you spending your money.
Thrill of the Games
The adrenaline rush from games like poker, blackjack, and roulette can be addictive. The combination of strategy and luck can create intense moments that are exciting and challenging. Whether you’re winning or losing, the thrill of the game keeps you coming back for more. In addition, many casinos offer live entertainment in the form of concerts or comedy shows that can add value to a visit.
Chance of Winning
Regardless of how you play, there’s always the possibility of winning at least some money. Casinos often feature large jackpots and prize promotions for their slot machines and other games, including luxury cars, vacations, and cash prizes. The chance of hitting a big jackpot can make the experience even more enticing.
In the case of legalized gambling, casinos can provide significant tax revenue that help fund local projects and programs. They also boost economic activity in the neighborhoods surrounding them. However, it’s important to remember that casinos are businesses that rely on profit to thrive and should be treated as such.
Visual Stimulation
Casinos are designed to be visually stimulating, with flashing lights and dynamic music that stimulate the senses. The constant movement and energy of the games encourage players to spend more time playing, increasing their chances of winning. In addition, slot machines are designed to produce near wins, which trigger the brain’s reward system and make players believe they’re close to hitting a jackpot. This psychological trick makes people continue to play, despite the fact that the odds are still heavily against them.
In Casino, Martin Scorsese reveals the dark side of Vegas and its history with organized crime. The movie doesn’t romanticize the city, but it does lay bare how the mafia lost control of a city that was minting money by the billions. Scorsese’s film also shows how big corporations took over the business and turned it into a Disneyland-like experience for the average visitor. Although the movie focuses on three main characters, it’s really an epic history lesson about Vegas.
