As the opulent twinkling lights, music, and clinking coins of the casino floor fill the air, the senses of excitement and anticipation are intoxicating. This is what gambling is all about – the thrill of trying your luck at the tables and slots. But a few things you should keep in mind before you take that first bet.

First, understand that the odds of each casino game are stacked heavily in favor of the house. It’s nearly impossible for a person to walk away from a casino with more money than they brought in. Math just won’t allow it. So, if you want to increase your chances of walking out with a wallet full of cash, play only those games where the odds are least in favor of the player (the worst odds are on the craziest bets at craps).

Another thing to keep in mind is that casinos are businesses that are in the business of making money by encouraging gamblers to spend their money over and over again for the chance to win big. The more money they make from gambling, the more they are able to offer guests in the form of free drinks, stage shows and other luxuries.

That’s why you’ll find plenty of players who strut in confidence around the gaming tables and a few less-than-savory characters who make a living counting the money that comes in and out of the casino. But no matter what they’re doing, everyone at a casino has one thing in common: They’re having a great time!