How to Design a Casino

When designing a casino, every aspect must be carefully considered. From the ceiling to the carpet, everything must work together to create the best atmosphere possible. One important factor is the audio, lighting and visual (AVL) system.

It’s happened to all of us: You stride into a casino, brimming with confidence and your wallet filled with cash. You have every intention of a bit of enjoyable, sensible gambling and maybe two rounds of cocktails. Hours later, you have no idea what time it is, how much you’ve spent, or where your money went.

Most casino games involve some element of chance, and even the ones with a skill component have mathematically determined odds that give the house an edge. These are called the “house edge” and “variance.” Casino mathematicians and computer programmers determine these probabilities to ensure that the house makes a profit, or at least does not lose too much. The casino also earns money by taking a percentage of the players’ wagers, known as the “rake.”

Heavy drinking is essential to casino operation, so alcohol flows nonstop, and patrons are encouraged to place their bets in the dark and cavernous surroundings while being distracted by flashing lights and the hypnotizing sound of bells and drums. In addition to lowering inhibitions, the booze keeps patrons from realizing just how much they’re spending. Often, losses are dissociated from the actual cost of play by replacing cash with colorful chips that aren’t quite as real.