In a casino, the thrill of betting money on a game of chance is intoxicating. Whether you’re playing roulette, poker, blackjack, or slots, it’s a rush like no other. But it isn’t just the potential for a big win that attracts players to casinos. The opulence, the glamour and the excitement of being in the heart of it all are also huge draws.

Few movies capture the essence of Vegas as well as Martin Scorsese’s Casino does. The film is an epic crime drama that traces the mafia’s grip on the city of sin. Its web of corruption and avarice is intricate, with tendrils extending from the Las Vegas mafia to the Teamsters unions, politicians, the Chicago mob, and a Midwest gangster based out of Kansas City. But the movie never descends into a soap opera, thanks to sharp editing and taut narration that keeps the action moving at a fast pace.

Behind the flashing lights and free drinks, a casino is actually a business that relies on mathematical expectancies to slowly bleed its patrons of their cash. For years, physicists have tried to turn the tables by using their knowledge of probability to exploit weaknesses in a casino’s rigged system. But in the end, the house always wins. To minimize your chances of getting ripped off, look for transparent policies and clear terms and conditions. Also, choose a casino that prioritizes integrity and security. It should have an outstanding reputation, backed by a reliable customer support team.