A Tour of the Casino Floor: Top Table Games However, it was not for the common person. Though it was eventually closed in 1774 due to concerns about moral decay among the gentry, the Ridotto established the blueprint for a public, regulated casino. While slot machines may dominate the casino floor in sheer numbers, the true heart and soul of any gambling establishment lie at the tables. Here’s a rundown of the most popular casino table games you’ll encounter. It’s here, at the green felt, that the classic casino experience unfolds. The highest-level VIPs can expect a range of incredible benefits: Luxury Accommodation: Complimentary stays in opulent penthouse suites, often with private butlers, pools, and gaming rooms. Loss Rebates: One of the most valuable comps is a loss rebate. Private Transportation: The casino will often arrange and pay for all travel. A high roller on a winning streak can cost the casino millions in a single night. Personal Casino Host: A dedicated host acts as a personal concierge, available 24/7 to handle any request, from booking a tee time to finding a rare bottle of wine. Gourmet Dining and Entertainment: Reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants, front-row seats to sold-out shows, and access to exclusive nightclubs. Why Casinos Cater to VIPs Catering to high rollers is a high-risk, high-reward business for the casino. The casino might agree to return a percentage (e.g., 10-20%) of a player’s losses back to them in cash or playing credits. The designation depends on the casino, the game being played, and the player’s betting patterns. There is no single dollar amount that officially qualifies someone as a high roller. While many of these casinos are safe, players have less legal protection than in fully regulated markets. In these “grey” markets, players often rely on casinos licensed in reputable offshore jurisdictions like Malta (MGA) or Curacao. The World of “Comps”: Perks of the VIP Life Casinos go to extraordinary lengths to attract and retain high rollers. The rewards they offer, known as “comps” (short for complimentary), are legendary. This elite level of gaming is a crucial component of the modern casino business model, driving profits and defining the very essence of high-stakes gambling. The world of high rollers provides a fascinating glimpse into the upper echelons of the casino industry. While the array of bets on the layout can look intimidating, the basic “Pass Line” bet is simple to understand and has one of the lowest house edges in the casino. Why it’s Popular: A craps table is often the loudest and most energetic spot in the casino. Don’t Blame the Dealer for Your Losses The dealer is simply facilitating the game; they have no control over the outcome of the cards or the spin of the wheel. It creates a negative atmosphere for everyone and is completely unfair. Early casinos like the Flamingo, famously backed by mobster Bugsy Siegel, brought Hollywood glamour and entertainment to the desert. Building a Gambling Mecca The history of the modern casino