Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia. The first dice were found in China in 2300 BC, and playing cards followed around 500 AD. Today casinos use a variety of techniques to keep patrons coming back. They manipulate their lighting, smells, sounds, and visual media to create an environment that manufactures a state of euphoria that makes people feel like they’re on a winning streak, or at least not losing much.

The movie Casino is an epic history lesson about Vegas’s transition from a mafia-controlled desert town to the gambling capital of the world. Its compelling themes of violence, corruption, and greed make it a compelling watch. Robert De Niro is perfect as usual, but Sharon Stone really stands out as the sexy hustler Ginger McKenna. Joe Pesci’s Santoro is another highlight, a character who gets his comeuppance at just the right moment.

But casinos have to do more than dazzle the crowds with flashing lights and big-win jackpots. They also need to stay on top of the many trends that affect their business. For example, e-sports are on the rise and can draw large audiences to gaming environments. They can also pair their gaming offerings with luxury hotel amenities and flexible event spaces to appeal to new demographics. They must be constantly evolving to meet the demands of their guests and compete with online gaming and other entertainment options. Moreover, they must also understand that what’s popular now won’t be as popular in five or ten years.