For casino lovers around the world, this thrilling world of entertainment contains many levels of mystery, intrigue, and superstition. Gambling has taken many different forms throughout human histFory, so it’s impossible to know everything – even the world’s leading casino experts still have a few things to learn. If we’ve grabbed your attention, then keep reading, as we’ll be shining a light on 10 facts you probably didn’t know about casinos!
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1. The world’s largest casino is in Oklahoma
Not only is the Winstar World Casino the biggest casino in America but it in fact currently holds the title of the largest casino in the entire world. This gaming behemoth opened back in 2004, and with an astonishing 600,000 square feet of casino floor, it is a mind-blowing entertainment hub that everyone should visit at least once in their lives. Alongside an astonishing variety of games, Winstar is also home to shops, pools, golf courses, and relaxing spa facilities – it’s a pleasure-seekers paradise!
2. The food is first-class
You will surely be aware of all the varied entertainment options available at modern day casino venues, but did you know that the food can be incredible, too? In fact, at many popular resorts, the food is just as important as the gaming, and casino operators have worked hard to offer an impressive array of cuisines and fine dining options. The dining scene at many casinos is now seriously impressive, and Michelin star chefs including Gordon Ramsay are now frequently opening restaurants at casino venues.
3. The world’s oldest casino opened in 1638
Situated on the picturesque Grand Canal in Venice, the Casino di Venezia is the longest standing casino in Italy – and the world. This entertainment hub opened almost 400 years ago, way back in 1638, and still attracts international tourists to this day. Visitors can enjoy thrilling classic table games including blackjack and poker whilst gazing at some of the finest Italian interior design – think crystal chandeliers and luxurious upholstery. Hopefully, this much-loved institution of the casino world will continue to delight its guests for many years to come!
4. Macau is the gambling capital of the world
Thanks to popular culture and the cultural significance of the region, you can be forgiven for thinking that Las Vegas must be the gambling capital of the world. However, this status actually belongs to Macau, a special administrative region of China. Incredibly, Macau’s gambling industry is seven times bigger than that of Las Vegas, and the region consistently achieves the highest amount of gambling revenue when compared to other casino hubs around the world. It’s the only place in the whole of China where gambling is legal, so it’s unsurprising that Macau continues to rule the roost!
5. The house always wins in the end
You might have heard the phrase ‘the house always wins’, but do you know what this really means? Basically, there is a fascinating phenomenon known as the ‘house edge’ or ‘casino advantage’, which plays an instrumental part in the operations of every casino around the world. There is a level of advantage built in to every game which ensures that the casino makes an overall profit once all the wins and losses are combined. The house edge varies between games, but ultimately, it’s what keeps casinos in business.
6. There are rewards for loyal players
If you’re more of a casual player, you might not be aware of the enviable rewards which are regularly given to casino regulars at many of the world’s leading venues. High rollers (also known as whales or cheetahs) who wager significant amounts of money tend to receive special treatment from their chosen venue, including luxury private gaming rooms, high-value freebies and personalized services. Generally speaking, if you’re bringing a serious amount of money to the table, you can expect to be given the VIP treatment.
7. Slot machines used to dispense fruity chewing-gum
Ever wondered why classic slot machines display those little images of fruit? The answer might surprise you – some of the earliest mechanical slot machines used to actually dispense packets of fruit-flavored chewing gum as prizes. The fruity imagery somehow stuck, and is still a regular feature of many slot machines to this day!
8. Casino design contains hidden secrets
You might feel completely familiar with the layout of your local casino, but did you know there is a fascinating story behind casino architecture around the world? For example, the typical lack of windows within most spaces helps to prevent the glare of direct sunlight from affecting gameplay. Similarly, many aspects of the ambience including music and mood lighting are carefully chosen to create the best atmosphere for players, and fast-paced music is sometimes played to encourage people to play!
9. The longest poker game in history lasted over 8 years
As any poker aficionado will tell you, this absorbing game can go on for an incredibly long time. However, it might still surprise you to learn that the longest poker game in history went on for years – eight years, five months and three days, to be exact! This continuous tournament took place in Tombstone, Arizona at the Bird Cage Theater, and over the years many different people took a seat at the table – as long as they could afford the $1000 minimum buy-in!
10. Casino regulars can be a little superstitious
In a world that revolves around chance, it’s unsurprising that many casino-goers have developed certain superstitions and beliefs in the hopes of turning their luck around. Many of the world’s leading players carry a lucky charm at every poker tournament, and some swear that you should never cross your legs at the casino table. There are countless fascinating superstitions in the gambling world – just remember to play responsibly, as it all comes down to luck in the end.
There we have it – ten fascinating facts about casinos! We hope that you learnt something new about this intriguing and complex world of entertainment. Good luck out there, and happy playing!
