How Casinos Trick Patrons Into Spending More Than They Can Afford to Lose

There’s something about stepping inside the doors of a casino that’s intoxicating. Glittering lights, the clink of champagne glasses, and the smell of gambling all work together to create an atmosphere that’s hard to resist. But it’s not just the environment that can be addictive—it’s the games themselves that can keep people coming back for more. And while it’s certainly possible to win a significant amount of money in a casino, it is important to know how casinos trick their patrons into spending more than they can afford to lose.

Gambling is a game of chance, and as such, the odds are never in your favor. The casinos know this and use a variety of tactics to make sure you don’t walk away without trying your luck at a few rounds of roulette or poker. They have a host of tricks up their sleeves, including wafting the scents of food through the air to make you hungry, prohibiting dealers from wearing watches, and even using near-misses on slot machines to keep you playing for hours.

The most popular casino games are designed to make you feel good, which is why it’s so easy to get sucked in. You stride into the casino brimming with confidence and your wallet filled with cash, and you plan on having a bit of enjoyable, sensible gaming and maybe two rounds of drinks. But, before you know it, three or four hours have passed, and you have no idea what time it is, how many drinks you’ve had, or where your money went.

As a result, casinos have made significant investments in technology that allows them to monitor and superimpose the actions of players over a video image of the gambling floor. In fact, some casinos even have catwalks in the ceiling above the gaming area that allow surveillance personnel to look directly down on the tables and slots through one way glass. This allows casinos to track exactly how much is being wagered minute by minute, and to quickly detect any statistical deviations that might indicate cheating or collusion.

Consumers almost always trust each other more than they do brands, so it’s important to highlight positive reviews and testimonials from your guests and customers. Share these on your website and social media pages, and display them prominently throughout the property to boost trust and engagement. If you have pictures or videos of big winners, showcase them in your gaming areas to inspire other players and potential guests. This can increase your casino’s discoverability and help you stand out from your competitors.