Casinos provide more than just games for those willing to take a chance. They offer an entire experience, complete with luxurious dining and entertainment options. These world-class casinos should be on everyone’s bucket list if they ever get the opportunity to visit one.
It’s happened to all of us: We stride into the Luxor, Mohegan Sun, or Tropicana brimming with confidence and a wallet filled with cash, with plans for a bit of enjoyable, sensible gambling and maybe two rounds of cocktails. Hours later, we’ve no idea what time it is, how many drinks we have had, or how much money we’ve lost. That’s because casinos are designed to manipulate our brains, with lights, sounds, and even the physical layout of the place to encourage us to keep spending.
The best-known example of this is the slot machine, where the spinning reels and the constant sound of coins falling are designed to make players feel that they are winning constantly. This psychological tactic is known as a “primary reward,” and it can be very effective in getting people to keep playing, even when they are losing.
Another primary reward is the use of booze, which lowers inhibitions and clouds judgment. This is why you’ll always find a bar in a casino, and it’s why you’ll almost never see someone at a blackjack table without a drink in hand. Casinos also use a lot of flashing lights and loud music to create a buzz of excitement and energy that draws in customers. And of course, there’s the constant noise of other patrons cheering when they hit a big win on a slot machine or a poker game.
Loyalty programs, or comps, are a common way for casinos to encourage players to continue spending by giving them free meals, rooms, or other perks. This is a highly effective strategy, as the more money players spend, the more they earn in comps, and the more likely they are to keep spending. Additionally, some casinos pump extra oxygen and pleasant scents into the air to keep players alert and energized. This can be especially helpful for those who are easily distracted by conversation or a noisy environment.