Why do people who know what house edge means still play in a casino?

[Mike_25]

Casinos are designed so that the house will always win in the long run. The odds always favor the house. People know this, yet they still flock to casinos in droves. Why? Because for many, the fantasy of winning big outweighs the reality of the house edge.

I can admit, I'm guilty of this too. I know the odds of hitting a big jackpot are tiny, yet I still chase that dream. The flashing lights and cheering crowds when someone wins create a false sense of possibility. Some people budget, but others get carried away spending far more than they can afford to lose, all for a chance at sudden riches.

It's the thrill of the action, the excitement of the moment that makes us forget the mathematical truth - the house will win more money from us than we'll ever win from them. The casinos count on this dream and delusion to keep the suckers, er, players, coming through the doors. The house edge only gets larger the longer the player stays. But inside each of us, that little gambler refuses to give up hope. Crazy? Absolutely. But that's what keeps us coming back for more.

 

[Crazy_winner]

Casinos frequently provide freebies, including entry to shows and events, meals, hotel stays, and drinks. Even when they anticipate losing money playing the games, some people can be drawn in by these benefits and think of them as extra value.