Whether it’s the flashing lights, music, or coin clinking of slot machines, there’s something intoxicating about casino gambling. Even though the odds are that you’ll lose money, the atmosphere can make you feel like it’s worth the risk. That’s what casinos are counting on, and it’s why they work so hard to make the experience a joy.

In reality, casino games are not really a matter of chance. There’s a built-in advantage for the house that ensures it will win over the long haul, and savvy players know this, too. They’re hoping to win big by betting on a hot streak, but the truth is that it’s more likely they will lose money over time.

That doesn’t stop people from lining up at roulette wheels, blackjack tables, and poker rooms to press their luck. Casinos are designed to be as immersive as possible, with the scent of scented oils wafting through the air and music blaring at all times. The goal is to create a manufactured blissful experience to lure in new customers and keep existing ones coming back for more.

To that end, many casinos offer free meals and hotel stays to “good” players in an effort to entice them to spend more. These perks, also known as comps, are often offered to the most prolific gamblers who spend large amounts of cash and play for long periods. But they can also help attract younger audiences who are looking for a more socially responsible way to gamble.