Casino is a place where champagne glasses clink, locals and tourists mingle, and people try their hand at luck through games like poker or roulette. There’s an incredible buzz in the air, and whether you’re gambling with friends or alone, you’re surrounded by people who are just as excited to be there as you are.

Casino stars Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci in an epic story about Vegas’ rise from a town that was run by mobs to the gambling capital of the world. Although the violence is a bit over-the-top, Scorsese’s masterful direction and taut storytelling ensure that Casino doesn’t lag or lose steam throughout its three-hour running time.

As the lights come on, you see a dazzling array of brightly colored casino chips and hear the cheerful chime of slot machines. Combined with the smell of the casino’s scented oils, these effects create a manufactured experience of bliss that can be difficult to step away from. Some casinos even use a technique called “near-miss” to keep players betting, meaning that they’re able to win small amounts of money, but not enough to cover their losses.

While the casino environment may be inviting, it’s important to remember that you’re not there to make money – you’re there for entertainment. So, before you step inside, decide how much money you’re willing to spend and stick to it. Also, it’s a good idea to leave your ATM card at home.