Casino hosts are the human element of the comp system. For higher-volume VP players, a good host relationship can unlock benefits beyond what the automated loyalty program provides — discretionary comps, event invitations, and personalized service.
Who Gets a Host?
Casino hosts are assigned to players whose play level justifies personal attention. The threshold varies by property:
- Las Vegas Strip: Typically $100+ per trip in theoretical loss (roughly $5+ denomination VP for 4+ hours)
- Las Vegas locals: Lower thresholds — $25-50/trip theo may qualify
- Regional casinos: Even lower — regular quarter VP players at smaller properties sometimes receive host attention
VP players generally need to play at higher denominations or longer sessions to qualify for host service, because VP's low house edge generates less theo per hour than slots or table games.
What Hosts Can Do
Discretionary comps. Beyond what the system automatically generates, hosts can approve additional room nights, dining credits, show tickets, and other perks. These come from the host's departmental budget and are based on your current and projected future play.
Room upgrades. Hosts can arrange suite upgrades when availability allows — something the automated system won't do.
Event access. Invitations to special events (concerts, parties, golf tournaments) are distributed through hosts.
Problem resolution. If there's an issue with your comp balance, room charge, or loyalty status, a host can intervene faster than the rewards desk.
How to Interact with Hosts
Be honest about your play
Hosts have access to your play data. They know your average bet, hours played, and theo. Don't exaggerate your play or make promises about future visits you don't intend to keep. The relationship works best when both sides are straightforward.
Ask, don't demand
Asking "Is there anything you can do for my room rate?" is better than "I want a free room." Hosts have discretion, and a polite approach gets better results than an entitled one.
Don't waste their time
Hosts manage portfolios of dozens or hundreds of players. If your play level is moderate, be efficient in your interactions. A quick call or email before your visit to ask about available offers is appropriate. Multiple calls per week demanding upgrades is not.
Be a good customer overall
Hosts prefer working with players who are pleasant to the staff, don't create problems, and are reasonable in their expectations. Being a good guest (beyond just your play level) makes hosts more willing to use their discretion in your favor.
VP-Specific Host Considerations
VP players generate less theo than slot or table game players at the same bet level. This means:
- Your comp offers may be lower than you expect based on your total coin-in
- Hosts at VP-unfriendly properties may not prioritize VP players
- The best host relationships for VP develop at properties that value VP play (locals casinos, VP-forward regionals)
When to Seek a Host
If you play $1+ VP for 4+ hours per visit and visit the same property multiple times per year, you're a candidate for host service. Ask the rewards desk to introduce you to a host for your play level. If your play doesn't qualify yet, the automated comp system handles everything — you don't need a host for standard loyalty program benefits.