The slumping economy has unleashed money problems everywhere, from Wall Street to local households. But that's not stopping some people from placing their bets.

In fact, Northwest casinos are cashing in, thanks to new marketing.

Slot machines are always a gamble. But even in this tough economy, there's a payoff for gamblers.

The Tulalip Casino Resort says numbers at the tables and slots are holding strong in the Northwest. But gambling in Nevada and California are down almost 2 percent -- more than $233 million for the year.

So local casinos are offering luxury as an added value to keep business strong. High-brow suites for high rollers and spa services for him and her -- it's all on the table.

"We usually make a deal. It's just a matter of getting that exposure and reaching out," said Ken Kettler, president of Tulalip Casino Resort.

The Snoqualmie Tribe hopes "new" is enough to sell. Its $170,000-square foot casino opens next month. Its driveway has yet to be completed, but opening night is already booked. But after that, there's no sure thing for any casino.

"I don't think any of us have been through anything this big in the last 25 years. It's a little harder to say how deep it's going to cut," said Kettler.

Whether it's blackjack or slots, the casinos are putting their money on one safe bet: there are always people who feel better with money in their hands and not in the market.

"I know nothing about the stock market. If they make it like Texas Hold'em, I'll play it," said one gambler. "Probably have a better chance at winning,"

Tulalip Casino says it has been trying to boost its convention business, but the task has proven to be tough. The resort president says car dealers aren't booking big events, so he's trying to cater to Canadians and overseas gamblers who fly in for business.

"We've got some hardships with some things that are going on in the local economies. But I think we'll overcome that. This is a we're-in-it-for-the-long-haul strategy," said Kettler.