Play Classic Domino Domino

What is Domino?

Domino is a family of tile-based games played with rectangular 'domino' tiles. Each domino is a rectangular tile with a line dividing its face into two square ends. Each end is marked with a number of spots (also called pips) or is blank. The backs of the dominoes in a set are indistinguishable, either blank or having some common design.

Origin of Domino

The earliest mention of dominoes is from Song dynasty China, found in the text Former Events in Wulin. Dominoes first appeared in Italy during the 18th century, and although it is unknown how Chinese dominoes developed into the modern game, it is speculated that Italian missionaries in China may have brought the game to Europe.

The name 'domino' comes from the resemblance to a type of carnival costume worn during the Venetian Carnival, consisting of a black-and-white mask and a cloak.

Game Rules

• The game uses a standard double-six domino set (28 tiles). Each player starts with 7 tiles.
• The objective is to play all your tiles before your opponent or to have the highest score if neither player can make a move.
• Players take turns placing tiles on the board. A tile can be placed if one of its halves matches the number on an open end of the domino chain.
• If a player cannot play a tile, they must draw from the boneyard until they can play or until the boneyard is empty.
• If a player cannot play after drawing and the boneyard is empty, their turn is skipped.
• The game ends when one player has played all their tiles or when neither player can make a move.

Strategy Tips

• Try to play your high-value tiles early in the game to minimize points left in your hand if your opponent goes out first.
• Keep track of which numbers have been played to anticipate what your opponent might have.
• If you notice your opponent has many tiles of a certain number, try to block that number from being played.
• Consider saving doubles for strategic moments, as they can be harder to play later in the game.
• Pay attention to your opponent's playing patterns to predict their strategy.

Game Variations

• Block Game: The simplest form where players try to empty their hands while blocking opponents.
• Draw Game: Players draw from the boneyard when they cannot play.
• Mexican Train: A popular variant where players build their own 'trains' of dominoes.
• Chicken Foot: A fun variant where special formations are created from doubles.