Dominoes are rectangular pieces that have a standardized width and length. They feature identifying marks on one side and are blank or identically patterned on the other.
After the dominoes are shuffled, each player draws a domino for their hand. The player who draws the highest domino begins play.
Rules
There are many variations of domino, but most fall into one of four categories: bidding games, blocking games, scoring games, and round games. There are also some special rules that apply to certain games, such as spinners, which have more than two sides and can be played on all but two of them.
After the dominoes have been shuffled, each player draws a single tile from the stock and begins play with the heaviest domino. The order of play may be determined in a number of ways, including seating arrangements and drawing lots.
Each player takes turns placing dominoes in the line of play, joining to matching ends. Doubles, which can be joined on all four sides, are played crosswise; singles, which can be joined only on the ends, are played lengthwise. When a player is unable to make another play, that players’ score is counted and that round ends. The player with the lowest total value wins that round.
Variations
There are many variations of domino games. Most are blocking or scoring games where the goal is to empty one’s hand while blocking opponents from doing so. Players also score points based on the total number of pips in their hands at the end of the game.
The dominoes used in most of these games have a unique pattern on one side and are blank or identically patterned on the other. This pattern enables players to identify their own dominoes from those of others by positioning them so that the matching ends touch. Each time a player places a tile it forms a chain that gradually increases in length.
In some games, such as matador and muggins, players attach their dominoes to the ends of others’ dominoes to form chains called trains. Some games include a special marker that indicates an end of a train that cannot be played on and identifies the last double played.
Materials
A domino is a flat thumbsized, rectangular block, each bearing one to six pips or dots: 28 such blocks make up a complete set. Its pips are usually inlaid or painted, and it can have several different colors. It can also be made from a variety of materials, including bone, ivory, and wood. In addition, it can be made from other rigid materials such as stone and metals.
Many domino players use a special felt tabletop, which prevents the tiles from scratching it. It is important to consider this when deciding which type of table to purchase. Most tables are constructed from wood and feature a green felt surface. Those who are interested in a more durable tabletop can opt for plastic.
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Scoring
Domino is a game in which players score points by putting down dominoes end to end with the exposed ends touching each other. If the pips on both ends total any multiple of five the player is awarded those points. If both ends have the same number, for example a double four, the score is zero.
The scoring system in domino varies depending on the game being played. Some games use a scoring table, while others require the players to keep track of their own scores. A player who reaches a certain point value wins the game.
One popular variation of the game is 5s-and-3s, which is a highly competitive pub game in the UK. In this version, the winning player is awarded points based on the value of their opponents’ dominoes, rounded to the nearest multiple of five. The winner of the game also receives a bonus play of an additional tile when playing a domino that exposes a suit in their opponent’s hand.