Dominoes Game

What is Dominoes?

Dominoes is a classic tile-based strategy game that is played worldwide. The game is typically played with a set of rectangular tiles, known as dominoes, each divided into two square ends with a number of spots (pips) ranging from 0 to 6 (in a standard double-six set). The objective varies depending on the game variant but generally involves placing tiles strategically to score points or block opponents.

How to play Dominoes

Players take turns placing a domino from their hand onto the table, matching one end of their tile to an open end of a tile already in play. The game continues until a player plays all their tiles, or no more moves can be made. A player wins by playing all their dominoes or having the lowest pip total when no further moves are possible. Winning player earns points based on the remaining score of each player.

Popular Variants of Dominoes

1. Draw Game: Players draw tiles from a stockpile and play them in turn, aiming to be the first to play all tiles.
2. Block Game: Similar to the draw game, but players do not draw extra tiles if they cannot play.
3. Mexican Train: A multiplayer variant where each player builds a "train" of tiles branching from a central hub.
4. All Fives (Muggins): A scoring version where points are awarded when the sum of open-ended pips is a multiple of five.

3 Tips and Reminders for Winning at Dominoes

1. Control the Board by Playing Versatile Tiles
• Always try to keep a variety of numbers in your hand to maximize your playable options.
• Avoid getting stuck with high-value tiles (like doubles) unless you're sure they will help you later.
• If you can, force your opponents into a situation where they have to pass, limiting their options.
2. Track Your Opponents Moves and Tiles
• Pay attention to what numbers your opponents are playing and avoiding.
• If you notice an opponent skipping a turn when a certain number is open, try to control that number to block their plays.
• In scoring versions like All Fives, be mindful of how your placements affect the board's total pip count.
3. End with Low-Value Tiles
• If the game ends with a blocked board, the player with the lowest sum of pips wins.
• Always get rid of high-pip tiles early, especially doubles, so you don't get stuck with too many points in hand.
• If possible, force the game into a locked position where you have the lowest remaining value.

FAQs on How to Play Dominoes

1. How many tiles do you start with in a game of dominoes?

In a 2-player game, each player typically starts with 7 tiles. In a 3-4 player game, each player usually gets 5 tiles. The remaining tiles form the boneyard (draw pile).

2. What happens if a player cannot make a move?

If a player has no matching tile, they must draw from the boneyard (if allowed in that game variant). If no tiles are available to draw, they must pass their turn.

3. How does scoring work in dominoes?

Scoring depends on the game variant. In All Fives, points are scored when the sum of open-ended tiles equals a multiple of five. In a blocked game, the player with the lowest pip count at the end wins and scores the total of their opponents remaining pips.

How playing Dominoes levels up your brain

Playing dominoes isn't just fun, it's also a great way to exercise your brain and enhance cognitive abilities. Here's how it benefits your mental skills: Improves Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving, Enhances Memory & Concentration and finially it also helps Develop Mathematical Skills.

Play Dominoes on BrainPlay, no downloads or installation required. Play now for free in your browser.

Last updated: Thursday, January 16, 2025