Domino is a popular tile-based game. Similar to dice and playing cards, it is played using rectangular tiles with square ends and pips that can be marked with numbers.
It has several variations, including Texas 42, the Domino Whist, Matador, and Fives and Threes. The most basic domino variant is a block game, in which two players draw seven tiles from a double-six set and alternately extend the line of play.
Origin
Domino is a board game that originated in China and was brought to Europe by French prisoners of war. It spread throughout Europe and eventually into the Americas, where it remains popular today.
Some historians believe that domino was invented in China in the 12th century, but others say it dates back to a much earlier time. It may have been introduced to ancient Egypt, where a set of dominoes was found in the tomb of king Tutankhamen.
The word “domino” is derived from the Latin word dominus, meaning Lord or Master. This may have influenced the way the game was played.
Rules
The rules of domino vary by game. Some variations of the game have a bidding element, while others are more like card games.
In most straight domino games, the number of pips on exposed ends must be a multiple of five to score. In some, however, the number of pips on exposed end may be divisible by three.
A player’s first play is called a “set” or a “down.” He should place his tile face up in the middle of the table.
The second player makes his play by connecting to the last tile played by the first player. If he cannot find an appropriate domino to play, he can pass his turn and draw from the stock of unused dominoes.
Materials
Domino is a family of games that uses rectangular tiles marked with spots on their ends. Players use these spots to match their tiles to each other and avoid stepping on another player’s dominoes.
Traditional European-style dominoes are made of bone or dark hardwood like ebony with contrasting black or white pips. Today, domino sets can be made from a variety of materials.
Some are made from natural materials such as ivory, bone or silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell, while others are constructed of wood or soapstone. Generally, these sets are more expensive than polymer-based dominoes, but they can be much more durable.
Variations
There are many variations of domino, ranging from spinner-style games to simple versions. The basic game is to place tiles in a specific pattern and try to collect them before the other player does.
The earliest domino sets used ivory faces and ebony blacks, but modern versions are made from plastic, wood, or marble. There are also specialty sets with novelty pips, like frosted glass.
A key rule of domino is that you must play the tile with the same number on both ends. If you do not, it is considered a misplay and must be taken back before the next player can take their turn.
End of game
Domino is a popular board game that has a rich history. Discover the origins and rules, as well as a glossary of slang terms.
Players compete against each other by placing dominoes on a table. They try to eliminate all of their opponents’ high-value tiles while clearing their own hand.
The game ends when either one of the players puts down all their tiles or when no player can make any more plays. The player with the lowest number of pips wins.