The Game of Dominoes
The game of dominoes has many variations. The basic layout of the game is a square, with dominos played on either side of the square. For instance, when a player plays the first tile, the number six appears. A player can play a second tile to the left or right of the first tile.
Origins
The word domino has multiple origins. In Latin, it is dominus, the oblique form of the word dominus, meaning “master.” In other languages, domino is the name of a game in which one player scores as many points as possible with a single game. In modern times, the game of dominoes is played with a domino set made of tiles, each containing one or more pips (dots).
Although the exact origins of the domino game are unknown, the game is said to have been introduced to England in the early eighteenth century by French prisoners of war. It later spread to other European countries and even the Americas. The European domino is easier to play than its Chinese counterpart, and there are several variations of the game that have been developed over the centuries.
Rules
To play the game of domino, players must place their tiles so that the two sides of the tile touch. They may also place a tile with a specific number on one end. The game ends when all the matching tiles touch the center of the board. There are various rules that govern the game of domino, which vary according to the place where it is played.
First, the chosen tile is laid face up on the table. After that, each player has to match one end of their domino with one end of the first tile. Some versions of domino allow a player to join tiles on any line, while others only allow players to add tiles to a line. Doubles are counted if they are laid perpendicularly to a line and contain pips on both ends. If a player has no dominoes, he or she must draw one from the unused tiles.
Variations
Many variations of the domino game exist. In each, the line of play varies, but the general objective is to build an empty hand. The line of play is formed by playing matching tiles. In some variants, doubles are allowed on all four sides, but in others, doubles are only allowed on one side.
Despite the numerous variations, most are based on a similar game. A few of the most popular variations are the following: Texas 42, Domino Whist, Fives and Threes, and Matador.
Sets
There are different types of sets of dominos. Those used for playing “standard” domino games are double-six sets, double-eight sets, and double-nine sets. In each of these styles, four players pick twelve tiles. They can also play “draw” domino games, which use a double-nine set.
Sets of dominos are also used in mathematics. They are useful for learning how to match patterns and numerals. They can also be used to learn about tesselating rectangles and strategy.
Counting pips
There are several ways to count pips in domino. One way is to name the pip totals. Using a phrase like “pips add up” or “pip count equals six” will make you sound more impressive and convincing. Another method is to count off from the thirteenth tile. This will give you the correct number of pips.
The pips in dominoes and playing cards are small, easily counted items. They are usually dots or symbols.
