Domino is a tile-based game whose pieces can be stacked on end to form long lines. Each domino has two sides, which are numbered with values ranging from six pips down to none or blank.

After the tiles are shuffled, each player draws a hand of dominoes, according to the rules of the particular game being played. The player who draws the heaviest tile makes the first play.

Origin

The origin of domino is obscure, but the game became popular in the 18th century and is now played worldwide. Its name might be derived from the word domino, which referred to a hooded cape worn by priests over their white surplices in winter. The hooded cape also resembled the black domino pieces.

Neena Thurman, aka Domino, was the result of a top secret government program designed to create the ultimate mutant weapon. Her “good luck” powers enabled her to escape and take up the life of a mercenary. She allied herself with the mutant soldier Cable and fought high profile villains like Stryfe and Mister Sinister.

Domino possesses the ability to change probability by subconsciously generating a psionic aura. She can use this to cause improbable events to occur, from having an enemy’s equipment malfunction to shutting down an overloading machine.

Rules

The game begins when the players draw a domino from the stock. This domino is compared with the heaviest double and the player holding it first makes the first play. The winner of the last game also may open the first hand. After each player draws a domino, they must place it in front of them in such a way that other players cannot see the pips. Then they count the total value of the dominos in their hands.

The player with the most dominos at the end of the round wins. Some variations of the game include scoring based on specific patterns or combinations of tiles played. The game ends when one player empties their hand or when no players can make a move.

Variations

There are many variations of domino games. Some use the standard double-six set and are known as blocking or shedding games, while others require more sophisticated sets or specific configurations of dominoes in the layout to score. Some domino games also involve a set number of rounds or a total score, and some players have to empty their hands before the end of the game.

The simplest block game is called Block Dominoes. This game requires a double-six set and is played with two players. The tiles are shuffled to form a stock or boneyard, from which each player draws seven. The players then play tiles on-edge, with each player matching the value of the other’s tile.

In some games, the pips on each side of a domino are different and this allows for a more complex set of rules to govern the game. One such game is Bendomino, which uses curved dominoes and has unusual rules for forming pairs.

Materials

Dominoes are crafted from an array of substances, ranging from traditional materials like bone and ivory (historically) to contemporary plastics and resins. The selection of particular materials influences everything from the product’s durability requirements to its aesthetic attributes and manufacturing costs.

For example, the application of metal inlays requires precise cutting techniques to maintain a tight fit. This attention to detail exemplifies the high standards that characterize domino craftsmanship and underscores an ongoing commitment to superior quality.

In contrast, wood-based composites add a distinctive touch to domino sets by combining aesthetic refinement with enhanced durability. Their inherent density also contributes to a satisfying tactile experience. Furthermore, their resin binder facilitates the incorporation of various stone types and provides a level of moisture resistance compared to porous natural stone.

Scoring

Dominoes have a number of different games and scoring systems. These vary depending on the set, players, and game rules. The scoring system usually involves counting the pips on each open end of the domino. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

If a domino has an open end that totals a multiple of three or five, it scores points. This is called a multiplier. For example, if a player plays a five/three domino on a chain ending in two, it scores four points.

A round of play ends when one player has played all their tiles. The player with the lowest score wins the round. When a round is complete, the players who have dominoes left in their hand add up the pips on each end.