Domino is a timeless tabletop game that combines strategy, focus, and a bit of quick thinking. Easy to learn yet endlessly engaging, it’s a favorite among families, friends, and even competitive players around the world. If you’ve ever seen people matching little rectangular tiles and wondered how the game works, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to play Domino—step by step.
What Is Domino?
Domino is a tile-based game that uses small rectangular pieces called “dominoes.” Each tile has two square ends, and each end is marked with a number of dots (also called “pips”) or is left blank. The goal of the game is to match tiles with the same number of dots and be the first to play all your tiles.
Dominoes come in sets of different sizes, but the most common one is the Double-Six set, which includes 28 tiles. Larger sets like Double-Nine or Double-Twelve are often used for games with more players.
Basic Domino Setup
Before you start playing, here’s what you’ll need:
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Domino set: A standard Double-Six set for 2–4 players.
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Flat surface: A table or smooth surface to lay the tiles.
Setup steps:
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Place all dominoes face down and shuffle them.
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Each player draws 7 tiles if there are 2 players, or 5 tiles if there are 3–4 players.
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The remaining tiles form the boneyard (the draw pile).
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Players keep their tiles hidden from others.
How to Play Domino
The gameplay is simple, but it requires strategic moves. Here’s how a standard game flows:
1. Starting the Game
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The player with the highest double (for example, a double six) starts the game by placing that tile in the center.
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If no one has a double, each player draws one tile from the boneyard until someone can start.
2. Taking Turns
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Players take turns placing tiles that match one end of the line of tiles on the table.
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For example, if the last tile on the board has a 6, you must place a tile that has a 6 on one side.
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Tiles are placed end to end, forming a chain.
3. Drawing from the Boneyard
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If a player cannot make a move, they must draw one tile from the boneyard.
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If the drawn tile still can’t be played, the turn passes to the next player.
4. Winning the Round
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The round ends when one player plays their last tile, or when no one can make a move.
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The winner of the round is the player who has played all their tiles or has the lowest total pip count remaining.
Domino Scoring Rules
While casual play often skips scoring, keeping score makes the game more competitive.
| Situation | Points |
|---|---|
| First player to use all tiles | Wins the round |
| Remaining tiles in other players’ hands | Counted as points for the winner |
| Game ends | When a player reaches a set score (often 100 or 150) |
To calculate scores:
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Add up the pips on each opponent’s remaining tiles.
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The total is added to the winner’s score.
Variations of Domino
Domino has many variations, and the rules can slightly change depending on which one you play. Here are some popular types:
1. Block Domino
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The simplest version.
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Players can’t draw from the boneyard—if you can’t move, you skip your turn.
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The first player to run out of tiles wins.
2. Draw Domino
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The most common version.
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When you can’t play, you draw from the boneyard until you find a playable tile or the pile runs out.
3. All Fives (or “Muggins”)
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Points are scored during the game whenever the open ends of the layout add up to a multiple of five.
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It adds a layer of strategy and quick mental math.
Tips and Strategies for Winning at Domino
Domino may look simple, but good players use clever strategies to gain an advantage. Here are some useful tips:
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Start with high doubles: Opening with a high double gives you control early in the game.
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Watch your opponent’s moves: Pay attention to which numbers they avoid or draw for; it reveals what tiles they might lack.
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Keep a balanced hand: Try to hold onto tiles that connect multiple numbers, increasing your options.
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Block your opponent: When possible, play tiles that make it harder for your opponent to match the ends.
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Count the tiles: Remember which numbers have already been played to predict what’s left in the game.
Common Domino Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Double | A tile with the same number on both ends (e.g., 4–4). |
| Boneyard | The pile of unused dominoes that players draw from. |
| Pips | The dots on each tile. |
| Spinner | The first double played, which can be built on from all four sides in some variations. |
Why People Love Playing Domino
Domino is more than just a game—it’s a way to connect with others, sharpen your focus, and relax. It doesn’t require expensive equipment or complex rules, making it accessible for all ages. Whether you’re playing casually with friends or joining a local competition, learning how to play Domino is a rewarding experience that never gets old.
Learning how to play Domino is easy, but mastering it takes observation and planning. Once you understand the rules and develop your own strategy, every game becomes more exciting. It’s a perfect mix of simplicity and depth—ideal for anyone who enjoys classic games that stand the test of time.
So gather your tiles, invite some friends, and start your first round today. Domino isn’t just a pastime—it’s a timeless game that brings people together, one tile at a time.
