Domino Basics

Domino is a tile game with many variants. The name derives from the domino shape, which resembles a playing card except that it is rectangular instead of square. Each domino has a number of spots, or pips, which correspond to numbers from zero to six. The pips are raised or inlaid on one face of the domino, while the other face is blank or identically patterned. The spots are used to identify the domino’s identity and determine its value in a particular game.

During the course of play, the players make their moves by placing tiles on the table according to the rules of the particular game being played. A line of played dominoes is then formed on the table and this arrangement is referred to as the “line of play.” There are basic instructions for line of play in many of the games shown on this site; please refer to the specific game for details.

The player who plays the first tile of a round is referred to as the “setter,” “the downer,” or “the lead.” It is his responsibility to place his domino face up in front of him on the line of play before making his move. It is also his responsibility to make sure that the open end of the tile he places matches the pips on the domino played before him.

If a player can’t make a play, he should “knock” or rap the table with his hand. This signals to the other players that he cannot continue and it becomes their turn to play. The players should continue to “knock” until one player has all of his tiles left and cannot make another play. Then the game ends.

In most domino games, the players take turns drawing from a stock of tiles for their hands. This can be done clockwise (as in most games from North America and Europe) or counter-clockwise (as in most games from Asia). There may be a number of extra tiles remaining in the stock at the end of the draw, and these should be reshuffled and drawn for the next hand.

When the players have their hands completed, they are then able to score for the round. The winner is the player who has the lowest total value of points in their opponent’s hands minus any points they have in their own hand. The winnings from the round are then awarded to the players.

To become a better Domino player, it is important to practice. There are many ways to do this, including playing against a computer and with friends. Practicing will help you develop strategies for scoring and playing tiles and become a more confident Domino player. Also, it is important to learn how to recognize different types of dominoes and their values. This will give you more confidence in your ability to play any type of domino game. This will be especially helpful when you play against more experienced players.