The Basics of Dominoes
Dominoes are a family of tile-based games. Each tile is rectangular in shape with two square ends. Each end is marked with the number of spots. A set of dominoes has a specific number of spots in each square. Players try to place all their tiles in a row before the next tile is placed.
Origin
The origin of the domino game is a mystery. According to some sources, the game was invented in China around 1120 AD. Others have found evidence that the game originated between 181 and 234 CE. Whatever the origin, the game has gained worldwide popularity.
Game rules
The basic rules of domino are relatively simple and can be learned fairly quickly. Each player must place at least one tile on the game board and the goal is to form a pair of doubles or triples. The player with the most tiles wins the game.
Tiles
In domino, the tiles are laid out in a line from center to edge. These lines form the line of play. The player who sets up the tile first plays.
Variations
The game of domino involves placing tiles in a particular way. Each tile must be placed so that its end is adjacent to the top or bottom of another tile. A player can place a tile with the same number on both ends if the other player’s tile is already in the play area. When a player plays a tile with the same number on both ends, he or she is said to have “stitched up” the ends of the domino.
Origins in China
Although the origins of dominoes are shrouded in mystery, some researchers say the game was invented in China around 1120. Others, such as Dr. Gustav Schlegel, claim that the game dates back to 181 – 234 CE. In any case, the game was not widely played for several years.
Game variations
There are several game variations in domino, and each one has different rules and strategies. For example, some variants only let players play off one side of a double, while others require players to play off both sides. Some of these variants are popular throughout the United States, while others are more popular on the West Coast.