Welcome to our complete guide on how to play dominoes. Whether you're brand new to the game or looking to refresh your knowledge, this page covers everything from basic gameplay to popular variations like Mexican Train and Chickenfoot.

Dominoes is a timeless tile-based game enjoyed for generations. It can be played casually with family or competitively in tournaments. Most games follow similar core rules, with slight variations depending on the domino set size.

Domino Set Types

Domino sets come in different sizes. The larger the set, the more gameplay possibilities.

• Double 6 (28 tiles) – Classic beginner set
• Double 9 (55 tiles) – Great for medium groups
• Double 12 (91 tiles) – Ideal for Mexican Train and larger groups
• Double 15 (136 tiles) – Best for large gatherings

Each set contains all combinations from blank (0) up to the highest number in the set.

Basic Dominoes Rules (Block Game)

This is the most traditional version of dominoes.

Setup

• Shuffle all dominoes face down.
• Each player draws:7 tiles (2 players)5 tiles (3–4 players)
• Remaining tiles form the boneyard.
• The player with the highest double starts. If no doubles are drawn, reshuffle.

How to Play

• Players take turns matching one end of a domino to an open end on the board.
• Tiles must match the number of pips (dots).
• If a player cannot make a move, they pass.
• Play continues clockwise.

How to Win

• The first player to use all their dominoes wins.
• If the game becomes blocked (no one can play), the player with the lowest total pip count wins the round.

Draw Game Rules

The Draw Game is similar to Block Game with one key difference.

Setup

Same as Block Game.

How to Play

• If a player cannot make a move, they must draw from the boneyard until they can play.
• If the boneyard is empty and no play is possible, the player passes.

Winning

• First player to play all tiles wins.
• If blocked, lowest pip count wins.

Mexican Train Dominoes Rules

Mexican Train is one of the most popular domino games, especially with Double 12 sets.

Setup

• Each player draws:15 tiles (2–4 players using Double 12)Fewer tiles if more players join
• The highest double (for example, double 12 in a Double 12 set) starts in the center using a hub or centerpiece.
• Each player builds a personal "train" extending from the center tile.

How to Play

Players must start their train by matching the center double.

On each turn, a player may:

• Play on their own train
• Play on the public Mexican Train
• Play on another player's train if it is marked open

If a player cannot play, they draw one tile and place a marker on their train, making it public.

Doubles Rule

When a double is played, it must be "satisfied" by placing another matching tile before play continues.

Winning

• The first player to play all their tiles wins the round.
• Remaining players count the total pips in their hands.
• Lowest cumulative score wins after all rounds are completed.

Chickenfoot Rules

Chickenfoot is another popular variation often played with Double 12 sets.

Setup

Same as Mexican Train, starting with the highest double.

Special Rule

• When a double is played, three matching tiles must be placed around it, forming a "chicken foot" shape.
• No other plays can continue until the chicken foot is completed.

Winning

• First player to empty their hand wins the round.
• Lowest score wins the game after all rounds are played.

Domino Scoring

Scoring is based on the total number of pips (dots) left in a player's hand at the end of each round.

Example:

• A 6–5 tile = 11 points
• A double 12 = 24 points

Lower scores are better in most domino games.

Games are often played to:

• 100 points
• 150 points
• 200 points
• (or until all doubles have been played in round format)

Domino Terminology

• Pips – The dots on each tile
• Boneyard – Remaining unused tiles
• Double – A tile with the same number on both ends
• Spinner – A starting double that allows branching in multiple directions
• Train – A line of dominoes extending from the center
• Blocked Game – When no player can make a legal move

Beginner Tips for Winning

• Play doubles strategically to control the board.
• Keep track of numbers that have already been played.
• Reduce high-value tiles early to lower your score.
• In Mexican Train, avoid leaving your train open too long.
• Plan ahead and watch your opponents' moves carefully.

Ready to Play?

Dominoes is a game of strategy, observation, and a little bit of luck. Whether you're playing casually with family or hosting a competitive game night, the right set makes all the difference.

Explore our premium Texas Domino sets designed for durability, smooth handling, and serious gameplay.

Start your next game with confidence.