A small rectangular block with a blank or marked surface bearing one to six pips or dots. A set of 28 such pieces forms a domino. The word also may refer to a costume consisting of a long hooded cloak worn together with a mask at a masquerade.
When a game begins, players draw their hands and then arrange themselves at the table according to the rules of the game. The first player (determined by drawing lots or by who holds the heaviest tile) places the first domino.
Origin
Domino is an ancient game that has many offshoots that require a great deal of calculation and strategy. The game originated in China, but it was brought to Europe as early as the 18th century by French prisoners of war. From there, it spread throughout the world.
Domino has maintained its authoritative undertones and is often used by businesses, organizations, and products to impart a sense of power and expertise. It has also been used as a first name, conveying a strong sense of dominance and control.
Despite her initial chilly reception from the rest of X-Force (she’s replaced by an imposter, the mutant shapeshifter Copycat) Domino has since become a valued member of the team. Her most recent contract was to guard the genius Dr. Milo Thurman, whose analytical abilities made him too dangerous for the government to release.
Rules
Players must follow the rules and regulations of the game they are playing. The rules differ depending on the type of domino being played. Some rules require that the player with the highest double make the first play. Others specify that the player with the heaviest single begins the game.
When it is your turn, you must play a domino so that one of its numbers matches the number of an uncovered adjacent domino. If you cannot match any of the available numbers, draw another domino from the boneyard and keep it hidden from the other players.
If you draw more dominoes for your hand than you are permitted to, you must call a UDL official before playing on the extra domino. You may also lose points if you do not report a bogus play in time.
Variations
The game of domino is a popular family activity that promotes bonding and social skills. It can also be used to develop critical thinking and strategy. In addition, it can help improve the player’s mathematical skills by learning to recognize patterns on the domino tiles.
The simplest variation of the game is known as the Block game, and most characteristic domino games are elaborations of this one. The first player places a tile on the table, and then players alternately extend it by adding a matching domino at one end. The first player to complete their train is the winner.
Other variants include matador, which requires players to play a number that totals seven when added to an end, and muggins, which involves making the sum of open-end pips on the layout a multiple of five. These variations encourage a greater understanding of numerical patterns and are more challenging than the Block game.
Materials
Dominoes can be made from a variety of materials. Traditional European-style dominoes are made from bone (usually ox bone or silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell, often called mother of pearl), ivory, or dark wood such as ebony with contrasting black or white pips inlaid or painted on each piece.
Other natural materials for dominoes include marble, granite or soapstone; stone (such as flint); metals such as brass or pewter; and ceramic clay. A type of synthetic resin called Bakelite was used to make a wide range of products in the early 20th century, including dominoes.
Using the DOMINO joining machine, stable frame and stile joints can be routed quickly and accurately with little preparation. Position the workpiece using the indexing stops or locating pins of the DF 500 or DF 700 and then cut the mortises.
Scoring
Domino is a game of skill and requires memory, perceptiveness, planning, and problem-solving skills. It also helps develop cognitive functions, especially in the elderly. Dominoes are also useful for children, as they help develop motor skills and enhance hand-eye coordination.
When playing domino, the scoring system is important. A player can win points by laying dominoes that make a multiple of five, or by completing a match before the time limit. In addition, a player can earn points by playing on the heaviest tile in his or her hand.
In some games, the score is calculated based on the number of dots left in the opponents’ hands. This is known as the board count. Generally, the board count should not be reduced below a certain point or players will lose the game.