Dominoes are a game that consists of a series of rectangular tiles. Each tile has two square ends, each with a number of spots. The object of the game is to collect all of the tiles, placing them in the appropriate order to create as many sets as possible. If you do not know how to play the game, read on to learn more about it. This article will give you an introduction to the game, its history, and how to play it.

Origin

The name Domino has many different meanings. In the early Christian tradition, it was St. Damian who was martyred under the emperor Domitian. Today, the name is associated with the 7th and 8th centuries and is also the patron saint of Pavia. There are many variations on the Domino meaning, but the basic principles of the game remain the same. To learn more about the origins of this popular game, read on.

Variations

A classic game for two players, dominoes consists of seven tiles from a set of double-six dominoes. Players extend the line of play by picking up tiles to create their hands. The player with the highest score wins the hand, unless a double occurs. The player who has fewer tiles takes the first turn. The other player draws from the remaining tiles. The goal is to collect as many points as possible without getting knocked out in the process.

Game rules

The game rules of domino are relatively straightforward and follow a few principles. Players must place the dominoes in a specified way, with matching ends adjacent to each other. Doubles may be added to a chain in any direction, but must touch the center tile. If the player playing a double misplays a tile, he may take it back and score the difference. Once two tiles match, play ends.

Materials

The origins of dominoes can be traced back to the early 19th century. In that time, dominoes were made from ivory inlaid with ebony pips. Today, ivory dominoes are among the most expensive domino sets. However, ivory harvesting has caused the death of thousands of elephants and the near extinction of large mammals. In response to this decline, a ban on the trade of ivory was introduced. Due to this, ivory dominoes are illegal.

Slang terms

A domino game is so popular that it has developed its own slang terms. Many of these terms have regional origins and apply to different versions of the game. For example, a domino game in Texas is often referred to as a “bar of soap,” while a game played in Cuba is called a “centipede.” However, most of these slang terms apply to all varieties of the game.