How to Play Block Dominoes

Block Dominoes is played with a standard double-six domino set containing 28 tiles. Each tile has two ends marked with dots (pips) ranging from 0 (blank) to 6.

Initial Setup:

• 2 Players: Each player draws 7 dominoes
• 3-4 Players: Each player draws 6 dominoes
• Remaining tiles: Form the "boneyard" for drawing

Starting the Game:

The player with the highest double domino (6-6, 5-5, etc.) plays first. If no one has a double, the player with the highest value domino starts. The first domino is placed in the center of the table.

Playing Tiles:

• Players take turns adding dominoes to either end of the line
• The number of pips on the connecting ends must match
• Dominoes are placed end-to-end in a single line
• Doubles are placed perpendicular to the line

When You Can't Play:

If you cannot match either end of the domino line, you must draw from the boneyard until you can play or until it's empty. If the boneyard is empty and you still can't play, you must pass your turn.

Winning Conditions:

• Domino Out: First player to play all their tiles wins
• Blocked Game: If no one can play, the player with the lowest pip count wins
• Scoring: Winner scores the total pips remaining in opponents' hands

Opening Strategy:

• Play your highest double early to control the game
• Keep track of which numbers have been played
• Try to play tiles that give you multiple future options

Mid-Game Tactics:

• Block opponents by playing tiles that limit their options
• Save tiles with common numbers for later in the game
• Pay attention to what opponents are drawing from the boneyard
• Try to force opponents to draw tiles when possible

Endgame Considerations:

• Count remaining tiles to predict what opponents might have
• Play high-value tiles early to minimize penalty points
• Consider blocking the game if you have the lowest pip count

Memory Techniques:

Successful domino players develop memory skills to track played tiles. Try to remember which numbers are still available and which opponents seem to be lacking certain numbers based on their drawing patterns.

• Playing doubles too late: Doubles can be harder to play as the game progresses
• Not counting tiles: Failing to track what's been played puts you at a disadvantage
• Ignoring opponents' draws: When opponents draw multiple tiles, they likely lack certain numbers
• Hoarding high-value tiles: These become liabilities if you can't play them
• Not considering blocking: Sometimes preventing opponents from playing is more valuable than advancing your own position