The domino is a small, rectangular block used for playing many games. Often, the blocks are stacked in a long line, creating a variety of interesting shapes. These blocks can also be shuffled in a variety of ways to play a wide range of games.
Dominos are sometimes referred to as cards, bones, men, or stones. They are usually made from wood or plastic, and can be played by two to four people. Most of the time, the players draw a certain number of pieces from a stock. Some are blank, while others are marked with spots.
Dominos come in a variety of sets, each with a particular number of tiles. For example, a double-18 set has 190 tiles, while a double-15 set has 136 tiles. Another popular set is the double-six, which has 28 tiles.
These sets are generally used in traditional Chinese domino games, such as Tien Gow. These traditional games are sometimes played with a group of friends or a computer, or by using dominoes in a fun domino course. A common variation is Five-Up, which uses multicolored tiles.
Another popular variant is Concentration, which uses a double-six set. In this game, each player draws seven tiles from a pool of tiles. The total number of pips in each tile is then calculated. If the player has the least number of pips, they win.
Many people are aware of the domino effect, which is the process by which one change can trigger a cascade of other changes. This effect can be caused by a variety of factors, including technology, a merger, or an influx of new ideas. It can also be caused by a simple change, such as a rearranging of furniture or the addition of a few new employees.
Although the domino effect was first noted in the 1700s, the word “domino” only appeared in modern English around 1771. Until then, the word referred to a masquerade mask, a long hooded cloak, or a priest’s cape.
There are a variety of other types of dominoes, each with their own unique character. However, the most common form is the score game. Players draw a certain number of tiles from a stock and try to beat their opponents. Sometimes, the pieces are shuffled face-down on a table. Other times, they are placed edge-to-edge in a row or in a long line. When the first domino in the line tips over, the rest of the dominoes fall. Eventually, the entire set tips over.
Another variant is the trick-taking game. Players try to get the highest number of points. Traditionally, the pieces are made of ivory, dark hardwood, or mother of pearl oyster shell. Unlike Chinese dominoes, European dominoes are not marked with Chinese suit distinctions.
In the United States, these are often called boneyard. Regardless of their name, dominoes are a great toy for the kids. While they can be tricky to play, they are an enjoyable way to spend a rainy afternoon.