Domino rules

How to win at dominoes

Dominoes has plenty of luck, but good players still win more often. These are the habits that make the difference.

Eight habits of good players

1Lead from strength. Start with your longest number, ideally its double, so the double doesn't get stuck in your hand.
2Drop heavy tiles early. If someone else goes out, every pip you're holding counts for them.
3Keep a mix of numbers. The more different numbers you hold, the less often you'll have to pass.
4Read the passes. A player who passes has none of the numbers showing on either end.
5Count the tiles. Each number is on seven tiles. Count what's been played and you know what's left.
6Play your doubles. A double matches only one number, so it's the easiest tile to get stuck with.
7Block when it helps. If your hand is lighter than everyone else's, closing the game can win it.
8In partners, play for the team. Keep your partner's number open and cover the other team's.

Try it

Both of your tiles can play. Which goes first?

Tap a tile

Practice without the pressure

The fastest way to build these habits is to play. Pipside's free practice game sits you at a table with three computer players, and the hints explain why a play is good.

Practice against the computer

Play a free game of dominoes to 100 against three computer players, with hints that explain good plays.

Play a practice game

Common questions

Is dominoes luck or skill?: Both. The deal is luck, but counting tiles, reading passes and managing your hand add up over a whole game.
What's the best tile to lead with?: Usually a double from your longest number. It tells your partner what you're strong in and gets the double out early.
Should you play the double-six early?: Usually, yes. It's 12 pips, the heaviest tile in the set, and it only matches sixes.