Block Game

Introduction
This is the simplest and probably the most common domino game. There are any number of variations on the game and I will try to give a representative set of rules.

Equipment
The game uses a double six domino set, but other sets can also be used when you have more players.

The Deal
The size of the hand varies with the number of players:

2 players get 7 tiles each
3 players get 5 tiles each
4 players get 5 tiles each

The rest of the tiles stay in the boneyard and are not used in the round.

The Play
The four handed game can be played in partnerships or as individuals. The players draw for the lead and take turns placing tiles on either end of the train. Doubles are played across the line, but are not spinners. If a player cannot play, the passes. The round stops when one player dominoes or when nobody can play. The lead for the next round passes to the previous leader's left.

Scoring
At the end of the hand, each player gets the total number of pips in his hands. The lowest scoring player is the winner and is credited with the sum of the scores of the losers, minus his own total. If there is a tie for lowest score, then nobody gets a score.

The game is played for 100 points in a two player or partnership game, and for 61 points in a three or four handed game. This convention allows a cribbage board to be used for keeping scores.

This page was contributed by Joe Celko and added to by John McLeod.
© Joe Celko, John McLeod 2001, 2004