Draw game

Introduction
This is one of the simplest and most common domino game, taking its name from the rule that allows players to draw new tiles from the boneyard. As a result, it is played in a dozen different ways by everyone. This is one set of rules, but some more common variations are given in the comments section. Any of the Block game variations can be made into a Draw game by allowing the use of the tiles left in the boneyard.

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 7 tiles each
4 players get 6 tiles each

The rest of the tiles stay in the boneyard.

The Play
The four handed game can be played in partnerships or as individuals. The players draw for lead (or set) 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, he draws tiles from the boneyard until he can play or until the boneyard is empty. If the boneyard is empty or the player cannot play, he then passes his turn.

The hand stops when one player dominoes or when nobody can play. The lead then passes to the next player in turn.

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