Domino is a game that uses small, high leverage actions that lead to dramatic results. For example, when a domino is tipped over it unleashes the rest of the set to fall, resulting in an instant chain reaction. This kind of action is similar to coding scripts: one small action triggers a series of commands. Dominoes are also often used in the design of Rube Goldberg machines and have become a symbol of social change, such as the collapse of the Berlin Wall.
A domino is a flat thumb-sized rectangular block, divided into two parts, bearing from one to six pips or dots. A complete set of dominoes consists of 28 such pieces. Domino is a name of several games played with such blocks, most of which are based on matching the ends of pieces or laying them down in lines or angular patterns. The game of domino has a long history and has evolved over time into many variants.
The game is most commonly played on a table, with players sitting around it. The first player (determined by drawing lots or the owner of the heaviest hand) places a domino on the table, usually a double-six. If any of the other players have a higher double, they can call it and begin playing.
As the game progresses, players accrue points for various configurations of dominoes or moves they make. The player with the highest total point value at the end of a number of rounds wins the game. A player may also earn additional points by making a specific sequence of moves, such as five-and-three, which earns the winner three points for each time the sum of the end of a pair of played dominoes is divisible by five or three.
Most domino sets are made of polymer, although some are still produced from traditional materials such as silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother-of-pearl), bone, ivory, and ebony, with the pips inlaid or painted on them. Such traditional sets are sometimes considered to have a more elegant look and feel than the plastic sets.
In addition to polymer, dominoes can be made of marble, granite, and soapstone; metals, such as brass or pewter; ceramic clay; or even frosted glass. These sets are typically more expensive than those of polymer, but they have a unique and attractive appearance. Some people also prefer the feel and weight of traditional dominoes, which can be more substantial than those made from polymer materials. Historically, dominoes were also made of woods such as mahogany and walnut; the heaviest types were often carved from solid black oak. This type of domino is still available in some specialty stores and is sometimes called a “woodie”. A more modern version of the woodie has a base made from solid black oak or mahogany, with a wooden veneer over it. This type is much more durable than the original, and is the most expensive of all dominoes.