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How to Play Dominoes

Master the classic game of dominoes and compete against players worldwide on our web platform.

Getting Started on DominoInsta

1. Create Account

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2. Create Profile

Set up your player profile and get your starting ELO rating to begin competitive play.

3. Enter Tournaments

Join daily tournaments and compete for rankings, prizes, and leaderboard positions.

Basic Domino Rules

Setup
Game Setup

  • Each player draws 7 tiles from a standard double-six domino set (28 tiles total)
  • Remaining tiles form the "bone yard" for drawing if needed
  • Player with highest double tile starts the game

Play
Gameplay

  • Players take turns adding tiles to either end of the domino line
  • Tiles must match the number of dots on the connecting end
  • If you can't play, draw from the bone yard until you can play or it's empty
  • If you still can't play after drawing, pass your turn

Win
Winning the Round

  • First player to use all their tiles wins the round ("Domino!")
  • If game is blocked (no one can play), lowest pip count wins
  • Winner scores the sum of all remaining tiles in opponents' hands

Scoring & Match Format

Round Scoring

  • • Winner gets points equal to sum of opponent's remaining tiles
  • • Minimum 5 points per round win
  • • Double scoring for "Domino!" wins
  • • Blocked games: winner gets difference in pip counts

Match Victory

  • • First player to reach 100 points wins the match
  • • Tournament matches are best-of-3 format
  • • Championship finals are best-of-5 format
  • • Time limit: 2 minutes per turn

Quick Strategy Tips

Good Moves

  • • Play doubles early to avoid getting stuck
  • • Control the board by playing tiles that limit opponent options
  • • Count tiles to know what's still available
  • • Keep variety in your hand when possible

Avoid These

  • • Holding onto high-value tiles too long
  • • Playing without considering opponent's options
  • • Rushing moves without thinking ahead
  • • Ignoring the bone yard count

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