How to play this game of Mexican dominoes
Mexican Train Dominoes is no longer just a game, but most importantly, it is an experience where you bring people together. Whether you’re having a family game night or some friendly meeting or are looking for a way to make friends through laughter or slight competition, this classic domino variation fits the bill. Not only is it easy to learn, but it has a social nature that people of all ages fall in love with. However, how exactly do you play this game of fun? We’ll look into its history, learn its principles, and even how to make your game night special.
A Brief History of Mexican Train Dominoes
It is believed that Mexican Train Dominoes first existed in Mexico and the southern United States in the 20th century. Domino City was created as a more physically accessible and social version of dominoes meant for a larger group. It grew massively popular over time and is as popular today, mainly due to its simplicity and ability to bring people together. Mexican Train is played worldwide today, and great games will always hold firm.
Why Mexican Train Dominoes Is Perfect for Game Nights
From game, to bag, to scorepad, everything you would need to set up a game night is in this game. It’s easy enough for the younger players to pick up quickly, but not so easy that it’s not strategically interesting for seasoned gamers. What follows are some reasons why Mexican Train Dominoes has become such a crowd pleaser for gatherings:
- Easy to understand Rules – Anyone above 4 years is suitable to learn and play.
- Mexican Train is Quite Flexible in Terms of Group Size—Bobby Plays Mexican Train with two players as well as eight.
- Collaborative – The game is cooperative and encourages Social Fun through the train building and playing.
- The rounds are long enough to sink your teeth in, but short enough that you can switch up strategy and keep players playing.
If you conclude it is a must-have for any game night, let’s look at how to play it!
The best way to learn how to play Mexican train dominoes is by playing!
What You’ll Need
- A double-12 set is often used; if the games are short, then a double-9 set is fine.
- Small tokens to represent your train or markers (or train pieces).
- The Score Sheet – While unnecessary, it helps log points across multiple rounds.
Objective
The object of one-night Gin Rummy is for you to have the lowest amount of pips (dots) left on your tiles at game’s end. You will lay dominoes on your own or communal Mexican Train to do so.
Setup
Shuffle the Dominoes
Face down, on the table, lay all the dominoes and mix them thoroughly.
Draw Tiles
The number of tiles each player gets depends on the number of people.
- 2-4 players: Draw 15 tiles each.
- 5-6 players: Draw 12 tiles each.
- 7-8 players: Draw 10 tiles each.
The boneyard is of any remaining tiles.
Central Starting Tile
Set the double-12 domino in the middle of the table. If using a double 9 set, then use the double nine domino.
Train Stations
Each player has their train, starting from the central tile and growing outwards. Space is reserved for a communal train called the “Mexican Train. ”
Gameplay
Start with a Double
If it’s not the center double, the player will lay the next highest double (e.g., double-11 if double-12 is in the center), beginning the train. The train will start with the double-12 tile if nobody has the next double anymore.
Play on a Train
Each player adds their turn to place a domino on either their train or the Mexican Train. The train must carry the same number of pips on one side as the end of the train to which it must be added.
Open the Mexican Train
Once the Mexican Train is opened, players can bring a domino and place it on the train. However, you cannot play on another player’s train unless they have designated it as open.
Mark Your Train
Put a marker on your train if you cannot play on your turn. That means that your train is open for play by any other player who sees it.
Drawing from the Boneyard
If no legal play exists, a new tile is drawn from the boneyard. If you do not like the tile drawn, place it where it fits, then put the tile in front of you and pass your turn.
End the Round
The game ends when a player lays all his tiles or when it is impossible to make any move. When the game finishes, all players still holding dominoes will go to tally the pips (dots) and add them to their score. The next highest double then begins another round.
Winning the Game
The player with the lowest overall score wins when all the doubles are played.
Fun Variations to Try
After that, some fun twists will spice up your game night.
Three-Trains Rule
The player begins with three trains. It is more complex and offers more goals.
Speed Mexican Train
Reduce the sizes drawn on the tiles to increase the pace and set the timer for each move.
Reverse Order
The norm of players is for the score to be the lowest. Instead of trying to accumulate the lowest total, you will flip the goal and try to end with the highest total.
Tips for Hosting a Mexican Train Dominoes Party
If you wish to host a successful game night. These are some hosting tips that will make it more fun and memorable:
Set the Atmosphere
Build a comfortable spot with good lighting and enough room for tables. As part of the space setup, offer small refreshments.
Provide Clear Instructions
The first time players join, they are explained all basic game operations during this brief period. Players should find ease in the basic rules during their initial playthrough of one game level.
Have Extra Sets
If you have a large group, have extra sets of dominoes and set up several tables.
Prizes and Themes
If you feel fancy, this can be a fun theme for your night; introduce prizes for the winner or a theme like ‘Fiesta Night’ to make it more fun and festive!
Play Music
Having background music synced to the game’s vibe makes the experience even better.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Train Dominoes is more than a game. It’s the recipe for good, short, regular doses of fun, laughter, and strength of connection. It also keeps it simple so everyone can play, from kids to grandparents. Everyone will get a kick out of this game, no matter how big or small you’re gathering is.
Get your dominoes, arrange a few invites, and prepare for a game night full of surprises. Always remember to keep trains on track and snacks in reach. Happy playing!