8 Popular Dominoes Games Explained (Easy Guide for Beginners)

A wooden box with the lid marked "DOMINO" contains a set of black dominoes, some of which are scattered on a smooth surface under soft lighting.

Dominoes is one of the most popular tile games in the world. It is easy to learn, fun to play, and offers many different game styles. Some dominoes games are quick and simple, while others require strategy and careful planning.

Below is a clear and beginner-friendly guide to eight popular dominoes games, how they work, and why people love them.

1. Block Dominoes (Classic Domino Game)

Block Dominoes is the most basic and well-known dominoes game. It is often the first version people learn.

How Block Dominoes Works

• Played with a double-six domino set

• Best for 2 to 4 players

• Each player starts with 7 dominoes

• Players match numbers on the open ends

• If you cannot play, you pass (no drawing)

Goal

Be the first player to use all your dominoes or have the lowest pip total when the game is blocked.

Why It’s Popular

• Very easy to learn

• Great for beginners

• Helps build basic strategy skills

2. Draw Dominoes

Draw Dominoes is similar to Block Dominoes but adds one important rule.

Key Difference

If you cannot make a move, you draw from the boneyard until you find a playable domino.

Why Players Like Draw Dominoes

• Fewer stalled games

• More chances to stay in play

• Adds suspense and strategy

This game is ideal for players who want a little more action than Block Dominoes.

3. Matador Dominoes

Matador Dominoes adds a scoring twist to traditional domino play.

How Matador Works

• You can play a domino if:

  • It matches an open end, or

  • Its total equals the sum of all open ends

• Certain plays score bonus points called a matador

Why It’s Fun

• Encourages math and planning

• Rewards smart risk-taking

• More strategic than basic dominoes

4. Mexican Train Dominoes

Mexican Train Dominoes is one of the most popular modern domino games.

Basic Rules

• Usually played with a double-12 set

• Each player builds their own “train”

• You can play on:

  • Your own train

  • The shared Mexican Train

  • Other players’ trains (if allowed)

Goal

Get rid of all your dominoes or finish with the lowest score.

Why It’s So Popular

• Easy to learn

• Works well with large groups

• Very social and interactive

5. Bergen Dominoes

Bergen focuses heavily on scoring and calculation.

Scoring Rules

• You score points when the open ends total a multiple of five

• Special plays called bergs can score extra points

Why Bergen Stands Out

• Strong math element

• Great for players who enjoy scoring strategy

• Keeps every turn meaningful

6. All Fives Dominoes

All Fives, also called Five-Up, is one of the most played scoring domino games.

How Scoring Works

• Points are earned when open ends total 5, 10, 15, or 20

• Games usually go to 150 or 200 points

Why Players Love All Fives

• Simple rules

• High replay value

• Strong balance of luck and skill

7. Chicken Foot Dominoes

Chicken Foot Dominoes is a fun and visually unique game.

Special Rule

• When a double is played, players must complete a “chicken foot”:

  • Three matching branches from the double

Why It’s Great for Families

• Easy to understand

• Works with many players

• Keeps everyone involved

8. Muggins Dominoes

Muggins Dominoes is very similar to All Fives but adds a penalty rule.

What Makes It Different

If a player misses a scoring opportunity, another player can call “Muggins!” and claim the points.

Why It’s Competitive

• Rewards careful attention

• Encourages fast mental math

• Adds friendly tension

Final Thoughts: Why Dominoes Never Gets Old

Dominoes games offer something for everyone:

• Beginners can enjoy Block or Draw Dominoes

• Strategy lovers can master All Fives, Bergen, or Matador

• Groups and families will love Mexican Train and Chicken Foot

With so many variations, dominoes stays fresh, social, and fun no matter how often you play.

If you’re looking for a classic game that blends skill, strategy, and fun, dominoes is always a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dominoes Games

What is the most popular dominoes game?

Mexican Train is one of the most popular dominoes games because it is easy to learn and works well for groups of all sizes.

What dominoes game is best for beginners?

Block Dominoes and Draw Dominoes are the best dominoes games for beginners because they use simple rules and basic matching.

How many dominoes games are there?

There are dozens of dominoes games played around the world, including classic, scoring, and regional variations.

What is the difference between Block and Draw Dominoes?

In Block Dominoes, players pass if they cannot play. In Draw Dominoes, players draw from the boneyard until they can play.