Amongst the many toys that have stood the test of time is the domino. Its origin is obscure, but the game has become popular in many countries over the years. It was first known in Italy in the early 18th century, and it has spread throughout France, Austria and England in the mid-18th century.
The basic game of domino requires two players. Each player draws seven dominos from a pile of stock, which is usually called the boneyard. Each domino is divided into two squares, called the ends, and each end is marked with the number of spots on it. When a domino is tipped over, the domino moves downward and begins a chain reaction. In a typical game of domino, each domino is numbered from one to six, and the highest value piece has six pips on each end.
There are many different types of domino games, and each one has its own character. Some of the most popular are solitaire, scoring games, trick-taking games, and blocking games. While the basic game of domino requires two players, there are many variations that are played for three, four or more players.
Most domino sets are made up of 28 tiles, with some sets being made up of 54 or 55 tiles. The most popular sets are double nine with 55 tiles and double six with 28 tiles. The sets are typically made up of dark hardwood such as ebony. Traditionally, European dominoes were made of ivory or a mother of pearl oyster shell.
The most basic version of domino requires a double six set, and one of the two players must first play the domino that has the most pips. The other player must then play a domino with the same number of pips as the first. The player who tipped over the first domino will then tip over the next domino in the line, starting a chain reaction.
Most dominoes are set up in long rows, and a player can line up the tiles to form interesting shapes. In some variations, the line of play can branch from one side of the board to the other. In other variations, the game can be played against a computer or other players. In some games, players are required to match the number of pips on the first domino in order to win.
The game of domino has many different names, including tickets, bones, and spinners. Some versions are based on traditional card games. Other versions have a more Chinese character. The word domino was first recorded in the Dictionnaire de Trevoux in 1771. It is thought to have originated from a long-hooded cloak worn by priests. In Medieval Latindominicale, it was also thought to have meant a mask.
In the late 18th century, dominoes appeared in American literature. They also appeared in Europe, especially France, where they were introduced to prisoners of war. In England, they were introduced in the late 1700s. The game was also popular in certain regions to avoid religious proscriptions against playing cards.