What are the different methods of scorekeeping in domino?
Domino is a popular game played with rectangular tiles. It is a game that requires concentration and strategy, as players have to match the numbers or dots on the tiles and play them strategically. Along with the gameplay, keeping score in domino is an important aspect of the game. There are different methods of scorekeeping in domino, each with its own rules and variations. In this article, we will explore the various scorekeeping methods used in domino.
Straight Count
The Straight Count method is the simplest and most commonly used method of scorekeeping in domino. In this method, each player earns points based on the total sum of the dots on the tiles they have successfully played. At the end of each round, the dots on the remaining tiles of each player are totalled, and the player with the lowest sum of dots is declared the winner of that round. The winner receives a score equal to the sum of dots on their opponent’s remaining tiles. The game continues until a certain point limit is reached.
All Fives
The All Fives scorekeeping method is a variation of the Straight Count method, where players earn points for making a multiple of five with the total sum of the dots on their played tiles. In this method, only tiles with a total of five dots (such as 0-5, 1-4, 2-3, etc.) are counted towards the score. For example, if a player plays a tile with a total of 7 dots, they would score 5 points. Similarly, if a player plays a tile with a total of 15 dots, they would score 10 points. The player with the lowest score at the end of each round wins, and the game continues until a certain point limit is reached.
Muggins
Muggins is a scorekeeping method that is based on players’ ability to identify missed opportunities. In this method, each player scores points for the spots they can count that their opponents have missed. During the game, if a player fails to score points for a spot that their opponent missed, the opponent can call “Muggins” and score those points themselves. The player with the most points at the end of each round is the winner. This method requires keen observation and strategy, as players need to keep track of their own and their opponent’s missed opportunities.
Cuban Domino
Cuban Domino is a popular variation of the scorekeeping method, primarily played in Cuba and some parts of South America. In this method, players score points for various combinations of tiles played. For example, if a player plays a tile with a total of 9 dots, they receive 9 points. If a player plays a double tile (same number of dots on both ends), they receive double the points. The player with the lowest score at the end of each round wins. Cuban Domino is known for its complex scoring system and requires a thorough understanding of the different combinations and scoring rules.
Mexican Train
Mexican Train is a popular variation of domino that uses a set of special tiles and a unique scorekeeping method. In this method, each player starts their own “train” by playing a tile with a multiple of five or a double. Throughout the game, players can play on their own train or on the central “Mexican Train”, which is open to all players. The goal is to get rid of all the tiles in hand as quickly as possible. At the end of each round, players count the total sum of dots on the tiles they have successfully played and subtract it from their starting score. The player with the lowest score at the end of the game wins.
