Domino, like the game of the same name, is a tile-laying puzzle that consists of small squares that are either numbered or blank on one side. The numbers are arranged in a symmetrical pattern, much like on a die. When the first domino is laid down, it begins a sequence of events that leads to a completed layout and the awarding of points.
The most popular type of dominoes are plastic, with a colored background and molded-in pips (or dots). These tiles can be purchased in sets of varying sizes and colors. Some sets also come with a game board and instructions on how to play various games. The rules for different domino games may vary slightly, but the basic concept is the same: Players take turns adding a domino to a layout and then removing it from the game board. Points are awarded to a player who completes the most chains in a given amount of time or to the first person to reach a specified number of points, whichever is agreed upon at the start of the game.
Hevesh carefully tests the pieces she constructs. By doing this, she can ensure that the layouts work well before putting them together. She also films the process in slow motion so that she can see what is working and correct any problems. Hevesh then edits the footage to make a final video.
The word domino is a Latin word meaning “falling down.” In English, it has been used since at least 1750 in the sense of a sequence of events or a chain reaction. The figurative sense of the word was developed later, around 1870. It has also been used to describe an event that appears quickly or at random, such as a surprise attack or a natural disaster.
In many domino games, only the ends that are open for play can be added to. Typically, additional tiles are placed on the long sides of a double or straddle the end of a tile that is already connected to another domino. However, the rules of some domino games consider all four ends to be open and allow additions to be made in any direction.
The game of domino can be played by two or more people. Each player draws a set of dominoes, which are then arranged on the table. The first player (decided by drawing lots or by who has the heaviest hand) places the first tile onto the table. Then, in turn, each player plays a tile that must touch the end of another domino that is already on the table or a piece that has a number showing on one of its ends. In some games, doubles count as either one or two (for example, a 6-6 counts as six or twelve). After the first player has played a tile, the other players follow suit in turn. These tiles are then scored by counting the number of pips on opposing players’ tiles.