How to Play Double 6 Dominoes: Rules and Strategies Explained

Game rules

Composition of Dominoes

Composition of Dominoes Set:

Double 6 Dominoes Set contains 28 dominoes, each domino consists of two numbers on both sides, ranging from 0 to 6. Each number and other number combination appears only once in the dominoes, including 7 "same number" dominoes and 21 "different number" dominoes. We classify them into two types:

Same number dominoes (7 pieces):

These dominoes have the same numbers on both sides. For example: 0|0, 1|1, 2|2, 3|3, 4|4, 5|5, 6|6. There are 7 such dominoes in total. These dominoes are important in the game because they can be used as key nodes for connecting lines and are often used in the early stages of the game.

Different number dominoes (21 pieces):

These dominoes have different numbers on both sides. For example: 0|1, 1|2, 2|3, 3|4, 4|5, 5|6, etc. Each different number combination appears once in the deck, and there are 21 dominoes in total. The role of dominoes with different numbers in the game is usually more flexible, and players can use them to connect different numbers.

Number distribution:

Each number (0 to 6) has multiple combinations. For example, the number 0 appears in the seven dominoes 0|0, 0|1, 0|2, 0|3, 0|4, 0|5, and 0|6. Each number will appear up to 7 times in all dominoes. This distribution design makes the game full of changes. Players need to consider both their own cards and their opponents' cards. 

Game Start

Drawing dominoes and dealing cards:

Before the game starts, all dominoes will be shuffled and placed face up. Each player randomly draws a certain number of dominoes. Usually, each player draws 7 dominoes in a 2-player game, 6 in a 3-player game, and 5 in a 4-player game. If there are more dominoes, the number of players can also be adjusted appropriately to adjust the number of cards each person draws.

The remaining dominoes are placed on the table to form a draw pile. Players who cannot play cards in subsequent rounds can replenish dominoes from the draw pile.

Who starts first:

Usually, the player who draws the largest even number (such as 6|6) goes first. If no one draws an even number, a player can be randomly selected to go first. For example, the first player can be determined by rolling a dice.

Starting dominoes:

The first player to play a card places his dominoes in the center of the table, usually choosing a domino with a large number (such as 6|6) to form the initial position of the game. The numbers on both sides of this domino will become the "open ends" of the next round, and other players need to continue playing cards according to this end.

For example, if the first domino is 6|6, there will be two open ends of 6 on the table, and other players can choose a domino with the number 6 to continue the game. 

How to Play

Taking turns:

Players take turns to play cards in turn, and the game proceeds in a clockwise direction. Each time it is a player's turn to play, they must check their dominoes to see if they can match the numbers on the table. If they can, they place the dominoes that match the requirements on the table. If they can't match and there are still dominoes in their hand, they need to draw a new domino from the draw pile. If the domino drawn can match the number on the table, they can play the card immediately; if the domino drawn can't match, the player skips this turn until the next time it is their turn.

How to match dominoes:

If there are 6|6 dominoes on the table, the player can only play dominoes with the number 6. For example, if the player has 6|1 dominoes in his hand, he can connect the 6|1 domino to the 6 of 6|6 to form a 6|1 connection.

In addition, the numbers on both ends of the dominoes must match. For example, if the dominoes on the table are 1|6, and the player has a domino that is 6|5, he can only put 6|5 on the 6 end, not on the 1 end.

Draw rules:

If a player cannot find a matching domino in his hand in a certain round, and there are still dominoes in the draw pile that have not been drawn, the player must draw a domino from the draw pile. If the drawn domino can be matched, the player can play the card. If the drawn domino still cannot be matched, the player skips this round until the next turn.

Game strategy:

Stay flexible: In the early stages of the game, players should try to keep the diversity of their hands and avoid getting too single numbers. For example, if the player only has 3 and 6 in his hand, he will be greatly restricted when matching.

Observe your opponent: At the end of each round, players should pay attention to the way their opponents play cards, especially the numbers they play, and speculate on the dominoes they may have left, which can help them make more strategic decisions.

Use even-numbered dominoes: Even-numbered dominoes (such as 6|6) have two open ends and are usually easy to connect. Therefore, players should try to use these dominoes, but also be careful that opponents may use them. 

Game End

End conditions:

There are two conditions for the game to end:

One player wins:

If a player plays all the dominoes in his hand, he wins immediately. At this point, the game ends.

Game is stuck:

If all players cannot play any more cards and the draw pile is empty, the game enters a stuck state. At this point, the player with the fewest remaining dominoes wins. If all players have the same number of remaining dominoes, the game may be a draw.

Determine the winner:

The player with the fewest remaining dominoes wins: If the game is stuck, the total number of remaining dominoes in the players' hands determines who is the winner. The sum of the points on each domino is the player's negative points, so the player with the fewest remaining points wins.

For example, if Player A has 6|6 (12 points) remaining dominoes and Player B has 4|5 (9 points) remaining dominoes, Player B wins because Player B has fewer remaining points. 

Scoring

How to calculate the score:

In some versions of the game, players accumulate points at the end of each round. Scoring is based on the number of points on the remaining dominoes in the player's hand. The number of points on each domino is the sum of the numbers on its two ends. For example:

A 6|6 domino has 12 points (6+6).

A 4|5 domino has 9 points (4+5).

A 2|1 domino has 3 points (2+1).

After each round, the remaining dominoes are added to the player's total score.

The final winner of the game:

After setting a total score target (such as 100 points), players continue to accumulate points over multiple rounds. The first player to reach the target score is declared the final winner.

Another way to score:

In some versions of Double 6 Dominoes, players can not only accumulate the remaining points after each round, but also receive additional rewards. For example:

If a player has no tiles left at the end of a round (i.e., has played all the tiles), he or she will receive an extra point bonus.

Basic Strategy

Early Control

In the game of Double Six, early control of the board is very important. The opening stage is the key period for the direction of the game. How to play this stage directly affects the subsequent victory or defeat. During this period, controlling the board is not only about playing high-point dominoes, but also requires a clear grasp of the situation and ensuring that you can take the initiative in subsequent rounds through reasonable card plays.

Why is early control so important?

Double Six is a game that is very sensitive to changes in the situation. Every card played on the board will open or close some available numbers. Instead of passively responding when the situation is gradually closed, it is better to take the initiative at the beginning and ensure that you have more card options. In particular, playing a double domino can not only open the card playing channel in two directions, but also guide the situation in a direction that is beneficial to you in subsequent rounds through its special structure.

How to control the situation by playing double dominoes?

At the beginning of the game, especially when you have multiple double dominoes in your hand, you should try to play these cards first. For example, if you have 6|6, 5|5, or 4|4, it is best to choose to play them first. This will not only allow you to occupy multiple card points at the beginning of the game, but also put your opponent under pressure at the beginning of the game. If you choose to play a 6|6, the possible domino numbers that may appear in the next round are 6, 6, so it will be difficult for your opponent to use 6 as a card number.

Bidominoes can also induce opponents to play cards for their specific numbers to a certain extent. For example, if you play 6|6, especially high-point bidominoes, your opponent will often feel that they must use the number 6 to respond. At this time, you can use your opponent's forced play to create opportunities for yourself.

The significance of breaking the opponent's layout

By playing bidominoes first, you can break the opponent's layout and force them to adjust the order of playing cards without preparation. If you take the initiative at the beginning of the game, you will have more options in the subsequent situation. If you can control the situation at the beginning of the game, you can put a kind of psychological pressure on the opponent, which will affect their decision-making.

Practical operation suggestions

Prioritize playing the double dominoes: If you have multiple double dominoes (such as 6|6, 5|5, 4|4), first play the card that can connect the most directions. This will not only help you quickly take control of multiple numbers, but also bring more options for subsequent rounds.

Grasp the high-point dominoes: If you have multiple identical high-point dominoes, play these cards first. Especially in the opening stage, try to play the cards with high points to avoid making them difficult to match later.

Observe the opponent's reaction: After playing the double dominoes, observe the opponent's card-playing reaction. If they try to avoid certain numbers, you can speculate their hand based on this avoidance pattern and make corresponding adjustments. 

Remember Your Opponent's Cards

In the double six dominoes game, remembering and analyzing the cards that your opponent has played is a crucial skill. By analyzing and speculating on the opponent's card type, you can more accurately judge their card-playing strategy and make effective responses. Remembering your opponent's cards can not only help you predict your opponent's actions, but also help you make targeted blocks at critical moments.

Why is it important to remember your opponent's cards?

In a game of Double Six, every time your opponent plays a card, you should not only consider their intention to play the card, but also store this information and use it for subsequent speculation. As the game progresses, the gradually accumulated information will enable you to make more accurate speculations about your opponent's hands and possible strategies. By analyzing your opponent's behavior of avoiding certain numbers, or their habit of frequently playing certain numbers, you can gradually lock in the types of cards they may have.

In the later stages of the game, knowing your opponent's cards will allow you to take more effective blocking measures and force them to make mistakes in their own rhythm. Remembering your opponent's cards can also help you avoid some unnecessary mistakes in playing cards and prevent yourself from being exploited by your opponent.

How to remember your opponent's cards?

Observe playing habits:

At the beginning, pay special attention to your opponent's playing patterns. In particular, how they choose which numbers to match and which numbers they avoid. For example, if your opponent rarely plays 5, you can speculate that they may lack the number 5. On the contrary, if your opponent always chooses to play 6 or 3, you can speculate that they may have a lot of 6 or 3.

Use information to speculate on the hand:

In addition to observing the playing habits, you should also use speculation to supplement the opponent's hand. For example, if the opponent has a 4|6 domino in their hand, and they have avoided 6 in multiple rounds, then it can be speculated that most of the cards they may have left are not 6. You can use these clues to further control the situation.

Remember the numbers that have not been played:

Halfway through the game, start to pay attention to which numbers have not been played at all. For example, if you see that most players have played 5, the probability of 5 appearing will be greatly reduced. At this time, you can make decisions based on this information, and even consider preventing your opponent from playing 5.

Practical operation suggestions

Always pay attention to your opponent: After each round, simply record the numbers your opponent played, especially the numbers that appear frequently or are avoided.

Speculate the remaining cards of your opponent: If you already know that your opponent has avoided a certain number many times, you can consider taking blocking measures to make it more difficult for them to play cards.

Flexible response: Your opponent's playing habits may change as the situation changes, so you need to update your speculation at all times to make the most appropriate decision. 

Leave Flexibility

In a game of Double Six, flexibility is a key factor in determining victory or defeat. Flexibility means avoiding consuming all the options for playing cards too early in the game and maintaining the diversity of your hand so that you have more ways to respond when the situation changes.

Why is flexibility important?

The rhythm of the game of Double Six is unpredictable. As the game progresses, the situation will gradually become tense. Flexibility is the guarantee to ensure that you can find the right opportunity to play cards in any situation. If you consume a large number of dominoes with the same number at the beginning, it is easy to fall into the dilemma of not being able to play cards in the later stage. Keeping multiple numbers in your hand allows you to respond flexibly at critical moments.

For example, suppose you have a lot of dominoes with the number 4 in your hand. If you play all of them at the beginning of the game, you may find that you can't play cards anymore when the situation changes. Therefore, in order to avoid this situation, it is recommended to stay flexible at the right time.

How to stay flexible?

Don't play the same number all at once:

Try to avoid playing all the same numbers at once. For example, if you have multiple 6s in your hand, you can play them in batches to avoid exhausting the options for this number too early.

Observe the situation and adjust your strategy:

As the game progresses, the situation may change constantly. If you are unable to match a number in your hand in a certain round, do not rush to play other numbers, leave some options so that you can respond in the next round.

Maintain diversity:

Try to keep a variety of numbers in your hand, and don't let a number become your only choice. By properly deploying the cards in your hand when playing cards, you can always have multiple numbers to choose from.

Practical operation suggestions

Play cards in batches:

If you have multiple dominoes with the same number in your hand, play them in batches instead of playing them all at once. For example, if you have multiple dominoes with the number 5, such as 5|6 and 5|3, you can play them in several rounds instead of playing them all at the beginning.

Adjust your strategy at any time:

The situation in the game will change constantly according to the actions of your opponents, so you need to respond flexibly. If the situation changes unfavorably, maintaining diversity in your hand can help you quickly adjust your strategy. 

Split Larger Numbers

In the game of Double Six, if you have multiple large-numbered cards (such as 6|6, 5|5, etc.), you should try to spread them out in the early stages. Large-numbered cards may become difficult to match later, especially when the situation gradually tightens. If you spread these cards out at the beginning of the game, you can reduce the "burden" of large-numbered cards in your hand later and avoid being trapped in the situation.

Why should you spread large-numbered cards?

The progress of the game is usually gradually tightened, especially when the game is nearing the end, there may be only a few open numbers to choose from. In this case, if you still hold multiple high-numbered cards (such as 6, 5, 4, etc.), these cards may be difficult to match with the existing numbers, causing you to be in a dilemma of being unable to continue playing cards. On the contrary, if you play these large-numbered cards early, you can create more opportunities for yourself to play cards and avoid being trapped in a tense situation.

High-ranked dominoes often become difficult to use in the later stages, especially when the situation is more closed. If you can play these cards early, the remaining cards in your hand may be more flexible, making it easier for you to respond in subsequent rounds.

How to spread out high-ranked cards?

Play high-ranked dominoes early:

Once you have multiple identical high-ranked dominoes in your hand, such as 6|6, 5|5, play these cards first. Especially when these cards can be connected to other numbers, you should consider playing them early to avoid being helpless when the situation tightens.

Avoid saving high-ranked cards for the later stages:

High-ranked cards (such as 6, 5, and 4) are difficult to match in the later stages, especially when the opponent frequently plays low-ranked cards, and these high-ranked cards may not be able to continue to participate in the game at all. Therefore, if you have multiple such cards in your hand, you should try to consume them in the early stage of the game to ensure that you have more options.

Play cards in batches, not all at once:

If you have multiple identical high-ranked dominoes in your hand, there is no need to rush to play them all at once. You can play them in batches to avoid completely exhausting your options for a certain number. For example, if you have two 6|6s, you can play them separately in different rounds to increase your chances of matching numbers in subsequent rounds.

Practical Operation Suggestions

Prioritize high-number cards: If you have multiple high-number cards such as 6, 5, and 4 in your hand, it is recommended to play these cards in the opening stage. This can reduce your pressure in the later stage and avoid the dilemma of not being able to match.

Spread out: Don't play all high-number cards at once. Play them appropriately to ensure that you will not be stuck in the later stage because of lack of suitable cards.

Pay attention to changes in the situation: When the situation becomes tense, adjust your strategy flexibly. If the situation gradually tightens, try to play numbers that are easy to block (such as 6) to ensure that you can continue to play cards smoothly in subsequent rounds. 

Block Your Opponent

In the double six domino game, limiting the opponent's card playing space is one of the key strategies to win. If you can successfully restrict your opponent's cards from playing a certain number, their options will be greatly reduced, which will not only force them to make unfavorable decisions, but also create more opportunities for you. By blocking your opponent's cards at the right time, you can firmly control the rhythm of the game.

Why limit your opponent's actions?

Double Six is a game full of strategy and game, and the situation is often affected by many factors. If your opponent can play cards freely, they will have more choices and opportunities. If you can restrict your opponent's cards from playing a certain number, especially some numbers that your opponent often plays, you can greatly reduce their card playing space and put them in trouble.

Restricting your opponent's cards is not only to prevent them from playing cards smoothly, it can also force your opponent to waste precious card playing turns, thereby affecting their overall rhythm. If you successfully restrict your opponent's cards from playing commonly used numbers, they will be forced to choose other less suitable numbers, thus creating opportunities for you to attack.

How to restrict your opponent's actions?

Observe your opponent's playing habits:

Understanding your opponent's playing preferences is the first step to restricting their actions. Every player has their preferred numbers, or they will frequently play certain numbers because there are more numbers in their hands. By observing your opponent's behavior patterns, especially the numbers they avoid, you can find effective blocking strategies.

Block your opponent's commonly used numbers:

If you find that your opponent often plays a certain number, such as your opponent frequently plays 6, you can prevent them from playing 6 by playing numbers that are incompatible with 6. When you find that your opponent has a lot of 6s, you should especially consider blocking the 6 point as early as possible, so that they are forced to choose other numbers in the next round.

Block with bidominoes:

Bidominoes are a powerful tool that not only provide you with more connection opportunities, but also effectively block your opponent's actions. For example, playing a 6|6 can force your opponent to try to avoid the number 6 in the next round, or even put them in a dilemma of being unable to play a card.

Repeatedly play blocked numbers:

If you have successfully blocked your opponent's card from playing a certain number, you can force your opponent to be unable to match the cards in his hand by repeatedly playing dominoes related to that number (such as cards related to 6). This way, you can maintain control of the situation and ensure that your opponent has difficulty counterattacking.

Practical advice

Prioritize blocking your opponent's commonly used numbers: Observe which numbers your opponent frequently plays and adopt a blocking strategy as early as possible. Especially when you know that your opponent has a lot of the same numbers, give priority to blocking these numbers.

Playing dominoes to block the situation: dominoes can not only create more opportunities for you, but also effectively limit the opponent's actions. Especially high-point dominoes can limit the opponent to choose fewer numbers.

Dispersed blocking: Avoid playing all the numbers that may block the opponent at once, and gradually implement the blocking strategy so that the opponent has no time to adapt.

Advanced Strategies

Blockade Strategy

The blockade strategy focuses on limiting your opponent's options by controlling the flow of the game. This involves playing specific dominoes in a calculated manner to prevent your opponent from playing their own tiles.

Key Concepts of the Blockade Strategy:

Multiple Matching Numbers: If you hold several dominoes with the same number on one of the ends, you can use these dominoes consecutively when the opportunity arises. For example, if you have three tiles with a 6 on one side (6|5, 6|4, 6|3), you can play them one after another, forcing your opponent to either match a 6 or pass. This creates a blockade on that end, limiting the game to only one possible number.

Controlling the Domino Lines: When you play multiple dominoes with the same number in quick succession, the game is forced into a narrow path. If you have multiple 6s and your opponent is holding a hand that doesn’t contain many 6s, they will be forced to skip turns or play less strategically. This puts them at a major disadvantage.

Timing and Patience: Blockades are most effective when timed properly. You should wait for the right moment when your opponent has fewer tiles or limited options. When they are vulnerable (e.g., after they have discarded several tiles), you can set up a blockade that traps them for several rounds.

Example Scenario:

You have tiles: (6|4), (6|5), (6|3), and your opponent has only two tiles with 4s and 3s.

Playing (6|4), then (6|5), and finally (6|3) will force your opponent to play a 6 or pass, as they cannot match anything else. You can then focus on controlling the other side of the board. 

Controlling the Rhythm of the Game

This strategy involves managing the flow of the game in a way that confuses or destabilizes your opponent’s understanding of your hand. By intentionally reducing the variety of numbers in your hand, you make it harder for your opponent to predict your next move, which is a significant advantage.

Key Concepts of Controlling the Rhythm:

Reduce Variety Early: If you have a wide variety of numbers in your hand, consider playing those tiles first. By doing so, you narrow down the numbers your opponent can guess for the rest of your hand. For example, if you have dominoes like (6|4), (5|4), and (3|4), playing the (6|4) early will limit your future plays to the 4s, making your moves less predictable.

Misdirection: You can also deliberately play tiles that might suggest you have more of a particular number than you actually do. For instance, playing a 6 when you only have one more could mislead your opponent into thinking you’re holding a lot of 6s, causing them to make mistakes in their own plays.

Play to Your Strengths: If you have a dominant number (say a lot of 5s or 4s), aim to reduce your hand to focus on that number. When your opponent is unsure whether you're holding mostly 5s, they may hesitate in playing certain tiles, giving you an edge.

Example Scenario:

Your hand: (6|4), (5|4), (3|4), (4|2), and (4|1).

You choose to play the (6|4) early, which limits your options but gives the opponent the false impression that you’re holding a lot of 4s, making it difficult for them to predict what you’ll play next. 

Exchanging Opportunities (In Variants with Exchange Rules)

Some variants of Double 6 Dominoes allow for players to exchange tiles, which can significantly alter the course of the game. If the rules of your variant allow for an exchange (whether through a formal trading phase or as a special rule during the game), using this option wisely can give you a strategic advantage.

Key Concepts of Exchange Strategy:

Swap for Stronger Tiles: If you’re allowed to exchange tiles, consider getting rid of low-value or difficult-to-play tiles for ones that fit more comfortably into the game’s flow. This can drastically improve your hand, allowing you to play more frequently and effectively.

Timing the Exchange: Timing is critical when it comes to exchanges. If you exchange too early, you may find that your opponent can predict your new tile set and counteract your moves. Exchanging at the right moment — perhaps when your opponent is focused on their own plays — can provide you with the element of surprise and increase your chances of dominating the board.

Use the Exchange to Block or Create Opportunities: If you know that a particular tile is crucial for the current play, exchanging for it could allow you to set up a blockade or create an opening for yourself. Conversely, if your opponent is trying to hold onto specific tiles, an exchange could deprive them of a key move, throwing off their strategy.

Example Scenario:

Your opponent is dominating the game with several high-value tiles, and you are stuck with low-value tiles like (1|2) and (3|6).

You’re allowed to exchange tiles once per game, and you decide to trade your low-value tiles for more flexible ones like (4|5) and (6|4).

By making this trade, you gain more control over the game, enabling you to play more often and making it difficult for your opponent to predict your moves.

FAQ

How many people are there in the game?

Double 6 Dominoes is typically played by 2 to 4 players. This range of players creates a balanced and enjoyable game experience. However, if you have more than four players, the rules can be adjusted to accommodate a larger group. Here’s how you can modify the game:

For 5 or more players: You can increase the number of tiles dealt to each player at the start of the game. In this case, each player might receive 8 or 9 tiles instead of the standard 7. This ensures that players still have enough tiles to make meaningful moves, even as the pool of available tiles is divided among more participants.

For 6 or more players: If you’re playing with a large group, you may need to adjust the number of dominoes in the draw pile or shuffle the remaining tiles more frequently to keep the game flowing smoothly. To prevent the game from dragging on, you can also consider using house rules to allow players to exchange tiles once or twice during the game, making it more dynamic.

Having 2 players tends to make the game quicker and more direct, while playing with 3 or 4 can add a bit of unpredictability and strategic complexity as players interact with each other’s moves. 

How do you deal with the situation where the draw pile runs out?

In Double 6 Dominoes, if the draw pile runs out and no player can continue making valid moves, the game ends. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how to handle this situation:

End of Game: The game is over when the draw pile is exhausted and no player can play any more tiles. This can happen if players have either used up all their matching tiles or if their remaining tiles do not match any of the numbers on the open ends of the domino chain.

Determining the Winner: When the game ends, the player with the lowest score wins. In most versions of the game, players score points based on the values of the dominoes left in their hands. The goal is not only to play your tiles but also to avoid ending the game with high-value tiles in hand. Points are tallied based on the number of dots on each player’s remaining dominoes, so players aim to end the game with as few points as possible.

For example, if Player A has tiles with values 6, 4, and 3 remaining (totaling 13 points) and Player B has tiles with values 1 and 2 (totaling 3 points), Player B would be the winner.

Strategy Tip: Players can sometimes speed up the game by playing tiles that force other players to pick up from the draw pile. However, if the draw pile runs out, the game may drag on a bit longer. In such cases, players should try to focus on limiting the number of dominoes they hold to minimize the points they’ll be stuck with if the game ends prematurely. 

What if I don't have a matching card on my face?

If you find yourself in a situation where you don't have any domino in your hand that matches the numbers on the open ends of the domino chain, you need to follow these steps:

Drawing from the Draw Pile: The most common rule in this situation is that you can draw a tile from the draw pile. If the draw pile has any remaining dominoes, you must take a tile from it, and your turn continues. If the tile you draw is a match for either open end, you can immediately play it.

If You Still Can't Play: If, after drawing a tile, you still cannot play it (meaning the tile does not match either of the open ends), you must skip your turn. You can no longer play or make any moves, and the game continues with the next player’s turn. This is a common occurrence, and it adds a bit of luck to the game, as drawing a matching tile can sometimes be a matter of chance.

No Draw Pile Left: If you cannot play and there are no tiles left in the draw pile, you must skip your turn entirely. This can lead to longer turns for other players, especially if they have tiles that can match the open ends. This also gives them the opportunity to get rid of their tiles and finish the game.

Additional Scenarios:

House Rules for Skipping Turns: Some players might introduce variations in the rules, where if a player has to skip their turn multiple times in a row (e.g., if they continually draw tiles that don't match), they are allowed to take a different action, such as exchanging tiles or receiving a penalty.

Strategic Skipping: Sometimes, skipping your turn can be a strategic decision. If you’re forced to draw and you end up with a tile that’s difficult to play, it might be better to simply skip your turn and hope the other players open up new opportunities for you.