Dominoes is not a single game, but a collection of closely related games played with the same set of tiles. While the tiles stay the same, the rules, scoring, and strategies can change dramatically depending on the variant.
This page introduces the most popular domino game variants, explains how they differ, and links to full rule guides so you can dive deeper into any version you want to play.
If you’re brand new to dominoes, start with our Dominoes for Beginners guide before exploring variants.
Classic Domino Game Variants
These are the foundational domino games that most other variants are built on.
Block Dominoes
Block Dominoes is one of the simplest and most traditional forms of the game.
- No drawing from the boneyard
- Players pass if they cannot play
- The round ends when a player empties their hand or the game is blocked
This variant rewards tile counting and positional awareness.
👉 Learn the full rules: Block Dominoes Rules
Draw Dominoes
Draw Dominoes is the most beginner-friendly variant.
- Players draw tiles if they cannot play
- The game continues until a legal move is made
- Less punishing than Block Dominoes
This version is ideal if you’re just learning how dominoes flow.
👉 Learn the full rules: Draw Dominoes Rules
Scoring-Based Domino Games
Some domino variants focus less on emptying your hand and more on scoring points during play.
All Fives Dominoes
Also known as Muggins, All Fives is one of the most popular scoring variants.
- Players score when open ends total a multiple of five
- Strategic board control is essential
- Games are usually played to a target score
👉 Learn the full rules: All Fives Dominoes Rules
👉 Learn more about points: Dominoes Scoring Explained
Social & Family-Friendly Domino Variants
These games are designed for larger groups and more relaxed play.
Mexican Train Dominoes
Mexican Train Dominoes is one of the most widely played modern domino games.
- Each player builds their own train
- A shared “Mexican Train” allows extra plays
- Usually played with a double-twelve set
It’s perfect for families and mixed-skill groups.
👉 Learn the rules: Mexican Train Dominoes Rules
👉 Common beginner questions: Mexican Train Dominoes FAQ
If you’re setting up a game, understanding domino sets is especially important for Mexican Train.
👉 Learn more: Domino Sets Explained
Chicken Foot Dominoes
Chicken Foot is a branching domino game with a unique mechanic.
- Doubles create a “chicken foot” structure
- Encourages multiple play paths
- Often played with larger domino sets
This variant is casual, visual, and easy to learn.
👉 Learn the full rules: Chicken Foot Dominoes Rules
Strategy & Improving Your Game
No matter which domino variant you play, the fundamentals matter.
Understanding:
- Tile counting
- Blocking strategies
- When to pass or draw
will dramatically improve your results.
👉 Avoid beginner errors: Common Dominoes Mistakes
👉 Learn the language: Dominoes Terminology
Choosing the Right Domino Variant
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Beginners: Draw Dominoes, Mexican Train
- Casual groups: Chicken Foot, Mexican Train
- Strategy-focused players: Block Dominoes, All Fives
If you want a solid foundation, start with the basic Dominoes Rules and branch out from there.
Final Thoughts
Domino game variants are what make dominoes endlessly replayable.
Once you understand the basics, trying different versions is the best way to:
- Improve your skills
- Keep games interesting
- Find the style you enjoy most
Learn one variant well — then explore another. That’s where dominoes really shine.