Welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to play Mexican Train. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this article will walk you through the rules, strategies, and setup of Mexican Train Dominoes. So grab a set of Double Twelve dominoes and let’s get started!
How to Play Mexican Train?
Mexican Train Dominoes is a popular game played with a standard set of dominoes. The objective is to be the first player to get rid of all your dominoes and score the lowest points. It’s a game that combines strategy and luck, making it engaging and entertaining for players of all skill levels.
Before we dive into the details, it’s important to understand the basic structure of a Mexican Train game. Each player has their own train, which they will use to play their dominoes. The game begins with a special hub where the starting double and the domino trains are placed. The player with the highest double starts the game, and from there, each player takes turns playing their dominoes.
Throughout this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the equipment required to setting up the game, playing doubles and the Mexican Train, scoring, and ultimately, winning the game. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of Mexican Train Dominoes and be ready to enjoy countless hours of fun with friends and family.
So, let’s embark on this exciting journey into the world of Mexican Train Dominoes. Whether you’re looking to learn the game or sharpen your skills, this guide has got you covered. Let’s roll those dominoes and unveil the strategies that will lead you to victory!
Mexican Train Equipment
In order to play Mexican Train Dominoes, you will need the following equipment:
- A standard set of Double Twelve dominoes
- A special hub with slots for the starting double and the domino trains
- A marker for each player’s train
The dominoes used in Mexican Train Dominoes should have colored spots to make it easier to match them. The special hub acts as the central starting point for the game, providing a designated space for the starting double and the individual trains. Each player’s marker is used to indicate their train on the hub.
Here is an example of how the Mexican Train Dominoes equipment may look:
| Equipment | Example |
|---|---|
| Double Twelve dominoes | Complete set of dominoes with colored spots |
| Special hub | Hub with slots for the starting double and domino trains |
| Player markers | Markers to identify each player’s train |
Having the right equipment is essential for a smooth and enjoyable game of Mexican Train Dominoes. Make sure you have all the necessary components before starting a game.
Game Setup and Basics
Before you can start playing Mexican Train Dominoes, it’s important to set up the game correctly. Follow the instructions below to ensure a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.
Game Preparation
- Shuffle the dominoes to mix them up thoroughly.
- Based on the number of players, each player should draw a specific number of dominoes. For example, if there are four players, each player should draw 15 dominoes.
- Place the dominoes face down on the table and have each player stand them on edge, facing themselves. This will ensure that other players cannot see the dominoes they are holding.
- Take the starting double, which is the highest double among the dominoes, and place it in the center of the hub.
- Each player should then choose a slot on the outer edge of the hub for their train. This will be where they play their dominoes.
- The player who has the highest double in their hand will start the game. If multiple players have the same highest double, the one with that highest double with the most spots will start.
Gameplay Instructions
Now that the game is set up, let’s go over the basic gameplay instructions:
- Each player takes turns playing a domino on any available train, starting with the player who has the highest double.
- To play a domino, it must have a matching number of spots on one end of the train, or it must be a double, which is a domino with the same number of spots on both ends.
- If a player cannot play any of their dominoes, they must draw a tile from the boneyard. The boneyard is a collection of dominoes that are not currently in play.
- If a player still cannot play after drawing from the boneyard, their turn is skipped, and play moves on to the next player.
- The game continues until the first player successfully plays all of their dominoes and declares “Mexican Train.”
That’s it! Now you’re ready to start playing Mexican Train Dominoes. Remember to have fun and strategize your moves to outwit your opponents. Good luck!
| Game Setup and Basics | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Shuffle the dominoes | Mix the dominoes thoroughly to ensure fairness. |
| Draw a specific number of dominoes | Each player draws a set number of dominoes based on the number of players. |
| Place dominoes face down | The dominoes should be placed face down on the table. |
| Stand dominoes on edge | Each player stands their dominoes on edge, facing themselves. |
| Place starting double in hub | The highest double is placed in the center of the hub. |
| Choose a slot for each player’s train | Each player selects a slot on the outer edge of the hub for their train. |
| Start with the player with the highest double | The player who possesses the highest double will commence the game. |
| Take turns playing dominoes | Players take turns playing a domino on any available train. |
| Draw from the boneyard if unable to play | If a player cannot play, they must draw a tile from the boneyard. |
| Game ends when a player gets rid of all their dominoes | The first player to successfully play all their dominoes ends the game. |
Playing Doubles and Mexican Train
In Mexican Train Dominoes, doubles play a special role in the game. When a player plays a double, they get an immediate extra turn. However, there is a rule that applies to doubles known as “closing the double.”
When a player plays a double, they must close it by playing another tile on top of it before they can make any other plays. This means that after playing a double, the player must place a matching tile on top of it from their hand.
Another important aspect of the game is the Mexican Train. The Mexican Train is a public train that can be started by any player on their turn by playing a double that matches the station number. The station number is the number on the starting double placed at the center of the hub.
The Mexican Train is open for all players to play off of throughout the round. This means that if a player has a tile that matches the station number, they can play it on the Mexican Train. The Mexican Train can be a strategic move to get rid of tiles or prevent other players from making their plays.
Here are some tips for playing doubles and utilizing the Mexican Train:
- Always be on the lookout for opportunities to play a double and gain an extra turn.
- Plan your moves carefully to ensure you can close the double and continue making plays.
- Consider starting the Mexican Train if you have a matching double. This can help set up opportunities for yourself and create challenges for other players.
- Pay attention to the tiles played on the Mexican Train by other players. This can give you valuable information about their strategies and help you make better plays.
| Double | Action |
|---|---|
| Double 1 | Player 1 plays Double 1 and gets an extra turn. They close the double by playing a tile with a matching number on top of it. |
| Double 5 | Player 2 plays Double 5 and gets an extra turn. They close the double by playing a tile with a matching number on top of it. |
| Double 12 | Player 3 plays Double 12 and gets an extra turn. They close the double by playing a tile with a matching number on top of it. |
Scoring and Winning
Once the first player gets rid of all their dominoes, the game comes to an end. But who will be the victor? Let’s take a look at the scoring system and how the winner is determined.
The winning player in Mexican Train Dominoes scores zero, while the other players are left to tally up the points. Each player must count the total number of spots on the dominoes they have remaining in their hands. These points can add up quickly, so strategy and careful planning are essential to minimize your score.
Tallying the Scores
After the game, the scores of all the players are compared to determine the winner. It is common practice to play a series of games, or rounds, where each player has a chance to start the game. At the end of the series, the player with the lowest score emerges as the winner of the match.
Now, let’s take a closer look at how the scoring system works:
| Player | Dominoes Remaining | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Player 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Player 2 | 6 | 36 |
| Player 3 | 3 | 15 |
| Player 4 | 2 | 10 |
In this example, Player 1 managed to get rid of all their dominoes and scored zero, making them the winner. Player 2 has the highest score with 36 points, followed by Player 3 with 15, and Player 4 with 10 points.
Remember, the key to winning at Mexican Train Dominoes is not only playing strategically but also keeping an eye on your opponents’ scores. By planning your moves carefully and aiming for the lowest score, you can increase your chances of becoming the ultimate Mexican Train champion.
Now that you know how to play Mexican Train Dominoes and understand the scoring system, you’re ready to gather your friends and family for a thrilling game night filled with strategic moves and friendly competition. Put your skills to the test and enjoy the excitement of Mexican Train Dominoes!
Conclusion
Mexican Train Dominoes is a popular and engaging game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. By following the step-by-step guide and understanding the rules of the game, you can create memorable moments with your friends and family.
The strategic nature of Mexican Train Dominoes allows players to exercise their decision-making skills and develop clever strategies. Whether you’re playing competitively or casually, the game offers an exciting challenge that keeps players engaged and entertained.
Remember, the key to success in Mexican Train Dominoes lies in understanding the rules, practicing your strategy, and enjoying the friendly competition. So gather your loved ones, set up the dominoes, and dive into the world of Mexican Train Dominoes for a fun-filled game night!
