How to Play Dominoes - Mexican Train Domino Rules

We have learned a new game called Mexican Train Dominoes. But we learned it differently than what the rules that came with the game say.

So I have decided to share our dominoes rules of Mexican Train since it is simpler for our youngsters to learn.

The Mexican Train Dominoes start at double 12's. You can also purchase these dominoes with actual numbers on them to replace the dots. This might work better if you have a young counter as you will see later on, they will need to be able to count the dots in their remaining tiles. To start - each person takes a set number of tiles (determined by the number of players) and the person who has the highest set of doubles starting with 12 begins. The next round starts with the next lower doubles. The play goes clockwise with each person starting their leg - looks like a spider - with the same number as the double or picking one tile which they can play if it is a playable. From there you play on your leg each turn with a couple of exceptions.

1st - You can play on another person's leg if after they have picked, they cannot. You know it is open to play on because they must place a plastic train - which comes in the set - on their leg when they can't play. Then when they are able to play on their leg again, they can remove the train. We like to use M&Ms as the train marker, then eat them when you get to remove it!

2nd - If you have a tile that has the same number as the double that was used at the beginning of the game, you can start a Mexican Train. This is a leg started apart from the other legs and any person can play on it. Just one Mexican train per round.

A couple of side notes - playing a doubles tile requires a "proof" meaning you must also play another tile on it in that turn. You don't have to pick if you can't play but the next person to play must either play on the double or pick to try to. No one can resume play until the double has been proven. This requirement can thwart your prelaid plans. And don't get discouraged if you get stuck drawing tiles well into the game to get started. Because you have the potential to play up to 12 rounds (your choice), it seems most people will get the same chance.

To win the round, be the first to play all your tiles. Everyone adds up the total number or dots on their remaining tiles. The total is their score on that round. The winner of the game is the person who has the lowest total after all rounds are completed.

That is a fun and easy way to play Mexican Train Dominoes. The dominoes rules can be followed by pretty much anyone. This fun family game makes for a great Christmas gift too!