How to Play Mexican Train Step by Step
Learn the Rules and Strategies of this Popular Game
Have you ever heard of Mexican Train? It’s a fun and engaging game that can be played with family and friends. In this article, I’ll guide you through the rules and strategies of Mexican Train, so you can join in on the fun. I’ve been playing this game for years, and it has become one of my favorites. So, let’s get started!
What is Mexican Train?
Mexican Train is a domino game that can be played with two to eight players. It is named after the train that runs through Mexico, and each player has their own train of dominoes that they need to play. The objective of the game is to be the first player to play all of your dominoes.
Setting Up the Game
To set up the game, you will need a set of double-twelve dominoes. Each player draws a certain number of dominoes, depending on the number of players:
- For two to four players, each player draws 15 dominoes.
- For five to six players, each player draws 12 dominoes.
- For seven to eight players, each player draws 10 dominoes.
The remaining dominoes are placed face down in the middle of the table to form the boneyard. The first player starts the game by playing a domino on the table, and then the game proceeds clockwise.
The Rules of Mexican Train
Here are the basic rules of Mexican Train:
- A player can only play a domino that has a matching number of pips on one end of the domino that is already on the table. For example, if a player plays a domino with a six on one end, the next player can only play a domino with a six on one end.
- If a player cannot play a domino, they must draw one from the boneyard. If they still cannot play, they must pass their turn.
- If a player plays a double (a domino with the same number of pips on both ends), they must play another domino on that double. This is called starting a train.
- If a player cannot start a train, they must place a marker on their train to indicate that it is open. This means other players can play on their train.
- If a player cannot play on their own train or the Mexican Train (the train that starts with a double), they must draw from the boneyard. If they still cannot play, they must pass their turn.
- The game ends when a player has played all of their dominoes. If no one can play and the boneyard is empty, the player with the lowest number of dominoes left wins.
Strategies for Winning
Now that you know the rules, let’s talk about some strategies for winning at Mexican Train:
- Try to start your train as early as possible. This gives you more options for playing dominoes.
- Keep an eye on other players’ trains. If you see that someone is close to winning, you can try to block them by playing on their train or the Mexican Train.
- Don’t be afraid to open your train. Sometimes it’s better to let other players play on your train than to draw from the boneyard.
- Try to keep a variety of dominoes in your hand. If you have too many of the same number, it will be harder to play them.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Mexican Train:
Q: Can Mexican Train be played with double-six dominoes?
A: Yes, Mexican Train can be played with double-six dominoes, but the game will be shorter and easier.
Q: Can I play on someone else’s train if it’s not open?
A: No, you can only play on someone else’s train if it’s open or if you have a domino that matches the end of the train.
Q: What happens if two players can’t play and the boneyard is empty?
A: The game ends, and the player with the lowest number of dominoes left wins.
So there you have it – a complete guide to playing Mexican Train. Now it’s time to grab your family and friends and start playing. Trust me, once you start, you won’t want to stop!