Domino is a board game typically played with small rectangular blocks arranged into sets of 28 dominoes, each of which displays a distinct pattern of dots or “pips” on one side, and either remains blank or identically-patterned on the opposite. Pips have been raised slightly above the surface to make pieces easier to see and differentiate from each other, as well as reduce chances of slipperiness or falling over. Their round shape also makes them less likely to slip or slide off. Dominoes are typically constructed out of bone, silver lip ocean oyster shell (mother of pearl), ivory or dark hardwood such as ebony with inlaid black or white pips that contrast against their respective background materials, often painted. Their small size, simple design and low cost makes dominoes an engaging pastime among children – unlike other games which may involve complex rules or costly equipment to play!
For dominoes to work properly, each piece must land without creating gaps or breaks in the chain. Otherwise, if one piece hits another incorrectly and causes additional gaps to form in its line – this is why it is essential that you test out your work before it leaves the studio!
The rules of domino determine the order of play. Some games require alternate turns while in others the player with the most tiles must go first – often known as being “setter, downer, or leader”. Other rules allow for purchasing tiles from stock if one cannot use their own pieces – this varies according to game and rule variations.
Lily Hevesh, who holds the Guinness World Record for creating domino installations, begins each project by brainstorming images or words she wants to incorporate. After that she calculates how many dominoes will be needed and their arrangement. Furthermore, she reserves a few larger pieces until later so if anyone accidentally knocks one over it doesn’t cause the whole installation to collapse.
When plotting a novel, consider the domino effect as your characters’ responses to events that occur within it. Take time to carefully consider their reactions for every scene you write so when the dominoes fall they will land where you intended them to.