Mexican Train Dominoes is one of the popular games played by players all over the ages. Regardless of whether you are playing with families or friends, one of the first things that you should learn is how many dominoes you are going to need. This answer depends on the dominoe set used and the number of players that participate in the event.

This article will discuss the more popular domino sets which are Double Twelve, Double Fifteen, Double Eighteen and so on. In the end you’ll know definitively which set is optimal for your group and which tile counts are for the best experience.

What Are Mexican Train Dominoes?

In the famous game Mexican Train Dominoes, players match numbers on the tiles to make chains of dominoes called "trains." Each player plays all of their tiles while also planning how to block the other players.

The game takes its name from a distinctive quality: the Mexican Train. Any player may add to this common chain of tiles, which increases the game's dynamic. Mexican Train is beautiful in simplicity; it's easy to learn, but it provides many techniques.

1. How Many Dominoes Are Needed for Mexican Trains?

The domino set you decide will determine how many dominoes Mexican Train uses. A double-12 set is the ideal fit for two to eight players, so most people utilize it. Bigger parties or people who love longer games might find larger sets, such as double-15 or double-18 perfect.

Before diving into the specifics of each set, let’s look at a quick overview:

Each set has its own advantages and is suited for different group sizes and game lengths. Let’s break them down in detail.

2. Understanding Domino Sets: How Many Tiles in Each?

Domino sets range in size from the little double-6 sets to the enormous double-18 sets. Here is the information on everyone: 

Double-Six Dominoes

With 28 tiles, a double-6 set is the smallest usually used set. It comprises all number combinations ranging from 0-0 to 6-6. For brief games or beginners, this set is great; nevertheless, it isn't suitable for Mexican Train since it lacks enough tiles for bigger parties.

Double-9 Dominoes

There are 55 tiles in the double-9 set; numbers range from 0-0 to 9-9. Though it's a step above double-6, it still caps the player count. Sometimes shorter games or smaller groups use this set.

Double-12 Dominoes

The double-12 set with 91 tiles is the most often used set for Mexican Train. Perfect for up to 8 players, it has all combinations from 0-0 to 12-12. More tiles make longer trains and more strategic games possible.

Double- Fifteen Dominoes

A double-15 set consists of 136 tiles. This set accommodates up to 12 players since numbers range from 0-0 to 15-15. Larger parties or those seeking a more difficult game with more options will find it perfect.

Double- eighteen Dominoes

With 190 tiles, the double-18 set is the biggest commercially sold set. Groups of fourteen or more participants would find it appropriate. Although it provides the most diversity, the sheer count of tiles could lengthen and complicate the game.

3. Why Use Different Domino Sets?

High and tightly co-ordinated top tables are a great contribution. Each is different from the other's domino set. The number of the set you select depends on the number of players and the duration of the game you wish to play.

• Smaller Sets (Double-6, Double-9): Suitable mainly for novices or to introduce games with less turnout.
• Standard Sets (Double-12): Especially suitable in every casual household for family game nigths or for gatherings of up to 8 people.
• Larger Sets (Double-15, Double-18): Perfect suited for big group of friends, party people, or simply, people who like to game.

4. How to Set Up Mexican Train Dominoes?

To begin a Mexican Train is not difficult however, it would be relevant to know which number of tiles each player should have. The number of tiles is total dependant on the number of the set used and on the number of players.

Steps to Set Up

1. Shuffle the Tiles: Turn upside down all the dominoes and put them in a random fashion on the table.
2. Draw Tiles: Before the game begins, each player is assigned a definite number of tiles.
3. 2-4 players: Draw 15 tiles each.
4. 5-6 players: Draw 12 tiles each.
5. 7-8 players: Draw 10 tiles each.
6. Create a Draw Pile: The remaining tiles make a draw pile from which players take tile when they lack any possibility of moving.
7. Start with a Double: The first tile pulled from the rack has to be the highest double in the set example: when the set is double-12 the first of the set has to be 12-12.

Tile Distribution Table

5. Final Thoughts on Domino Sets

Your group size and the kind of game you like to play will determine which domino set Mexican Train uses. The ideal for most people is a double-12 set. It is flexible, fits up to eight players, and helps to prevent the game from running too long. If you have more people playing, you might want to switch to a double-15 or double-18 set.

It's time to get a group together and start playing, knowing how many dominoes are in each set and how to utilize them! The classic game Mexican Train draws people together; the correct domino set makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)