Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the Cardinal Mexican Train Dominoes Set. This game is a modern version of Dominoes, played with 91 double-12 dominoes, suitable for 2-8 players aged 8 and up. It is designed for fun-filled family game nights and can help enhance simple math skills.
The set includes 91 Dominoes, 9 Trains, a Scorepad, Instructions, and an Aluminum Carrying Case.
Product Components
- 91 Double-12 Dominoes: White tiles with colored dots.
- 9 Colorful Train Markers: Used to mark individual trains.
- 1 Central Hub/Station: A black plastic piece where trains originate.
- Scorepad: For keeping track of scores.
- Aluminum Carrying Case: For storage and transport of all components.
Image: The complete Mexican Train Dominoes set, including the aluminum carry case, dominoes, and colorful train markers.
Image: A pile of the double-12 dominoes, showing various colored dots.
Image: Close-up of the nine brightly colored train markers included in the set.
Setup
- Shuffle Dominoes: Turn all dominoes face down and shuffle them thoroughly.
- Draw Dominoes: Each player draws a specific number of dominoes based on the number of players:
- 2-4 Players: 15 dominoes each
- 5-6 Players: 12 dominoes each
- 7-8 Players: 10 dominoes each
- Set Aside Remaining Dominoes: The remaining dominoes form the "boneyard."
- Identify Starting Domino: The player with the highest double domino (e.g., double-12) starts the game by placing it in the center of the hub. If no one has the double-12, the next highest double is used.
- Place Hub: Position the central hub in the middle of the playing area.
Image: An example of the game setup, showing the central hub, dominoes, and train markers in play.
Operating Instructions (Gameplay)
Mexican Train Dominoes is played in rounds, typically starting with the double-12 and working down to the double-0. The goal is to be the first player to play all of their dominoes in each round.
Starting a Round:
- The player with the highest double (e.g., double-12 for the first round) places it in the center of the hub.
- If no one has the starting double, players draw one domino at a time from the boneyard until someone draws it.
Player Turns:
- Play proceeds clockwise. On your turn, you must play one domino.
- You can play a domino on:
- Your Personal Train: This train starts from the central hub and extends towards you. The first domino played on your train must match the number of the central double. Subsequent dominoes must match the open end of the previous domino on your train.
- The Mexican Train: This is a public train that can be started by any player once per round. It also starts from the central hub and must match the central double. Once started, it can be played on by any player.
- Another Player's Marked Train: If another player cannot make a move, they place their train marker on their personal train, making it "open" for other players to play on. You can play on an open train if the domino matches its open end.
- Drawing Dominoes: If you cannot play a domino from your hand, you must draw one domino from the boneyard.
- If the drawn domino can be played, you must play it immediately.
- If you still cannot play, you place your train marker on your personal train, indicating it is open for other players. Your turn then ends.
- Playing Doubles: When you play a double domino, you must play an additional domino immediately. This additional domino can be played on any open train (your own, the Mexican train, or another player's marked train). If you cannot play a second domino, you must draw from the boneyard. If you still cannot play, you mark your train and your turn ends.
Ending a Round:
- A round ends when a player plays their last domino. That player scores 0 points for the round.
- All other players count the pips (dots) on their remaining dominoes. This total is their score for the round.
- If no player can make a move and the boneyard is empty, the round ends. The player with the fewest pips on their remaining dominoes scores 0, and others score their pip count.
Game End:
The game typically consists of 13 rounds (starting with double-12 down to double-0). The player with the lowest total score after all rounds wins the game.
Image: Dominoes laid out to form a train, demonstrating how pieces connect.
Image: The score sheet and various game components, including dominoes and train markers, ready for play.
Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning: Wipe dominoes and train markers with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Storage: Always store all game components in the provided aluminum carrying case to prevent loss and damage. Keep in a cool, dry place.
- Handling: Handle dominoes and train markers with care to prevent scratches or breakage.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dominoes do not stand securely. | Tiles may be thinner than older sets, or playing surface is uneven. | Ensure playing surface is flat and stable. While the tiles are designed to stand, some players prefer racks (not included) for added stability. |
| Missing components. | Components may have been misplaced or not properly stored. | Check the aluminum carrying case thoroughly. Ensure all pieces are accounted for after each game. Contact customer support if components are missing upon initial unboxing. |
| Difficulty understanding game rules. | Rules can be complex for new players. | Refer to the "Operating Instructions" section in this manual. Consider watching online tutorials for visual guidance. Practice playing a few rounds to familiarize yourself with the flow. |
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 3.75 x 9.1 inches
- Item Weight: 2.2 pounds
- Model Number: 6030756
- Manufacturer Recommended Age: 8 - 10 years (suitable for 8 and up)
- Number of Dominoes: 91 (Double-12 set)
- Number of Players: 2-8
- Manufacturer: Spin Master, Inc. (Brand: Cardinal)
Safety Information
WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD - Small parts. Not for children under 3 years.
Warranty and Support
This product is covered by the Spin Master Care Commitment. For full details regarding warranty and support, please refer to the official Spin Master website or contact their customer service directly.
For additional assistance or inquiries, please visit the Cardinal brand page on Amazon or the official Spin Master Games website.
