Spinners

Introduction to Spinners

Spinners is a captivating variation of the classic dominoes game, blending traditional gameplay with unique elements that add excitement and strategy. Invented by Dr. and Mrs. Edna F. Graham in Abilene, Texas, in 1983, Spinners incorporates special "wild" dominoes, making it a dynamic and engaging game for players of all ages. 

How to Play Spinners

Spinners is designed for 2 to 8 players, making it versatile for small or large groups. The objective is to be the player with the lowest score after a series of rounds, typically 10, by playing all your dominoes or minimizing the points left in your hand.

Game Setup

• Domino Set: The game uses a double-9 domino set (55 tiles) plus 11 additional Spinner tiles, totaling 66 tiles. Each Spinner tile features a distinctive symbol and is considered wild.

• Drawing Tiles: For 2 players, each draws 14 tiles; for 3 to 8 players, each draws 7 tiles. The remaining tiles form the "boneyard."

• Starting the Game: The first round begins with the double-9 tile (9-9) or a double-Spinner tile as a substitute. If no player has these, players draw one tile at a time from the boneyard until the required tile is found.

Gameplay Mechanics

• First Moves: The player with the 9-9 or double-Spinner places it in the center. The second and third plays must match a 9 or use a wild Spinner tile. After three tiles are played on the double, subsequent players can play on any open end of the layout, matching numbers or using a Spinner.

• Special Rules for Doubles: When a double tile (e.g., 5-5) is played, the next three players must play on that double, either by matching the number or using a Spinner. If a player cannot play, they draw one tile from the boneyard.

• Wild Spinners: Spinner tiles can be played at any time, representing any number needed to match an open end. This flexibility allows players to strategically block opponents or continue their own plays.

• Winning a Hand: A hand ends when a player plays all their tiles or when no player can make a legal play. Players then count the pips (dots) on their remaining tiles, with each Spinner counting as 10 points and the double-Spinner as 20 points. The score is recorded, and the next round begins with the next lower double (e.g., 8-8 for the second round).

Conclusion

Spinners breathes new life into the traditional game of dominoes with its wild tiles and dynamic rules. Whether you're a domino enthusiast or a casual gamer, Spinners offers a blend of strategy, luck, and fun that keeps players coming back for more.