Mexican Train has more room for tactics than it first appears. None of this is required to enjoy the game — but if you’d like to win a little more often, here’s where to look.

Early on

• Play your highest-value dominoes first. If the round ends early, those are the ones that hurt.
• Hang on to versatile dominoes — the ones that fit in several places.
• Notice which numbers are being played heavily; they’ll get harder to place.

Mid-game

• Watch the train markers. An open train is an opportunity — and a sign that player is struggling.
• Keep a rough sense of which numbers are still out there.
• If you’re stuck, starting the Mexican Train gives everyone somewhere to go, including you.

Towards the end

• Focus on emptying your own hand rather than blocking other people.
• Save small dominoes for last — they cost you least if you’re caught with them.
• Keep an eye on who’s running low; the round can end sooner than you think.

Above all

It’s a family game. Be patient with new players, don’t rush anyone’s turn, and enjoy it — the scores reset next game anyway.