x
This website is using cookies. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. More info. That's Fine
HPC:Factor Logo 
 

Omega One Software's Dominoes 2.2

John Ottini | Handheld PC Reviews
September 22, 2003

I remember playing Dominoes as a child and not being particularly fond of the game, but I've recently rediscovered it (in HPC version) and found it to be quite enjoyable. The standard version of Dominoes is a relatively simply game to play, and Omega One has created a challenging computer version which will keep you entertained for hours. I don't want to spend time explaining the rules because the rules (and variations) for playing the game can be found on any number of websites on the internet and they all seem to have different methods of keeping score. Omega One provides basic information on how their version is played in their help files, but to be honest with you playing on the computer makes it so simple that it's almost a no-brainer.

The game begins with the computer automatically choosing which player will make the first move. At or before that point you will need to choose one of the four challenge levels for your computer opponent (levels range from Easy Peasy to Tough as Nails). I would suggest you start with a mid range and but if you're a good player, just go ahead and set it at the highest level.

You can use keyboard short cuts to set the playing level of your computer challenger

Each player receives 8 tiles and the object of the game is to be the first to get rid of all your tiles by placing like numbered tiles next to each other on the table. In the example above, a tile with a blank space can be added to either end of the Dominoes tiles. If neither player can make a move, then the winner is determined by adding up the points of each opponent's unused tiles and the one with the lowest points wins that game.

Dominoes notifies you when no further move is possible, tally's the score and awards one point to the winner

The software automatically keeps track of the score and is certainly not afraid to let you know if you make an invalid move.

The available game options are minimal, but that doesn't seem to deter the game play and quality of this program

There aren't many bells and whistles provided with this software, but you can choose between 4 different screen background settings, 4 levels of expertise for your computer opponent and 2 different game play variations -Standard & Multiples (Multiples being the more challenging of the two).

The Multiples Option screen

Selecting 2 numbers to use in the Multiples Game. In Multiples, every tile you place on the board has the potential of scoring some points. In this case points are scored because the double 4 (totals 8) and 8 is multiple of 4.

Games are automatically saved when you exit the program and are ready to go next time you switch on you HPC. Lastly, you can reset the scoreboard at anytime, especially if you are losing badly.

One of the great things about the HPC version of this popular game is the speed at which it is played. No tallying up the score on paper, no turning over and reshuffling tiles after each game - hmm, now I remember why I didn't fancy this game as a child. Omega One has done a pretty decent job with the interface, the graphics are clean, the screen is uncluttered and the tiles are easy to read. The use of sound effects although minimal, seems to work in this case.

A trial version is available for all HPC devices at the Omega One www.omegaone.com or Handango www.handango.com The software sells for $14.99 (USD) or $19.99 (USD) if you buy the Dominoes & Checkers combo.

System Requirements

Windows CE 2.0 and above
SH3, SH4, StrongARM, MIPS

More information on Omega One Software Dominoes 2.2 can be found at
http://www.omegaone.com/

Ratings

Cost: 3- Star Rating
Usability: 4- Star Rating
Built-in Help: 2- Star Rating
Customer Service: 3- Star Rating
Overall: 4- Star Rating