History

Buki-Domino, also known as Buki or Sechser-Domino, was a popular gambling game in early 20th-century Vienna. Its roots trace back to the Viennese underworld, where players gathered in smoky cafes to test their luck. Let’s explore the intriguing history of this game.

Origins and Literature References

Buki-Domino is mentioned in literary works by renowned authors. Joseph Roth’s Zipper und sein Vater, Egon Erwin Kisch’s “Lederbranche” in Nachlese, and Leo Perutz’s novel Zwischen neun und neun provide vivid descriptions of Buki parties. These accounts transport us to the bustling cafes, where tiles clacked and fortunes hung in the balance.

The Game

Buki-Domino uses a set of 36 dominoes (originally 45, with doubles removed). Four players participate, each receiving six tiles. The gamemaster, known as the Buki or banker, shuffles the tiles. The Stamm (remaining tiles) sits untouched. The game proceeds counterclockwise, with players placing tiles. No ‘buying’ allowed—only strategic moves.

Winning and Betting

The first player to place all tiles wins. In a blocked game, the player with the fewest pips in hand prevails. But here’s the twist: spectators (kiebitzers or ‘gallerists’) can bet on active players or opponents of the banker. The Viennese underworld’s influence is palpable—the gallery, named after police photo files, adds intrigue.

Modern Times

While Buki-Domino faded from popularity, its legacy endures. Today, we glimpse its echoes in the world of chance and strategy. Perhaps in dimly lit cafes, the spirit of Buki-Domino still lingers, waiting for a new generation of players to roll the dice.

Remember, Buki-Domino isn’t just a game; it’s a slice of Vienna’s colorful past—a testament to risk, camaraderie, and the thrill of uncertainty.