Dominoes are a popular game in which players stack the small rectangular blocks on their ends to form long lines. Then, when one domino is tipped over, it triggers the next domino to tip over and so on. It is possible to create very complicated patterns and even whole buildings of dominoes if enough care is given to planning the process. The game has become so popular that there are even domino shows where skilled builders set up massive structures of dominoes and compete to see whose creation can topple first.
The name Domino is often used in places of business to suggest a sense of authority and expertise. The name has also been used as a first name, imparting a sense of confidence and skill. Regardless of context, the word domino has an authoritative undertone that has helped the name to retain its popularity in modern times.
In addition to its gaming value, dominoes are often referred to as a teaching tool for children. Many educators use dominoes as a way to demonstrate how simple movements can have complex consequences. The analogy is often applied to educational situations such as when a student struggles with a learning challenge. It is easy for a teacher to compensate for this challenge, but over time the compensation can begin to impact the ability of the student to learn. This is often referred to as the Domino Effect.
Domino’s mutant powers are based on the law of probability, which she can manipulate to shift odds in her favor. She is a weapons expert, capable of firing projectiles from her staff and a superb athlete and martial arts master. She is also an accomplished linguist.
Neena Thurman, aka Domino, was born as the result of the U.S. government’s experimentation with precognitive mutants. The experiments were part of a program called Project Armageddon. She was rescued by a mutant soldier named Cable and became his partner. Domino’s mutant ability manifested when she was around 13. The ability is triggered by stress and can cause luck to shift in her favor. However, she cannot consciously control it.
In the past, Domino has clashed with the likes of Donald Pierce and Lady Deathstrike when they were trying to download Milo Thurman’s mind into a computer. She has also been involved in the mercenary group the Wild Pack, and later joined X-Force. During the period of Earth’s overlap with reality-295 during the Age of Apocalypse, Domino was forced to choose between her relationship with Cable and her job with the Wild Pack. After the return to reality, Domino helped Cable restructure the team and investigate a series of murders. Domino has since assassinated the rogue operative Flag-Smasher in Rumekistan, clearing the way for Cable to take over the country. She has also fought the feral Grizzly. Later, she helped fight the Hecatomb.