How to Play Backgammon: A Beginner's Guide
Backgammon is one of the oldest and most popular board games in the world. It is a game of skill, strategy, and luck that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you want to play casually with your friends, competitively in tournaments, or online against players from around the globe, backgammon is a game that will challenge your mind and entertain you for hours.
But how do you play backgammon? What are the rules and the strategies? How do you set up the board and move your pieces? How do you score points and win the game? If you are new to backgammon or want to refresh your knowledge, this article is for you. In this beginner's guide, we will explain everything you need to know to start playing backgammon today.
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Introduction
What is backgammon and why should you play it?
Backgammon is a two-player board game that involves moving a set of 15 pieces (also called checkers, stones, or men) around 24 triangular spaces (also called points) on a board divided into four quadrants. The players take turns rolling two dice and moving their pieces according to the numbers shown on the dice. The goal of the game is to move all your pieces into your home board (the quadrant opposite to your starting one) and then bear them off (remove them from the board) before your opponent does.
Backgammon is a game that combines luck and skill in a fascinating way. On one hand, the outcome of each roll of the dice introduces an element of chance that can affect your moves and strategies. On the other hand, the way you use your dice rolls, position your pieces, and anticipate your opponent's moves requires careful planning, calculation, and decision-making. Backgammon is a game that rewards both tactical and strategic thinking, as well as adaptability and risk-taking.
Backgammon is also a game that has a rich history and culture. It is believed to have originated in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) over 5,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest games in existence. It has been played by kings and commoners, nobles and peasants, scholars and warriors, across different civilizations and continents. It has inspired countless variations, adaptations, and innovations over the centuries. It has also been a source of entertainment, education, socialization, and even gambling for millions of people.
What do you need to play backgammon?
To play backgammon, you need a backgammon board, 15 pieces of one color for each player (usually black and white), two pairs of dice (one for each player), and a doubling cube (a six-sided die with the numbers 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64 on its faces). You can buy a backgammon set from a toy store or an online retailer, or you can make your own with some cardboard, paper, markers, coins, and regular dice. You can also play backgammon online using a computer or a mobile device.
The Basics of Backgammon
The board and the pieces
A backgammon board consists of 24 triangular spaces called points, arranged in four groups of six points each. These groups are called quadrants or boards. The quadrants are labeled as follows:
The home board or inner board: This is where you need to bring all your pieces before bearing them off. It is the quadrant on your right side.
The outer board: This is where you start the game with five of your pieces. It is the quadrant on your left side.
The opponent's home board or inner board: This is where your opponent needs to bring all their pieces before bearing them off. It is the quadrant on your left side, opposite to your home board.
The opponent's outer board: This is where your opponent starts the game with five of their pieces. It is the quadrant on your right side, opposite to your outer board.
The points are numbered from 1 to 24, starting from the point closest to you on your right and going counterclockwise around the board. The point on your far right is point 1, the point next to it is point 2, and so on, until you reach point 24 on your far left. Your opponent's points are numbered in the opposite direction, so their point 1 is your point 24, their point 2 is your point 23, and so on.
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Each player has 15 pieces of one color (black or white). At the beginning of the game, the pieces are arranged as follows:
Two pieces on point 24 (opponent's point 1)
Five pieces on point 13 (opponent's point 12)
Three pieces on point 8 (opponent's point 17)
Five pieces on point 6 (opponent's point 19)
The arrangement of the pieces is symmetrical, so your opponent has the same setup as you, but with the opposite color and direction.
The dice and the doubling cube
Each player has a pair of dice that they use to determine how many points they can move their pieces on each turn. The dice are rolled on a flat surface next to the board, or in a cup or a shaker that is then turned over. The player who rolls the higher number on one die goes first. If both players roll the same number, they roll again until there is a difference. The numbers on the two dice are not added together, but are used separately to move one or two pieces. For example, if you roll a 3 and a 5, you can move one piece 3 points and another piece 5 points, or you can move one piece 8 points (if possible).
The doubling cube is a special die that is used to increase the stakes of the game. It has the numbers 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64 on its faces, representing the multiplier of the final score. The doubling cube starts in the middle of the board, with the number 64 facing up. This means that the game is worth one point at the beginning. At any point during the game, before rolling their dice, a player can propose to double the value of the game by turning the cube to the next higher number and offering it to their opponent. The opponent can either accept or decline the offer. If they accept, they take the cube and place it on their side of the board, indicating that they have control of the cube and can propose to double again later. If they decline, they forfeit the game and lose one point. The cube can be turned and offered as many times as the players want, but only by the player who has control of it.
The objective and the direction of play
The objective of backgammon is to move all your pieces into your home board and then bear them off before your opponent does. To do this, you need to move your pieces in a counterclockwise direction around the board, from your outer board to your home board. Your opponent moves their pieces in a clockwise direction, from their outer board to their home board.
You can only move your pieces to open points, meaning points that are not occupied by two or more of your opponent's pieces. You can move your pieces to points that are empty, occupied by one or more of your own pieces, or occupied by only one of your opponent's pieces (in which case you hit that piece and send it to the bar).
You can bear off your pieces once you have moved all of them into your home board. To bear off a piece, you need to roll a number that corresponds to the point where that piece is located. For example, if you have a piece on point 4, you need to roll a 4 to bear it off. You can also use a higher number than the point where your piece is located, as long as there are no other pieces on higher points. For example, if you have a piece on point 3 and you roll a 6, you can bear off that piece, as long as you have no other pieces on points 4, 5, or 6. If you have pieces on the bar, you cannot bear off any pieces until you re-enter them into your opponent's home board.
You win the game when you bear off all your pieces before your opponent does. You score one point for a normal win, two points for a gammon (if your opponent has not borne off any piece), or three points for a backgammon (if your opponent has not borne off any piece and still has one or more pieces on the bar or in your home board). The value of the game is multiplied by the number on the doubling cube if it has been used.
The Rules of Backgammon
How to start the game
To start the game, each player rolls one die. The player who rolls the higher number goes first, using the numbers on both dice as their first roll. If both players roll the same number, they roll again until there is a difference. The dice are then placed on the bar, with the higher number on top.
How to move your pieces
On your turn, you roll both dice and move one or two of your pieces according to the numbers shown on the dice. You can move either one piece by the sum of the two dice, or two pieces by the individual numbers on the dice. For example, if you roll a 3 and a 5, you can either move one piece 8 points, or two pieces 3 and 5 points each. You can use either die first, as long as you use both dice if possible.
You can only move your pieces to open points, meaning points that are not occupied by two or more of your opponent's pieces. You can move your pieces to points that are empty, occupied by one or more of your own pieces, or occupied by only one of your opponent's pieces (in which case you hit that piece and send it to the bar).
If you roll a double (the same number on both dice), you can move four times by that number. For example, if you roll a 4 and a 4, you can move four pieces 4 points each, or two pieces 8 points each, or any combination that uses four moves of 4 points each.
If you cannot use both numbers on the dice, you must use the higher number if possible. If you cannot use either number, you lose your turn. You must use both numbers if possible, even if it is not to your advantage.
How to hit and enter your opponent's pieces
If you move your piece to a point that is occupied by only one of your opponent's pieces, you hit that piece and send it to the bar. The bar is the raised area in the middle of the board that separates the two sides. A hit piece is temporarily out of play and cannot move until it is re-entered.
If you have one or more pieces on the bar, you must use your dice roll to re-enter them into your opponent's home board before you can move any other pieces. To re-enter a piece, you must move it to an open point in your opponent's home board corresponding to one of the numbers on the dice. For example, if you roll a 3 and a 5, you can re-enter a piece to point 3 or point 5 in your opponent's home board (provided they are open). If both points are closed, you cannot re-enter and lose your turn. If only one point is open, you must re-enter to that point and forfeit the use of the other die. If you roll a double, you can re-enter up to four pieces if there are enough open points.
How to bear off your pieces
You can bear off your pieces once you have moved all of them into your home board. To bear off a piece, you need to roll a number that corresponds to the point where that piece is located. For example, if you have a piece on point 4, you need to roll a 4 to bear it off. You can also use a higher number than the point where your piece is located, as long as there are no other pieces on higher points. For example, if you have a piece on point 3 and you roll a 6, you can bear off that piece, as long as you have no other pieces on points 4, 5, or 6. If you have pieces on the bar, you cannot bear off any pieces until you re-enter them into your opponent's home board.
If you roll a number that does not correspond to any point where you have a piece, or a point that is not open, you must make a legal move using a piece on a higher point. For example, if you roll a 2 and you have no pieces on point 2, but you have pieces on points 3 and 4, you must move one of them. If you cannot make any legal move, you lose your turn.
If you roll a double, you can bear off up to four pieces by that number. For example, if you roll a 4 and a 4, and you have four pieces on point 4, you can bear them all off. You can also use a combination of bearing off and moving your pieces within your home board, as long as you use all four moves of the double.
Conclusion
Summary of the main points
Backgammon is a fun and exciting game that can be played by anyone who wants to test their skills and luck. It is a game that involves moving your pieces around the board according to the dice rolls, hitting and entering your opponent's pieces, and bearing off your pieces before your opponent does. It is a game that requires both strategy and tactics, as well as adaptability and risk-taking. It is also a game that has a long and rich history and culture, and that can be enjoyed in many different ways and formats.
Tips and tricks for beginners
If you are new to backgammon or want to improve your game, here are some tips and tricks that can help you:
Learn the basic rules and terminology of the game. You can find many online resources, books, videos, and tutorials that can teach you how to play backgammon.
Practice your skills by playing against different opponents, either in person or online. You can also use computer programs or apps that can simulate games and analyze your moves.
Study the strategies and techniques of the game. You can learn from the experts by reading their books, articles, blogs, or podcasts, or by watching their games and commentary.
Use the doubling cube wisely. The doubling cube can increase the excitement and the stakes of the game, but it can also be a double-edged sword. You should only offer or accept a double when you have a clear advantage or when you are willing to take a risk.
Have fun and enjoy the game. Backgammon is a game that can bring you joy and satisfaction, as well as challenge and frustration. Remember to be respectful of your opponent, gracious in victory and defeat, and always eager to learn and improve.
Resources and recommendations for further learning
If you want to learn more about backgammon or find more opportunities to play it, here are some resources and recommendations that we suggest:
The Backgammon Learning Center: This is a website that offers online courses, lessons, coaching, articles, quizzes, and more for backgammon players of all levels. You can find it at .
The US Backgammon Federation: This is an organization that promotes and supports the growth of backgammon in the United States. It organizes tournaments, events, clubs, ratings, rankings, newsletters, podcasts, and more for its members. You can find it at .
The Backgammon Galore: This is a website that provides a wealth of information and resources for backgammon enthusiasts. It features rules, articles, tips, glossary, links, software, books, and more for backgammon lovers. You can find it at .
The Backgammon World Championship: This is the most prestigious and competitive event in the backgammon world. It is held annually in Monte Carlo, Monaco, and attracts the best players from around the world. You can find more information about it at .
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about backgammon:
Q: How long does a game of backgammon take?
A: A game of backgammon can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or more, depending on the skill level of the players, the speed of play, the use of the doubling cube, and the luck of the dice. A typical game lasts about 15 to 30 minutes.
Q: How can I improve my chances of winning in backgammon?
A: There is no surefire way to win in backgammon, as it is a game that involves both skill and luck. However, some general tips that can help you improve your chances are:
Learn the basic probabilities and odds of the dice rolls and how they affect your moves and strategies.
Practice your opening moves and responses, as they can set the tone and direction of the game.
Be flexible and adaptable to the changing situations on the board, and be ready to switch between offensive and defensive modes.
Be aggressive and proactive when you have an advantage, and be cautious and conservative when you are behind.
Use the doubling cube wisely and strategically, and know when to accept or decline a double.
Q: What are some common mistakes that beginners make in backgammon?
A: Some common mistakes that beginners make in backgammon are:
Moving their pieces too far or too close to each other, creating gaps or clusters that can be exploited by their opponent.
Leaving their pieces exposed or vulnerable to being hit by their opponent, especially on their own side of the board.
Not using all their dice rolls if possible, or using them inefficiently or wastefully.
Not paying attention to their opponent's position and moves, or not anticipating their possible threats or responses.
Not using the doubling cube at all, or using it too early or too late, or accepting or declining a double without proper evaluation.
Q: What are some advanced techniques or concepts that I can learn in backgammon?
A: Some advanced techniques or concepts that you can learn in backgammon are:
The pip count: This is a method of measuring the distance that each player has to travel to bear off all their pieces. It can help you determine who is ahead or behind in the race, and how much risk or pressure you should apply or withstand.
The match score: This is a method of keeping track of the points that each player has won or lost in a series of games (called a match). It can help you adjust your strategy and tactics according to the situation and the stakes of the match.
The back game: This is a strategy of deliberately leaving some pieces in your opponent's home board, hoping to hit their pieces later and create a blockade. It can help you counteract your opponent's lead in the race, but it is also very risky and difficult to execute.
The blitz: This is a strategy of aggressively hitting your opponent's pieces and trying to close all your points in your home board, preventing them from re-entering. It can help you win quickly and decisively, but it can also backfire if your opponent manages to escape or hit you back.
The prime: This is a formation of six consecutive points that are occupied by your pieces, creating a wall that blocks your opponent's movement. It can help you trap your opponent's pieces behind it, or secure your own position ahead of it.
Q: Where can I find more information or help about backgammon?
A: There are many sources of information or help about backgammon that you can access online or offline. Some examples are:
Online forums, communities, groups, or chats where you can interact with other backgammon players, ask questions, share tips, or seek advice.
Online articles, blogs, podcasts, videos, or courses where you can learn more about the rules, strategies, techniques, history and culture of backgammon.
Online games, apps, software, or platforms where you can play backgammon against other players or against the computer, with different levels of difficulty, features, and options.
Offline books, magazines, newsletters, or guides where you can read more about the theory and practice of backgammon.
Offline clubs, associations, leagues, or tournaments where you can join and meet other backgammon players, play games, or compete for prizes.
Offline mentors, coaches, teachers, or friends who can help you improve your skills, teach you new things, or give you feedback.
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