Backgammon Strategy Backgammon Strategy for Dummies

Read more about the
Las Vegas 2024 Super
Bowl Streaker!

In very simple terms, there are 3 main tactics employed. You need to be able to switch strategies almost instantly as the course of the game unfolds.

The Blockade

This comprises of creating a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at a minimum as deep as you can achieve, to block in your competitor's checkers that are located on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most suitable procedure at the begining of the match. You can create the wall anyplace within your 11-point and your 2-point and then move it into your home board as the game continues.

The Blitz

This involves locking your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your opposer on the bar. i.e., if your opponent tosses an early two and shifts one piece from your one-point to your three-point and you then toss a 5-5, you will be able to play 6/1 6/1 eight/three eight/three. Your competitor is now in big-time difficulty considering that they have 2 checkers on the bar and you have locked half your inner board!

The Backgame

This plan is where you have 2 or higher pieces in your opponent's home board. (An anchor is a point consisting of at least two of your checkers.) It must be employed when you are significantly behind as it greatly improves your circumstances. The strongest places for anchors are close to your competitor's lower points and either on abutting points or with a single point in between. Timing is integral for an effectual backgame: besides, there is no reason having 2 nice anchor spots and a complete wall in your own inner board if you are then required to break apart this straight away, while your competitor is getting their pieces home, taking into account that you don't have other additional pieces to move! In this situation, it is better to have checkers on the bar so that you are able to preserve your position until your competitor gives you an opportunity to hit, so it may be a great idea to try and get your opponent to get them in this situation!