Backgammon Strategy Backgammon Strategy for Dummies

Read more about the
Las Vegas 2024 Super
Bowl Streaker!

In exceptionally simple terms, there are 3 basic tactics employed. You want to be agile enough to switch strategies instantly as the course of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This consists of assembling a 6-thick wall of checkers, or at a minimum as thick as you might manage, to lock in your opponent's checkers that are on your 1-point. This is deemed to be the most acceptable tactic at the start of the game. You can build the wall anyplace inbetween your eleven-point and your 2-point and then shift it into your home board as the match advances.

The Blitz

This is comprised of closing your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your opponent on the bar. i.e., if your competitor rolls an early two and moves one checker from your 1-point to your three-point and you then roll a 5-5, you are able to play 6/1 six/one eight/three eight/three. Your opposer is now in big-time calamity because they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have closed half your inner board!

The Backgame

This course of action is where you have two or more checkers in your competitor's inner board. (An anchor spot is a point filled by at least two of your checkers.) It should be employed when you are decidedly behind as it much improves your circumstances. The strongest areas for anchor spots are near your competitor's smaller points and either on adjacent points or with a single point separating them. Timing is essential for a competent backgame: besides, there's no reason having 2 nice anchor spots and a solid wall in your own home board if you are then required to break up this right away, while your opponent is getting their checkers home, taking into account that you do not have any other extra pieces to move! In this situation, it is more tolerable to have pieces on the bar so that you are able to maintain your position up till your challenger gives you an opportunity to hit, so it will be a wonderful idea to try and get your opposer to get them in this situation!