Backgammon Strategy Backgammon Strategy for Dummies

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In very general terms, there are 3 main game plans used. You need to be agile enough to switch techniques almost instantly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This involves assembling a 6-deep wall of checkers, or at least as deep as you might manage, to block in the opponent's checkers that are located on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most acceptable procedure at the start of the game. You can create the wall anywhere between your 11-point and your 2-point and then move it into your home board as the match continues.

The Blitz

This is comprised of closing your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your opposer on the bar. i.e., if your challenger tosses an early two and moves one checker from your 1-point to your 3-point and you then roll a 5-5, you are able to play 6/1 6/1 8/3 8/3. Your challenger is now in serious trouble seeing that they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have locked half your inner board!

The Backgame

This tactic is where you have two or higher pieces in your competitor's inner board. (An anchor spot is a position occupied by at least two of your pieces.) It would be employed when you are significantly behind as it much improves your opportunities. The strongest places for anchor spots are near your competitor's smaller points and also on adjacent points or with one point in between. Timing is essential for an effective backgame: after all, there is no point having 2 nice anchor spots and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then forced to break down this right away, while your challenger is getting their pieces home, considering that you do not have any other extra checkers to move! In this case, it is more favorable to have pieces on the bar so that you are able to preserve your position up till your opposer provides you an opportunity to hit, so it can be a wonderful idea to attempt and get your challenger to hit them in this case!