Backgammon Strategy Backgammon Strategy for Dummies

Read more about the
Las Vegas 2024 Super
Bowl Streaker!

In very simple terms, there are three fundamental game plans employed. You need to be able to hop between game plans instantly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This involves assembling a 6-thick wall of checkers, or at least as deep as you might achieve, to lock in your opponent's checkers that are located on your 1-point. This is judged to be the most acceptable procedure at the start of the match. You can assemble the wall anywhere inbetween your 11-point and your 2-point and then shuffle it into your home board as the game continues.

The Blitz

This consists of locking your home board as quickly as as you can while keeping your opposer on the bar. For example, if your opponent rolls an early two and shifts one piece from your 1-point to your 3-point and you then roll a 5-5, you will be able to play six/one 6/1 8/3 eight/three. Your opponent is now in serious dire straits taking into account that they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have locked half your home board!

The Backgame

This course of action 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 checkers.) It needs to be played when you are decidedly behind as it much improves your chances. The best places for anchors are close to your competitor's lower points and also on abutting points or with one point in between. Timing is integral for a competent backgame: besides, there is no point having 2 nice anchors and a solid wall in your own inner board if you are then required to break down this right away, while your challenger is shifting their pieces home, seeing that you don't have any other additional checkers to shift! In this situation, it's better to have checkers on the bar so that you are able to maintain your position up until your challenger gives you a chance to hit, so it will be an excellent idea to try and get your opponent to hit them in this case!