Backgammon Strategy Backgammon Strategy for Dummies

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In very simple terms, there are three main tactics employed. You need to be able to switch techniques instantly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This is comprised of assembling a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at a minimum as thick as you might achieve, to block in the competitor's pieces that are on your 1-point. This is judged to be the most suitable procedure at the begining of the match. You can build the wall anywhere inbetween your eleven-point and your two-point and then shuffle it into your home board as the match continues.

The Blitz

This is composed of closing your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your challenger on the bar. For example, if your challenger tosses an early two and moves one piece from your 1-point to your 3-point and you then roll a 5-5, you are able to play 6/1 six/one 8/3 eight/three. Your competitor is now in big-time calamity since they have two pieces on the bar and you have locked half your home board!

The Backgame

This strategy is where you have two or higher checkers in your opponent's inner board. (An anchor is a point consisting of at least 2 of your pieces.) It should be played when you are extremely behind as this strategy greatly improves your circumstances. The better areas for anchors are near your competitor's lower points and either on adjoining points or with a single point separating them. Timing is critical for an effective backgame: after all, there is no point having two nice anchor spots and a complete wall in your own inner board if you are then required to break up this right away, while your opponent is getting their pieces home, considering that you do not have any other extra pieces to move! In this case, it's more favorable to have checkers on the bar so that you are able to preserve your position up until your competitor gives you an opportunity to hit, so it may be an excellent idea to try and get your opponent to hit them in this situation!