Backgammon Strategy Backgammon Strategy for Dummies

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In exceptionally simple terms, there are three fundamental plans employed. You need to be able to switch techniques instantly as the course of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This involves creating a 6-deep wall of checkers, or at least as thick as you might achieve, to barricade in your competitor's checkers that are on your 1-point. This is deemed to be the most adequate course of action at the start of the game. You can create the wall anywhere within your 11-point and your two-point and then shift it into your home board as the match continues.

The Blitz

This is comprised of locking your home board as fast as possible while keeping your opposer on the bar. For example, if your opposer tosses an early two and moves one piece from your one-point to your 3-point and you then toss a 5-5, you will be able to play 6/1 six/one eight/three 8/3. Your competitor is then in serious calamity taking into account that they have two checkers on the bar and you have locked half your home board!

The Backgame

This strategy is where you have two or more anchors in your opponent's home board. (An anchor is a position occupied by at a minimum 2 of your pieces.) It needs to be used when you are extremely behind as it much improves your circumstances. The strongest areas for anchors are near your competitor's lower points and also on adjacent points or with a single point in between. Timing is critical for a competent backgame: besides, there's no point having 2 nice anchors and a solid wall in your own home board if you are then required to break up this straight away, while your opponent is shifting their pieces home, because you do not have any other additional pieces to move! In this case, it is better to have checkers on the bar so that you are able to maintain your position until your challenger gives you a chance to hit, so it will be an excellent idea to attempt and get your opposer to hit them in this situation!