Backgammon Information

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In exceptionally general terms, there are 3 basic techniques used. You must be able to switch tactics instantly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This involves creating a 6-thick wall of checkers, or at least as thick as you can achieve, to block in your competitor’s pieces that are on your 1-point. This is deemed to be the most suitable tactic at the begining of the game. You can build the wall anyplace between your 11-point and your two-point and then shift it into your home board as the game progresses.

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 competitor tosses an early 2 and shifts one piece from your one-point to your three-point and you then toss a 5-5, you are able to play six/one six/one eight/three eight/three. Your competitor is then in serious dire straits considering that they have two pieces on the bar and you have closed half your inner board!

The Backgame

This strategy is where you have 2 or higher checkers in your opponent’s home board. (An anchor is a position consisting of at a minimum two of your pieces.) It should be used when you are decidedly behind as it greatly improves your circumstances. The strongest places for anchors are close to your opponent’s smaller points and either on abutting points or with a single point in between. Timing is essential for an effective backgame: besides, there’s no point having 2 nice anchor spots and a solid wall in your own home board if you are then required to break apart this straight away, while your challenger is getting their pieces home, because you do not have other additional checkers to move! In this case, it’s more favorable to have checkers on the bar so that you are able to preserve your position until your opposer provides you an opportunity to hit, so it will be a wonderful idea to attempt and get your opponent to get them in this case!