Backgammon Information

Read more about the
Las Vegas 2024 Super
Bowl Streaker!

In very simple terms, there are three basic tactics used. You want to be able to switch techniques instantly as the course of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This is composed of creating a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at least as thick as you are able to manage, 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 between your 11-point and your two-point and then shuffle it into your home board as the game continues.

The Blitz

This involves locking your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your opposer on the bar. e.g., if your opponent rolls an early 2 and shifts one checker from your one-point to your three-point and you then toss a five-five, you will be able to play six/one six/one eight/three eight/three. Your opponent is then in serious dire straits taking into account that they have 2 checkers on the bar and you have locked half your home board!

The Backgame

This tactic is where you have two or more pieces in your competitor’s inner board. (An anchor is a point occupied by at a minimum two of your pieces.) It would be used when you are decidedly behind as it much improves your opportunities. The best places for anchor spots are towards your competitor’s lower points and also on adjoining points or with a single point separating them. Timing is integral for a powerful backgame: after all, there’s no point having 2 nice anchors and a complete wall in your own inner board if you are then required to break down this straight away, while your opposer is getting their checkers home, considering that you do not have other additional pieces to shift! In this situation, it is more favorable to have checkers on the bar so that you can maintain your position up until your challenger gives you an opportunity to hit, so it can be an excellent idea to try and get your challenger to get them in this case!