Backgammon Tricks

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In exceptionally simple terms, there are three main strategies employed. You must be agile enough to switch tactics almost instantly as the action of the game unfolds.

The Blockade

This is comprised of building a 6-deep wall of checkers, or at least as deep as you are able to achieve, to lock in the opponent’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most acceptable procedure at the begining of the match. You can build the wall anyplace between your 11-point and your 2-point and then move it into your home board as the game continues.

The Blitz

This consists of locking your home board as fast as possible while keeping your competitor on the bar. i.e., if your challenger tosses an early two and moves one checker from your one-point to your three-point and you then roll a 5-5, you can play 6/1 six/one eight/three 8/3. Your opposer is then in serious calamity due to the fact that they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have closed half your inner board!

The Backgame

This plan is where you have two or more pieces in your competitor’s home board. (An anchor is a point occupied by at least 2 of your checkers.) It should be used when you are significantly behind as it much improves your circumstances. The best areas for anchor spots are close to your opponent’s lower points and either on adjoining points or with one point in between. Timing is essential for a powerful backgame: besides, there’s no point having two nice anchors and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then required to dismantle this right away, while your opposer is moving their checkers home, considering that you do not have other extra pieces to move! In this situation, it is more tolerable to have checkers on the bar so that you can preserve your position up until your competitor provides you an opportunity to hit, so it may be a good idea to attempt and get your opponent to get them in this situation!