Welcome to our Backgammon Rules Q&A, where we've gathered answers to common questions about setting up the board and understanding the game's rules.
What are those game pieces called?
In Backgammon, those little playing pieces are commonly known as checkers. They go by different names like stones, men, counters, discs, or chips too. Each player begins with 15 checkers set up in a specific arrangement. The aim is to move all your checkers off the board before your opponent does the same.
What's the deal with backgammon pips?
Pips are simply the points you need to move your checkers to before bearing them off the board. At the game's start, both players have a total of 167 pips. This comes from 48 pips for 2 checkers on the 24-point, 65 pips for 5 checkers on the 13-point, 24 pips for 3 checkers on the 8-point, and 30 pips for 5 checkers on the 6-point. The pip count changes as you move around, and it can go up if your checkers get hit.
Can I play backgammon alone?
Backgammon is a game for two! While you can't play by yourself, there are options. You can face off against a computer opponent, or play on platforms like Nextgammon: Online Backgammon Platform to engage in online matches with opponents from all over the world.
Can backgammon pieces move backward?
In standard backgammon, checkers can only move forward, towards your home board. Each player moves their checkers in their own direction – one clockwise and the other counterclockwise.
How do I set up backgammon?
Setting up backgammon is easy. Check out the diagram below for the standard arrangement. You each start with 15 checkers: 2 on your 24-point, 5 each on your 13-point and 6-point, and 3 on your 8-point. As you play, you'll move your checkers toward your 1-point. Don't forget the dice, dice cup, and doubling cube you'll share.
Can backgammon end in a tie?
Backgammon doesn't have ties or draws. One player wins by being the first to bear off all their 15 checkers. So there's always a winner!
How many pieces can be on a point?
You're allowed to stack up to 15 checkers on a point, as per official tournament rules. But keep in mind that placing too many checkers on one point might limit your options. Old English backgammon, a variant, limits it to 5 checkers on a point.
Tell me about the Crawford rule?
The Crawford rule is a neat twist. If a player is one point away from winning a match, their opponent can't offer a double in the next game. This is the Crawford game. After that game, if the match isn't decided, doubling comes back into play. It evens the playing field and makes the game more interesting!
When should I double?
You can double before rolling the dice if you're feeling confident. The value of the game doubles if your opponent accepts, but they can drop and lose one point. Subsequent doubles multiply the value – 2, 4, 8, and so on.
When should I accept a double?
If your opponent offers a double and you're not too far behind, it might be smart to accept. Even if you're behind, accepting could be better than dropping, especially if you think you have a chance of winning.
When should I slot?
Slotting is a cool strategy. It's when you move one checker to cover a point, with plans to build a block next time. Use it for both attack and defense – it can really shake things up!
Where did backgammon come from?
Backgammon history begins about 5000 years ago in Mesopotamia (today’s Iran, Iraq and Syria) with a game called the Royal Game of Ur. Archeological digs in the Iranian city Shahr-e Sokhteh (Burnt City in Persian) brought a board, two sets of checkers and couple of dice. Echoes to backgammon game mechanics are also found in the ancient Egypt game Senate.
How did backgammon get its name?
"Backgammon" probably comes from Middle English "gamen," meaning "game," and "back," maybe referring to moving checkers "back" when they're hit.
Which direction does backgammon checkers go?
Checkers always move forward, to a lower-numbered point. Remember, one player goes clockwise, the other counterclockwise.
Is backgammon older than chess?
Yes, indeed! Backgammon has been around for about 5,000 years, while chess emerged in Europe around the 15th century.
Who goes first in backgammon?
Roll a die to determine who moves first. The player with the higher roll starts with those numbers – no second roll needed.
Why choose backgammon over chess?
Backgammon is easy to learn, super tactical, and has an exciting mix of strategy and luck. It's a blast, and even beginners have a shot at winning.
Why play backgammon?
Because it's a ton of fun! People love backgammon for its addictive nature, strategic depth, and cognitive challenges. Plus, it's a great way to have a good time and boost your thinking skills.
Is backgammon all luck?
Luck does play a part, thanks to the dice, but skill matters too. Skilled players will consistently perform better over time. Don't forget, mistakes can happen, even for the best.
Can you play without the doubling cube?
Absolutely! Backgammon existed for ages without the doubling cube. It adds a fun twist, but the game is still a blast without it.
How can I play like a pro?
Mastering backgammon takes practice, but here are some key skills: learn opening moves and replies, grasp basic strategies and tactics, understand probability, get comfortable with pip counting, and know when and why to use the doubling cube.
Is backgammon a gambling game?
Backgammon can be played just for fun or with wagers. It's often associated with gambling, but you can enjoy the game without betting money. When money is involved, players assign values to points and play to a score.
Is backgammon good for beginners?
Absolutely! Backgammon is exciting and easy to learn. Within an hour or two, you can grasp the basics and even win your first game. But don't be fooled – mastering the game takes practice and dedication, offering a lifetime of enjoyment.
Enjoy your backgammon journey!