Some believe that backgammon relies more on luck; others believe that skill matters more. In reality, luck and skill in this game cannot be separated; the player doesn't know whether one will be more useful on a particular turn.
The Wrong Question
Calculating the exact percentage of the role of luck and skill in this game is meaningless, just like attempting to say whether the taste of a dish depends more on the ingredients used or the skills of the cook. Both factors play their role and vary depending on the specifics of the case.
There is no doubt that skill is needed for success in the game. Experienced backgammon players know probability intuitively. They calculate several moves ahead and set traps; they punish their opponents for their mistakes. Skillful players know when it is better to be aggressive and when it is safer to take the game slowly. They can immediately notice opportunities and possible dangers that a novice might overlook.
At the same time, luck is inevitable. The game becomes exciting due to this element. One mistake made by the dice can ruin the game strategy of even the best backgammon player. It can save a player who should have lost a game from defeat. Without the luck factor, the game would become boring.
More Than Just Numbers
Skill and luck can be disregarded for a moment, though. What makes the game exciting is the very complexity.
A player faces decision-making situations during each turn. Risk and reward must be weighed, the moves must be calculated, the player's strategy and position must be considered. The player should analyze his or her opponents' actions and plans, and at the same time try to conceal his or her own.
These decisions can be split into three layers. First of all, tactics are involved – moves to make, where to put pieces, when to hit or leave a blot. There are strategic decisions too – the construction of a prime, the transition to the back game, or the choice between racing and fighting. There is also the psychological aspect – the ability to bluff or intimidate, the ability to calculate the timing of the moves.
Comparison With Other Games
Every game has its peculiar features. For example, chess requires a lot of calculation and the understanding of patterns. The player is analyzing the situation on the board and trying to guess the opponent's moves several turns ahead.
Poker is a game of reading people. Here a player tries to bluff and calculate the probabilities of success, taking into account the opponent's behavior and the knowledge about his or her playing style.
Scrabble is a word game requiring language skills and the ability to think spatially, creating words and placing them on the board.
What Makes It Unique
The main things that I find special about backgammon are:
- Accessibility. Even a total beginner can easily compete with players with years of experience, because the dice will give him or her a chance. Such accessibility is not typical for chess.
- Sociability. This game allows you to communicate with a fellow player, read facial expressions, share your successes and failures. A memorable backgammon match becomes a memory to keep forever.
- Complexity. Backgammon unites elements of chess (calculations), poker (reading), and scrabble (creativity under constraints). Besides, there is always an unpredictable element – the result of the dice throw.