THE PLAYBOOK · 556856
Find your footing in Backgammon
Backgammon gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the example below to understand a decision. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
One thing to notice as you play
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Make the next step deliberately.
What counts as success
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
The steps to play
- Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.
- Enter barred pieces first.
- Points with at least two enemies are blocked; a lone enemy is hit.
- Bear off only after all pieces reach home.
Getting comfortable with the controls
Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.
A useful example
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Check the stated objective.
Notice this detail
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
More answers before you play
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Backgammon?
For clarity: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
How do I control Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Backgammon?
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
The key detail is this: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
When I return, what format does Backgammon offer?
For clarity: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
For my first round, which play mode does Backgammon use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.