Backgammon – 3 Main Techniques

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In exceptionally simple terms, there are three general tactics used. You need to be able to switch tactics instantly as the action of the game unfolds.

The Blockade

This is composed of building a 6-deep wall of checkers, or at least as deep as you might achieve, to block in your opponent’s pieces that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most acceptable procedure at the start of the match. You can assemble the wall anywhere within your eleven-point and your 2-point and then move it into your home board as the game advances.

The Blitz

This is comprised of locking your home board as fast as as you can while keeping your challenger on the bar. For example, if your challenger rolls an early two and moves one checker from your one-point to your 3-point and you then roll a 5-5, you will be able to play six/one six/one 8/3 8/3. Your challenger is now in serious difficulty seeing that they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have closed half your home board!

The Backgame

This course of action is where you have two or more checkers in your competitor’s home board. (An anchor spot is a position occupied by at a minimum 2 of your pieces.) It should be used when you are decidedly behind as it much improves your circumstances. The strongest locations for anchor spots are towards your opponent’s lower points and also on adjacent points or with a single point in between. Timing is crucial for an effectual backgame: after all, there is no reason having 2 nice anchors and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then forced to break apart this right away, while your opposer is getting their pieces home, because you do not have any other extra checkers to shift! In this situation, it’s more favorable to have pieces on the bar so that you might maintain your position up till your opposer gives you an opportunity to hit, so it can be a wonderful idea to attempt and get your opponent to get them in this case!