Anchoring: A Defensive Backgammon Play Strategy

admin · Site Admin Joined: 15 May 2007 Posts: 862

Learning different strategies in backgammon is hugely instrumental in setting you on the road to winning the game. There are a variety of different strategies, most of them either adopting an aggressive or defensive method. Experts agree that a successful backgammon game will include an equal balance of defensive backgammon play and aggressive play. One good example of defensive backgammon play is known as anchoring.

A player will build anchors when he or she wants to create a defense to hinder the opponent’s moves. This method of defensive backgammon play is best done within the player's away board. The reason for this is two fold: Firstly it allows the players better control of the backgammon board and, secondly, it gives the players enough place to land back on the board if their checkers are hit in the game. Another reason to use defensive backgammon play is to restrict the opponent from moving freely in his or her home board.

So where exactly should an anchor be placed on the backgammon board? This will depend on the progress of the game and how far the opponents are from the 'finish line'. It is generally thought to be a good a idea to position anchors on the 20th or 21st points to provide safe places for landing when leaving the bar after being hit. If you are at a disadvantage in the game, you should aim for points 22, 23 or 24 as this will allow players to get their bearings, reorganize their strategy and hamper the opponent’s escape route.