Backgammon Newbie

LippedCup · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 9

I have recently started trying to learn how to play backgammon but there are so many different terms, jargon and strategy that I have no idea where to start. I don’t want to quit playing, but I feel like I can’t continue without someone sending me in the right direction. Would anyone be willing to play against me online and explain the game as we go along?

Fiona · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 16

Hi there newbie… I think you’ll have a lot of trouble finding someone to play against you online and explain the game as you go, at least trouble finding someone to do this for free, as this is a tutoring service that a lot of people charge for.

There are, however, a few backgammon tutoring software programs that you can download for free and play against the computer. These programs will give you tips on how to improve your game, tell you what the best move is in a given situation and more. These programs include Gnubg, Snowie and Jellyfish.

As far as jargon goes, there are a number of backgammon glossaries on the web. You can find them by googling “backgammon glossary” and if you come across a term that you don’t understand just look it up. Most backgammon glossaries that I have used have really good, straightforward definitions, so it shouldn’t be too difficult.

You can also try reading some books. Paul Magriel’s “Backgammon” and books by Robertie are a good place to start. They will explain the basics to get you on your feet.

In any case, I know it can be frustrating when you start out because of all the new terms and strategies and everything else that goes along with backgammon, but everything will fall into place quickly. Despite how you feel now, backgammon is actually quite a simple game to learn and with a little practice you will feel like a whole new player.

leonardo · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 17

Another good way to learn is by going through annotated matches of good professional backgammon players. These matches explain each move and the reasoning behind it. You can find a lot of annotated matches online.

There are also a lot of books that show different examples of problems in backgammon and talk about the best solutions for them. Magriel offers problems and solutions in his book “Backgammon” and Robertie even has a whole book of “501 Essential Problems”. I think these are great learning tools.