Backgammon to Lose

Wipeout · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 19

I have recently been introduced to a variation of backgammon that is absolutely the complete opposite of what I’m used to! Its called “backgammon to lose” and the object of the game is to have the other player bear off all of his checkers before you. I haven’t played yet, just heard about it and I wondered if anyone knew anything about the game. Does the game ever end and can anyone share any strategy advice?

Maddox · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 25

I have, in fact, played this game and I think I like it as much as regular backgammon (if not more!!). I think there are two variations and in one you play your opponent’s first moves of the game and in the other you play all of your turns for yourself. In the variation where you play your opponent’s first moves, you obviously want to aim to get as many of your opponent’s checkers as close to his home board as possible and out of your own.

Also, the game will eventually end, as you can’t move backwards in the game of backgammon. At some point your dice rolls will force you into your home board and off the board. However, two players can certainly prolong this game for a looooong while. If you don’t want the game forever, you can break contact when you see that the game is in your favor. If you are way behind in the pip count, you can forge ahead in the straight race with the knowledge that you will take more time.