Can someone clarify a rule for me?

Jennifer · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 17

I want to know what to do if I get in this position in a backgammon game:

I roll a 5-4 during a match.
If I play the 4 first, the 5 is not available.
If I play the 5 first, the 4 is not available.

According to the rules of backgammon, which move must I use? Does it matter? I’ve asked a few people and I heard from one person that it doesn’t matter, one that you need to move the higher number and a couple of people had no idea. Please help!

Deuce · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 38

If you can play only one number on a roll, and you have an option to choose, you must play the larger number. This rule doesn’t come in to play very often, so a lot of people don’t know it. It’s good that you asked!