Learning Backgammon from scratch

Ellen · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 19

I am a complete beginner to the game of backgammon. I know absolutely nothing about it—in fact, I only just saw a backgammon board for the first time a couple of months ago. Actually, my girlfriend’s father is really into backgammon and he is throwing a backgammon get-together/party in about a month and my girlfriend and I are going. I don’t need to impress him with my amazing backgammon skills or anything, but I’d at least like to know how to play the game. I have one month to learn. Can anyone point me in the right direction?

Blunder · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 7

Well this is a sweet reason to want to learn backgammon. I would recommend that you learn from a program called GNU backgammon. GNU is a free program that teaches you how to play backgammon through actual play. In addition, it analyzes your game and gives you pointers for improvement. In my opinion this is the best way to learn. You can read all you want about how to play, but nothing beats actually sitting down in front of a board and practicing. You can find more information about gnu and download the software at http://www.gnubg.org/

Good luck with learning the game and better luck impressing your girlfriend’s father!

Liss · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 30

I agree that gnu is your best bet if you want to learn the game and gain experience quickly.

There are also a number of websites that will give you rules, playing tips and strategies. A good one for beginners is http://www.redtopbg.com/

You can also choose from a number of books on the subject, although one month doesn’t give you quite enough time to take the full advantage from them. Here are two of the most popular and helpful books:

“Backgammon” by Paul Magriel
“Backgammon Boot Camp” by Walter Trice