New to Backgammon

Tommo · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 14

Hi Everyone. I’ve just been playing backgammon for about a month now and really don’t have a clue about what I’m doing, outside of the basic rules. I’ve been learning to play with a friend who also just started, which isn’t very good for either of us when it comes to learning about strategy. Basically we’ve just been racing around the board to see who can get all their checkers to the home board first and trying to hit every blot we can on the way. Somehow, I don’t think this is the best strategy, but I have no idea where to start looking for information. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

Jade · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 27

There is a wealth of information on the internet, but if you aren’t into that there are also tons of books available on backgammon. Paul Magriel’s book “Backgammon” is a great place to start. Also, “Backgammon Boot Camp” by Walter Trice is a great read. You can find both of those books here, along with other great books:

http://www.flintbg.com/boutique.html

Good luck in your quest to learn how to play the greatest game in the world! (in my humble opinion…)

Deuce · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 38

Backgammon IS the greatest game in the world!

If you want to learn, I would suggest GNU backgammon software. It’s great because it plays, analyzes and teaches backgammon. It gives you tips as you play, analyzes your moves and is a great learning tool. You can find more information here: http://www.gnubg.org/

Stack · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 24

GNUBG is a great tool. There are also tons of other websites that can help you improve your game by teaching you about strategy and how to play the game to win. Here are a few you should check out:

http://www.bkgm.com/rgb/rgb.cgi?menu+learning
http://www.gammonlife.com/paulmoney.htm

You can also find downloadable GNUBG software here:

http://www.gammonlife.com/gnu/index.htm