The need for a Sound Backgammon Strategy

admin · Site Admin Joined: 15 May 2007 Posts: 862

The ease with which players of all ages learn how to play backgammon, and the random element in the game provided by the use of the dice, may give some people the impression that backgammon strategy is not a matter that requires much thought. However, for players who have aspirations to winning their games, investment in backgammon strategy is not an added extra but an essential aspect of the play.

It is not surprising for a game with such a long history, that backgammon strategy is a subject that can be divided up into various approaches, or tactical styles. A couple of examples will illustrate. Some backgammon tactic specialists emphasize the value of building primes. A prime is a series of counters occupying a row of points with at least two counters placed on each point. The prime effectively blocks the opposing player’s counters behind it and, unless they are very fortunate in their dice throwing, it is very difficult for them to free their trapped counters.

Other backgammon strategy wizards may place a greater stress on hitting the opponent’s blots, or single exposed checkers. By sending opposing checkers to the bar, you put the other player to the trouble of having to get the necessary dice throws to bring these checkers back into play. The hitting tactic is also viewed as a way of keeping control of the momentum of the game by making sure the opposition is continually having to respond to your moves, and hence without time to devote to their own strategies.