Backgammon All About Backgammon

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In exceptionally simple terms, there are three chief tactics used. You need to be agile enough to switch tactics instantly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This is comprised of assembling a 6-thick wall of checkers, or at a minimum as deep as you might achieve, to lock in the competitor's checkers that are on your 1-point. This is judged to be the most acceptable course of action at the start of the match. You can build the wall anywhere between your 11-point and your 2-point and then move it into your home board as the game advances.

The Blitz

This consists of locking your home board as fast as possible while keeping your competitor on the bar. i.e., if your competitor tosses an early 2 and shifts one checker from your one-point to your 3-point and you then toss a five-five, you will be able to play 6/1 6/1 eight/three eight/three. Your competitor is then in big-time dire straits since they have two checkers on the bar and you have locked half your home board!

The Backgame

This strategy is where you have two or more checkers in your competitor's inner board. (An anchor spot is a point consisting of at least 2 of your checkers.) It must be employed when you are extremely behind as it greatly improves your circumstances. The strongest locations for anchor spots are towards your opponent's smaller points and also on adjacent points or with one point separating them. Timing is essential for a powerful backgame: at the end of the day, there is no reason having 2 nice anchor spots and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then required to break apart this right away, while your opposer is shifting their pieces home, taking into account that you do not have any other extra pieces to move! In this situation, it is more tolerable to have checkers on the bar so that you can preserve your position up till your opponent gives you an opportunity to hit, so it may be a great idea to attempt and get your competitor to get them in this situation!