Backgammon Strategies And Tactics Articles | Gambling

By: Richard Bleuze

Once you have learned how to play backgammon, there are some strategies and tactics you will want to roll into your game.  We’re going to tell you about some of the basic ones to learn first because unless you master these, the more advanced ones will not help you.  Remember that this game is challenging.  Many new players make the mistake of always protecting their checkers and attacking their opponent’s single one.  The more you play, the more you will realize that this is not the best strategy when playing.  Here are some tactics to try to improve your game.

Distribution

The more evenly divided your checkers are across the triangles you occupy, the better off you will be.  You will have more chances to move your checkers this way.  It is best to avoid having six or more checkers on a triangle.  Two to three checkers on each is the better way to distribute them for optimal moves.

Exposure

If you have to leave a single checker on a triangle, it’s better to do it during the beginning stages of the game than the end.  This can actually help you build a better offense and defense and it will also be easier to reenter the game after being hit.  Also, the more triangles you own in your opponent’s territory, the braver you can be in your own moves.  Try to never have more that four single checkers on the board at a time and if you are in the lead, make that number even lower.

Blocking and Priming

It is important to make sure there are no gaps in your triangles when you get to your home board.  This is called blocking and it makes it harder for your opponent to reenter the game from the bar.  Priming is when you have six checkers on one triangle.  Start your blockade tactic as soon as possible and maintain it as long as you can to make the game more difficult for your opponent.

Hitting

Hit your opponent’s checkers that are the most advanced on the board or in places that would help them keep you from advancing.  Also, only hit when it is advantageous.  If they have two to three checkers already on the bar, build up your checkers and fortify your game instead of hitting a third checker of theirs.  And never hit if it makes you checker vulnerable.

Anchoring

When you have established a defensive position in enemy territory with two or more checkers, this is called anchoring.  It gives you an entry point back into the game when you are coming off the bar and makes it hard for your opponent to get onto his or her home board.

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