THE PLAYBOOK · SUDAANMO
Backgammon: what to know before playing
Take a moment with Backgammon before moving to another game. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the example below to understand a decision. Check the rule that explains your first action. Look at what changes after your first action.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Practice beyond the first move
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Start with a deliberate move.
Work through the instructions
- Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.
- Enter barred pieces first.
- Points with at least two enemies are blocked; a lone enemy is hit.
- Bear off only after all pieces reach home.
Using the playing area
Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
See how the rules apply
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Choose a deliberate next step.
Avoid this misunderstanding
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Check the rule before repeating the action. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
A few questions answered
For my first round, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
For my first round, how do I control Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Backgammon?
For clarity: When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
For my first round, what format does Backgammon offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Before I begin, which play mode does Backgammon use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
