Backgammon – 3 Basic Strategies

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Posted by Nadia | Posted in Backgammon | Posted on 08-01-2016

[ English ]

In exceptionally simple terms, there are 3 fundamental tactics used. You want to be able to switch techniques instantly as the action of the game unfolds.

The Blockade

This consists of assembling a 6-deep wall of checkers, or at least as thick as you can achieve, to barricade in the competitor’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most suitable procedure at the start of the match. You can assemble the wall anyplace between your eleven-point and your two-point and then shuffle it into your home board as the game advances.

The Blitz

This involves locking your home board as quickly as possible while keeping your opponent on the bar. For example, if your opponent rolls an early two and shifts one checker from your one-point to your three-point and you then roll a 5-5, you are able to play six/one 6/1 8/3 eight/three. Your challenger is now in serious dire straits because they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have closed half your home board!

The Backgame

This tactic is where you have two or more checkers in your opponent’s home board. (An anchor spot is a position occupied by at least two of your checkers.) It must be played when you are extremely behind as it greatly improves your opportunities. The better places for anchors are near your competitor’s smaller points and also on abutting points or with a single point in between. Timing is important for a powerful backgame: at the end of the day, there is no reason having two nice anchors and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then forced to dismantle this right away, while your opponent is getting their pieces home, taking into account that you don’t have any other extra pieces to move! In this situation, it is more favorable to have pieces on the bar so that you are able to maintain your position up until your challenger gives you a chance to hit, so it can be a good idea to attempt and get your opposer to get them in this situation!

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