Game guide · BDPSFJS
Backgammon: a guide for your next round
Backgammon gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the example below to understand a decision. Check the rule that explains your first action. Use the example below to understand a decision.
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.
The goal to keep in mind
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
How a round unfolds
- 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.
Controls
Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
Put the rules into context
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. Look for the relevant detail.
Check this before moving on
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Compare the situation with the worked example. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
More answers before you play
As a new player, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
Before I begin, how do I control Backgammon?
The key detail is this: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
When I return, what example helps explain Backgammon?
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
What should I watch out for in Backgammon?
For clarity: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
What format does Backgammon offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
While learning, which play mode does Backgammon use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
On this playing page, where should I start with Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.
For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
Before I begin, how can I find Backgammon again?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
For my first round, how do I report an issue with Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.
