THE PLAYBOOK · DJCFW
Backgammon: what to know before playing
Backgammon gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
One thing to notice as you play
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Make the next step deliberately.
The objective of a round
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.
The order of play
- 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.
How to interact with the game
Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
One way to understand the rules
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Take a moment to compare.
An important reminder
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.
Helpful answers for players
When I return, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
While learning, how do I control Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
For this browser game, what example helps explain Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
Before I begin, what format does Backgammon offer?
Keep this in mind: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
For my first round, which play mode does Backgammon use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
