When we choose a board game, in order to tell to spend time with family or with company, the choice is huge. But there is one that has been among the most popular games all over the world for more than several thousand years. We are talking about backgammon. Yes, yes, those very backgammon, with a wooden board and black and white checkers. This game has captivated the hearts of millions of people around the globe.
It is not difficult to learn to play it. It seems at first glance that it looks like a puzzle. No, you will learn to play, but to win — not a fact. Why not? It's simple — tactics! Without knowing the “chips” of this game, its nuances, you won't win. That's why we are here and have prepared this small review for you.

1. Getting to know the game

1.1 Types of backgammon

Let's start with the fact that backgammon comes in two types: short and long. The first variant is often called “backgammon”. It is more popular. In this type of backgammon, players move their chips clockwise, trying to be the first to remove them from the board. In the second type of game, the chips move in only one direction without the possibility of hitting the opponent. It is more relaxed and aimed at developing strategic thinking. Both options are interesting, so it's worth learning the rules and skills of both short and long backgammon. This way, you won't limit yourself and will be able to choose the option you like the most or play both in turn.

1.2 The main goal of the game

This game is played by two people. The main goal is to get all your chips off the board before your opponent does. This is what you need to do to win backgammon. Of course, this is not done thoughtlessly. How to play backgammon correctly? You need to calculate your moves, think ahead, try to guess what will fall on the dice, and predict the outcome.

2. Game set and arrangement of pieces

Backgammon is played on a special board divided into 24 narrow triangles called points. You can’t do without it. You will also need 15 chips for each player and two dice, which are also often called «zars». Please note that the start differs depending on the type of game. In short backgammon, the chips are arranged according to a certain pattern, while in long backgammon, they are all initially on the same point. When learning the rules, you need to take this into account and remember.

3. Basic rules of the game

• Each player takes turns rolling two dice. Depending on what comes up, you need to move your chips to the appropriate number of points.
• You can only place a chip on a free spot or one where you already have your own chips, but there are nuances because the rules of short backgammon differ from long backgammon. If there is an opponent’s chip there, then the possible actions depend on what type of game you play.
• In short backgammon, you can hit your opponent’s pieces if they are standing alone on the board (block). Killed chips are returned to the beginning and must enter the game from the beginning.
• If we talk about the rules of long backgammon, you can’t hit the chips, and the move is made only forward.
• A player can withdraw chips only after all of them are in the home zone, which is also often called the «house». The «home» is located in the upper left corner relative to the player.

4. Strategy for beginners

It is quite normal that everyone wants to learn how to play in such a way that they can win all the time. Is it possible? How to win at backgammon all the time? Of course, you won’t be able to win 100% of the games, because the outcome depends not only on the player’s skills and experience but also on such an element as luck. If at some point your luck turns away from you, your chances of winning will be much less, but even so, they will be there.
Do you want to learn how to play really well? Then we suggest you consider such a format as backgammon for beginners and give you some useful tips that will help you master the game faster and play better.

• Control the board. Try to occupy important points and create blockades for your opponent.
• Play from the defense. Avoid situations where your piece is left alone on the board, as it can be knocked down.
• Optimal use of moves. Calculate possible combinations of moves and think a few steps ahead.
• Flexibility. Adapt your strategy to the situation on the board.
• Build bridges. Create sequences of two or more pieces to block your opponent.
• Avoid unnecessary risks. Backgammon is a balance between attack and defense.

5. Common mistakes made by beginners and how to avoid them

There are a number of typical mistakes that almost every player makes. By the way, this applies not only to backgammon but to any game. Of course, it’s better to know about them in advance so that you can learn to play like a professional and avoid making common mistakes. So what are we talking about? Here’s a list:

• Leaving chips uncovered — this gives your opponent the opportunity to knock them down and force you to start all over again.
• Underestimating the importance of blocking the enemy’s moves.
• Focusing on only one goal — the quick withdrawal of chips. This is not quite right, because without a well-thought-out strategy, it will lead to defeat.
• Incorrect use of a double (when the same numbers fall on the dice) — it is important to use this chance as efficiently as possible.
• Haste in decision-making.

Backgammon is a fascinating game that is fun to play if you master its rules well. It is quite easy to learn them, and it does not take much time. However, this is not enough to achieve success. It is important to be able to predict moves and develop a strategy. It is also useful to know about the typical mistakes of beginners in order to avoid them. This will significantly improve the result. However, you shouldn’t stop at the theory. It is important to consolidate knowledge through practice. Regular training will help you improve your skills faster and start defeating even experienced opponents.