THE PLAYBOOK · AHETV
How to play Backgammon
Read the aim of Backgammon, then make your first move. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Look at what changes after your first action. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Look at what changes after your first action.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Focus on one rule
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. The example below illustrates a decision.
Step by step
- 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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
A useful example
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Keep the game’s format in mind.
Watch out for this
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Check the rule before repeating the action. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
Common questions
For my first round, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
When I return, 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.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Backgammon?
For clarity: When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
What format does Backgammon offer?
For clarity: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
For this browser game, which play mode does Backgammon use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.