THE PLAYBOOK · XZJSCM
How to play Backgammon
Start Backgammon by looking at the playing area and its controls. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Read before acting
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
A useful example
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. Choose a deliberate next step.
Watch out for this
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Common questions
For this browser game, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
As a new player, how do I control Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
When I return, 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?
The key detail is this: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
While reading the Guide, which play mode does Backgammon use?
The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
