THE PLAYBOOK · CDBRM
How to play Backgammon
Read the aim of Backgammon, then make your first move. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Begin with the local players mode shown on the page. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
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. 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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
A useful example
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Keep the controls nearby.
Watch out for this
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Common questions
For my first round, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
For my first round, 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.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Backgammon?
The key detail is this: When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
The key detail is this: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
For my first round, what format does Backgammon offer?
Keep this in mind: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
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.
