THE PLAYBOOK · 78JMW
How to play Backgammon
Take a moment with Backgammon before moving to another game. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the example below to understand a decision. Read the objective before making your first input. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Review a difficult moment
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. 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. 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. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Notice the change in the playing area.
Watch out for this
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Common questions
For a quick reminder, 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?
Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
Before I begin, 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.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
For clarity: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
What format does Backgammon offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Which play mode does Backgammon use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
