Basic Backgammon Strategy

When there is only one checker on a point (a blot), it might be hit by the opponent and end up on the bar. However, when there are two or more checkers on a point, they cannot be hit. Moreover, they sometimes block the opponent and prevent him from progressing in the game.

In backgammon, the first player to bear off his checkers is the winner. It seems that the best strategy is to try to hit as much as possible, and on the other hand, to ensure that your own men are not alone on a point, so that you will not be hit. However, this strategy, used by most beginners, proves to be wrong. Here are some considerations you should take into account when attempting to establish a winning strategy.

Distribution

Distribution is the division of a player's checkers among his owned points. A good strategy is to divide the checkers as evenly as possible among one's owned points. A player who does so will have a much better chance of winning.

Exposure

If you wish to create a strong line of attack or defense, you should leave shots in the early stages of the game. However, watch your steps as your enemy's home board is strengthened, because you will have a much harder time re-entering from the bar if most of the points are owned by the opponent.

On the other hand, you can take more risks if you control many of the points in your opponent's home board (anchors). You should try to have no more than four blots, despite the fact that his board is weak. The leader of the game should try to keep his winning status by limiting his exposure to the opponent's hits.

Blocking and Priming

A prime is formed when there are six points in a row. This structure is formed in order to trap the opponent, and it is advisable to create it in the early stages of the game, so as to have a significant advantage over the opponent.

Hitting

When hitting a checker, you should consider if it will benefit you in any way. Checkers which are a good hit are those that are closest to the opponent's home board or those that may become a significant owned point for the opponent once they are covered.

Make reasonable decisions. For instance, sometimes making another point in your home board may be more important than hitting your opponent. Moreover, avoid hitting your opponent when it may weaken you. Try to see clearly and look one step ahead. However, if you are not sure of your next move, hitting can (almost) never hurt.

Anchoring

Some players set up a protective point (anchor) in the opponent's home board. This is called anchoring. Anchoring provides you with a place to land if you get hit. It also holds your opponent back from his home board. In the first part of the game, try to create anchors on the higher points (20,21). If you are losing the game, the lower points (22,23,24) are more worthy, since building your home board and waiting for a shot should be your basic concern. It is best to have your anchors on adjoining points.

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