THE PLAYBOOK · QINSMAN
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. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Use the example below to understand a decision.
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. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Start with a deliberate move.
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. Look at the feedback after the action.
A useful example
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Compare the situation with the worked example. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Common questions
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Backgammon?
For clarity: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Backgammon?
For clarity: When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
Before I begin, what format does Backgammon offer?
Keep this in mind: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
For this browser game, 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.
