THE PLAYBOOK · MU6006
Understand the basics of Backgammon
Read the aim of Backgammon, then make your first move. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the example below to understand a decision. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
A focus for your next round
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Refer to the controls when needed.
What you need to achieve
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.
Start here and follow along
- 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.
Choosing and moving on screen
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. 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. Look for the relevant detail.
A mistake to avoid
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
When I return, what is the goal of Backgammon?
For clarity: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Backgammon?
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
While reading the Guide, what format does Backgammon offer?
Keep this in mind: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
While learning, 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.