THE PLAYBOOK · HBZQCZZ
How to play Backgammon
Choose a round of Backgammon and settle into its rules. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the example below to understand a decision. Check the rule that explains your first action. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Try a deliberate move
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.
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. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
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
While learning, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
When I return, how do I control Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
While learning, 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?
The key detail is this: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
Before I begin, what format does Backgammon offer?
For clarity: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Which play mode does Backgammon use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.