THE PLAYBOOK · HTSIFA
How to play Backgammon
Open Backgammon, check the instructions and begin a round. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Look at what changes after your first action. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
A careful first round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
A useful example
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the controls nearby.
Watch out for this
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Common questions
On this playing page, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
For my first round, what example helps explain Backgammon?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
For clarity: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
For my first round, what format does Backgammon offer?
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
As a new player, 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.
