THE PLAYBOOK · ZXZXMR
How to play Backgammon
Try Backgammon at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Keep the aim in sight
Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Read that aim before choosing your first action. 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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
A useful example
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Read the matching step again.
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
While learning, what is the goal of Backgammon?
For clarity: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
For my first round, how do I control Backgammon?
For clarity: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
When I return, what example helps explain Backgammon?
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
For clarity: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
What format does Backgammon offer?
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
While reading the Guide, 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.