Backgammon For Dummies

Roll your way into backgammon

Backgammon has been bringing people together for roughly 5,000 years—and it’s still picking up new fans every day. This practical and informative guide walks you through the rules, helps you set up the board, and builds the skills you need to play a winning game. You’ll get the hang of key strategies, learn to recognize patterns, and discover the ins and outs of the opening, middlegame, and endgame. Whether you’re brand new or brushing up, jumping in has never been easier.

Inside…

• Learn the crucial concepts behind doubling
• Bear off checkers as quickly as possible
• Explore the multiplayer game called chouette
• Understand when to play safe and when to be bold
• Dip your toes into the world of tournament play
• Recognize stable and volatile positions

Learn to play backgammon and have a blast doing it

Backgammon is one of the world's oldest board games, with roots stretching back roughly 5,000 years — and it's still attracting new players every day. Backgammon For Dummies gives you what you need to know to set up the board and start playing with confidence. Written by Chris Bray, a tournament player and backgammon columnist with more than 30 years of experience, this friendly guide walks you through gameplay from your very first roll.

Get the hang of essential rules, explore strategies for winning play, and discover how to take your game online using digital platforms and training tools like Extreme Gammon. You'll also find tips on locating backgammon clubs, connecting with fellow players, and entering tournament play. Whether you're rolling dice at the kitchen table or competing across the globe, this guide has you covered.

Inside this book:

• Discover the basic rules, board setup, and movement strategies you need to play your very first game
• Explore online backgammon platforms and digital resources to practice and sharpen your skills from anywhere
• Find backgammon clubs near you and connect with a thriving community of players around the world
• Try out modern tactics including updated opening roll replies that reflect how the game is played today
• Build your tournament confidence with practical guidance on finding, entering, and competing in organized events

Whether you're a complete beginner picking up the dice for the first time or a casual player looking to sharpen your strategy, this Dummies guide makes backgammon fun and accessible. Time to roll.