Backgammon – 3 Basic Plans
Sunday, 24. July 2022
In astonishingly simple terms, there are three general tactics used. You must be able to switch techniques quickly as the action of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This consists of creating a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at least as thick as you might manage, to block in your competitor’s pieces that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most acceptable procedure at the begining of the match. You can build the wall anyplace inbetween your eleven-point and your two-point and then shuffle it into your home board as the game advances.
The Blitz
This consists of locking your home board as quick as possible while keeping your challenger on the bar. For example, if your challenger tosses an early two and shifts one piece from your one-point to your three-point and you then roll a 5-5, you will be able to play six/one six/one 8/3 eight/three. Your opponent is now in serious trouble because they have two checkers on the bar and you have closed half your home board!
The Backgame
This course of action is where you have two or higher checkers in your opponent’s inner board. (An anchor is a point consisting of at least 2 of your checkers.) It should be employed when you are extremely behind as this action greatly improves your opportunities. The better locations for anchor spots are close to your opponent’s lower points and also on abutting points or with a single point separating them. Timing is critical for an effective backgame: after all, there is no point having 2 nice anchors and a complete wall in your own inner board if you are then required to break down this right away, while your opponent is moving their pieces home, taking into account that you don’t have any other spare checkers to move! In this situation, it is better to have pieces on the bar so that you are able to maintain your position until your opposer gives you a chance to hit, so it will be a great idea to attempt and get your opponent to get them in this situation!
Posted in Backgammon by Jada