THE PLAYBOOK · SXSRCB
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. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Review a difficult moment
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Take a moment to understand the current position.
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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
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. Look for the relevant detail.
Watch out for this
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
Common questions
As a new player, what is the goal of Backgammon?
For clarity: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
For a quick reminder, 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 a quick reminder, 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.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
While reading the Guide, 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?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.