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RJCWPX

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Backgammon

Play Backgammon ↗

Game guide · RJCWPX

Backgammon: learn through an example

Try Backgammon at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Check the rule that explains your first action. Look at what changes after your first action.

Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.

Give this approach a try

Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Notice the feedback after each input.

What you need to achieve

Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Notice how the game responds to your input.

A walkthrough of the rules

  1. Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.
  2. Enter barred pieces first.
  3. Points with at least two enemies are blocked; a lone enemy is hit.
  4. Bear off only after all pieces reach home.

How your actions work

Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. Use the control method described here for this activity. Use one clear input at a time.

An example before you play

When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Notice the change in the playing area.

Where a round can go wrong

An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Compare the situation with the worked example. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.

Clarifying the way this game works

For this browser game, what is the goal of Backgammon?

Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.

When I return, how do I control Backgammon?

For clarity: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.

Before I begin, 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.

What should I watch out for in Backgammon?

An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.

What format does Backgammon offer?

Here is the relevant explanation: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.

Which play mode does Backgammon use?

For clarity: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

While learning, where should I start with Backgammon?

Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.

While reading the Guide, do I need an account or a payment for Backgammon?

No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

While learning, how can I find Backgammon again?

Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

When I return, how do I report an issue with Backgammon?

Keep this in mind: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.

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