Backgammon – Three Basic Plans
Posted in Backgammon on 03/19/2022 03:25 am by Jillian
In very simple terms, there are 3 general tactics used. You want to be able to switch game plans instantly as the course of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This involves creating a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at least as thick as you might achieve, to barricade in your opponent’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most acceptable strategy at the start of the match. You can assemble the wall anyplace inbetween your eleven-point and your 2-point and then move it into your home board as the match advances.
The Blitz
This involves locking your home board as fast as possible while keeping your challenger on the bar. e.g., if your opponent tosses an early two and shifts one piece from your 1-point to your 3-point and you then roll a five-five, you are able to play six/one six/one 8/3 eight/three. Your challenger is now in serious dire straits due to the fact that they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have closed half your home board!
The Backgame
This tactic is where you have 2 or more checkers in your competitor’s home board. (An anchor spot is a position consisting of at a minimum two of your pieces.) It would be employed when you are significantly behind as it greatly improves your chances. The better places for anchor spots are near your competitor’s smaller points and also on abutting points or with one point separating them. Timing is essential for a competent backgame: after all, there’s no point having 2 nice anchors and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then forced to break up this right away, while your competitor is shifting their pieces home, because you do not have other spare checkers to move! In this situation, it is more favorable to have checkers on the bar so that you might maintain your position up until your opponent provides you an opportunity to hit, so it will be an excellent idea to try and get your competitor to get them in this situation!