Backgammon – 3 Basic Schemes
Posted in Backgammon on 04/12/2024 11:25 am by Jillian
In very simple terms, there are 3 chief plans used. You want to be agile enough to switch tactics instantly as the action of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This consists of building a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at least as thick as you can manage, to block in the competitor’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is deemed to be the most acceptable course of action at the begining of the game. You can build the wall anywhere inbetween your 11-point and your 2-point and then move it into your home board as the game continues.
The Blitz
This is comprised of locking your home board as quick as possible while keeping your opponent on the bar. For example, if your opposer tosses an early 2 and shifts one checker from your 1-point to your three-point and you then roll a 5-5, you will be able to play 6/1 6/1 8/3 eight/three. Your opposer is then in serious dire straits since they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have closed half your inside board!
The Backgame
This tactic is where you have two or higher checkers in your opponent’s home board. (An anchor is a point consisting of at least 2 of your pieces.) It should be employed when you are decidedly behind as it greatly improves your opportunities. The better locations for anchor spots are near your opponent’s lower points and either on adjoining points or with a single point in between. Timing is essential for an effectual backgame: besides, there is no point having 2 nice anchors and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then forced to break up this straight away, while your opponent is getting their checkers home, seeing that you do not have any other additional pieces to move! In this situation, it’s better to have checkers on the bar so that you are able to preserve your position up until your challenger gives you a chance to hit, so it can be an excellent idea to attempt and get your opponent to hit them in this case!