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CQXINXING

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Backgammon

Play Backgammon ↗

Game guide · CQXINXING

Backgammon: how a round works

Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Backgammon. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Look at what changes after your first action. 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.

A small practice goal

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Use the example to check your reasoning.

Aim for this result

Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Start with a deliberate move.

Work through the instructions

  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.

Getting comfortable with the controls

Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.

Work through an 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. Keep the game’s format in mind.

A useful caution

An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Check the rule before repeating the action. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

Read these answers for extra help

While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Backgammon?

Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.

While reading the Guide, how do I control Backgammon?

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

While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Backgammon?

Keep this in mind: When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.

On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?

Here is the relevant explanation: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.

While learning, what format does Backgammon offer?

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

For my first round, which play mode does Backgammon use?

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

For my first round, where should I start with Backgammon?

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

Before I begin, do I need an account or a payment for Backgammon?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

Before I begin, how can I find Backgammon again?

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

For a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Backgammon?

The key detail is this: 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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