How to Play Backgammon

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

I Did This Rate: (68 Ratings)

The object of the game is to be the first to get all your checkers off the board.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Doubling Cubes
4 Dice
Backgammon Checkers
Backgammon Sets
Dice Cups
Backgammon CD-ROMs

Playing the Game

Step1

Set up the backgammon board (see "How to Set Up a Backgammon Board," under Related eHows).

Step2

Sit opposite your opponent with the board between you.

Step3

Throw a single die to determine who will get to move first. Roll again if both players get the same number.

Step4

Move first according to the roll of the dice if you rolled the higher number, but keep in mind that you must use both dice to determine your first move.

Step5

Number points 1 through 24 starting with the point on the upper right-hand corner farthest away from you.

Step6

Move in a counterclockwise direction, and notice your opponent moving counterclockwise also.

Step7

Move onto open points only; you aren't allowed to move onto points with two or more opposing checkers. Move checkers separately or in pairs.

Step8

Move all the pips shown on the dice. Play the larger number if you can only use one of the two numbers or as many of the doubles.

Step9

Place your opponent's checker on the bar when you hit a blot.

Step10

Commence bearing off when you've moved all of your checkers into the home board quadrant.

Doubling

Step1

Rest the doubling cube on the bar at the beginning of play.

Step2

Propose to double the stake of the game before you take a turn if you think you're well enough ahead to warrant it.

Step3

Win the game if your opponent forfeits the double.

Step4

Continue playing if your opponent accepts.

Step5

Be aware that your opponent may redouble if the game situation changes.

Step6

Note that a gammon doubles or a backgammon triples the stake of the cube.

Tips & Warnings

The player who declines the double the first time loses one point. The stakes are then raised with subsequent redoubles. If a player declines a redouble, he loses two points. If a player declines a third redouble, he loses four points and so on.