Backgammon Opening Moves

Backgammon is one of the best examples of games requiring skill, strategy and luck. The roll of the dice is important, but only marginally, as compared to the strategies employed by the skilled player. Opening moves in backgammon can doom the inexperienced player by offering insight to their opponent. Openers can also set up the strategy for the entire game based on the numbers on the dice. However the game begins, luck takes a backseat and strategic maneuvers rule.

Types

The variations of opening moves available to you are dictated by the initial roll of the dice. Setting up a defensive game or establishing a flight plan is likely decided from the opening move. The vast combination of numbers available lead to a much smaller combination of moves on the board, so the type of game you choose to play could change with the flick of your wrist or the click of your mouse if you play online.

Significance

Experienced backgammon players can usually ascertain the skill level of their opponent based on the opening move. Obvious moves such as 6-1, 5-3, and 4-2 set up a blocking game while a 6-5 mandates flight. Opening rolls that have no accepted significance like 4-3, 3-2, or 2-1 lead to opening moves that indicate how your opponent likes to play the game.

Function

As a skill indicator, the opener can also alert your opponent to your basic strategy. Beginning players often choose the safest course for removing their checkers. Intermediate players will likely take more calculated risks with a 6-4 roll, exposing their checker, or opting for a blocking game by using 6-1 to lock in the blockade. Advanced players appreciate the value of an attack strategy, taking risks the beginner wouldn't consider: exposing 2 checkers at a time with a 3-4, rather than safely landing on a blocked point.

Considerations

If your opponent's opening move is to block using a 6-1, your opening move should be to begin your escape. If you aren't lucky enough to roll a high number like 4-5 to escape his block, move one of your checkers as far out of his home base as possible. The faster the blockade is made, the longer you will be behind the line. Keeping in mind that you cannot land on a blocked point, removing your checkers from your opponent's home is easier in the beginning. Opting to run with a 4-5 will expose your checker, but is preferable to being caught behind his line until the end of the game. If your opponent rolls a 6-5, 6-4 or 6-3 and opts to remove himself from your home in his opening move, your opening should be to block as soon as you can while hitting him whenever possible.

Benefits

Experience is the best teacher when it comes to playing backgammon. From the opening move to the last play, being able to adeptly read your opponent is a skill only acquired through matched play. The benefits from accurately anticipating their moves far outweigh any roll of chance and the lessons learned along the way can only help you become a better player.

Resources

• Backgammon Glossary