How to Learn Backgammon Online

This is a real-life backgammon board.

Backgammon is an ancient game with lasting appeal to Western cultures. Like chess, it has been around for centuries and has been played in coffee shops and universities across the world--sometimes for stakes, sometimes for the pure challenge. Likewise, there are tournaments held throughout the year and many devoted fans have rankings similar to those found in chess. Backgammon has also developed an online presence, allowing unfamiliar players a chance to learn and master the game. Although the rules are fairly basic, advanced players utilize strategies that take years to master. Practice is the only surefire way to learn.

Instructions

1. Acquaint yourself with the basic rules. Most major backgammon sites like Backgammon Masters, Gammoned and Backgammon Galore have in-depth tutorials.

2. Play several games until you feel like you've mastered the rules. There are dozens of sites that feature free online play, including those sites listed in Step 1.

3. Read advanced strategies. Backgammon Galore has an excellent compilation of opening moves. Gammoned has numerous tutorials, including those specifically designed for beginners, intermediate players and masters. Backgammon.org also has a number of helpful articles for those who choose to wager on their games.

4. Practice advanced techniques. Once you feel confident, you might even choose to start playing on a ranked website like Pogo or Play65. On a ranked site, every game you win gives you points, and every game you lose takes points away. Like this, the best players rise to the top, where they receive recognition for their mastery of the game.

References

• Backgammon Masters: How to Play Backgammon
• Gammoned: Backgammon Strategy
• Play65: Online Backgammon