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HBYDMS

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Backgammon

Play Backgammon ↗

Game guide · HBYDMS

Backgammon: what to know before playing

Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Backgammon. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the example below to understand a decision. Check the rule that explains your first action. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.

Take a closer look while playing

Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Keep the objective visible.

Your goal

Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. The example below illustrates a decision.

Follow these playing steps

  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.

The controls to know

Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.

Work through an example

When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Notice the change in the playing area.

Keep this in mind

An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.

Common questions

On this playing page, what is the goal of Backgammon?

The key detail is this: Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.

For a quick reminder, how do I control Backgammon?

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

For this browser game, what example helps explain Backgammon?

Here is the relevant explanation: When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.

What should I watch out for in Backgammon?

The key detail is this: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.

For my first round, what format does Backgammon offer?

Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.

While reading the Guide, which play mode does Backgammon use?

The key detail is this: 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?

Keep this in mind: Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.

As a new player, do I need an account or a payment for Backgammon?

Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For my first round, how can I find Backgammon again?

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

While reading the Guide, 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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