THE PLAYBOOK · SDYZ85
How to play Backgammon
Choose a round of Backgammon and settle into its rules. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Read before acting
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Step by step
- Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.
- Enter barred pieces first.
- Points with at least two enemies are blocked; a lone enemy is hit.
- Bear off only after all pieces reach home.
Controls
Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. A new-round button replaces the current round.
A useful example
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Notice the change in the playing area.
Watch out for this
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. Check the rule before repeating the action. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Common questions
When I return, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
As a new player, how do I control Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
For my first round, what example helps explain Backgammon?
For clarity: When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
For clarity: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
While learning, what format does Backgammon offer?
The key detail is this: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
On this playing page, which play mode does Backgammon use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.