Winning BackgammonBackgammon is one of the most misunderstood and underrated games, often being labeled as a game of chance in which the winner is determined by the luck of the dice. In actuality, backgammon, when properly played, is a challenging game involving a great deal of skill. Learn the secrets of winning consistently, in this illustrated manual. An explanation of the rules and mechanics of the game, including the often ignored use of the doubling cube, is followed by instruction in various strategies. First, master basic strategy, including blocking, caterpillaring, and mental aspects of the game. Next, see how the correct doubling strategy can make or break a player's success. The use of the roll-over-the once-per-game option of either rolling again or forcing your opponent to roll again--is also fully explained, followed by the recommended opening and early-game moves and strategies for the mid-game, the end-game, and bearing-off. The problematic back-game is detailed, as is the correct set, match, and tournament strategy. Backgammon variants, including chouette, acey-deucy, and the beaver, are also explained. With a history going back more than 5,000 years, backgammon is the oldest game in civilization. With the strategies included here, anyone can become a future master of this ancient pastime. Sterling 128 pages, 81 b/w illus., 6 x 9. |
Contents
FOREWORD | 5 |
RULES AND MECHANICS OF THE GAME | 11 |
BASIC STRATEGY | 21 |
Copyright | |
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Common terms and phrases
3-point and 9-point 5-point accept a double accept your double ahead BLACK Inner Board Board BLACK Inner Board WHITE Inner caterpillar chance of bearing chance of entering Chance of rolling chance of winning consider doubling correct strategy Crawford Rule dice direct shot doubling cube doubling strategy escape four-point blockade game value hit an opponent's hit the blot hit your opponent hitting a blot Inner Board 12 Inner Board Figure inner board points lead leave a direct leave a shot lose mid-game nent nent's number of points number of rolls opening moves oppo opponent's 12-point opponent's blot opponent's inner board Outer Board BLACK Outer Board WHITE pip count points from winning priority resign rolls left safely sets and matches shooter shown in Table side prime straight race strong blockade tournament usually variant WHITE Inner Board winning a gammon winning game winning the game winning the set wipeout game