11.08
Backgammon – 3 Main Plans
In astonishingly simple terms, there are 3 chief game plans used. You want to be able to hop between tactics instantly as the action of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This is comprised of assembling a 6-deep wall of pieces, or at a minimum as thick as you are able to achieve, to lock in your competitor’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most adequate course of action at the begining of the match. You can build the wall anywhere inbetween your 11-point and your 2-point and then shift it into your home board as the match progresses.
The Blitz
This is composed of locking your home board as quickly as possible while keeping your opposer on the bar. e.g., if your competitor tosses an early 2 and shifts one checker from your 1-point to your three-point and you then roll a 5-5, you will be able to play 6/1 6/1 8/3 8/3. Your opponent is now in serious dire straits taking into account that they have two pieces on the bar and you have locked half your home board!
The Backgame
This strategy is where you have 2 or more checkers in your competitor’s inner board. (An anchor is a point occupied by at a minimum 2 of your checkers.) It should be played when you are decidedly behind as it much improves your opportunities. The better locations for anchor spots are near your opponent’s lower points and also on adjoining points or with one point separating them. Timing is critical for a competent backgame: at the end of the day, there is no reason having two nice anchor spots and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then forced to break down this right away, while your competitor is shifting their checkers home, taking into account that you don’t have any other additional checkers to shift! In this situation, it’s more favorable to have pieces on the bar so that you can maintain your position until your competitor gives you a chance to hit, so it may be a good idea to attempt and get your challenger to hit them in this situation!
No Comment.
Add Your Comment