Basic backgammon tips and concepts

Backgammon is one of the most distinctive games in the world of gambling. It requires some luck as all gambling games but also demands proficiency and skill. Backgammon's learning curve is a long and steep one but with the right tips and attitude a player can advance through it quicker and with his head high. One of the most basic concepts of backgammon is the pips.

The pips represent the advance of your checkers on the board. In general the total of the pips is the sum of the dice rolls which you'll need in order to get all your pieces off the board. Most online backgammon games provide an automatic pips counter. Novice players tend to ignore the pips and play by a pre-determined strategy, ignoring the developments that change the board. It is important to remember that pips do matter and should be taken into account. If the pips count show that the opponent is leading by a solid 30 pips distance you should adjust your strategy instead of hoping that the dice will adjust to your existing strategy.

Another common mistake new players tend to make is fleeing the battlefield prematurely when they are still behind. Although it is important to know when to quit instead of digging a deeper grave, most players tend to misunderstand the purpose of fleeing. If you're behind in pips and stacked deep in the opponents home, stay there. First advance home the pieces in your territory, only when you have no choice or the odds are gravely against you retreat. Staying in opponents home Grants you more chances to capture his piece and tilt the advantage to your side. When you'll learn to incorporate those concepts into your game style proceed to our advanced tips and strategies. Good luck.

Elmer Hunter, Editorial team. September 8th, 2005