A game of Backgammon is first and foremost a race: the winner is the player who bears off all their checkers first after bringing them into their home board. However, if the game were limited to racing, big dice rolls would be enough to win and the strategic interest would be limited. But the rules of Backgammon also allow you to hinder and slow down your opponent by building points and hitting isolated checkers. Beyond a simple race, Backgammon is an obstacle course.
The commented game that follows illustrates the application of elementary strategies: cautious progression in hostile territory and winning the race. In this first game, the doubling cube is not used.
At each turn for both players, you'll be put to the test. You can try to play your move, then you'll see the best move with commentary.
Let's start when you're ready!