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Fundamental Backgammon Strategies
Backgammon is a fast paced game, requiring rapid reflexes, quick thinking and making decisions on the spot. Because different situations call for different measure, it behooves you as a player to learn the basic Backgammon tactics.
Backgammon strategies are usually divided into categories, such as running, scoring points, defensive measures and attacking the opponent. The type you use will depend greatly on how you play and how the game develops.
Regardless of the Backgammon strategy you decide to employ, the fact is that if you want to have a realistic chance of winning the game and becoming a great player, you must be willing to take risks. This means leaving blots in strategic places on the board.
Of course this leaves them open to hitting, and while it is a chance you have to take there are Backgammon strategies you can use to offset this. You should first take stock of how many checkers you still have left. Obviously, if the number is low, you cannot risk that many blots being hit.
If you have quite a few, consider leaving some blots in other not so advantageous positions, so that the opponent will be fooled into hitting them instead of the one you are trying to advance.
If you are hit hard, the best option would be to use your remaining pieces as anchors on your opponent's board. Eventually you will be able to get the rolls needed to hit and get back in the game.
Other players prefer to use a different Backgammon strategy, concentrating on getting their pieces off as early as possible. Known as the running game, this is best tried with high number rolls. Also to be most effective, the checkers should be well spaced, making it difficult for your opponent to hit them.
Once you hit the opponent, a good Backgammon tactic is to try and crowd your home board, making it difficult for him to get back in the game. Of course you should also leave a few blots out to help you progress in the game.
If your opponent is trying to do the same thing, then you should try to get your checkers out of there as quick as possible, because there is a possibility that the game might turn into a battle of primes. If that happens, the one with the stronger wall -more checkers- will likely prevail.
As stated earlier, Backgammon strategies are usually categorized, but the fact is during game play, a combination is very effective. Learning to switch from a defensive posture such a holding game into a running game is important.
For Backgammon players, it is important to continue to research the latest strategies and combine them with the fundamental tactics. It is by combining the new with the tried and tested that a lot of players are able to win money tournaments and matches.