Game guide · ZING22
Making your first moves in Backgammon
Open Backgammon, check the instructions and begin a round. Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Check the rule that explains your first action. Look at what changes after your first action.
Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Take a closer look while playing
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Use the example to check your reasoning.
The objective of a round
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Notice how the game responds to your input.
From the start of a round
- Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.
- Enter barred pieces first.
- Points with at least two enemies are blocked; a lone enemy is hit.
- Bear off only after all pieces reach home.
How your actions work
Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
Put the rules into context
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Notice the change in the playing area.
A useful caution
An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit. A different version of the game may use a different rule. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Further help with the game
For my first round, what is the goal of Backgammon?
Bear off all fifteen pieces before the opponent.
Before I begin, how do I control Backgammon?
Click or tap a piece and destination; use the turn indicator and legal-move feedback.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Backgammon?
When only one die can be used and either is individually playable, use the larger die.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Backgammon?
For clarity: An oversized bear-off requires no piece farther from the exit.
As a new player, what format does Backgammon offer?
Keep this in mind: Local two players; no doubling cube, stakes or remote matching.
Which play mode does Backgammon use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Local players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
When I return, where should I start with Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Roll and use the maximum legal number of dice; doubles give four moves.
While learning, do I need an account or a payment for Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
Before I begin, how can I find Backgammon again?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Backgammon?
Keep this in mind: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.
