What are the best first moves in backgammon?

Answered by Don White

When it comes to the best first moves in backgammon, I have to say that rolling a 3 or a 1 is surprisingly advantageous. At first glance, these rolls may seem pretty weak, with only a total of four pips. However, as I’ve experienced in my own games, they can actually set you up for success in the long run.

Rolling a 3 allows you to make your five-point, which is a crucial point to hold in backgammon. By doing so, you not only establish a strong anchor in your opponent’s home board, but you also create a potential blockade that can hinder your opponent’s progress. This move can give you a solid foundation to build your strategy upon, and it can be quite effective in putting pressure on your opponent.

Similarly, rolling a 1 allows you to make your 24-point, also known as the bar-point. This move is significant because it allows you to establish an anchor in your own home board. Having an anchor can be a valuable asset in backgammon, as it provides a safe haven for your checkers and gives you more flexibility in your subsequent moves. It can also help you in case you get hit by your opponent, as you’ll still have a presence in their home board.

Now, don’t get me wrong, other rolls like 4-2 (the four-point) or 6-1 (the bar-point) can also make good points. However, what sets the 3 and 1 apart is their ability to create strategic advantages right from the start of the game. They allow you to establish key points early on, giving you a strong position to build upon and increasing your chances of success.

In my own experience, I’ve found that starting with a 3 or a 1 can often catch my opponents off guard. They may underestimate the potential of these rolls and fail to respond effectively. This gives me an early advantage and sets the tone for the rest of the game. So, don’t be fooled by the seemingly small number of pips on a 3 or 1 roll – they can pack a powerful punch in the game of backgammon.

While there are other good opening rolls in backgammon, rolling a 3 or a 1 can provide you with a strong foundation and strategic advantages right from the start. So, next time you roll a 3 or 1, embrace it and make the most of it. You might be pleasantly surprised by the results!