I am attempting to learn, and I need some help. I am looking for a) the idiots guide and b) some explanation of the tactics because I am playing a computer version (GNU) and playing against the computer on the most basic level I just get my ass handed to me.
Thanks
Andrew
No.
; ^ )
I know how to play, but I doubt I can help you. Stay out of the bar (duh).
I learned the game from my father, who had a book from the 60’s that was seriously titled something like “Breaking your opponent’s spine in Backgammon”. No hits on Google for that, which means I probably exaggerated the title, but I’ll try and look up something similar (at least for own purpose so I can beat my dad one day!).
I play. A friend showed me how to play one summer, but I was awful and he made comments like “It isn’t really fun to play you since you suck so bad.”
I spent the winter learning how to play, and the next summer, said “I know it isn’t fun for you to play me, but I want to try again. I’ll even make it worth your while and play for $1/point.” I won $200 from him over the next few days before he refused to play anymore…
You might want to check out “Backgammon for Winners” (that is, if you want to be a “winner”…) It will give a good into. The ultimate book is “Backgammon” by Paul Magriel, but might be a little too in depth at this point. (I think it is around 400 pages)
I got better by studying annotated matches between really good players like:
http://www.bkgm.com/matches/woba.html
Also, I bought the software “Jellyfish”, which allows you to play against the computer, and gives you feedback after each move of how your move changed your chances of winning, and what moves would have been better. You can also play on-line at fibs.com, and save your matches and then Jellyfish will show you where you made mistakes.
Good luck!
I’ve played before and enjoy the game. It can be very habit forming (and expensive) if you play for $$$. Take a look here: