How to Set Up Backgammon
Introduction
Backgammon is an age-old game of strategy and luck that has been played for centuries. It is easy to learn and just as easy to play. In this guide, we will provide a detailed step-by-step guide on how to set up a game of Backgammon.
Step 1: Get the Necessary Materials
In order to play Backgammon, you will need the following materials:
- A Backgammon board
- Backgammon pieces (or “checkers”)
- Dice cup and two dice
- Doubling cube (optional)
Step 2: Layout the Board
Once you have all of the necessary materials, you can begin to layout the board. The Backgammon board is divided into four equal quadrants or “homes.” The home on the left side of the board is the Black home and the home on the right side of the board is the White home.
The board also features 12 triangular points, 6 in each quadrant, which are known as “points.” Arrange the points in a cross-like pattern with 3 points in the center of each quadrant.
Step 3: Place the Checkers
The next step is to place the checkers. Each player will have 15 checkers, or “pieces,” of their respective color. Place the checkers in each player’s home, with 2 checkers on each of the first 6 points and 5 checkers on their last point.
White checkers should be placed in the White home and Black checkers should be placed in the Black home.
Step 4: Use the Doubling Cube (Optional)
The doubling cube is an optional element of Backgammon. If you and your opponent would like to use it, you can place it in the middle of the board. The doubling cube will be used to increase the stakes of the game.
Step 5: Place the Dice and Dice Cup
The next step is to place the dice and dice cup on the board. Place the dice cup in the center of the board and the dice inside the cup.
Step 6: Choose Your Playing Order
The final step is to decide who will go first. This can be done by rolling one die, with the highest number going first. The player who goes first will be the one who rolls the dice.
Conclusion
Setting up a game of Backgammon is a relatively simple process once you have the necessary materials. The steps outlined above should be followed in order to properly set up the board for play. Once the setup is complete, each player can take turns rolling the dice and moving their checkers in an effort to be the first one to bear off all of their checkers.