Backgammon
Rules
Goal
Move all 15 checkers into your home board and bear them off before your opponent.
The roll
The two dice are two separate moves. One checker may use both numbers only if the intermediate point is legal.
Doubles
A double is played four times. 4–4 means four separate moves of 4.
Use both dice
Use both numbers whenever legally possible. If either number can be played but not both, the higher number must be played.
Hitting
Landing on a point with one opposing checker hits it and sends it to the bar. Checkers on the bar must re-enter before other moves.
Bearing off
You may bear off once all 15 checkers are in your home board.
Winning
The first player to bear off all 15 checkers wins.
Tips
Check both orders
For a roll such as 3–5, playing 3 first or 5 first can lead to different legal positions.
Protect blots
A single checker can be hit. Two or more checkers form a safe point.
FAQ: Must I use both dice?
Yes, whenever both can legally be played. If only one of two otherwise playable numbers can be used, play the higher one.
FAQ: Can I add the dice?
Not as one jump. A 3–5 may move one checker a total of 8 only if the intermediate point is legal.
FAQ: Doubling cube?
Standard match backgammon may use it. Traditional Turkish Tavla and Greek Portes are commonly played without it.