Play2Chat
Backgammon Rules
All the core backgammon rules on one page: setup, movement, hitting, bearing off, and scoring. Learn them and play on Play2Chat.
Basic rules
Backgammon is played by two players, 15 checkers each.
- Checkers move by the dice, in opposite directions
- Land on an empty point, your own point, or an opponent blot
- A point with 2+ enemy checkers is blocked
- A lone checker (blot) can be hit
Dice and moves
Two dice per turn; each die is a move. Doubles play four times.
You must use both dice if possible; if only one can be played, you must play the higher one.
Bearing off and scoring
Bring all checkers home, then bear them off. First to bear off all 15 wins. Gammon (×2) if the loser bore off none; backgammon (×3) with a checker on the bar or in the winner’s home.
FAQ
Is there a forced move in backgammon?
Yes. If a die can be played it must be; if only one is playable, play the higher one.
What is a blocked point?
A point with two or more opponent checkers — you cannot land there.
Can I play by these rules online?
Yes, Play2Chat enforces standard rules in free online backgammon.