Starting Out at the Backgammon Novice Level

Backgammon is a very simply game to learn, in theory. The basics of the game can be easily picked up by any sufficiently motivated onlooker, however, to become truly proficient in the game a player can never substitute anything for game time and experience. If a player chooses to play Backgammon online, a good choice, a player has the opportunity to player at any level they choose. This is especially good for a player that is at the Backgammon novice level as it allows a player to gain experience playing against players with similar experience.

There are separate categories for different levels of expertise for obvious reasons. If a Backgammon novice level player plays against an expert the odds are severely stacked against the beginner. Unfortunately there is a tendency for some beginners who have recently learned the rules of the game to participate in money tournaments. While luck certainly isnt one of the influential elements of a typical Backgammon game, the only way that an unskilled Backgammon novice level player will defeat a professional Backgammon player is with plenty of it.

By playing in a category that matches the players skill level builds confidence and game playing skills that wouldnt be acquired by playing above a players skill level. With that said once a player has become comfortable in any given skill level, including the Backgammon novice level, the player will not be further served by remaining in their comfort zone. True game playing gains will only come playing against players slightly better and by learning new tactics.

Backgammon novices are also well advised to take advantage of any literature that may help explain the many subtle nuances of the game. There is a mountain of such material online and most of its free.