A simple explanation of the backgammon setup

An array of unmarked triangles and strangely numbered dice make the backgammon setup look extremely complicated upon first glance. However, it is actually very straight forward and the same for most versions of the backgammon game.

The backgammon setup begins with the board. The backgammon board consists of 24 stretched triangles connected to the outside edges, which are in alternating colours. These are called the points and are where the checkers sit throughout the game. A bar divides the backgammon board and may contain checkers during play.

Each point is numbered from 1 to 24 but the numbers are never marked on the board itself. This is because the players sit on either side of the backgammon board, and so play in opposite directions when the game is in play. In the backgammon setup number 1 for player A is number 24 for player B and so any numbered points on the backgammon board would cause confusion.

The backgammon setup is very specific at the start of every game. Players line their checkers on specific points to begin. Five checkers are placed on the 6 each players checkers mirror those of their opponent ion the backgammon board. Both players have checkers on either side of the board, but never on the same points.

A pair of dice accompanies the set as they determine the moves each player can make. A dice with the numbers 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64 is the most unusual object ; it is known as the doubling cube and is used for strategic play, doubling the stake wagered. The setup remains the same whether the backgammon game is played live or over the internet.