Understanding Backgammon Rules for Tournaments

Learning backgammon rules can be tricky for those players who want to try playing in backgammon tournaments. Unlike many other sports and games, there is no central backgammon authority or international organization that manages and governs the rules used at tournaments. Depending on the location and style of tournament, rules vary. However, they can be classified in two ways: tournament format and tournament rules.

The backgammon rules for each tournament are publicized before it takes place. These can differ depending on whether the tournament is adhering to Danish rules or U.S. rules. Generally, U.S. rules are the most common. A useful reference point for players that want to brush up on their rules is the 1990 publication "United States Backgammon Tournament Rules and Procedures."

Tournament format relates to the specific requirements of the event such as prizes, entry and registration fees, the types of divisions and how players qualify for them, the number of rounds etc. These should also be readily available for new players to study before registering for the event. Make sure you know as much as you can about the nature of your tournament and which backgammon rules it uses, so that you can make the most of your experience there and also increase your chances of winning.