Play Backgammon Online Free
The world's oldest board game, reimagined for the modern web. Play against AI, challenge friends, or learn the art of backgammon.
Why Backgammon?
Discover why millions of people around the world love this ancient game of skill and strategy.
Skill Meets Luck
Every roll creates new possibilities. The best players know how to maximize every opportunity while managing risk.
Quick Games
Most games take 5-15 minutes. Perfect for a quick break or an extended gaming session.
Train Your Brain
Studies show backgammon improves critical thinking, probability assessment, and decision-making skills.
Global Community
Join players from over 150 countries. Backgammon transcends language and culture.
Learn Backgammon
Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your strategy, we've got you covered.
How to Play Backgammon
Complete step-by-step guide for beginners. Learn the basics in under 10 minutes.
Read the guide →Official Rules
Complete backgammon rules including movement, hitting, bearing off, and the doubling cube.
Learn the rules →Board Setup
Visual guide to setting up the backgammon board correctly every time.
View setup guide →Strategy Guide
Master running games, priming strategy, blitz attacks, and the back game.
Master strategy →Opening Moves
Learn the best opening moves for every possible dice roll.
See openings →Glossary
A-Z dictionary of every backgammon term you need to know.
Browse terms →Explore Backgammon
5,000 Years of History
From ancient Mesopotamia to modern tournaments—the fascinating story of backgammon.
Game Variations
Discover Tavla, Narde, Acey-Deucey, and other backgammon variants from around the world.
Tournaments
The world of competitive backgammon: major events, formats, and how to compete.
Backgammon vs Chess
Two of history's greatest games compared. Which one is right for you?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is backgammon?
Backgammon is one of the oldest known board games, with a history spanning over 5,000 years. It is a two-player game where each player has 15 checkers that move between 24 triangular points on a board, determined by the roll of two dice. The objective is to move all your checkers into your home board and then bear them off. The first player to remove all their checkers wins.
Is backgammon a game of skill or luck?
Backgammon combines both skill and luck. While dice rolls introduce an element of chance, skilled players consistently outperform beginners over time. The skill lies in choosing the best moves, managing risk, knowing when to double, and understanding probability. Top players win roughly 60-65% of games against intermediate opponents.
Can I play backgammon online for free?
Yes! BackgammonHit offers completely free online backgammon. You can play against our AI computer opponent or challenge other players online—no sign-up or download required. Just visit our Play page and start a game instantly.
How long does a game of backgammon take?
A typical game of backgammon takes between 5 and 15 minutes. However, competitive matches that are played to a set number of points can take 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the match length and the use of the doubling cube.
What is the doubling cube in backgammon?
The doubling cube is a special die with the numbers 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64. It is used to raise the stakes during a game. Before rolling, a player can offer to double. The opponent can either accept (and play for double the points) or decline (and forfeit the game at the current stake). The doubling cube adds a deep layer of strategy to backgammon.
What are gammon and backgammon wins?
If you bear off all your checkers while your opponent hasn't borne off any, you win a gammon (worth double points). If your opponent also has checkers on the bar or in your home board, you win a backgammon (worth triple points). These bonus wins make the endgame especially exciting.
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