Bill Robertie’s Blog

Creating Checkers to Move

Feb 15, 2019 | Backgammon Problems: Middle Game

White – Pips 134 (-1)

Black – Pips 135 (+1)
Black to Play 5-3

This problem isn’t difficult, but it contains some interesting points. The right play is just 21/13. Remaking the midpoint creates a fluid, well-connected position that’s relatively easy to play compared to alternatives. Black has chances to make the 3-point, and some other rolls that make the bar-point. He gets some outfield coverage in case White’s next roll is 6-3 or 6-4. He blocks White’s best roll, 6-6, turning it from a game-changer into merely a good shot.

Taking Risks in a Holding Game

Feb 1, 2019 | Backgammon Problems: Holding Game

(A) Black to play 5-1.

White – Pips 148 (-5)

Black – Pips 153 (+5)
Black to Play 5-1Problem A shows a routine position in an early holding game. Both sides have an anchor, and the race is very close. Black’s position is slightly preferable since more of his checkers are arrayed in front of White’s anchor, and he therefore has better chances of establishing a blockade.

Offering Early Doubles

Jan 15, 2019 | Backgammon Problems: Early Game

When should you double in the very early part of the game? How soon is too soon? Let’s take a look.

White – Pips 170 (+17)

Black – Pips 153 (-17)
Black on roll. Cube action?
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Play Safe or Play for the Gammon?

Jan 1, 2019 | Backgammon Problems: Endgames

White – Pips 78 (+19)

Black – Pips 59 (-19)
Black to Play 4-1

Back at World Cup VI, in 1998, Kent Goulding and I introduced a ‘Quizgammon’ contest, consisting of a set of 30 problems taken from all phases of the game. Everyone who was interested paid an entry fee of $20 and sat down for an hour with their problems and answer sheet. After everyone handed in their solutions, Kent and I went over the answers and announced the winners. The event was an instant success. Players really liked the idea of matching wits, with the luck of the dice finally and thoroughly removed.