Backgammon strategy for openings, primes and the cube

By the tavlo.gg game team · Updated October 10, 2026 · 6 min read

Backgammon rewards players who balance safety and aggression. These fundamentals improve your results in single games and matches alike.

1. Make points early

A point is two or more of your checkers on one space, and your opponent can’t land there. Good opening rolls, like 3-1 or 6-1, make key points such as your 5-point or your bar point.

2. Build a prime

Several made points in a row form a prime that your opponent’s checkers can’t jump. A full six-point prime traps them completely while you bring your other checkers home.

3. Limit your blots

A single checker, or blot, can be hit and sent to the bar. Leave blots only where your opponent needs an unlikely roll to hit them, or where being hit costs you little.

4. Race when you’re ahead

Count pips, which is the total distance your checkers still need to travel. If you clearly lead the race, break contact and run home. If you’re behind, keep checkers back and wait for a shot.

5. When should you double?

Offer a double when you’re a clear favorite but could still lose. Accept a double when you have roughly a one-in-four chance or better to win, since declining gives up the game.

Common mistakes to avoid

Leaving blots within easy reach of your opponent.
Racing when you’re behind in the pip count.
Declining doubles that are worth taking.

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