A Comprehensive Guide to Backgammon Strategy for Intermediate Players

Backgammon is a classic board game that requires a blend of skill, strategy, and luck. If you are an intermediate player looking to enhance your game, finding the right resources can make a significant difference in your progress. In this article, we will discuss some highly recommended books that cater to players like you, who enjoy the game but are not professional level. We'll explore both classic and modern texts that provide valuable insights into backgammon strategy.

Paul Magriel’s “Backgammon”

For those who appreciate the timeless wisdom of the past, a highly recommended choice is Paul Magriel’s “Backgammon”. Originally published in the 1970s, this book is a treasure of knowledge that predates the computer era, providing foundational principles and concepts that remain relevant to this day. While some positions in the book may be outdated, the overall body of knowledge is still invaluable.

Magriel’s book is not just a collection of outdated moves; it is a comprehensive overview of backgammon strategy that is easy to digest. The key concepts covered include: Opening and Midgame Strategies Closing and Finishing Techniques Endgame Play

However, it’s important to note that many of the specific positions and moves presented in the book may be inaccurate compared to today’s standards, particularly those influenced by the computer era. This is where a supplementary resource can be beneficial.

Classic Backgammon Revisited

“Classic Backgammon Revisited” by Bagai is a fantastic companion to Magriel’s work. This book offers a critical review of the backgammon classics, including both Magriel’s and Jacoby’s works. Bagai highlights the numerous places where the classics were misleading or simply incorrect, making it an invaluable resource for both intermediate and advanced players.

The book focuses on:

Clarifying misconceptions from the past Identifying outdated strategies Providing up-to-date, validated information based on computer evaluations and rollouts

These updates ensure that you are building your strategy on the most accurate and reliable information available, minimizing the risk of adopting incorrect techniques.

Backgammon Boot Camp by Trice

Another excellent resource for intermediate players is “Backgammon Boot Camp” by Trice. This book is more like a series of articles, offering a less coherent but highly digestible approach to backgammon strategy. Nevertheless, the material presented is much less dated compared to the classics, making it a durable resource for players seeking to improve their skills.

Some of the key topics covered in Trice’s book include:

Basic Backgammon Theory Endgame Techniques Positional Analysis Value of Pieces Skill Development

The Boot Camp’s strengths lie in its ease of consumption and comprehensive coverage, making it an ideal choice for players who want to tackle the game in manageable chunks. However, the book lacks the overall cohesiveness of Magriel’s classic work, which can make it a bit more challenging to follow.

Conclusion

Choosing the right resource for backgammon strategy is crucial for intermediate players like you. Whether you opt for the timeless wisdom of Paul Magriel’s “Backgammon,” the critical revision of Bagai’s “Classic Backgammon Revisited,” or the modern digestibility of Trice’s “Backgammon Boot Camp,” each book offers valuable insights that can help you refine your strategy and improve your overall gameplay. Happy gaming!

Key Points to Remember:

Paul Magriel’s “Backgammon” provides foundational knowledge, but some positions are outdated. Bagai’s “Classic Backgammon Revisited” offers a review of the classics, highlighting where the early works were incorrect. Trice’s “Backgammon Boot Camp” focuses on modern concepts and is easier to digest in small segments.