Some Tips During the Opening of a Backgammon Game
Though a backgammon game can easily transition from the opening to the mid-game knowing what to do during the early stages of the game would keep you out of trouble. Like chess, the opening is crucial and dictates a player's style.
In chess the opening dictates what stance a player will take whether it's a gambit, defense, forward attack etc. A lot of time and strategy is involved in the opening play. This is not equally true in backgammon. The opening game quickly transitions into the middle game in a matter of a few rolls.
Regardless of this fact, the opening is still important. If you mess up in an opening in chess you may lose position, material, and even a game. That goes the same for backgammon as well.
One of things a player should consider in an opening is to build blocking points. Blocking points positioned in your home board are especially tactical. Controlling 2 or three or even more points in your home board is effective and proves useful during the middle game. They will deny enemy checkers relative positions when entering after they are hit. At times making your opponent forfeit his move or turn.
Another point to consider would be to trap the opponent's runners. Runners are checkers that begin in the 1 point, the bar or the opposing home board. Either they began there in the game or they were hit sent to the bar and entered. Don't be afraid to take and make hits in the opening game. Especially if this gives you a chance to improve your position or trap checkers.
Just make sure that your own back checkers (runners) are able to quickly move along and escape. Keep your back checkers close to the rest of the pack starting in the opening and throughout the game. Remember that a hunter's strategy is to keep one sheep away from the flock and strike at the helpless little thing. The best time to rush your back checkers is in the opening.
Since we have already begun talking about positions here's another piece of advice for a good opening. Yes, playing safe is indeed wise (meaning you avoid blots), but remember to keep your position flexible. Meaning that your checkers are arranged evenly. In any case, whatever comes up in a dice roll all or any of your checkers should be able to take advantage.
That also means that you should not be afraid of making hits or being exposed by having blots. Do not over commit your pieces to anchors or blocks in the opening. Fight for position then you can easily transition your strategy from the opening into the mid-game. Each roll of the dice ideally should become constructive for your men because of your position.
Let's talk a little more on positions during the opening. An anchor on your opponent's 5 point or 4 point is tactical. This is called an advanced anchor. This becomes a threat to enemy checkers coming home.
Having a clear understanding of the best practices of the opening game will give a player the advantage of smoothly transitioning from opening to mid-game. It helps avoid problems that may otherwise complicate matters and lets you take advantage of opportunities that may arise.