Backgammon is one of the oldest board games, and AARP offers free ways to learn and play it online

Backgammon is a two-player game where you move your pieces around a board based on dice rolls, trying to get all your pieces off the board before your opponent does. AARP offers a free backgammon game on its website where you can play against the computer at different skill levels, no read required. You can also find backgammon clubs, tournaments, and in-person games through AARP programs in many communities.

The game combines luck (the dice) with strategy (how you move your pieces and which pieces you move). A typical game takes 15 to 30 minutes, though tournament games can be longer. Many people play backgammon casually with friends and family, while others join clubs or compete in organized tournaments.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP's free online backgammon game lets you play against the computer on your computer or tablet without installing anything.
  • The basic goal is to move all 15 of your pieces around the board and off it before your opponent moves all of theirs off.
  • You move your pieces based on what two dice show, and you can move two pieces or one piece twice if you roll doubles.
  • AARP local chapters often host backgammon clubs and tournaments where you can play against other people in your area.
  • Learning backgammon takes a few hours, but becoming skilled at strategy takes longer and is part of the appeal for many players.

How the board and pieces are set up

A backgammon board has 24 narrow triangles called points, arranged in four rows of six. The board is divided in half by a raised bar. Each player starts with 15 pieces (usually called checkers or men), and they begin in a fixed starting position on the board. White pieces and black pieces start on opposite sides.

The pieces move in opposite directions around the board in a clockwise or counterclockwise path, depending on which color you are playing. Each player has a home board (the last six points on their side) where they must get all their pieces before they can remove them from the board. The game ends when one player gets all 15 pieces off the board first.

Basic rules for moving your pieces

On your turn, you roll two dice. The numbers on the dice tell you how many points (spaces) you can move your pieces. If you roll a 4 and a 3, you can move one piece 4 points and another piece 3 points, or move one piece a total of 7 points. You must use both numbers if you can.

You cannot land on a point where your opponent has two or more pieces. If your opponent has only one piece on a point, you can land there and capture that piece—it goes on the bar in the middle of the board. Your opponent must then move that piece back onto the board before moving any other pieces. If you roll doubles (the same number on both dice), you get to move four times that number instead of two.

Once all your pieces are in your home board (the last six points), you can start removing them from the board. This is called bearing off. You must roll the exact number or higher to remove a piece. If you roll a 6 and you have no pieces on the 6 point, you can remove a piece from the 5 point instead.

Playing backgammon on AARP's website

Go to AARP.org and search for "backgammon" to find the free game. You do not need to read anything or create a special account—you can play as a guest. The game runs in your web browser on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

You can choose your skill level before you start: beginner, intermediate, or advanced. The computer opponent plays differently at each level, so you can start straightforward and work your way up. The game shows you legal moves as you play, which helps you learn the rules without having to memorize them. You can undo moves if you make a mistake, and you can quit and start a new game anytime.

Playing online is a good way to practice before you join a club or play with friends. You can play as many games as you want, at any time of day, without worrying about slowing down an opponent or making mistakes.

Finding backgammon games and clubs in your area

Many AARP local chapters host backgammon clubs or game nights. Contact your local AARP office to ask whether they run backgammon programs. You can find your local chapter by going to AARP.org and entering your zip code, or by calling AARP at 1-888-687-2277.

Some senior centers, libraries, and community centers also run backgammon clubs or tournaments. These are often free or low-cost. Playing in person lets you meet other people who enjoy the game and learn from more experienced players. Many backgammon players say the social part is as much fun as the game itself.

If you want to find tournaments or more serious competition, the United States Backgammon Federation (USBF) lists clubs and tournaments across the country on its website. Tournaments range from casual local events to national championships, and they welcome players of all skill levels.

Basic strategy to improve your game

Backgammon strategy is built on a few core ideas. First, try to move your pieces forward safely—avoid leaving a single piece alone on a point where your opponent can capture it. Second, try to build a wall of two or more pieces on consecutive points in your opponent's home board. This blocks their pieces and makes it harder for them to move.

Third, pay attention to where your opponent's pieces are. If they have pieces on the bar or far from home, you have time to move your own pieces forward. Fourth, when you are ahead (closer to getting all your pieces off), play it safe. When you are behind, take more risks and try to capture your opponent's pieces.

These ideas take time to master, but even beginners can use them to play better. The best way to improve is to play many games and notice what works and what does not. Online games against the computer are perfect for this because you can play quickly and try different strategies without pressure.

What you need to play backgammon at home

A physical backgammon set costs between $20 and $100 depending on the quality and materials. You can find them at game stores, online retailers, and sometimes at thrift stores. A basic set includes the board, 30 pieces (15 for each player), two dice, and a doubling cube (a special die used in tournament play).

You do not need a doubling cube to play casually—it is used mainly in competitive games to raise the stakes. For learning and casual play, a straightforward set is fine. If you want to play with friends or family, a set is a one-time purchase that lasts for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is backgammon hard to learn?

The basic rules take about an hour to learn, and you can play a full game after that. Strategy takes longer to develop—most people get better over months and years of playing. AARP's online game teaches the rules as you play, so you can learn by doing.

Can I play backgammon on my phone?

Yes. AARP's backgammon game works on smartphones and tablets through your web browser. You can also find backgammon apps in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, though not all are free.

What is the doubling cube?

The doubling cube is used in tournament and serious casual play to raise the stakes of a game. One player can offer to double the points at stake, and the other player can accept or decline. It adds a betting element but is not needed for casual play with friends.

How long does a backgammon game take?

A casual game usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Tournament games can take longer because players think more carefully about each move. Online games against the computer are often faster because the computer moves quickly.

Where can I find people to play backgammon with?

Contact your local AARP chapter to ask about backgammon clubs or game nights. Senior centers, libraries, and community centers often run programs too. The United States Backgammon Federation website lists clubs and tournaments in your area if you want more competitive play.