Backgammon tournament

Doubling in Backgammon

Backgammon is an old game that requires skill in luck. The game is popular, simply because the mechanics of the game allow the players to wager the money. The system of betting in backgammon is called doubling.

Since wagering money became hugely popular among backgammon players may backgammon boards have included a doubling cube in their game package. A doubling cube essentially looks like a piece of die, only that instead of dots, numbers of 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64 are on the surfaces. Doubling cubes are the ones that keep track of the wagers of the game.

All throughout the game, players have the opportunity to offer a double. The opponent who is offered a double has to choose between accepting and declining the double. If the opponent declines, he automatically loses the game. However, once the opponent accepts, he has the doubling cube on his side; therefore he can redouble the stakes if the situation favors him.

Remember that you have to seriously consider your position in the game before you double. For example, your board may look okay, but your opponent might be able stay ahead of you in the long run. Once you recklessly offer a double and the opponent accepts it, he owns the cube and can redouble the stake. As soon as the opponent realizes that your position becomes harsh, the opponent may have the chance to take advantage of the opportunity by redoubling the stake, giving you two choices whether to decline (forfeit) or accept.

So how do you know that you are in a good position to first-handedly double the stake? Pip counting is the first method to know if you are ahead of the game. It basically means counting the number of points that you need to move your checkers off the board. There are several ways to count pips, but it is usually done routinely at online backgammon games.

The most obvious way to determine a good position in the backgammon game is the number of single checkers on board. Naturally, the greater number of checkers that you have means there is also a great the possibility of you being hit. Reversely, if you are in this kind of situation, you should consider declining the offer of a double.

If you choose to offer a double, you should have great skill and confidence in your position. On the other hand, choosing to decline or accept also requires a thorough thinking if you are really behind the match. Basically, a player who makes the wise decision in relation to doubling cuts potential losses and acquires more winnings.