Celebrate World Backgammon Day with Manopoulos
Did you know that World Backgammon Day is celebrated every year on March 21st? This day brings together players from across the globe to revel in the strategic brilliance and competitive fun of Backgammon.
To honour this day, we felt it was the perfect opportunity to; explore the history of this ancient game, explain the rules of play, and put our distinguished backgammon sets in the spotlight.
The Origins of Backgammon
Backgammon's roots trace back over 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest board games known to humanity. Archaeological discoveries have unearthed early iterations of the game in Mesopotamia, modern-day Iraq, where it was played using rudimentary boards and dice crafted from materials like bones and stones. The game spread across ancient civilisations, evolving through Persia, Rome, and the Byzantine Empire before arriving in Europe during the medieval period.
The name “backgammon” is believed to have originated in England during the 17th century. Derived from Middle English words meaning “back” and “game,” it reflects the essence of the game—strategic manoeuvres to move your checkers off the board while tactically blocking and sending your opponent’s pieces “back” to the starting position.
Today, backgammon enjoys a loyal following worldwide, from family gatherings to high-stakes international tournaments.
Pictured: Manopoulos Roll-up - Suede Travel Backgammon Set - Burgundy; Manopoulos Black and White Leatherette Backgammon Set - Tournament; Manopoulos Premium Handcrafted Wenge with Walnut Burl Backgammon - Travel
How to Play Backgammon
At its core, backgammon is a game of strategy, probability, and skill - enhanced by a touch of luck! Here’s a quick guide to getting started:
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1. The Setup: The backgammon board consists of 24 narrow triangles, called points, divided into four quadrants. Each player has 15 checkers, arranged in a specific starting position, and a pair of dice. A doubling cube is used in competitive games to raise the stakes.
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2. Objective: The goal is to move all your checkers into your home board (the quadrant closest to you) and bear them off the board before your opponent does.
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3. Gameplay:
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○ Players take turns rolling two dice to determine how many points their checkers can move.
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○ Checkers move forward based on the dice roll. For instance, if you roll a 3 and a 5, you can move one checker three spaces and another five, or one checker a total of eight spaces in two steps.
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○ A point can hold one or more checkers. However, if a point is occupied by two or more opposing checkers, it is blocked.
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○ Landing on a point occupied by a single opposing checker sends it to the "bar." That checker must re-enter the game from the starting position before its owner can make other moves.
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4. Bearing Off: Once all your checkers are in your home board, you can begin bearing them off by rolling dice that correspond to their positions. The first player to bear off all their checkers wins!
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5. Doubling Cube: The doubling cube introduces an exciting strategic element, allowing players to propose doubling the stakes at any point. The opponent can accept or concede the game.
Mastering backgammon requires practice and a keen understanding of probabilities, making every roll of the dice a blend of chance and tactical brilliance.
Pictured: Manopoulos Walnut Backgammon Set - Tournament
Investing in a Quality Backgammon Set
A good backgammon set can turn the experience, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. If you’re looking to purchase a premium set to commemorate World Backgammon Day, Manopoulos backgammon sets from Farrar & Tanner are an excellent choice.
Manopoulos, a name synonymous with quality craftsmanship and aesthetics, offers a stunning range of backgammon sets that blend tradition with modern design. Handcrafted in Greece, these sets feature luxurious and durable materials, such as wood, leather, and metal, providing both visual appeal in the home and ensuring long-lasting gameplay.
If you’re an avid player looking to upgrade your set, a complete novice looking to start, or want to gift a loved one. With the large variety of sizes, colour schemes and styles on offer, there’s a set to suit every taste and personality.
How to Celebrate World Backgammon Day
Here are a few ideas to make your World Backgammon Day special:
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1. Host a Game Night: Gather friends and family for a backgammon tournament. Whether you’re playing casually or competitively, it’s a fantastic way to bond and share the joy of the game.
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2. Learn and Teach: If you’re new to backgammon, take the opportunity to learn the rules and strategies. Seasoned players can teach the game to friends or younger family members, passing down this timeless tradition.
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3. Invest in a New Set: Upgrade your gaming experience with a premium new set. If you were ever looking for an excuse to treat yourself or someone you love, World Backgammon Day is the right occasion.
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4. Join Online Communities: Participate in online backgammon forums or join virtual tournaments to connect with enthusiasts worldwide. The digital age has made it easier than ever to enjoy backgammon with players from different corners of the globe.
Happy World Backgammon Day from Farrar & Tanner!
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