In extraordinarily simple terms, there are 3 fundamental strategies employed. You need to be able to switch game plans instantly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This comprises of creating a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at a minimum as deep as you are able to achieve, to barricade in the opponent’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is judged to be the most adequate course of action at the start of the game. You can create the wall anyplace between your 11-point and your two-point and then move it into your home board as the match continues.

The Blitz

This involves closing your home board as quick as possible while keeping your challenger on the bar. e.g., if your opponent rolls an early 2 and moves one checker from your one-point to your three-point and you then toss a five-five, you can play six/one 6/1 8/3 eight/three. Your challenger is now in big-time difficulty taking into account that they have 2 checkers on the bar and you have closed half your inner board!

The Backgame

This tactic is where you have 2 or more anchors in your opponent’s inner board. (An anchor is a point consisting of at least 2 of your pieces.) It needs to be employed when you are extremely behind as this action much improves your circumstances. The better areas for anchors are near your opponent’s lower points and also on adjacent points or with a single point in between. Timing is integral for an effectual backgame: at the end of the day, there is no reason having 2 nice anchors and a solid wall in your own inner board if you are then forced to break apart this straight away, while your opponent is shifting their pieces home, taking into account that you don’t have other spare pieces to move! In this case, it is more tolerable to have checkers on the bar so that you can maintain your position up till your competitor provides you an opportunity to hit, so it can be a great idea to try and get your challenger to hit them in this situation!