In exceptionally simple terms, there are 3 basic strategies employed. You must be able to switch game plans almost instantly as the course of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This consists of creating a 6-deep wall of pieces, or at least as thick as you are able to achieve, to block in the opponent’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is judged to be the most suitable strategy at the start of the match. You can create the wall anyplace inbetween your 11-point and your two-point and then move it into your home board as the match progresses.

The Blitz

This involves locking your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your competitor on the bar. i.e., if your opponent rolls an early two and shifts one checker from your one-point to your 3-point and you then toss a five-five, you can play 6/1 6/1 eight/three eight/three. Your challenger is now in big-time difficulty due to the fact that they have two checkers on the bar and you have closed half your inside board!

The Backgame

This tactic is where you have two or higher pieces in your opponent’s inner board. (An anchor spot is a position consisting of at a minimum two of your pieces.) It must be used when you are decidedly behind as this strategy greatly improves your opportunities. The better areas for anchor spots are towards your opponent’s smaller points and also on abutting points or with one point separating them. Timing is essential for a competent backgame: besides, there is no reason having two nice anchors and a solid wall in your own inner board if you are then forced to break up this right away, while your competitor is moving their pieces home, seeing that you do not have other extra pieces to shift! In this situation, it is better to have checkers on the bar so that you might maintain your position up until your challenger provides you a chance to hit, so it will be a great idea to attempt and get your opponent to hit them in this situation!