Doubling in Backgammon
When you are playing for stakes in a game of backgammon, the doubling cube is used to determine what the stakes are at the end of the game. A typical game of backgammon begins with one stake, however during the course of the game these stakes can be raised (doubled) once or several times, depending on the players. A doubling cube shows 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64. When the stakes are doubled, the die is changed to 2. The next time the stakes are doubled, it shows a four, then an eight, etc. Theoretically, if not limited by the shape of the dice, there is no limit to the number of times stakes that can be redoubled.
Players can double the stakes before his dice throw. If the other player accepts the offer, the stakes are doubled, the cube is turned to reflect the present stakes and the ‘ownership’ of the cube reverts to the opponent. If the opponent chooses not to accept the offer, he forfeits the game and loses all that was at stake.
Questions to Ask yourself Before Offering or Declining a Double??
How are the Checkers Spread across the Board?
A player with strategically places checkers and some key points, anchors and blocks, has an advantage over his adversary. If this is the case, it would be wise of him to offer a double. His oponent might have no other choice but to decline.
How to win a Gammon or Backgammon??
If a gammon or backgammon can be won, it is not recomended to offer a double. If the opponent turns down the doubling offer, the points will not count in the backgammon match.
The Pip Count?
If you are leading the pip count you should consider making a double offer. Pip counting is used automatically at online backgammon sites but needs to be learned when playing offline backgammon. There are many ways to count pips in backgammopn. Counting pipes will show which player is leading the game. This, in turn, could be used to deside wether to double or not. If players double early on in the game, statistically they stand a better chance of the opponent accepting the double offer.
How Many Single Checkers??
The more the oponent has single checkers positioned on board, the more chance they will get hit. Because of this try to see how many potential hits the opponent has before making your double offer. If, on the other hand, a player has too many single checkers he might as well forfeit the game and declining a double offer.
Backgammon Game Gambling