A player can block the opponent by occupying points and thus slow the opponent’s advancement to his own home board. Players should plan their blocking strategy from the beginning of the game to ensure that their blocking rows are evenly distributed on the board. Learning how to successfully block opponents takes some practice and players can get this by playing at online backgammon sites.

Blocking Primes -

One of the best strategies to win a backgammon game is to build strategically placed primes around the board. When two or more of a player’s checkers occupy a point in consecutive rows, this is known as a prime block. Opponents are thus prevented from advancing across the board. When there is a gap between these rows, this is known as a broken prime. By using this strategy, players can also score more points in the backgammon game.

Backgammon Blocking Opponents - Players should aim in creating consecutive rows when building their blocking strategy. These prove most effective in obstructing the opponent’s advancement across the board. In addition, players should place these rows in strategic places on the board. The rows should ideally be placed in the middle of the board where they will be more effective. Players should aim to move checkers together and not one at a time. This ensures that players create options for future blocks later in the game, if need be. Finally, players should try and see the future advantages of placing primes on the board.

Advantages of Blocking Opponents

When the opponent is stuck and cannot advance across the board because of the blocking primes or anchors, the player enjoys a huge advantage in the game. He can easily bear off his checkers from his home board and has a lot less chance of being hit in the process. Successful blocks also lead to gammon and backgammon triumphs, thus increasing the stakes that players win at the end of the game. At this point, it is highly recommended to redouble as players have an excellent chance of winning.