The familiar backgammon board
The familiar backgammon board is flat and square-shaped, and usually made of wood. It is divided into twenty-four, alternate colored triangular segments that are known as points. Traditionally the points are colored black and white but other alternate color schemes are equally acceptable. The points are further divided into six larger sections known as quadrants. Down the center of the board runs a ridge known as the bar and this serves to divide the quadrants into what are known as the home and outer board areas for both players. Also, blots (or lone counters) that are hit by an opposing counter are placed on the board.
Over the past decade and half a new, virtual version of the familiar backgammon board has appeared in the many versions of Internet backgammon now available. With the development of 3-D computer technology these can look very similar to the traditional wooden boards to the extent that you almost feel you can reach out your hand and touch it!
The special appearance of the familiar backgammon board is understandable with some knowledge of the rules of the game. Right at the start of the game it is essential to organizing the positioning of the fifteen counters or checkers allotted to each player. For example, one of the accepted starting positions involves each player placing five counters of their color on the point nearest the bar but within their own home area of the board. The remaining counters are also similarly positioned by both players on set points around the board. Throughout the game the arrangement of the board is a crucial element in the play.
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