In astonishingly simple terms, there are 3 fundamental tactics used. You want to be agile enough to switch game plans instantly as the course of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This consists of assembling a 6-deep wall of checkers, or at least as thick as you can manage, to block in your opponent’s checkers that are located on your 1-point. This is deemed to be the most acceptable tactic at the begining of the match. You can create the wall anywhere between your 11-point and your two-point and then move it into your home board as the game advances.
The Blitz
This is composed of closing your home board as quickly as possible while keeping your opposer on the bar. For example, if your challenger tosses an early two and moves one checker from your one-point to your 3-point and you then toss a 5-5, you can play six/one 6/1 eight/three 8/3. Your opponent is now in serious trouble due to the fact that they have 2 checkers on the bar and you have closed half your inside board!
The Backgame
This strategy is where you have 2 or more pieces in your competitor’s home board. (An anchor spot is a position consisting of at least two of your checkers.) It should be used when you are extremely behind as it much improves your chances. The better locations for anchors are near your competitor’s smaller points and either on adjoining points or with one point separating them. Timing is integral for an effective backgame: besides, there is no point having two nice anchors and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then required to break apart this straight away, while your opponent is getting their checkers home, because you don’t have any other extra checkers to move! In this case, it’s better to have checkers on the bar so that you can maintain your position up till your challenger gives you an opportunity to hit, so it may be a great idea to try and get your challenger to get them in this case!
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