This well organized primer discusses the checker play of 120 positions. The positions are each chosen to discuss a prevailing theme such as when to run, the importance of an advanced anchor, or preventing a double. For the intermediate to advanced player the 1-2 page discussions of each position are insightful. The analysis emphasizes fundamentals and the relative importance of the multiple objectives of each position.
Some topics show two or more subtlety different positions to highlight the covered topic.
Although some of the suggested plays can be shown inferior through rollouts, the logical analytic approach taken can benefit one's study of the game. Return to the index of book reviews . Return to the main backgammon page .