In exceptionally simple terms, there are 3 main tactics used. You must be agile enough to switch strategies instantly as the course of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This involves assembling a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at a minimum as thick as you can achieve, to barricade in your opponent’s checkers that are located on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most adequate tactic at the start of the game. You can build the wall anywhere inbetween your 11-point and your 2-point and then move it into your home board as the game progresses.
The Blitz
This consists of closing your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your opponent on the bar. i.e., if your challenger rolls an early two and shifts one checker from your 1-point to your 3-point and you then roll a 5-5, you are able to play 6/1 six/one 8/3 8/3. Your competitor is now in big-time dire straits considering that they have two checkers on the bar and you have locked half your inner board!
The Backgame
This plan is where you have 2 or more anchors in your opponent’s inner board. (An anchor is a position consisting of at a minimum 2 of your checkers.) It should be played when you are decidedly behind as it greatly improves your opportunities. The best areas for anchor spots are near your opponent’s lower points and also on adjoining points or with a single point separating them. Timing is essential for an effectual backgame: at the end of the day, there is no reason having 2 nice anchor spots and a complete wall in your own inner board if you are then required to break down this straight away, while your competitor is shifting their checkers home, owing to the fact that you do not have any other additional pieces to move! In this case, it is more tolerable to have checkers on the bar so that you are able to preserve your position until your opponent gives you an opportunity to hit, so it may be a good idea to attempt and get your competitor to get them in this situation!
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