In exceptionally general terms, there are three general tactics used. You must be agile enough to switch game plans instantly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This comprises of building a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at a minimum as thick as you can manage, to block in your opponent’s checkers that are located on your 1-point. This is judged to be the most adequate course of action at the begining of the match. You can build the wall anywhere between your 11-point and your 2-point and then shift it into your home board as the match continues.

The Blitz

This consists of closing your home board as fast as possible while keeping your challenger on the bar. For example, if your challenger tosses an early two and shifts one piece from your one-point to your three-point and you then toss a 5-5, you can play six/one six/one eight/three 8/3. Your opponent is now in big-time difficulty due to the fact that they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have closed half your inside board!

The Backgame

This strategy is where you have 2 or more anchors in your competitor’s home board. (An anchor is a point occupied by at a minimum 2 of your pieces.) It would be used when you are decidedly behind as it much improves your opportunities. The best places for anchors are near your competitor’s lower points and also on adjacent points or with a single point in between. Timing is important for an effectual backgame: at the end of the day, there is no point having two nice anchors and a solid wall in your own home board if you are then required to break apart this straight away, while your competitor is getting their checkers home, because you do not have any other extra pieces to shift! In this situation, it is better to have checkers on the bar so that you can maintain your position until your opponent gives you a chance to hit, so it may be a wonderful idea to attempt and get your opposer to get them in this situation!