Best Opening Move for 6-2 in Backgammon
Best play: 24/18 13/11 (+0.017 equity, gnubg 3-ply analysis)
With an opening 6-2, run a back checker to the opponent’s outfield: 24/18 13/11. The six lands on the 18-point — a blot, but one that either escapes fully next turn or draws a hit that costs your opponent development. The two brings down a builder to keep the home-board plans alive. The safe alternative 24/16 runs the same checker further but strands it, and 13/5 leaves an awkward stack. The 24/18 split is the bot choice: it fights for the best outfield real estate while keeping builders flowing.
All reasonable plays for 6-2, ranked
| # | Play | Equity | Diff | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 24/18 13/11 | +0.017 | — | 50.8 |
| 2 | 24/16 | -0.007 | -0.024 | 50.4 |
| 3 | 13/5 | -0.031 | -0.048 | 49.0 |
| 4 | 24/22 24/18 | -0.064 | -0.081 | 48.9 |
Open this roll in the free solver →
Frequently asked questions
What is the best opening move for 6-2 in backgammon?
The best play for an opening 6-2 is 24/18 13/11 (GNU Backgammon, 3-ply cubeful analysis). It wins 50.8% of games from the start, with a cubeful equity of +0.017.
Is the blot on the 18-point dangerous?
It can be hit by 6-1, 5-2, 4-3 and a few doubles, but a hit there costs your opponent tempo and leaves return shots. The 18-point is valuable enough real estate to justify the exposure.