Backgammon Alternatives: A Mobile Phone Revolution

Per Damgaard Husted
The Board Gamer’s Almanac
3 min readOct 14, 2023

Backgammon, one of the oldest board games in the world, has been enjoyed by people for centuries. Its strategic gameplay and blend of luck and skill have made it a timeless classic. However, in our increasingly digital world, traditional board games like backgammon are finding new life in the form of mobile apps. In this article, we will explore the rise of mobile backgammon alternatives, the advantages they offer, and the top options available to enthusiasts.

The Mobile Gaming Revolution

As smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives, gaming on these devices has witnessed an exponential rise in popularity. People now play games while commuting, waiting in line, or simply when they have a few minutes to spare. Backgammon, known for its two-player setup and relatively short playtime, is an ideal candidate for the mobile gaming revolution.

Advantages of Mobile Backgammon Alternatives

  1. Accessibility: The most significant advantage of mobile backgammon alternatives is accessibility. Anyone with a smartphone can download a backgammon app and start playing within seconds. There’s no need to carry around a physical board, dice, and pieces.
  2. Variety: Mobile backgammon apps offer a wide range of variations and rule sets. Players can choose from traditional backgammon, hypergammon, nackgammon, and more. This variety enhances the gaming experience and keeps it fresh and exciting.
  3. Solo and Multiplayer Options: Mobile backgammon apps cater to different player preferences. If you enjoy solitary play, you can compete against AI opponents with varying skill levels. For those who crave human interaction, multiplayer modes allow you to challenge friends or compete with players from around the world.
  4. Tutorials and Tips: Most backgammon apps come with tutorials, strategy guides, and in-game hints. This can be particularly helpful for new players looking to learn the game or improve their skills.
  5. Customization: Mobile backgammon apps often allow players to personalize their boards, pieces, and backgrounds. This customization adds a personal touch to the gaming experience.

While the popularity of backgammon has led to many digital adaptations and alternatives, I can provide you with a list of 10 popular backgammon alternatives as of my last knowledge update in September 2021. Keep in mind that the availability and popularity of apps can change over time, so I recommend checking your app store or online sources for the most current options. Here are 10 notable backgammon alternatives:

  1. Backgammon Plus: A widely recognized and user-friendly app offering various board and piece customization options, as well as both single-player and multiplayer modes.
  2. XG Mobile: A mobile version of Extreme Gammon, known for its advanced AI and analysis features, catering to serious backgammon players looking to improve their skills.
  3. Backgammon NJ: This app provides strong AI opponents, impressive graphics, and support for different rule sets, making it suitable for players of all levels.
  4. Backgammon Live: A social backgammon app that lets you play against friends, participate in tournaments, and engage with a global community of players.
  5. Backgammon Masters: Known for its beautiful 3D graphics, various rule sets, and multiplayer options, this app provides an engaging backgammon experience.
  6. Backgammon Free: A straightforward and free backgammon app with adjustable difficulty levels, making it suitable for casual and beginner players.
  7. BGBlitz: BGBlitz is a powerful backgammon app with a strong AI opponent and analysis tools for serious players looking to refine their game.
  8. Backgammon Long: This app offers a classic backgammon experience with beautiful graphics, various themes, and challenging AI opponents.
  9. Backgammon Ace: With a strong AI, numerous features, and a variety of rule sets, this app caters to both beginner and experienced players.
  10. PlayGem Backgammon: This app combines the traditional gameplay of backgammon with a competitive edge, featuring leaderboards and tournaments for players looking for a more intense experience.

These apps offer different features and cater to a range of preferences and skill levels. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, you can explore these options and find the one that suits you best. Remember to check the latest reviews and user feedback to ensure you choose the most suitable backgammon alternative for your mobile device.

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