What would you play in this position?

Once XG2 showed me, and I allowed this move to enter my mind, I saw that it’s clearly the best: the double hit BAR/21*, 8/2*. Over the board I immediately excluded this one: two blots in my home board against a four point board of my opponent cannot be correct.

But if you do the math it’s the best move.

My move, BAR/21*, 21/15, leaves shots with every 4 and every 5; the best move leaves shots with ever 2 and every 4 (note the duplication of the 4 with BAR/4 and 17/21). And if white doesn’t hit, I have a won position with many rolls that hit again or consolidate my board.

Backgammon is the only board game I know that allows to make moves, look at the position, and re-consider. I should do this more often. Because sometimes you don’t see the obvious until you actually look 🙂