In exceptionally simple terms, there are 3 chief strategies employed. You must be agile enough to switch tactics quickly as the action of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This involves creating a 6-thick wall of checkers, or at a minimum as thick as you are able to manage, to lock in your opponent’s pieces that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most suitable tactic at the start of the game. You can assemble the wall anyplace within your 11-point and your two-point and then shift it into your home board as the match advances.
The Blitz
This consists of locking your home board as quick as possible while keeping your opposer on the bar. e.g., if your opponent rolls an early 2 and shifts one checker from your 1-point to your three-point and you then roll a five-five, you can play 6/1 6/1 8/3 8/3. Your opponent is now in big-time trouble due to the fact that they have 2 checkers on the bar and you have closed half your inner board!
The Backgame
This tactic is where you have two or higher pieces in your opponent’s home board. (An anchor is a position occupied by at least two of your pieces.) It would be employed when you are significantly behind as this plan greatly improves your opportunities. The best areas for anchor spots are close to your competitor’s lower points and either on adjoining points or with one point in between. Timing is essential for an effective backgame: after all, there is no reason having two nice anchors and a complete wall in your own inner board if you are then required to break apart this right away, while your opposer is moving their pieces home, because you don’t have any other spare checkers to shift! In this case, it’s more favorable 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 will be a great idea to attempt and get your opposer to get them in this situation!
