Doubles in Backgammon

What are doubles in backgammon? This is when you roll two of the same number, for example 1-1, 2-2, 3-3, 4-4, 5-5 or 6-6.

When you roll doubles in backgammon, you play the numbers on the dice twice. This means that you can move (and have to move, if possible), a total of 4 times the number that appears on the dice.

For example, if you roll double threes, you would move “three” four times, totalling 12 pips.

We use the word “pip” or “point” to describe the pointed spaces along the backgammon board, along which your pieces will move.

We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about doubles in backgammon to help you understand what they are and how to play them.

We’ll also delve a little into the fascinating topic of probability and how likely it is that you will roll a double.

Doubles in Backgammon: Frequently Asked Questions

How do you roll doubles in backgammon?

You roll doubles in backgammon, when both of the dice that you roll, land with the same number facing upward. For example if both dice land with the number three facing up, you have just rolled a double three, or “3-3”.

What happens when you roll doubles in backgammon?

When you roll doubles in backgammon, you get to move four times the number that appears on the dice. For example, if you roll double threes, you can move “three” four times, totalling 12 pips.

Do you roll again after doubles in backgammon?

When you roll doubles in backgammon do you get to roll again? No, a player does not get to roll again after rolling doubles in backgammon.

What is the probability of rolling doubles?

1/6 or 16.7%.

When you roll two fair six-sided dice, you have a 1/6 or 16.7% chance of rolling a double.

There is a total of 36 dice combinations when you roll a pair of dice. And there are 6 ways that you can roll doubles out of the 36 possible combinations. So, 6/36 = 1/6 or 16.7%.

What are the odds of rolling three doubles in a row in backgammon?

1/216 or 0.46%

We know that on any turn, the probability of a rolling double is 6/36 or 1/6.

The probability that any given turn will result in the rolling of doubles three times in a row is calculated as follows: (1/6) x (1/6) x (1/6) = 1/216 or 0.46%.

What happens if a double is rolled at the start of a backgammon game?

Before a backgammon game starts, the players both roll one die at the same time. The player who rolls the highest number gets to make the first turn, using the numbers that appear on both dice in their turn.

If when both players roll one die, the same number is rolled by each then both players roll again. This is repeated until one of the players rolls a higher number than the other, at which point the player with the higher number will make the first turn using both numbers that were just rolled.

Why is it 4x when rolling doubles in backgammon?

Rolling doubles is like having two turns in a row. Who wouldn’t want to get two turns in a row! Doubles in backgammon increases the variance in the game state, boosting randomness and making the game more fun.

Can you use all your doubles if you are moving in from the bar?

When you have checkers on the bar, you must use your roll to first bring in your checkers back onto the board. You cannot move any other checkers until all of your checkers are removed from the bar. Any time you roll doubles in backgammon, including when you are coming in from the bar, you have to use all the doubles as long as the moves are legal.

How do you move doubles in backgammon?

When you roll doubles in backgammon, you get to move 4x the number that appears on the dice. For example, if you roll double threes, you can move “three” four times, totalling 12 pips.

How do you play backgammon doubles?

If a player rolls two of the same number, called doubles, that player must play each die twice. For example, a roll of 3-3 means you can make four moves of three pips each.

Can you roll doubles in backgammon?

Yes, you can roll doubles in backgammon. This means that you can play each die twice. For example if you roll 3-3 you can make four moves of three pips each.

Frequently Asked Questions Relating to “Doubles” in Backgammon

Players searching for answers about doubles or doubling in backgammon might also be asking these questions.

These questions do not relate to “rolling a double” in backgammon. But if you have arrived on this page you may be wondering…

Can you double blot in backgammon?

Are you asking if a single checker can make two hits in one turn?

Yes, you can double blot in backgammon. You can use one or two checkers to hit two blots in one turn.

Is there a limit to double in backgammon?

This question relates to the use of the doubling cube, the die with the numbers 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64 on its faces. There is no limit on the number of redoubles.

Though the highest number on the doubling cube is 64, the stakes can rise to 128, 256 and so on. When playing money games, players are often allowed to “beaver” when they are offered the doubling cube. This doubles the value of the game once more, while they keep possession of the doubling cube.

Doubles in Backgammon: Conclusion

There you have it! Doubles in backgammon.

Now you should know what “doubles in backgammon” means, and what to do when you roll a double.

When you roll two of the same number (1-1, 2-2, 3-3, 4-4, 5-5 or 6-6) you get to move 4x the number that appears on the dice.

For example if you roll 3-3, you get to move three pips, four times.

With 1/6 probability of rolling a double, you’re sure to roll plenty while playing backgammon.

Enjoy, and may luck be on your side!