Introducing someone to the world of backgammon is a truly special gift. This ancient board game, with its perfect blend of strategy and chance, has captivated players for thousands of years. If you’re looking to welcome a newcomer to this fascinating pastime, knowing which equipment, books, and resources will best serve them can be somewhat challenging. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about selecting the perfect backgammon gifts for beginners, ensuring they embark on their backgammon journey with confidence and enthusiasm.
Understanding Backgammon: Why It Makes a Perfect Gift
Backgammon stands as one of the oldest board games still enjoyed worldwide, with origins dating back approximately 5,000 years to Mesopotamia. Unlike many modern games that quickly fade into obscurity, backgammon has demonstrated remarkable staying power across civilisations and centuries.
What makes backgammon particularly special as a gift is its unique accessibility combined with strategic depth. While the basic rules can be learned in less than an hour, mastering the game offers a lifetime of enjoyment and improvement. The game’s perfect marriage of skill and luck means that beginners can enjoy competitive matches against more experienced players, with the dice occasionally evening the odds.
Backgammon develops valuable skills including probability assessment, risk management, and forward planning—all whilst providing genuine entertainment. Unlike purely strategic games such as chess, backgammon’s element of chance creates dramatic swings and keeps every match fresh and unpredictable. This blend of attributes makes it an ideal gift for practically anyone, regardless of age or background.
For those seeking to introduce family members, friends, or colleagues to this remarkable game, the following guide will help you select the perfect backgammon-related gifts to launch their journey into this fascinating world.
Selecting the Right Backgammon Set for Beginners
The cornerstone of any backgammon player’s journey begins with their first board. When selecting a backgammon set for a beginner, several factors deserve careful consideration:
Size and portability should be your first considerations. For newcomers, a standard-sized board (typically 18-20 inches when opened) offers the best playing experience without overwhelming space requirements. Travel sets, while convenient for experienced players, often feature smaller checkers and cramped playing surfaces that might frustrate beginners still developing their dexterity with the pieces.
Material quality significantly impacts both the playing experience and longevity of the set. Entry-level boards typically come in three main varieties:
1. Vinyl/Leatherette Sets: These affordable options (£20-£50) feature roll-up playing surfaces that store neatly inside a carrying case. While not as luxurious as high-end boards, quality vinyl sets provide excellent value and durability for beginners. Look for sets with adequately weighted checkers for a more satisfying playing experience.
2. Wooden Cases with Felt Interior: Moving up slightly in price (£50-£150), these sets offer a more traditional backgammon experience. The wooden case adds aesthetic appeal and sturdiness, while felt playing surfaces ensure smooth checker movement. These represent an excellent middle ground between functionality and traditional craftsmanship.
3. Entry-Level Luxury Sets: For those seeking a gift with heirloom potential, entry-level luxury sets (£150-£300) feature finer materials like genuine leather playing surfaces and precision-made checkers. While perhaps excessive for casual beginners, these sets can inspire commitment to the game through their craftsmanship.
When choosing a backgammon set, always verify that it includes all necessary components: 30 checkers (15 per player in contrasting colours), a pair of dice for each player, a doubling cube, and dice cups. Some sets also include precision dice and a storage bag for the pieces—worthwhile additions for any player.
For most beginners, a mid-range vinyl set or basic wooden case represents the sweet spot between quality and investment. These provide an authentic backgammon experience without requiring significant financial commitment before they’ve developed a passion for the game. You can explore our collection of beginner-friendly backgammon sets to find the perfect match for your recipient.
Essential Books and Learning Resources
While a quality backgammon set forms the foundation of a beginner’s journey, appropriate learning materials dramatically accelerate understanding and enjoyment. Several excellent resources specifically cater to newcomers:
Backgammon for Beginners by Bruce Becker stands as perhaps the most accessible introduction to the game. Its straightforward explanations and progressive teaching approach make it ideal for absolute beginners. The book methodically builds from basic rules to fundamental strategy concepts, using clear diagrams and relatable examples.
Backgammon for Dummies by Chris Bray offers another excellent starting point, presenting comprehensive information in the familiar, accessible format of the “For Dummies” series. Bray’s approach demystifies potentially complex concepts with humour and clarity, making it particularly suitable for those who might feel intimidated by more technical texts.
Backgammon Boot Camp by Walter Trice bridges the gap between beginner and intermediate play. While slightly more advanced, its structured approach to key concepts like probability assessment and checker distribution provides beginners with a clear development pathway once they’ve mastered the basics.
For visual learners, several online resources complement traditional books:
Our beginner’s tutorial series offers step-by-step guidance with interactive examples that can reinforce concepts found in books. These bite-sized lessons are perfect for modern learners who prefer to consume information in shorter segments.
YouTube channels like “Backgammon Galaxy” and “Beginner Backgammon” feature excellent instructional content specifically designed for newcomers. The visual demonstration of concepts like checker movement and basic tactics often clarifies aspects that might seem confusing when described purely in text.
For a truly comprehensive gift, consider pairing a beginner’s book with access to online resources, perhaps even creating a simple guide to the best free online learning tools. This combination provides multiple learning pathways, accommodating different learning styles and preferences.
Digital Resources: Apps and Online Play
In today’s digital world, backgammon learning and practice opportunities extend well beyond the physical board. Digital resources offer beginners invaluable opportunities to practice consistently, even without an available opponent.
Backgammon apps provide excellent supplementary learning tools. For iOS and Android users, “Backgammon NJ” stands out for beginners with its intuitive interface, adjustable difficulty levels, and built-in tutorials. The app’s ability to recommend moves helps newcomers understand strategic concepts during play. Similarly, “Backgammon+ offers an aesthetically pleasing experience with helpful features like match analysis that identifies suboptimal moves.
Online playing platforms connect beginners with opponents worldwide. Sites like Backgammon Galaxy or DailyGammon feature rating systems that match players with others of similar skill levels, ensuring appropriately challenging games. Many of these platforms offer free basic memberships, making them perfect complements to a physical board gift.
For a more interactive learning experience, backgammon training software like XG Mobile or GNU Backgammon analyses games and suggests improvements. While perhaps overwhelming for absolute beginners, these programs become invaluable as players develop beyond basic concepts.
When recommending digital resources to beginners, emphasize that these tools should supplement rather than replace physical board play. The tactile experience of moving checkers and rolling dice contributes significantly to the game’s enjoyment and helps develop spatial awareness of board positions.
Consider creating a simple guide to getting started with digital backgammon as part of your gift, perhaps including QR codes linking to recommended apps or websites. This thoughtful addition helps overcome the initial hurdle of setting up digital resources and encourages regular practice. You can learn more about using backgammon software to improve your game on our website.
Thoughtful Accessories for New Players
Beyond the essential backgammon set and learning materials, several accessories can enhance a beginner’s experience and demonstrate thoughtfulness in your gift selection.
Precision dice represent perhaps the most meaningful accessory upgrade for any backgammon player. Unlike standard rounded-corner dice, precision dice (also called precision-edged or casino dice) feature sharp edges and precisely drilled pips, ensuring truly random rolls.
Dedicated dice cups enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of play. Look for cups with ribbed interiors that properly tumble the dice, preventing controlled or predictable rolls. Leather or leatherette cups offer an excellent combination of quality and value for beginners.
Strategy notebooks provide valuable space for recording matches, noting strategic concepts, and tracking improvement. While any notebook could serve this purpose, dedicated backgammon journals with pre-formatted pages for recording positions and match scores make the process more engaging and structured.
Board maintenance supplies help preserve the condition of the backgammon set, extending its lifespan considerably. A simple care kit might include:
– Microfiber cleaning cloth for playing surfaces
– Wood or leather conditioner (appropriate to the board material)
– Small brush for removing dust from points and board hinges
– Storage pouch for checkers and dice
For a particularly thoughtful touch, consider including handicap strategies that allow you to play enjoyable games with the beginner despite skill differences. Printed cards explaining simple handicap systems (like starting with fewer checkers or providing occasional move advice) demonstrate your willingness to participate in their learning journey.
These accessories need not all be presented simultaneously—they make excellent follow-up gifts that acknowledge and encourage the recipient’s developing interest in backgammon. You might consider creating a “backgammon enthusiast roadmap” outlining future accessories and resources they might explore as their skills advance. Check out our backgammon accessories collection for more gift ideas.
Creating a Complete Beginner’s Package
For those seeking to provide a comprehensive introduction to backgammon, bundling several elements creates a thoughtfully curated experience that addresses all aspects of a beginner’s journey.
A complete beginner’s package might include:
1. Quality Entry-Level Board: A mid-range vinyl or wooden set that balances quality with value
2. Learning Materials: A beginner-focused book paired with printed guides to free online resources
3. Digital Resource Guide: A simple one-page guide with QR codes linking to recommended apps and websites
4. Basic Accessories: Perhaps a set of precision dice or a strategy notebook
5. Personal Touch: A handwritten note offering to play introductory games or explaining why you believe they’ll enjoy backgammon
When presenting such a package, emphasize that backgammon mastery develops gradually through regular play. Encourage them to focus initially on enjoying the game rather than memorizing optimal strategies. The natural progression from rules understanding to basic tactics to more advanced concepts unfolds most enjoyably when the foundational experience remains fun.
For an especially meaningful touch, offer to play their first few games with simplified rules, gradually introducing concepts like the doubling cube as their comfort with basic movement grows. This scaffolded introduction prevents the common beginner experience of feeling overwhelmed by too many strategic considerations before the basic flow of play becomes intuitive.
Where to Purchase Quality Backgammon Gifts?
Finding quality backgammon gifts requires some discernment, as the market includes everything from exquisite handcrafted sets to poorly made novelty items. Several reliable sources stand out for beginners:
Specialist board game retailers typically offer curated selections with knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance. These shops often allow physical examination of sets before purchase. We at Chessgammon definitely offer this.
Artisan marketplaces like Etsy feature handcrafted sets that often offer unique aesthetic appeal, though quality can vary significantly. When purchasing from individual craftspeople, carefully review their ratings and scrutinize photos of playing surfaces and checker quality.
Vintage and antique shops occasionally yield interesting finds, though these typically require careful inspection for playing surface damage or missing pieces. Vintage sets often feature distinctive character but may lack modern playing conveniences.
When purchasing for beginners, prioritize functional quality over ornate decoration or exotic materials. A cleanly printed playing surface, properly weighted checkers, and functional dice cups contribute far more to enjoyable learning than decorative inlays or exotic wood species.
For international buyers, verify shipping policies and potential customs duties before ordering. Quality backgammon sets often weigh several kilograms, making international shipping potentially expensive.
Teaching and Supporting the New Player
Perhaps the most valuable gift you can offer a backgammon beginner extends beyond physical items to include your support throughout their learning process. Several approaches make this journey more enjoyable:
Scheduled introductory sessions provide structure to the learning process. Rather than overwhelming a beginner with all rules and concepts simultaneously, plan a series of short sessions introducing elements progressively. Perhaps begin with basic checker movement, then add bearing off, and finally introduce the doubling cube across separate sessions.
Deliberate handicapping creates more balanced and enjoyable early games. Experienced players might remove several checkers from their starting position, commit to not using the doubling cube, or even occasionally ask the beginner for move advice. These approaches maintain challenge while preventing the discouragement that comes from repeated one-sided losses.
Constructive post-game analysis accelerates improvement without diminishing enjoyment. Rather than correcting every suboptimal move during play (which can overwhelm beginners), note one or two key positions to discuss afterward. Focus discussions on general principles rather than specific pip counts or probability calculations.
Community connections help sustain interest through social engagement. Research local backgammon clubs or café gatherings where beginners can meet other enthusiasts. Many clubs organize specific beginner nights or mentoring programs that provide structured learning environments.
Above all, emphasize enjoyment over immediate mastery. Backgammon’s centuries of popularity stem from its accessibility and the satisfaction of gradual improvement. By focusing first on the game’s inherent fun and only gradually introducing more complex strategic elements, you help ensure the beginner develops lasting appreciation for this remarkable game.
Remember that your enthusiasm and patience contribute tremendously to a beginner’s experience. Your willingness to play at their pace, explain concepts clearly without condescension, and celebrate their improving understanding often determines whether backgammon becomes a passing interest or a lifelong passion. Learn more about teaching backgammon to beginners with our detailed guide.
Conclusion: The Gift That Keeps Giving
Introducing someone to backgammon offers far more than a simple diversion—it provides entry into a rich tradition spanning thousands of years and crossing countless cultures. The perfect beginner’s gift combines quality equipment, accessible learning resources, and personal support through the initial learning curve.
Whether you select a comprehensive package or start with a quality board and basic introduction, your gift opens the door to a pastime offering limitless depth and enjoyment. As your recipient progresses from understanding basic moves to developing strategic intuition, they’ll likely discover backgammon’s unique capacity to be simultaneously intellectually stimulating and socially engaging.
Perhaps most meaningfully, backgammon creates connections—between players, across generations, and linking contemporary enthusiasts with thousands of years of playing tradition. By gifting backgammon, you’re not merely providing a game but offering membership in this enduring community of players.
With thoughtful selection of appropriate equipment and learning resources, supplemented by patience and encouragement during the learning process, your backgammon gift may well become one of the most meaningful and long-lasting presents they ever receive—a genuine gift that continues giving for decades to come.
