Move Over, Mahjong: Backgammon Is the New Game Craze
I believe in the power of tabletop games, like mahjong and backgammon, to be the antidote to the rise in digital consumption. And, just as these games have done for centuries, these games teach us about etiquette, eye contact, patience and how to politely win.
We have revived grandmas mahjong game and added some modern twists. Now, it is time to find grandpas backgammon board in the attic and put it to use. The follow-up to the American mahjong craze is backgammon.
What is backgammon
Backgammon, like American mahjong, is a game of strategy and luck. In a traditional one round casual game with two players, backgammon is played with a board, 30 chips and dice.
Backgammon is a game with a deep cultural history. Similar to mahjong, there are many variations depending on the region of play. While most friendly games are casual and played with two players in a single round, advanced strategy players can gamble or play match play.
How is backgammon played?
This beautiful game uses tactile pieces. The 30 smooth chips or checkers glide across the beautiful board with each roll of the dice. More recently, a doubling dice was introduced to increase the stakes for more advanced players.
Available in many colors and styles, backgammon is a game that is begging to be displayed just like the modern mahjong games.
The resurgence of the game
Backgammon is a game that has been around for centuries. The last time this game had a popular resurgence like this was in the 1920s.
Similar to mahjong, backgammon can be played for points or pennies. Most casual players just play rounds with a winner and loser. This makes the average game low stakes and inviting for beginners.
I have only played a handful of times in person. Most of my backgammon strategy has been developed with the modern addition of online games against bots.
Backgammon offers multi generational connection
Backgammon is a game of strategy and luck with a deep cultural history. Similar to mahjong, there are many variations depending on the region of play and family traditions. Most friendly games are casual and played with two players in a single round. These basic, low stakes backgammon games have the most universal rules.
In a recent game, I played against my father in law. He immigrated to the US over 50 years ago from the Eastern Mediterranean region. This region is where backgammon is thought to have originated thousands of years ago. He explained it was played in cafes and very common.
Is backgammon easier to learn than American mahjong?
Backgammon is easier to learn than American mahjong. When comparing a two player casual backgammon game to a traditional 4-player American mahjong game, backgammon involves more luck than skill. Players hope to roll doubles and race to bear off all the chips before their opponent.
In American mahjong, experienced players rely less on luck and more on strategic advantages. Advanced American mahjong players can use Charleston passes, hand selection and defensive strategies more effectively than beginner players.
Men prefer backgammon over mahjong
Men are more likely to play backgammon than American mahjong, making this a great date night game. Backgammon has fewer pieces than mahjong and travels much more easily.
Is backgammon replacing the American mahjong as the next new game craze?
You heard it here first, backgammon is going to be the next tactile game on the scene. Dust off grandpa’s set and relearn how to play with online tutorials. Just like American mahjong had a revival in 2020, backgammon is the new game craze.
Tell me about your take on backgammon
Do you love to play backgammon? Do you have a backgammon story to share? Tell me about it! missymahjong@gmail.com
