History & Culture

The 5,000-year story of backgammon — from Mesopotamia to medieval Persia to the modern tournament circuit.

An inlaid checkered board set up on an outdoor cafe table.
Strategy & TheoryHistory & Culture

Backgammon vs. Chess: What's Actually Different

Both are ancient two-player board games with a serious competitive scene — but they reward almost opposite skills. Here's how they really compare.

3 min
An ornate wooden backgammon set with mother-of-pearl inlay, opened and ready to play.
History & Culture

From Ur to Online: The 5,000-Year History of Backgammon

From the Royal Game of Ur to medieval tavla to today's online tables — how the world's oldest board game endured.

2 min
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Strategy & TheoryTournamentsPlayers & MatchesVariantsBackgammoner Platform