Basic Rules on Backgammon Etiquette
Other than the rules of play and the terminology that comes with backgammon, the game also has rules on procedure and etiquette. Some of the etiquette we'll mention below have something to do with the actual game play itself while others don't exactly relate to it. Of course, if you study backgammon basics you should never skip on etiquette and decorum since these are also part of the game.
Starting off, we should begin where our hands first make contact in the game and that is with the dice. The dice that comes with your backgammon set should have rounded corners since these will roll easily. The idea behind all the fuss with the dice is that your roll should really be random. Fairness is the issue when dealing with backgammon the dice used in backgammon and in any other game.
To further enforce the randomness of each roll of your dice your backgammon set will come with dice cups. You should use one to ensure there is no manipulation or cheating when rolling the dice. The protocol is to use both hands when shaking your dice using the cups. One holds the cup and the other hand should be used to cover the cup's opening. Shake the dice a few times then drop the dice onto the backgammon board. In case they roll off the table, only one comes out of the cup, or they land on the checkers you should pick them up and roll again.
Now when you move your backgammon checkers use only one hand. There is no touch move rule in backgammon. If you are unsure about the move you just made you can take it back and make another move provided you return the checkers first to their original position before trying another move. Now, if you make an illegal move you are supposed to correct it before you pick up your the dice. Picking up your dice means your turn is over and your opponent can roll.
But if you notice your illegal move after picking up the dice you should inform your opponent and ask if you can correct the move. You are not to distract your opponent at any time in the game. Now if both of you didn't notice the illegal move and have gone on they will be accepted as legal and neither of you can correct the move.
Now, if your opponent is making moves or thinking about a move to make you shouldn't shake the dice. Never comment on how your opponent plays backgammon nor should you speculate on your opponent's luck.
These are simple basic rules on procedure and etiquette when you play the game. If you study backgammon basics you can never skip on the etiquette and procedure involved.
