How do checkers move in TrigammonX?

 

Learning how to move your checkers is one of the first steps toward mastering TrigammonX!
TrigammonX uses a unique 36-point, three-player board. Although checker movement shares some similarities with traditional backgammon, there are important differences.

1. All Checkers Move Counterclockwise

In TrigammonX, all three players move their checkers counterclockwise around the board.

Each player follows their own path toward their home board, where they eventually bear off their checkers. Unlike traditional backgammon, where opponents move in opposite directions, all three TrigammonX players travel in the same rotational direction.

2. Triple Dice — The Default Way to Play

TrigammonX uses three dice by default, introducing exciting new movement possibilities and strategic decisions.

Each die represents a separate movement value.
For example, if you roll a 2, 3, and 5, you may be able to:

• Move three different checkers using one die each.
• Move one checker using all three dice, provided each individual movement is legal.
• Divide the dice between two checkers.

Every movement must follow the game's legal-move rules.

Prefer two dice?

TrigammonX also offers an optional Two-Dice variation for players who prefer a more traditional style of gameplay.You can select your preferred dice mode in the game's settings.

3. Where Can a Checker Land? 

A checker may land on:

• An empty point.
• A point already occupied by your own checkers.
• A point containing exactly one opposing checker, allowing you to hit it.

A checker cannot land on a point occupied by two or more checkers belonging to an opponent. With three players involved, you'll need to watch both opponents carefully!

4. What Happens When You Hit an Opponent? 

If you land on a point containing a single opposing checker, that checker is hit.The hit checker is moved to its owner's bar. A player with a checker on the bar must re-enter it into play according to the legal entry rules before moving their other checkers.

5. What If I Cannot Make a Move? 

Sometimes your dice roll may not provide any legal checker movements. If no legal moves are available, your turn passes to the next player. If only some dice movements are legal, the game applies the relevant movement rules to determine which moves can or must be played. TrigammonX helps identify available moves through its legal-move highlighting system.

6. Moving Checkers in TrigammonX. 

TrigammonX includes interactive controls designed to make movement easier.

During your turn:

1. Roll the dice.
2. Select or drag a checker you want to move.
3. Look for the highlighted legal destinations.
4. Move your checker to a permitted point.
5. Continue until your turn is complete.

Available movement controls and highlights may vary depending on your game settings.

7. Practice Makes Perfect! 

The best way to learn is by playing. Start with a game against computer opponents and experiment with different checker movements. As you gain experience, you'll begin recognising blocking opportunities, safe landing points, and ways to avoid being hit.

Ready to Practise?

Play TrigammonX and discover the excitement of Backgammon for Three!

TrigammonX™ — Backgammon for Three!