Backgammon Dice Roller
Roll two dice for backgammon with realistic 3D physics. Backgammon is one of the oldest board games in the world, and the dice are at the heart of every move. See both results instantly — and watch for doubles, which let you move four times instead of two.
Dice Rules in Backgammon
In backgammon, each player rolls two dice on their turn. The two numbers shown can be used as two separate moves — move one checker by each die's value. You may move the same checker twice or two different checkers once each. If you roll doubles, you get four moves of that value instead of two. For example, double 6s lets you move a total of 24 pips. You must use both numbers if legally possible.
The Opening Roll
Backgammon begins with each player rolling one die. The player with the higher number goes first, using both dice as their opening roll (ties are rerolled). Experienced players have memorized the best moves for all 15 possible non-double opening rolls. The strongest openings are 3-1 (make the 5-point), 6-1 (make the bar-point), and 4-2 (make the 4-point).
Doubles: The Big Plays
Rolling doubles in backgammon gives you four moves instead of two, making doubles extremely powerful. Double 6s can move checkers 24 pips — potentially bearing off four checkers at once in the endgame. The probability of rolling any specific double is 2.78% (1 in 36), and the probability of rolling any double is 16.7% (1 in 6). Doubles can dramatically shift the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when you roll doubles in backgammon?
When you roll doubles, you play each number twice — effectively getting four moves of that value instead of two. For example, rolling double 3s means you make four moves of 3 pips each (12 total). This makes doubles very powerful, especially in the bearing-off phase.
What is the best roll in backgammon?
Double 6s is generally considered the best roll — four moves of 6 pips (24 total) can dramatically advance your position or bear off multiple checkers. For opening rolls, 3-1 and 6-1 are considered the best because they let you make key points (the 5-point and bar-point respectively).
What if I can't use both dice in backgammon?
If you can only play one of the two numbers, you must play the higher number if possible. If you can't play either number, your turn is forfeited. With doubles, play as many of the four moves as you legally can.