Opening roll 6-3: split and build

Play 24/18 13/10: split to the bar point and bring a builder to the 10-point.

6-3 played 24/18 13/10. Your checkers are the light ones, moving toward your home board in the bottom right.

Roll6 and 3 Best play24/18 13/10 Rank#9 of 15 opening rolls Pip count afterYou 158, opponent 167

Why 24/18 13/10

6-3 has no point-making play, so the standard idea is to split and build: 24/18 puts a back checker on your opponent's bar point, and 13/10 brings a builder within range of your 5 and 4-points.

Running one back checker to the 15-point (24/15) is a reasonable second choice.

Alternatives

24/15

Runs one back checker. Slightly weaker.

The alternative 24/15.

What to aim for next

Next turn, look to make an advanced point with the builders on 8, 10 and 13.

Not sure about the notation? Here is how to read moves like 24/18 13/10. Practise the opening against the computer: play a game and turn on hints to compare your moves.

Questions

What is the best opening move for 6-3 in backgammon?

24/18 13/10. Play 24/18 13/10: split to the bar point and bring a builder to the 10-point.

Are there other good ways to play an opening 6-3?

24/15: Runs one back checker. Slightly weaker.

Can 6-3 be rolled as a reply instead of an opening?

Yes. As a reply the best play depends on how your opponent opened, but the opening play is usually a sound starting point.

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Keep learning

How to playThe complete rules, step by step, with diagrams.StrategyKey points, the five game plans, and when to take risks.Opening movesThe best play for all 15 opening rolls.Doubling cubeDoubling, taking, dropping and the 25% rule.Pip countingCount the race fast and know who is ahead.Bearing offRules and technique for the end of the game.