Does Size (and Quality) Matter? In Backgammon, It Might

Most pro or tournament players won't play on any other backgammon surface than the traditional, larger, usually wood boards. And the backgammon romantic? Forget it! ONLY the finest, traditional (read hand-crafted) board types are acceptable. But what about those times when we travel and need to hear that rattle of dice and a large board just isn't feasible? Or, say, on a boat where you wouldn't dare risk water damaging your valuable game pieces? Well, welcome to a backgammon world that isn't bound by "one size fits all."

We've all seen them, maybe even played on them: cheap, tiny plastic mold boards that fold up into the size of a paperback novel or resemble a VHS tape box. Plastic playing pieces that resemble cough drops or chewable TUMS tablets. Some boards made of thin metal and the pieces (romantics can cover your ears) magnetic. There are "boards" made entirely out of felt and roll up into a tube. In other words, all shapes and sizes. Some specifically designed for unique purposes (travel, convenience, weight, cost, etc.), sacrificing tradition and craftsmanship to some degree.

The romantic might turn up his or her nose and cast their eyes away from the cheaper or miniature models, but they still serve a greater purpose – they literally put the game in more budding backgammon fan hands. And eventually, when hooked, the casual players then seek the finer boards and pieces.

So, the next time you spot a youngster or a seemingly clueless oldtimer playing on a less-than-official-looking game board - yes, even a plastic one – don't pity them or reject them in horror. Instead, be happy that you may have spotted a budding enthusiast. Maybe even a future champion. At the very least, a future opponent that you can knock onto the bar.