Backgammon vs. Chess: Which Strategy Game Is Better?

Quick answer

Choose chess for pure strategic depth with no luck, and backgammon for a blend of strategy and chance that keeps games tense. Chess offers a lifetime of study; backgammon is easier to learn but still rewards tactical thinking. If you want a game that relies solely on skill, go with chess. If you prefer a faster, more social game with dice-driven excitement, backgammon is your match.

Backgammon and chess are two of the oldest and most beloved strategy games, but they offer very different experiences. Chess is a game of perfect information where every piece matters and luck plays no role. Backgammon, by contrast, introduces dice, adding an element of chance that can level the playing field between players of different skill levels.

This comparison breaks down the key differences in complexity, learning curve, and strategic depth to help you decide which game deserves a spot on your shelf. Whether you're a beginner looking for a new hobby or a seasoned strategist seeking a fresh challenge, understanding these distinctions is key.

Complexity and Learning Curve

Chess is often considered the harder game to master. With 16 pieces per side, each moving in unique ways, and an opening theory that can take years to absorb, the learning curve is steep. Beginners must memorize opening principles, tactical patterns, and endgame techniques. The game offers infinite complexity, and even grandmasters continue to study new ideas.

Backgammon is simpler to learn. The board has 24 triangles, and pieces move according to dice rolls, so the basic rules can be grasped in minutes. However, mastering backgammon involves understanding probability, building primes, and making strategic hits. The dice introduce luck, but skilled players consistently win over the long run by making optimal moves.

• Chess: No luck, pure strategy, but a steep learning curve.
• Backgammon: Easy to learn, harder to master due to probability and tactical decisions.

Strategic Depth and Decision Making

In chess, every move is a calculated risk. You must anticipate your opponent's responses and plan several moves ahead. The game rewards deep calculation and pattern recognition. There are no random elements, so a loss is entirely due to your own mistakes. This makes chess a pure test of skill, but it can be mentally exhausting.

Backgammon requires a different kind of thinking. You must weigh the odds of each dice roll and decide whether to play safe or take risks. The doubling cube adds a layer of strategy, allowing you to wager on the outcome. This element of chance makes backgammon more forgiving for beginners, but it also means that even the best player can lose a single game to a lucky roll.

• Chess: Deep, deterministic strategy with no luck.
• Backgammon: Strategic decisions mixed with probability and risk management.

Time Commitment and Game Length

A chess game can last anywhere from a few minutes in blitz to several hours in tournament play. The length depends on the time control and the players' styles. Casual games often take 30–60 minutes, but they can be longer if players think deeply. Chess requires sustained concentration, which can be a barrier for casual players.

Backgammon games are typically shorter, often lasting 15–30 minutes. The dice speed up the pace, and the doubling cube can end games prematurely if a player concedes. This makes backgammon easier to fit into a busy schedule or play multiple rounds in one sitting. It's a great choice for a social gathering where you want to rotate players.

• Chess: Variable length, often longer and more intense.
• Backgammon: Shorter, faster-paced games ideal for casual play.

The Tradeoffs

• Skill vs. Luck: Chess is pure skill; backgammon includes dice luck. Choose chess for a pure test of intellect, backgammon for a more forgiving game.
• Learning Curve: Chess has a steep learning curve; backgammon is easier to pick up. Beginners may prefer backgammon for immediate fun.
• Game Length: Chess games can be long; backgammon is quicker. If you have limited time, backgammon fits better.

Related Games from Ridley's

• Selfish: Space Edition: You and your former friends are floating in space and your oxygen supplies are running low. This is a race. A race through the vast and dangerous void. And only the ruthless will survive. If you enjoy the strategic tension of backgammon but want a sci-fi theme with a similar mix of luck and tactics, this game offers a fresh twist.
• Disney List or Twist: In this game, the answers are as easy as the clues—and how good the clues are is up to you! "List" for a clue or "Twist" to guess what's on the card. For a lighter, party-style alternative to chess or backgammon, this game tests your knowledge and creativity in a fun, fast-paced format.

Which Should You Choose?

Best for

• Chess: players who enjoy deep, analytical challenges and are willing to invest time in learning.
• Backgammon: those who like a mix of strategy and chance, and want a faster, more social game.

Not for

• Chess: casual players who get frustrated by a steep learning curve or prefer games with luck.
• Backgammon: purists who dislike any element of randomness in their strategy games.

Ultimately, the choice between backgammon and chess comes down to your personal preferences. Chess offers an unmatched depth of strategy with no luck involved, while backgammon provides a more accessible yet still strategic experience with its blend of skill and chance. Consider your gaming style, available time, and willingness to learn, and you'll find the perfect classic game to challenge your mind.