Backgammon Classic Board Live

It is the perfect backgammon app & game app in general. The interface is very well designed - easily read, very subtle without straining the eye, no random marketing ads to distract, original feel of the board game but digital, and the ability to play with people around the world, the computer, or with a friend (whether the friend be next to you or any other location in the world - don’t necessarily have to be in the same room). The option of paying a dollar is well-worth it (especially since it’s generously valued) to not have to wait in between games to watch an ad. At the same time, it’s nice because you don’t have to wait. Either way the preference is up to the user. I actually downloaded it to see if I still knew how to play (since my family basically have championship games at home). And what I use to play once every decade became 12 hours a day (I wish I was exaggerating). This fact is so embarrassing to admit but to really see the truth about this game - it must be said. So, it is addicting. I just don’t know how people reach such high/grandiose points - either they are religiously & gave up on real life to dedicate themselves to play without incentive or I don’t know how to gain more points. I have a hunch it’s the former but I would love to know for sure! Get it! You read this review to this point - could have just played 3 games! Have fun!

The developer’s description says rolls are random and not based upon the current game board. This is false. More times than not, a perfect roll to both hit and cover is the outcome. I have played well over 100 online matches and this is my experience nearly every time. I am an experienced backgammon player with an online rating (for this game) of 1161. Very frustrating experience regardless if the match is online or single player against the AI. There is a bug/glitch that will prevent the AI from moving the furthest back piece to prevent a backgammon after moving off the board. Instead they will move a piece to create a block even after it becomes a running game. If you are a novice, or maybe just looking for a way to waste time, maybe this is the game for you… otherwise, I would suggest almost any other backgammon app. There are plenty of free ones that boast random rolls (and actually do a better job delivering). Oh!! And I almost forgot; be prepared for advertisements that can’t be skipped. The highlight to this game and the reason I’m giving two stars instead of one is because it has a wide range of players of varying skill levels. Online matches rarely take more than a few seconds to connect and a short turn timer keep games moving at a steady and consistent pace even when players are not paying attention. Beware though because the AI will move for you if you miss your turn.

Other backgammon apps are widely believed to create roll scenarios based on profitability. This one provides truly random rolls. I have played online backgammon with this app for years and I find it reliable and fun. At all times, day or night, it hooks me up with a live player in less than thirty seconds. I have played people from all over the world which adds to the fun of this global and ancient game. Play against the AI (the computer) is fun too though it is not like playing a human. My only disappointment is that the game does not allow for a doubling cube. There are no matches, just single games. The developer says this is because most handheld online players only want to play one game but I have played on another app where 5-game opponents are readily available. Despite this, this is the best app out there. The other apps, including the one allowing matches, do not have truly random dice throws. You can have six doubles, one after another, or crazy inconsistencies with the other apps. It is believed that these other backgammon apps guide the rolls for increased profitability because they offer in-app purchases. This backgammon app is pure backgammon and is the IOS leader for good reason. Someday, someone will develop an honest app with match play and that will be the day I use another app; until then, this is my daily player.