GAME RULES

Tavla Rules

This style is popular mostly in Turkey.


Similarities and Differences to Classic Backgammon:

Tavla closely resembles classic backgammon but has some distinct rules that add complexity.

Beginning of the Game:

Each player rolls one die initially. The player with the higher number rolls both dice again for the first move. This differs from backgammon, where both players roll two dice from the start.

Moving the Checkers:

Checker movement is largely the same as in backgammon, except for one key rule: In your home board, you cannot "hit and run." This means if you hit an opponent's checker, you must leave your hitting checker in place, creating potential risk. It's advised to cover this exposed checker.

Bearing Checkers Off:

The process is identical to backgammon, with a crucial exception: You must always bear off a checker if the dice allow.

For instance, if you roll a 5 and a 2 and have a checker on the third point, you must use the 5 to bear off that checker. This rule prevents advancing checkers to cover others, increasing the game's difficulty.

Game Outcome:

The rule for bearing off checkers is the same as in backgammon, with the mandatory bear-off when possible.