Basics of Backgammon Etiquette
Backgammon etiquette is something that every backgammon player should learn. This is because the backgammon game board consists of two players who interact by playing against each other. Displaying backgammon etiquette is a form of respect towards the principles of ethics and the game itself.
Courtesy comes first in backgammon etiquette. First, as you sit on the table, acknowledge the presence of your opponent through a short greeting. There is no need for further conversation as the game progresses; in fact it is often frowned upon by some players and in more serious tournaments. At the end of the tournament, remember to say appropriate greetings of congratulation and gratitude. It is considered rude to sit down, roll the dice and leave as soon as you are done without acknowledging the existence of your opponent. Rules against taunting, slandering and mocking also apply in backgammon etiquette.
Coffeehouse talks are also frowned upon in backgammon etiquette. Tricky backgammon players are known to use the tactic of coffeehouse talks, which are casual and friendly chatters cleverly designed to distract their opponents. Although conversation is not against the rules, this tactic truly has an unethical ulterior motive—it is viewed as unfair and downright offensive.
Backgammon players also use the term "rolling" to refer to the act of rolling the dice without waiting for the opponent to finish executing the preceding move. Arbiters of more formal backgammon tournaments regard "rolling" as against the rules, and thus do not consider the results of the dice if it originated from rolling. In other words, if you are caught in the act of rolling, you are most likely to be asked to roll again. Do not also forget to use the dice cups when rolling the dice to guarantee a fair roll.
Some players also violate backgammon etiquette by using the doubling cube to decipher their opponent's reaction. This is how this tactic works—players who doubt their intention of using the doubling cube reach out for the doubling cube and wait for the opponent's reaction, only to withdraw their hand once they see that their opponent seemed unfazed. If you recall yourself attempting to do or committing this act, then you are guilty of violating backgammon etiquette.
Remember that civility is a requirement to every social interaction, and since backgammon is a social activity, civility should follow when playing the game. Backgammon etiquette is your gateway towards a civil, fair and much more pleasant game.
