If you’ve ever wanted to introduce a loved one to the ancient, strategic world of backgammon, there’s no better time than now. Backgammon, with its perfect blend of skill and luck, has captivated players for thousands of years, making it one of the oldest board games still widely enjoyed today. At Chessgammon, we believe this timeless game makes for an exceptional gift that can spark a lifelong passion. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the perfect backgammon gifts for the beginners in your life.
Understanding the Appeal of Backgammon as a Gift
Before diving into specific gift recommendations, let’s consider what makes backgammon such a meaningful present. Unlike many modern games that come and go with trends, backgammon has stood the test of time for good reason. Dating back nearly 5,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia, this game combines accessibility with depth—players can learn the basics in minutes but spend a lifetime mastering its nuances.
Giving someone their first backgammon set isn’t just presenting them with a game; you’re offering an entry point to a rich community, a mental workout that sharpens strategic thinking, and a social activity that bridges generations and cultures. Whether you’re shopping for a curious teenager, a strategy-loving adult, or a retiree looking for new hobbies, backgammon delivers endless hours of engagement.
As backgammon history shows us, this game has brought people together across millennia—from ancient Egyptian pharaohs to medieval nobility to modern-day tournament players. Your gift continues this storied tradition.
Essential Components of a Beginner’s Backgammon Set
When shopping for a newcomer to the game, understanding the key components of a quality backgammon set will help you make an informed choice. A complete backgammon set typically includes:
The Board: Traditional backgammon boards feature 24 narrow triangles called “points” arranged in four quadrants of six points each. For beginners, clarity of design is crucial—look for boards with distinct coloring that makes it easy to differentiate between points.
The Checkers: Also called “men” or “stones,” a standard set includes 30 checkers (15 of each color, typically black and white or other contrasting colors). The weight and feel of these pieces significantly impact the playing experience.
Dice and Dice Cups: Two pairs of dice are standard (four dice total), along with a doubling cube (a special die marked with 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64 that tracks score multipliers). Dice cups prevent questionable rolls and add to the tactile pleasure of the game.
Carrying Case: Many backgammon sets double as their own carrying case, with a hinged design that folds to protect the pieces during transport and storage.
For beginners specifically, prioritize durability, clarity of design, and ease of handling over luxury materials or tournament specifications. Their first set should be inviting and forgiving rather than intimidating.
Starter Backgammon Sets: What to Look For
The market offers an impressive range of backgammon sets, from budget-friendly options under $30 to handcrafted luxury sets costing thousands. For beginners, we recommend focusing on the mid-entry level, where you’ll find sets that balance quality, durability, and affordability.
When selecting a starter set, consider these factors:
Size matters: Standard tournament boards have points measuring approximately 1.75 inches, making the full playing surface about 20 inches when open. This size works well for most adults, but consider smaller travel sets for younger players or those with limited space. Conversely, oversized boards can be excellent for older players or those with vision or dexterity challenges.
Material considerations: Entry-level sets typically feature vinyl boards with plastic pieces, while mid-range options might include leatherette surfaces and weighted resin checkers. Wood veneer boards offer an upgrade in appearance and playing experience without the substantial investment of solid hardwood sets.
Portability: If your recipient might enjoy taking their game to coffee shops, friends’ homes, or on travels, prioritize sets that close securely and protect the pieces. Many quality beginner sets feature magnetic boards that prevent pieces from shifting during transport.
Clarity of markings: Clear point numbering and high-contrast colors between the points make learning much easier for beginners. Some educational sets include helpful reminders about setup and basic rules printed directly on the board.
One excellent starter option we recommend at Chessgammon’s backgammon collection is our Classic Starter Set, which balances quality materials with an approachable price point perfect for gifting.
Beyond the Board: Supplementary Gifts for New Players
While a quality board set forms the foundation of your gift, consider these complementary items to enrich the beginner’s experience:
Instructional books: Despite the digital age, nothing beats a well-written book for learning backgammon fundamentals. “Backgammon for Dummies” by Chris Bray offers accessible instruction for absolute beginners, while Paul Magriel’s “Backgammon” remains the definitive text for players ready to advance beyond basics.
Digital learning tools: Several excellent apps and online resources can supplement hands-on play. Consider gifting a subscription to a backgammon learning platform where they can practice against AI opponents of varying difficulty levels.
Premium dice: Precision dice with sharp edges and perfectly balanced weight distribution make for a thoughtful addition to a basic set. These dice produce more truly random rolls than the rounded-edge dice typically included with beginner sets.
Score-keeping accessories: A dedicated backgammon scorebook or an elegant score-keeping device adds a touch of sophistication to casual play and helps track progress over time.
Carrying case: If your chosen set doesn’t include a quality case, a dedicated backgammon bag with padding and compartments for all components makes a practical companion gift.
These supplementary items show thoughtfulness and encourage continued engagement with the game beyond the initial learning phase. Check out our backgammon accessories page for more ideas that pair perfectly with a beginner’s set.
Age-Appropriate Backgammon Gifts
Backgammon’s beauty lies in its appeal across age groups, but considerations vary depending on the recipient’s stage of life:
For children (ages 8-12): Look for durable sets with larger, easy-to-handle pieces and simplified rules. Some manufacturers create kid-friendly backgammon variants that introduce core concepts gradually. Bright colors and themed designs (space, animals, etc.) can capture younger players’ imagination.
For teenagers: Standard-sized sets with contemporary designs appeal to teens. Consider sets that incorporate technology, such as boards with built-in timers or companion apps that track statistics. Travel sets that fit in backpacks make backgammon accessible between classes or at social gatherings.
For adults: First-time adult players appreciate sets that balance quality and value. Focus on boards with clear instructions and perhaps accompanying digital resources. Sets that display well in living spaces serve both functional and decorative purposes.
For seniors: Consider boards with high-contrast colors, larger points, and weighted pieces that are easier to grasp and place. Magnetic components reduce frustration if the board gets bumped. Incorporate larger dice or dice cups with internal ridges that ensure proper tumbling.
By tailoring your gift to the recipient’s age group, you’ll increase the likelihood that backgammon becomes an enduring hobby rather than a passing interest. Our age-appropriate backgammon guide offers more detailed recommendations for each age bracket.
Budget-Friendly Options That Don’t Sacrifice Quality
Quality backgammon gifts don’t necessarily require a substantial investment. Consider these approaches for meaningful yet affordable backgammon gifts:
Travel sets: Compact magnetic sets offer full functionality at lower price points, typically ranging from $25-$45. These sets often feature innovative design solutions that maintain playability while reducing materials and manufacturing costs.
Vintage finds: Well-maintained second-hand backgammon sets, especially those from the 1960s-1980s when the game experienced a popularity boom, often offer excellent value. Look for sets with complete components and minimal wear on playing surfaces.
DIY options: For crafty gift-givers, creating a personalized backgammon set can be both economical and meaningful. Numerous online tutorials guide you through converting wooden boxes into custom boards, potentially incorporating colors, themes, or designs significant to your recipient.
Digital alternatives: While a physical set offers the best experience, gifting access to premium online backgammon platforms provides an inexpensive entry point for exploring the game before investing in physical equipment.
Package deals: Watch for special holiday bundles at Chessgammon’s special offers page, where we occasionally pair entry-level boards with instructional materials at significant savings.
Remember that for beginners, playability and clarity trump luxury. A modestly-priced set with well-designed fundamentals often serves new players better than premium sets with unnecessary embellishments.
Luxury Backgammon Gifts for Special Occasions
While budget-friendly options work well for casual gifting, milestone celebrations sometimes call for more substantial investments. Premium backgammon sets make memorable gifts for significant birthdays, retirements, graduations, or other major life events.
In the luxury category, consider these distinctive options:
Hardwood craftsmanship: Sets crafted from walnut, oak, olive wood, or exotic hardwoods offer unparalleled beauty and durability. These boards typically feature hand-inlaid points, often using contrasting woods or mother-of-pearl accents.
Leather-bound elegance: Full-grain leather playing surfaces and bound exteriors develop a rich patina over time, creating heirlooms that improve with age. These sets often include matching leather dice cups and storage compartments for pieces.
Artisanal touches: Hand-painted points, custom-designed checkers, or personalized elements transform a game set into a work of art. Some luxury manufacturers offer customization services to incorporate initials, significant dates, or family crests.
Heritage replicas: Museum-quality reproductions of historical backgammon sets allow players to connect with the game’s rich past. These might replicate Byzantine designs, Persian motifs, or Victorian craftsmanship.
When investing in premium sets, verify the manufacturer’s reputation and examine their craftsmanship guarantees. True luxury sets should come with proper documentation, care instructions, and sometimes certificates of authenticity.
For those considering luxury options, we offer consultations through our premium collection service to help match exceptional backgammon sets to your recipient’s preferences and your commemorative occasion.
The Gift of Learning: Backgammon Lessons and Experiences
Sometimes the most valuable gift isn’t the physical game but the knowledge to play it well. Consider these experience-based gifts that complement a backgammon set:
Private instruction: Many cities have backgammon clubs where experienced players offer one-on-one lessons. A package of 3-5 sessions gives beginners personalized guidance beyond what books or videos can provide.
Online coaching: Several professional backgammon players offer remote coaching sessions via video conferencing. These sessions can be recorded for future reference, allowing your recipient to revisit key concepts.
Club memberships: Local backgammon clubs typically welcome beginners and offer regular playing opportunities in supportive environments. Annual memberships often include newsletters, tournaments, and social events.
Backgammon weekends: For a truly special gift, consider backgammon retreats or weekend workshops where beginners immerse themselves in learning while connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
Tournament entry: Many tournaments include special brackets for beginners. Covering the entry fee and accompanying your recipient to their first competitive experience creates memorable bonding opportunities.
The social dimension of backgammon often becomes its most rewarding aspect for many players. By facilitating connections with the broader backgammon community, you’re giving a gift that continues to enrich long after the initial learning curve.
Wrapping and Presenting Your Backgammon Gift
The presentation of your backgammon gift deserves special attention. Consider these approaches to make the unveiling memorable:
Themed packaging: Wrap your gift using paper featuring dice patterns, game boards, or historical images related to backgammon’s rich heritage.
The complete experience: Consider creating a backgammon “starter kit” by combining a board with accessories, books, and perhaps specialty snacks or beverages that complement game play.
Personal touch: Include a handwritten note explaining why you chose backgammon specifically for this person, perhaps highlighting qualities they possess that align with successful backgammon play (patience, strategic thinking, adaptability).
Demonstration ready: If possible, learn the basic setup and rules yourself before gifting, so you can offer an introductory game immediately after they open their present.
Digital accompaniment: Create a custom QR code that links to online resources you’ve pre-selected to help them get started, including video tutorials or the Chessgammon learning center.
Remember that for many recipients, backgammon will be entirely new territory. Your thoughtfulness in easing their entry into the game significantly increases the likelihood that they’ll develop a genuine appreciation for it.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Your Backgammon Gift
By gifting backgammon to a beginner, you’re not simply presenting a board game—you’re offering an introduction to one of humanity’s most enduring pastimes. The strategic depth, social connection, and intellectual stimulation backgammon provides can enrich your recipient’s life for decades to come.
Whether you choose a modest travel set with a helpful guidebook or invest in a handcrafted heirloom paired with professional instruction, your thoughtfulness creates a gateway to this fascinating world. Many lifelong players can trace their passion back to that first set they received as a gift.
At Chessgammon, we’ve witnessed countless beginners transform into enthusiasts after receiving their first set as a present. We take pride in helping gift-givers select the perfect introduction to backgammon for their friends and loved ones.
Remember that the best backgammon gift combines quality materials, appropriate complexity for the recipient’s situation, and resources that support their learning journey. With these considerations in mind, your gift stands to become not just a one-time pleasure but a source of ongoing enjoyment and growth.
For personalized recommendations or assistance selecting the perfect backgammon gift for a beginner in your life, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’re passionate about connecting new players with this remarkable game that has captivated humanity for millennia—and continues to do so in our digital age.
