Backgammon
The game of backgammon is one of the most beloved and treasured among humanity. Backgammon ranks right up there with checkers and chess as not only of the most popular games in human history, but also one of the oldest. For those who are unfamiliar with backgammon and its many derivatives, the game can seem complex and confusing. Like many of the best games, backgammon is neither terribly hard nor painfully simple. In less time than it takes to boil an egg, most people can garner a basic understanding of backgammon that will grow into a fully realized grasp of both the basics of backgammon and its underlying strategies in just a few short matches.
The popularity of backgammon has fluctuated rather wildly over the many centuries in which the game has been in effect. While the game certainly may not be considered a 'craze' at this point in time, polls do show that backgammon is increasing in popularity once again. This is due to the fact that backgammon has found a new home on the internet in recent years, and as such has once again been opened to an entirely new audience and age group.
It shouldn't come as a great surprise that the game has achieved a newfound popularity because of the internet. Backgammon is essentially a somewhat basic game, and thus it lends itself to the idea of quick, easy online play against opponents all over the world, in real time. This isn't to say that the traditional way of playing is outdated or will become a relic of a bygone age. Backgammon boards can still be found at many hobby stores and retail chains, and the boards still enjoy a steady popularity in the face of their internet counterpart. This is promising news for the people who espouse the virtues of backgammon. These days, it seems that one can enjoy a good match whether in person or across the information superhighway.
Somebody that has never given the game a try might be understandably confused as to what the fuss is all about. One needs only to play a game or two, however, to be immediately hooked. There is a reason why backgammon continues to be a much touted and highly enjoyed game among people of all ages and races. The fact of the matter is that backgammon is just plain fun. Whether it is being played online or face to face in front of a board, there are still enormous amounts of untapped entertainment at the disposal of this long-lived and cherished game.
