iGammon 5.0

Play backgammon against the computer or challenge your friends for an enjoyable and competitive experience. As you engage in the game, you'll notice your backgammon skills steadily improving.

The user interface of iGammon is sleek and user-friendly, allowing for a seamless gaming experience. Furthermore, the app functions flawlessly, adding to its appeal.

Features:

• Large board and checkers
• Smooth animation for faster gameplay
• Autoplay feature for forced moves
• Fast-forward function that plays out both sides of the game until the end
• Undo button for retracing steps
• Running pip counts to keep track of progress
• Customization options with the ability to choose direction of play and checker colors
• Human-vs-human mode for using your iPad or iPhone as a portable backgammon board
• Hint feature that provides suggestions when decisions become difficult

* Be sure to try out the Hint feature! It is indicated by a lightbulb icon. The lightbulb will disappear when you make the best move, offering assurance. If it remains, consider alternatives or tap on the lightbulb to view the computer's suggestion.

Modes of Play:

iGammon offers two modes of play: "table stakes" and "match play".

In TABLE STAKES, you and your opponent start with an equal number of chips. The objective is to collect all the chips before your opponent does. The doubling cube can be used to increase the stakes. If you choose to play with the "Jacoby rule", gammons and backgammons are not counted unless the cube has been turned. However, with the "Beavers rule", accepting a double allows you to immediately redouble and retain the cube.

In MATCH PLAY, the aim is to be the first player to reach a specified total number of points, also utilizing the doubling cube to heighten excitement. The "Crawford rule" comes into play when a player is within one point of winning, temporarily removing the doubling cube from play for one game.

To offer a double to your opponent, simply slide the doubling cube over to their side of the board. They can accept it by pressing "Take" (which results in gameplay at twice the previous stakes) or decline by pressing "Pass" (leading to their loss and having to pay previous stakes.)

Computer Player:

The computer AI in iGammon is exceptionally powerful. It offers two levels of difficulty: Average and Strong. Both settings provide an engaging and challenging experience.

Thank you for all your suggestions! If you have any additional features you'd like to see, please reach out by emailing me at [email protected]. Many user suggestions have already been incorporated into this app.

Enjoy your time playing iGammon!

Tom Keith, August 2017