BLINDFOLD BACKGAMMON

Very simply put, blindfold BackGammon is played without actually seeing the BackGammon-board. A blindfold BackGammon player has no physical contact with the opponent and the BackGammon board on which the game is played. The player is informed about the move made by his opponent. His counter move is orally communicated to a referee who makes the physical move on the opponent’s board.

Basic features of Blindfold BackGammon
A blindfold BackGammon player has to visualize the total game in his mind. This calls for a high level of mental agility and analytical ability. This form of BackGammon game has been in existence for over one thousand years. There are many exhibition matches where a single blindfold BackGammon player takes on more than one opponent. These are conducted around the world. A blindfold BackGammon player taking nearly a dozen opponents simultaneously is not uncommon. This form of BackGammon can help an upcoming BackGammon player enhance his visualization capabilities and memory.

Impact on health
In the former Soviet Union, simultaneous blindfold BackGammon with more than one opponent was banned as it was considered bad for one’s health. Medical evidence proves this postulation to be true not only for the game of BackGammon but for any activity pursued without any other diversion.

It is essential to develop diversified interests to relax the mind from all monotonous routines for healthy living. Blindfold BackGammon players should understand this and cultivate other interests and hobbies. Apart from mental relaxation, blindfold BackGammon players should also concentrate on physical health by regular exercise.

Blindfold BackGammon tournaments
Many tournaments are conducted round the year showcasing the popularity of this variation of BackGammon in this age. Melody Amber tournament held in Monte Carlo is one the most famous blindfold BackGammon tournaments.

This tournament is conducted every year on an invitation basis. Many popular BackGammon players are invited to display their skills in blindfold BackGammon and speed BackGammon. Since 1992, this tournament is conducted in the month of March every year.

Learning Blindfold BackGammon
The basic requirement for playing blindfold BackGammon is familiarity with a BackGammon notation scheme. The simplest scheme is the algebraic notation. Keeping track of all the 32 pieces on the board will be difficult in the beginning for a new BackGammon player. It takes perseverance and a company of like minded friends to play together in order to cultivate the habit.

The effort in learning the game with help is a fun filled way of improving one’s mental visualization process.

BackGammon visualization on the web
Many websites have developed software to improve the BackGammon visualization process, a basic requirement for playing blindfold BackGammon. It is recommended that a beginner should select a visualization process with which he is comfortable. In the final analysis, it is the number of games you plays that will improve your skill.

Blindfold BackGammon can be used effectively to enhance your mental strength and visualization capabilities. Learning the various techniques and practicing them, is the only way to improve one’s skills in the game of blindfold BackGammon.