Speed Gammon is a fast-paced variation of backgammon designed for players who enjoy thinking quickly and making decisions under pressure.
The objective remains exactly the same as in traditional backgammon:
bear off all of your checkers before your opponent.
So what makes Speed Gammon different?
As the name suggests, it’s all about time.
If you enjoy intense matches, fast calculations, and adrenaline-fueled decision-making, Speed Gammon might be the perfect format for you.
How Does Speed Gammon Work?
Speed Gammon is commonly played in live tournaments and is featured at most major backgammon events around the world.
The typical format is:
- 5-point match
- Single elimination
- Played with a clock
While the board rules remain unchanged, the time controls are dramatically shorter than in standard play.
Time Controls in Speed Gammon
To understand Speed Gammon, it helps to compare it to normal tournament play.
Standard Tournament Timing
In a regular match:
- Players usually receive 2 minutes per point
- A 9-point match gives each player 18 minutes
- A 12-second delay per move is common
The clock only starts counting down if you exceed the delay. If your time bank reaches zero, you lose the match.
Speed Gammon Timing
In Speed Gammon, the pressure increases significantly:
- A 5-point match
- Only 2 minutes total in the time bank
- Usually a 10-second delay per move
This leaves almost no room for hesitation. Every second matters.
Players must:
- Recognize positions instantly
- Make quick cube decisions
- Avoid time trouble at all costs
Strategy Implications
Because of the time constraints, Speed Gammon often leads to:
- More aggressive play
- Faster attacking decisions
- Increased risk-taking
However, complex positions still arise — and when they do, players must choose between:
- Spending precious seconds to calculate
- Or trusting instinct and experience
Speed Gammon rewards pattern recognition, discipline, and confidence more than deep calculation.
Where Can You Play Speed Gammon?
To play Speed Gammon live, you need a backgammon clock.
Online platforms make it much easier to practice:
- Nextgammon offers timed matches with fast controls
- Backgammon Galaxy also supports clock-based play
Online play is the best way to get comfortable with fast time settings before trying Speed Gammon in a live tournament.
Final Thoughts
Speed Gammon is not for everyone — but for players who thrive under pressure, it’s one of the most exciting ways to play backgammon.
It sharpens:
- Decision-making
- Time management
- Nerve control
Give it a try online or at your local club and see how well you handle the clock.
May the dice — and the clock — be with you! ⏱️🎲