The backgammon board game has been a firm favorite of all ages for at least five thousand years ? an unbeatable record. Even non-players immediately recognize the familiar backgammon set up with the board divided into twenty- four narrow triangular divisions almost invariably colored black and white, the circular black and white checkers and the dice cup and dice. Few other games have achieved such a high profile. However, backgammon's popularity has had its ups and downs, for example, the developing of the doubling cube in America in the 1920's boosted interest in backgammon, in particular the game played in casinos. By the 1980 backgammon was in the doldrums. Some people associated it with an outdated image and it didn't seem in tune with a youth-culture that valued fast moving games with an abundance of noise and action. The appearance on the gaming scene of the Internet backgammon games came just in time to revive backgammon's fortunes.

Internet or online backgammon offers a backgammon download that brings free backgammon onto your computer screen. All that the player requires is an Internet connection and they can log into one of sites offering free backgammon and download a virtual backgammon board, There is no need to spend time arranging the counters since the computer has already made the backgammon setup on your behalf. The attractive appearance of the downloaded backgammon set compares favorably with the latest game sets on sale in the stores. The speed of the game, and sound effects, and the chance of playing against a powerful backgammon computer appeal to a younger audience who were not drawn to the traditional backgammon game in the local caf? or backgammon club.

Among the many other attractive features of Internet backgammon is the way it allows players to have a game at a time that fits in with their work or leisure schedule and does not involve them having to even leave their home or office. Although some social commentators protest against a generation seeking instant delivery of products or services, the fact remains that the continual availability of backgammon games on the Internet is a major factor encouraging the growing patronization of these sites.

In addition to being able to play a game of backgammon at a convenient time and location, the online sites fulfill a role in providing backgammon instructions, and their backgammon computers allow games to be set at different skill levels which is very helpful for new players to improve their skills at the game and develop a good backgammon strategy. The chance to make money by online gambling is also certainly a key factor in encouraging people to login to Internet backgammon. The prizes available for the taking exceed those available in most local games. Furthermore, the social side of Internet backgammon has become important to many patrons. It provides a link between players throughout the world, and allows them to compete with each other as well as share their interest in the game in a friendly way.