What Are the Different Types of Poker Games?

Provably fair is the buzzword echoing through online gambling corridors. But beyond the jargon, how does it truly ensure every wager is on the level? Let's dissect the intricacies and shine a light on provable fairness, RNGs, and their role in the legitimacy game. What Is Provably Fair Gambling? At its core, provably fair gambling is the gold standard for fairness in the online gambling industry. But how so?  It allows players to have concrete proof that each game they play is genuinely random and hasn't been manipulated. Through the use of cryptographic algorithms, both the player and the gambling site generate random values, and their combination determines the game's outcome.  At the end of a game, players have the tools to check and verify that everything was above board. It's the ultimate comfort for online gamblers, making sure every roll, spin, or draw can be checked for true fairness. The ABCs of Provably Fair Gambling   Provably fair gambling might sound complex, but when broken down, it's a straightforward system rooted in transparency. Let's take a step-by-step look at the mechanisms that guarantee fairness. The Three Pillars of Fair Play The client seed, server seed, and nonce are foundational elements that determine how outcomes are generated: Client Seed: This is like your personal touch to the game's outcome. It's a random number generated by your device (like your computer or smartphone). Think of it as throwing your own dice in a board game. Server Seed: Generated by the online casino's server, this seed is the casino's contribution to the game. It remains hidden (or hashed) during a game to prevent any player from predicting the outcome. Once the round ends, it's revealed for verification purposes. Nonce: A counter that increases with each game round you play. Imagine it as a tally mark, keeping track of how many times you've played while guaranteeing each round is unique and can't be replicated. Instruments of Integrity Here's the tech arsenal that keeps online gambling honest and open: Random Number Generators (RNGs): Typically employed by traditional casinos and used in popular game types like online slots and video poker. As the name suggests, these are algorithms that produce random numbers, making certain each game's outcome is unpredictable.  Seed Generators: Both the client and server seeds are produced using these generators, which further randomizes the game. Hashes: This is a way of encrypting, or 'hiding,' the server seed during a game. Once the game ends, the original seed is disclosed, allowing players to verify it against the initial hashed (encrypted) version. In the Spotlight: Provably Fair vs. Regular Online Casinos  Now that you have a better understanding of provably fair casinos, you are probably wondering what the difference is between these and their traditional counterparts and which option is best. Take a look at the table below for a quick comparison of provably fair and traditional online casinos in key areas: AspectProvably Fair CasinosTraditional CasinosRandom outcomesYes, verifiable on the blockchainYes, but verification is internalTransparencyAlgorithm is openly visibleAlgorithm is proprietary & hiddenVerificationPlayers can independently verify resultsRelies on third-party auditsCurrency usedMainly cryptocurrencyFiat currency & sometimes cryptoGame qualityVaries; most games with top-notch graphicsTypically high-quality graphicsTrust mechanismSelf-auditing by playersRequires trust in casino & licensorsPopularityGrowing rapidlyAlready widely popularLicensingOften bypasses traditional licensingRequires licensing in many countries Just because provably fair casinos allow players to verify the random outcome of games themselves, does not mean regular online casinos do not apply due diligence in their running of RNGs. All reputable online casinos are required by law to ensure fair gambling opportunities, with regular RNG audits done and often displayed as proof of the casino’s transparency and commitment to providing fair game outcomes. Can Provably Fair Gambling Be Manipulated?  Each provably fair bet is associated with a set of encrypted values, which can be audited by the player after the game. Tampering is a herculean task due to the dual contribution of both player and casino in generating outcomes via the client and server seeds. If any foul play were present, it would be glaringly obvious during the verification process. The blockchain's integration further strengthens this system. Outcomes aren't just saved; they're embedded into an immutable digital structure, making after-the-fact changes impossible.  However, most people still find the process of verifying bets to be a little complicated. So, when you're taking a seat at a provably fair gambling table, you're not only playing the odds of the game but also reveling in the assurance that the outcome is untouched, genuine, and verifiable. Should You Bet on Provably Fair Games? You've probably heard whispers (or likely, loud endorsements) of provably fair games. Here’s a quick rundown on why they're worth your time: Crystal Clear Transparency Unlike traditional games where you're mostly taking the casino's word for it, provably fair games lay all their cards on the table. Every move, every outcome is open for you to verify. It's the kind of transparency that puts power back into the player's hands. Better Odds with Higher RTP Provably fair games tend to offer a higher RTP—a higher RTP means you generally get more bang for your buck. Simply put, you're looking at better odds and potentially more frequent payouts. Quality Gaming with Enticing Features Don’t mistake transparency for dullness. These games are usually packed with top-tier graphics, compelling narratives, and special features. Trust Redefined With Provably Fair Games As blockchain technology continues to gain recognition, players increasingly understand the significance of engaging in such games. While some may require a bit of effort to comprehend and verify through hashes, the best online casinos maintain transparent processes. You can rely on their integrity, or opt for the convenience of provably fair casino apps. Ultimately, provably fair games offer a remarkable benefit—fair, transparent, and open for your scrutiny. Your peace of mind is a sure bet when you play with provably fair technology.

How to play Blackjack in online and brick-and-mortar casinos? What is a soft hand, and what is a hard hand? Here, you’ll find answers to all these questions and much more. I’ll provide insights regarding betting strategies you can utilize, Blackjack etiquette, differences between a hard and soft hand, card values, and everything else you’ll need if you want to start playing the Blackjack card game. What Is a Blackjack Card Game? Blackjack, also known as Vingt-Un or Twenty-One, is a card game played with a 54-card deck where the goal is to get as close to 21 points as possible without exceeding it. Unlike some other casino games, Black jack or Blackjack is played against the dealer, no matter the number of opponents. If you already know some of the basics of this card game, you can try playing it online for free (or for real money) or in land-based casinos. There are many various versions of Blackjack you can try. However, if you want to learn more in-depth about how does Blackjack work, stick to the end, and you'll be ready. Blackjack Rules You Should Know In blackjack, there are a variety of rules and deck counts that need to be followed. There are several ways to play blackjack, but one of the most common ways is to use a shoe (a plastic device that distributes cards). Currently, there are still single-deck and multi-deck blackjack games in casinos. This article will illustrate how to play blackjack with six decks of cards, which is the most common game. The step-by-step process is as follows: A player purchases chips A player places a wager A player receives cards from a dealer A player plays a hand A dealer plays a hand Payouts Buying Chips As a requirement for playing the game, chips must be used. You'll have to exchange cash for casino chips at casinos that no longer accept cash. It's as simple as walking up to the table and putting your money on the felt. The dealers will never touch your money. There's a rule that prohibits dealers from taking items from players. You can see the amount of money on the table as soon as the dealer lays it out. A pit boss will verify it. After you buy in, a dealer counts out chips and pushes them toward you. Once you have the chips in your hand, you can begin betting. Your dealer will arrange the buy-in amount on the felt so cameras can see it. For $1,000, this is what buying in looks like. Placing a Wager At the start of a round, you first place a bet in the betting circle (sometimes a square or just the casino logo on the felt). There will also be a small sign that tells you what your betting limit is on the far right or left side of the table. On most US poker tables, a minimum wager of $5 per hand needs to be placed. This may vary depending on the casino and its regulations. Dealing Cards As soon as players place their bets, the dealer deals one card face up to each player and themselves. Another round of cards is dealt face up to every player, but the dealer's second card is dealt face down. Deciding How to Play a Hand In blackjack, you can decide to hit, stand, double down, split, and surrender, depending on the cards you're dealt. If you like your cards, the dealer will move on to the next player. That means you've decided to stand. The hand signal, in this case, is waving your hand horizontally over the cards. If you wish to hit, the dealer will give you more cards, one after another, until you reach 21 or decide to stand. There's no limit to the number of cards you can take as long as you stay under 21. Tap the felt with your finger to signal to the dealer that you want another card. In blackjack, you also have the opportunity to double down or increase your initial bet. If your hand total is favorable to you, but you need one more card to make it a winning combination, doubling your initial wager will allow you to take only one more card. To take more cards, you must place your initial wager on the left side of your original wager. Technically, you can "double for less," but it isn't a good idea most of the time. You can also place a second wager if you have an equal-value pair of cards, and the dealer will divide them so that each becomes the first card in two new hands. It's also possible to deal with a face card this way. If, for example, you have a King and a Jack in your hand, you can split them because they both have the same value, even though they're not a pair in reality. To indicate that you wish to split rather than double down, make a "peace sign." You will receive a second card when the dealer makes two hands out of your first. Finally, can surrender your initial hand in exchange for half of your original wager if you don't like it. Using your finger, draw a line across the felt behind your bet to indicate that you want to surrender. It's common for dealers to confuse this signal with the hit signal. If you want to be safe, just utter the word "surrender" and make a hand gesture for the cameras to see. Payouts You and the dealer have played your hands according to the 21 card game rules. Therefore, there are two possible outcomes. When the dealer busts, each hand still in play on the table will receive even money (1x the wager). The dealer will deal cards (17 through 21). It's just a matter of who has a better hand if your hand is still in play. The dealer sweeps your wager in that case. The dealer pays you a one-time bet if you have the higher hand. If your hand total equals the dealer's hand total, it's considered a push, so you keep your money but don't receive your wager as a reward. We have now reached the end of the round. Therefore, the cards are swept, and you start over. Basic Blackjack Strategy You Can Employ As you make your decision based on the cards you hold and the cards that the dealer shows, you employ the basic strategy to help you make the right decision. It's possible to calculate the most advantageous strategy for every possible combination of a hand and the dealer's up card. This strategy was developed by a computer based on millions of blackjack rounds to determine the best way to play each hand combination. For this reason, blackjack will never be a guessing game. Player Hand Resolution You can expect different outcomes depending on the situation. When dealt a hand where the basic strategy dictates that you shouldn't take any cards, you made the right move by standing. In order to make a hand, you must take more cards (hit, double, split) and reach 21 or under without busting. If you bust or surrender your hand, you're out of the game. When your hand busts, you immediately lose the wager you placed. This is beneficial to casinos. Since the player busted first, they still keep their money despite the dealer busting. As long as your hand hasn't busted and you haven't surrendered, the dealer has the option of playing their hand. The dealer then turns over their hole card and adds two cards. There is an automatic requirement that dealers stand when their hand totals 17 or more. If the dealer has a hand total of 16 or under, they will take additional hit cards. Unlike players, dealers can't double, split, or surrender and must play their hand the same way every time. The only exception is when the dealer has a 17 consisting of an ace and a 6. Depending on the casino, the dealer may decide to hit this hand because it counts as a 7 (since the strength of an ace can be determined in various ways), which will give them a chance of getting a better hand. The casino has an advantage when the dealer stands on all 17s in a row. The dealer usually indicates whether a soft 17 will be hit on the felt, so you know what to expect. Furthermore, dealers aren't allowed to deviate from the casino's rules. Blackjack Card Values Fortunately, it's very easy to figure out the total value of your cards at any given moment, which is good news. The value of cards 2 through 10 is the same as their number. In addition, all picture cards (i.e., jacks, queens, and kings) carry a value of 10. So that leaves us with the ace, which may be worth 1 or 11, making it a valuable card to receive because it gives you a variety of options. As a result, your blackjack card value chart should look something like this: Ace: 1 or 11 2: 2 3: 3 4: 4 5: 5 6: 6 7: 7 8: 8 9: 9 10: 10 Jack: 10 Queen: 10 King: 10 In blackjack, 52 cards are used as part of the standard deck. Depending on the number of players at the table and the preference of the casinos, the game can be played with up to eight decks. After most rounds, the dealer would have to stop and shuffle a single deck. Hard vs. Soft Hand in Blackjack When it comes to blackjack hands, there is only one card that makes the difference between a hard hand and a soft hand—an ace. Soft Hand As soon as the player is dealt two cards at the beginning of the game, the player is considered to have a soft hand if one of those cards is an ace. That's because the ace can either be a 1 or an 11. It all depends on the other card. Having a soft hand implies more liquidity and that the player has more choices. Hard Hand In contrast, in blackjack, a hard hand is when there is no ace in the hand. Therefore, a hard hand leaves the player with no options in certain situations. Betting Rules for Blackjack As with any other casino game, blackjack tables have a set of bet limits that all players must adhere to. A game's minimum and maximum bets vary based on whether it's designed for high rollers or low-stake gamblers, but they generally range from $2 to $1,000 for the minimum and maximum bets, respectively. In blackjack, players must make their wagers before any cards are dealt. The game begins after that. Even Money Rules If a player has blackjack and the dealer's up card is an ace, the dealer may offer even money. The player accepts a 1:1 payout on their original bet before the dealer checks for blackjack. Generally, this bet isn't recommended since players are statistically better off not taking it. How to Play Blackjack: Step-by-Step Instructions Now that we've discussed blackjack rules, let's see what strategies you can employ to maximize your winnings. Number of Decks Blackjack can be played using one or multiple decks of cards. The number of decks affects the house edge. In other words, the house edge increases as more decks of cards are included in the game. Also, the more decks are used, the higher the complexity of the game. In modern blackjack played in most land-based casinos, six to eight decks of 52 cards are typically used. When playing online blackjack, up to eight decks of cards are normally used. Live dealer blackjack, on the other hand, is streamed online, but it feels like a real casino. Typically, eight decks of cards are used in live dealer blackjack, but it's possible to play with six decks of cards. Hitting In order to receive another card, a player must "hit." No additional wager is required, and you can hit as many times as you like. Depending on the dealer's up card, you'll have to decide whether to hit or stand. It's generally recommended that players don't hit if the dealer's up card is a 6 or lower unless their hand is an 11 or lower. Splitting In the event that a player has two cards of equal value, they can split their hand and play them separately. A player must match their original bet to cover their new second hand. Among all moves, splitting has the most variations in rules. It's possible for players to split up to three times per round in casinos, resulting in four hands per round. If players are uncertain of the casino's betting rules, they should always ask the dealer or check the blackjack variation rules. As long as the dealer's up card is 7 or lower, pairs of aces and 8s are always worth splitting in Blackjack. Standing In order to end a turn, players should stand if they're satisfied with their hand. All players (including the dealer) draw cards until they've completed all their hands. After a player stands, their turn is over, and the rules state that they can't make any more bets. Players generally tend to stand when their hands have a value of 17 or more and 13–16 unless the dealer has an up card of 7 or higher. Doubling Down Doubling down can double a player's bet, but it's risky. In order to receive one extra card, players must match their original wager; they can't hit afterward. Dealers will give players face-down cards and must wait until all wagers are settled before the dealer flips them. In some blackjack games, you can only double down once per round if their hand value is 9, 10, or 11. Doubling down in Blackjack is a good idea on most hands containing 10 or 11 and can pay off on many hands containing aces and 2–7, but only if the dealer's up card is low. Surrendering In some blackjack variations, players can return their cards and receive half their original bet if they have a bad hand. Players who wish to surrender must do so before drawing any further cards. Surrender rules at casinos are generally divided into two categories: Early surrender: Before a dealer checks for blackjack, a player can surrender and pay only half of the initial bet. Late surrender: After a dealer checks for blackjack, a player can surrender and take half of the initial bet only if the dealer doesn't have a blackjack. Blackjack games with early surrender are rare. However, early surrender is available in a few RNG-powered PlayTech games, for instance. It should be noted that some blackjack variations don't offer surrender as an option. As a result, the odds for players are generally worse in these blackjack games. Blackjack Etiquette If you're wondering, "how do you play blackjack?" it's important to understand and learn the basic rules of the game. Blackjack etiquette is also important to follow to play the game effectively. Those new to the game who don't know the rules might get confused. It's essential to know what to do and what not to do to avoid embarrassment and enjoy the game. These blackjack table etiquette tips will help you avoid being a nuisance at the blackjack table. Don't hand your money to the dealer Never give cash to the dealer. In a Las Vegas casino, it's never allowed for a dealer to take the money out of your hand. It's not personal, but it's a casino rule. Before placing your cash on the table, wait for the current round to end. The dealer will spread out the equivalent chips before sliding them to your side of the table. If you wish to purchase chips of a particular denomination, tell the dealer. Keep your cards in one hand Make sure that you only use one hand when you are holding cards. In order to prevent the switching of cards, this rule is in place. It's easier for a player who uses two hands to switch cards than a player who uses only one hand. Table cards should never be removed Keep in mind that you should never remove your cards from the table at any point during the game. It's recommended that the cards are seen by other players, the dealer, and the security cameras. Once the dealer calls "no more bets," don't touch your chips. After you've placed your wager and the cards have been dealt, you aren't allowed to touch your chips until the end of the game. Your chips can only be collected after you've won. However, if you lose, the dealer will collect your chips for you. Don't touch the cards when they are dealt face up The shoe-dealt version of blackjack involves players receiving both cards face up and the house receiving one card face up and one face down. Players can't touch the cards. Instead, you indicate a "hit" or "stand" by using your hand motion for another card or signaling to the dealer if you're standing. Cards and chips can only be removed or moved by the dealer. Signal your decision, don't say it You must communicate your decision to stand or hit in Las Vegas through hand signals. Instead of saying "stand" or "hit," signal your decision to the dealer. Security cameras serve to record the game. Don't let hand gestures intimidate you. The dealer will be glad to show you the signals if you're new to the game. Conclusion Now that you know the rules of Blackjack, card values, hard and soft hands, moves, and all other instructions on how to play Blackjack, you can check a cheat sheet for Blackjack that you can use while practicing. If you already know how all these things, you can try to learn card counting, which can be a valuable skill in Blackjack. Lastly, I’ve prepared frequently asked questions regarding Blackjack. FAQ Is blackjack skill or luck? There are specific rules and tactics you can employ to win a blackjack game. For that reason, blackjack is considered a game of skill rather than luck. Should I hit or stand on 16? If you hold a hand of 10 or 12 to 16, it's best to hit. If you hold a 17 and over, it's wise to stand. It's important to note that when a dealer has cards 7–9, your chances increase because they can't make a blackjack. How much should you bet in blackjack? A typical blackjack bet ranges from $10 to $10,000 per hand. There's a little wiggle room—you might only find $20–$5,000 or $5–$20,000. A large casino blackjack game typically accepts between $10 and $10,000. Is ace 1 or 11 in blackjack? The value of Aces is 11, but if you need it to get to 21, it can be counted as a 1. Do you hit on 15 against a 10? In case you hold 15 in your hand that consists of an 8-7, you should hit against a dealer’s 10. What does it mean Blackjack pays 3 to 2? A 3:2 payout means you’ll get $3 for each wager of $2. This payout ratio is a standard one, giving a casino a slightly higher house edge.

Have you ever wondered why some gamblers seem to have a knack for beating the odds? The secret may lie in understanding a crucial principle of probability theory—the law of large numbers, sometimes abbreviated as LLN. This law dictates that the actual outcomes increasingly align with expected probabilities as the number of trials increases. The LLN is not just academic; it's a practical tool for improving your gambling strategies. In this article, we'll see how LLN shapes sports betting and gambling decisions. What Is the Law of Large Numbers? The law of large numbers was first conceptualized by the Swiss mathematician Jacob Bernoulli in the 17th century. It demystifies the behavior of outcomes in repeated, independent experiments, illustrating that as the number of trials increases, the average of the results approaches the expected value. Consider the act of flipping a coin, which has two potential outcomes—heads or tails. Theoretically, each outcome has a 50% chance of occurring. If you flip the coin 10 times, the outcome might not be an exact 50-50 split. However, as you increase the number of flips to 1,000, the proportion of heads to tails will draw nearer to the anticipated 50% for each. LLN exists in two forms—strong and weak. The strong law suggests that, given an infinite number of trials, the results' average almost certainly converges to the expected value. In contrast, the weak law implies that for many trials, there's a high probability that the average of the results will be close to the expected value. In gambling, the law of large numbers plays a critical role. It explains why casinos always have an edge in the long run. For example, in a game with a slightly skewed probability in favor of the house, the more the game is played, the closer the average winnings of the casino will be to this expected edge, confirming the adage, "The house always wins." The Law of Large Numbers in Roulette and Slot Machines In the classic game of roulette and slot machines, LLN plays a crucial role in determining the outcomes over an extended period. For instance, there are 37 pockets in European roulette, and the probability of the ball landing on red or black is 48.65%. Over a short series of spins, the results can deviate significantly from this percentage. However, as the number of spins increases, the actual outcomes will align more closely with the theoretical probability. Similarly, in slot machines, each spin is an independent event governed by a random number generator (RNG). Despite common misconceptions, these machines do not get "hot" or "cold." The longer the session, the more likely RTP will approximate the machine's programmed payout rate. How Does the Law of Large Numbers Work in Sports Betting? In sports betting, employing the law of large numbers for analyzing vast data sets, such as past performance records and statistics, can aid in formulating more educated predictions about game or event outcomes. For instance, if a basketball team maintains a 60% win rate over a season, LLN might suggest a similar rate moving forward under comparable conditions. Yet, it's essential to recognize that LLN doesn't assure a definite outcome, as unpredictable events can still influence results. Bettors are advised to integrate LLN as a component of a broader array of analytical tools and betting strategies. The intrigue with LLN in sports betting lies in its application to scenarios where statistical probability isn't the sole influencing factor. Paradoxically, the more challenging it becomes to predict an outcome, the more tempting it is to lean on LLN.  The law of large numbers in sports betting strategy is exemplified in the Martingale system, where the theory posits that the probability of winning increases with each consecutive loss. This concept has given rise to the "progressive draw strategy" in sports betting, particularly popular in national team competitions like the FIFA World Cup. The strategy involves backing draws in consecutive matches and doubling the stake after each loss. It operates on the premise that it's highly improbable for a tournament to conclude without a single draw. However, this approach can be fraught with risk. For instance, in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the first draw occurred only in the 13th match. Had a bettor started with a 10-unit stake and followed this strategy, they would have had to place a staggering 40,960 units by the 13th game, accumulating a loss of 40,950 units before this point. Common LLN Misconceptions in Gambling Gambling myths and misconceptions often cloud players' judgment, leading to irrational betting decisions. Gambler's and hot hand fallacy are two of the most common fallacies rooted in these misconceptions. Both stem from a misinterpretation of the law of large numbers and the independence of each event in games of chance. The Gambler's Fallacy One of the most striking examples of the gambler's fallacy occurred in 1913 at a Monte Carlo casino. On this fateful day, the roulette wheel landed on black 26 times in a row. After the 15th black, players convinced that a red was due started betting heavily on it. As the black outcomes continued, more and more people bet on red, falling prey to the belief that past outcomes influence future events. This belief, however, defies the principle that each spin of the roulette wheel is an independent event. The phenomenon became known as the Monte Carlo fallacy, underscoring that in games of chance, each round is entirely separate from the last. The Hot Hand Fallacy Similar to the gambler's fallacy, the hot hand fallacy is the belief that a streak (like consecutive scores in basketball or repeated appearances of a number in roulette) will continue. This fallacy overlooks the randomness inherent in each independent event, assuming that a short-term pattern will persist. In reality, each game or round offers a fresh start, with previous outcomes holding no sway over future ones. Tips for Using the Law of Large Numbers in Gambling Incorporating the law of large numbers (LLN) into gambling practices requires a blend of statistical understanding and disciplined decision-making. Here are some practical tips: Understand sample size significance: In gambling, this means not expecting short-term play to reflect the statistical probabilities immediately. For example, slot machines with a 95% RTP might not pay out 95% in your first 100 spins, but it's more likely to approach that percentage after 1,000 spins.  Bankroll management: Allocate your funds. LLN suggests that outcomes will average over time, but this requires a bankroll that can withstand the variance in the short term. Avoid pattern overreliance: While LLN helps in understanding long-term probabilities, avoid the fallacy that patterns in past outcomes can predict future events. Each spin, roll, or hand is independent in most casino games. Probability-based decision-making: Make rational decisions and bets based on statistical probabilities rather than hunches or superstitions. For instance, in blackjack, use a basic strategy derived from the probabilities of different outcomes. LLN as Your Ace in the Hole The law of large numbers teaches us that outcomes will average over time, but each event is independent. Embracing this concept helps you make more informed decisions, manage your bankroll effectively, and avoid common fallacies and pattern overreliance. Let the knowledge of LLN be your guide, not your guarantee, as you continue to learn and practice responsible gambling.

Without a doubt, Backgammon is a popular board game worldwide. But did you know it's also one of the oldest games in history? Unlike traditional games such as chess and go, Backgammon has been around since 3,000 BC. In this article, I'll talk more about the history of Backgammon, so read on if you're interested to learn the origins of this game. The History of Backgammon Evidence suggests that Backgammon has been played by the rulers of ancient civilizations such as Greece, Rome, Persia, and the Far East for thousands of years. Iran The oldest known backgammon board, which dates back 5,000 years, was found in 2004 in the Iranian province of Sistan-Baluchistan. Pieces were made of turquoise and agate, and the board was made of pure ivory. During those days, these materials were commonly used to construct backgammon boards and other board games. Around the same time, ancient dice made of human bone were also discovered. Ancient Mesopotamia In the 1920s, archaeological discoveries were made in ancient Mesopotamia and present-day Iraq, dating back 5,000 years and revealing six artifacts similar to what we see today in backgammon boards, dice, and different colored pieces. These discoveries provided a fascinating glimpse into the game's potential origins in ancient Mesopotamia. Even though there's a debate over the exact origin of Backgammon, it's known that Egyptians, Sumerians, and Persians all played games similar to our modern backgammon games. A 5,000-year-old backgammon board was found in the Royal Tombs of Ur in Mesopotamia in 1962. Although, as previously mentioned, this was the area where The Royal Game of Ur was played, the wheel, the first written language, and the first known math system were all invented. Roman Empire There were times when the Romans were so enthralled with the game that they proclaimed it to be the sport of emperors; they played it on surfaces such as wood, with stones as markers and dice made from bones, wood, or pottery as dice. It's believed that during the long journeys of Emperor Claudius, he incorporated a special board into his chariot to be able to play the game during those long journeys. Backgammon was believed to have been taught in the Holy Land and brought back to Europe by the Crusaders. In the Middle Ages, Backgammon was an advantage of knighthood in England; it was the privilege of the aristocracy and noblemen. References of Backgammon English literature and art used to refer to Backgammon as 'tables' until 1645 when the word 'backgammon' first appeared in print. There are several references to the game in works by Chaucer and Shakespeare, as well as Dr. Jan Steen's masterpiece of the 17th century, 'Argument over a Card Game,' which deals with the game's history. A reference in the book written by writer Edmond Hoyle in 1745 describes the rules of Backgammon and discusses some strategies still used today in the game. The invention of the double cube took place in the 1920s. The Doubling Cube Among the most significant developments in the history of Backgammon, the invention of the doubling cube is most notable. The doubling cube is shaped like any six-sided dice, except its numbers are different — six numbers are displayed on the doubling cube, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64. The cube sits between each player. So, using the cube, one player can double their stakes if they feel they have the advantage. In the 20s, the doubling cube became popular in New York City, but it's unclear who introduced it to the public. Today, the doubling cube is used by western players in modern backgammon games. And, for example, in Armenia and Greece, the doubling cube isn't commonly used. Backgammon Today During the 60s, there was a surge in the popularity of Backgammon, partly because of the influence of the Russian Prince Alexis Obolensky. It was believed that he was the father of modern Backgammon for a time. He was a co-founder of the International Backgammon Association and wrote the first set of rules for the game. He also hosted a series of tournaments in Manhattan in the 1960s, drawing many celebrities and royalty. Backgammon was once one of the most popular games in the Western world. Over the years, it has always been one of the most popular board games throughout the Middle East, and its popularity has never diminished over the years. In the late 60s, Hugh Hefner's backgammon parties were held at the Playboy Mansion. And during the last days of Hefner's life, he played the game with his family and close friends. In 1967, there was even a World Championship held in Las Vegas. As a result of the establishment of the United States Backgammon Federation in 2009, Backgammon has become more and more popular worldwide. This federation is composed of all-time top players and tournament directors worldwide. For this reason, backgammon tournaments have become increasingly popular in recent years. Backgammon has become a popular game in most land-based and online casinos. However, in casinos, it may have slightly different rules, but its popularity shows just how common it is. And lastly, home versions of this game are available at the major board game manufacturers. Digital Backgammon It's now possible to play Backgammon anywhere at any time. There are hundreds of backgammon versions available on flash game websites. Moreover, versions are available through Apple and Android's app stores. Alternatively, you can play a version of this game through iMessage with other iPhone users. Conclusion I provided a brief overview of what I've mentioned in this article about the history of Backgammon: In 2004, the ancient backgammon board was discovered in an Iranian province, dating back 5,200 years. In the 20s, six artifacts were in Iraq that originated approximately 3000 BC. A 5,000-year-old board was discovered in Iraq in the 60s. In England, in 1645, the word 'backgammon' first appeared in print. The father of modern Backgammon is Alexis Obolensky. First World Championship took place in Las Vegas in 1967. In 2009, the United States Backgammon Federation was established. It's one of the oldest dice games, but people still love playing Backgammon at home, at parties, land-based and online casinos. In case you don't know anything, you can learn the rules and gameplay of Backgammon.