The purpose of the cube is to use it as many times as you are willing and if someone tries to impose there etiquette on how to use the cube then they need to read the rules again.
I was happy when this site introduced the cubeless backgammon matches, because I understand that there are players who just don't like the idea of the doubling cube. The cube is a big part of my strategy, and I think I'd find cubeless matches a bit dull--but those with different tastes than I have as much right to play in their preferred situation as I do mine.
But with a choice of match type out there, I am surprised that there are still players who object to very appropriate use of doubling. Taking part in a standard backgammon match and then expecting your opponent not to use one of the key elements of game play is just as absurd as entering willingly into a game of chess and crying foul when the other player insists on using the bishops. To furthermore accuse your opponent of being "rude" for employing strategy to her advantage is ironic to say the least.
For me (and for a lot of other backgammon players, I think), the cube is what makes match play exciting. (And if we had world enough and time, I could write at great length as to why that's so.) I have never understood where the idea comes from that using it strategically is "rude."
Robin?...you played it well!!...good on you as as MrDampha said...backgammon without the cube is like bacon without eggs ;) ps;-..it wasnt rude Robin!...he was ..LOL
Taking part in a standard backgammon match and then expecting your opponent not to use one of the key elements of game play is just as absurd as entering willingly into a game of chess and crying foul when the other player insists on using the bishops.
LOL! Exactly. Brilliantly put. :-)
Robin: When you're down in the score post-Crawford as you were, it's perfectly normal and correct play to double at the outset of each game thereafter, because -- as you pointed out -- you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. It's no different than hitting a blot, or making a prime. Doing those things isn't rude, it's just how the game is played. Your opponent is either uninformed (which is fair enough) or just trying it on a bit...
-- T.J. :-)
Re: Is it rude to use the cube?
Message #8892 Replies: 1
posted by robin (Happy Johns other half x) on 09/05 at 21:25
Thank you all very much for you comments on this.
I wanted to clarify that i was indeed playing the game in the correct manner, not being "RUDE" and with good gamesmanship.
After all this is what the site is for and I found the others players comments rather upsetting and off putting.
So many thanx all...Lets play...
Re: Is it rude to use the cube?
Message #8914 Replies: 2
posted by pint of beer (john shields) on 09/10 at 07:55
i prefer cubless matches, i suggested them to T.J a good while back and he thought the two types of matches would suit both types of players. i used to play the cube matches (in fact still have a few), i do like to see a game finish with out the cube being used but when itt is used in a cube match i except it`s use as a player`s choice in that game format. i have used to cube but not for a long time my choice and still enjoyed my games. if a choice is there then pick your options to use or not to use and hey enjoy the games nothing major will happen win or lose,
Re: Is it rude to use the cube?
Message #8922 Replies: 0
posted by robin (Happy Johns other half x) on 09/10 at 18:59
Exactlly a matter of personal choice.
But if you choose to play games that invole the cube then you should be able to take it when it is played.
I will agree that it is a matter of choice. I will also say that cubeless matches baffle me. A match without the cube is more or less a sequence of sequential games (almost there is still the possibility of scoring a gammon or backgammon), and no real room for a matchwide strategy.
Saying someone is rude for using the cube, is as nonsensical as saying someone is rude for knocking them back to the bar (which I will admit has been said). They are just part of the rules of the game. And agressive use of both has consequences.
My biggest problem with doubling ... is that I forget to do it! ;)
Re: Is it rude to use the cube?
Message #8956 Replies: 0
posted by robin (Happy Johns other half x) on 09/13 at 21:46
Results...for being behind 14-20, using the cube i came from behind to equal 20-20 a few lucky doubles for the other player saw my defeat... BUT I was very proud of my use of the cube and to equal.
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