Greek mythology gives Palamedes credit for the creation of dice - an integral part of one of the oldest board games - backgammon. Games like backgammon, chess, checkers and card games are interesting to computer scientists and human intelligence researchers for many reasons. Backgammon and card games involve a certain amount of chance - an element that players cannot account for entirely in their strategy. Chess and checkers do not have this element and are dependent totally on a players skill. In fact, the game of checkers has been “solved” recently - meaning a computer can effectively win at a game of checkers by brute force calculation. Relative to chess, checkers is a simple game and it will be a while before chess is “solved” by brute force methods placing it in the same realm as checkers and tic-tack-toe.

Backgammon, like all other games in the era of the web, continue to evolve and reflect the latest technology. Palamedes would be astonished by the ease with which we are able to play games with his six-sided invention (albeit at a virtual level) against competitors across the globe without having to leave the comfort of home. Internet based backgammon game play is not only available for free, but - as the phrase game of chance implies - people are able to play backgammon for real money. Technology for backgammon now includes elements like high definition graphics, sound, three dimensional avatars and other features that add to creating a more realistic game play atmosphere.

When players are at a casino playing backgammon, the casinos make their money based on a house commission taken from the players bets - commonly called the rake. Online backgammon can be played without this additional expense - for a limited time - using online gaming platforms like BackgammonMasters, who is offering backgammon games with no rake. Remember, if you do decide to compete for money - do take advantage of the ability to play for virtual money first. Even though there is an element of chance in games like backgammon - nothing can replace the skill that is involved in reducing risk brought on by chance.