Item: Backgammon with Buddies
Rating: 79
Author: Dinsun

Our Expert Score

79/100

Backgammon with Buddies is exactly what it sounds like: a polished, social-focused version of the classic board game. The app excels in its matchmaking and interface. The board is clear, the dice physics feel fair, and the 'buddy' system makes it very easy to jump into a game with friends or family across the world.

The inclusion of different board themes and customizable pieces adds a nice touch of personalization. While the core game is thousands of years old, the modern features like chat and tournament play bring it into the 21st century. It's a great example of 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it,' focusing on a smooth user experience and a stable connection rather than unnecessary gimmicks.

Dinsun reviewed on: Thu Feb 26 2026

The Game

Available on: Mac, iPhone, iPad, iPod

1460469896

$2.99 4+★4.3 58 reviews

Author : Pandamonia LLC

Pubish Date : Mon Jun 03 2019

Last Update Date : Sun Mar 14 2021

Support Languages : English

Genres :

Version 3.1Sun Mar 14 2021

Fixed in this release:
• Starting a CPU game with the CPU as the starting player didn't work correctly.
This release also builds upon the following features released in version 3.0:
• Play against the CPU opponent to test your understanding of the backgammon rules.
• Remote play against other Game Center players.
• Support for multiple windows on iPadOS 13 and later.
Did you find something unusual, maybe a bug? Message us on Twitter @BackgammonBuds or email us at backgammon@pandamonia.us
Backgammon with Buddies lets you play backgammon with your friends whether they’re nearby or far away.
You can open the app and play on your computer, phone or tablet, just as you would with a board. It’s also possible to play with other players over Game Center, by sending the board back and forth after every turn. If you don’t know the rules, the app also contains a small guide to help you get started and a computer-controlled opponent that you can test your understanding against.
Backgammon with Buddies also supports a wide range of accessibility features, such as tab control, reduced transparency, VoiceOver and Voice Control. This means that you can play Backgammon with all your buddies, not just those who can see or touch the board.
— Features
• Beautifully designed board with rich wood textures and felt lining
• Remote play against other players over Game Center
• Highly accessible with VoiceOver
• A lightweight app that respects your privacy
Requires iOS 11.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Backgammon with Buddies lets you play backgammon with your friends whether they’re nearby or far away.
You can open the app and play on your phone or tablet, just as you would with a board. It’s also possible to play with other players over Game Center or against your friends through the Messages app, by sending the board back and forth after every turn. If you don’t know the rules, the app also contains a small guide to help you get started and a computer-controlled opponent that you can test your understanding against.
Backgammon with Buddies also supports a wide range of accessibility features, such as Dynamic Type, reduced transparency, VoiceOver and custom rotors. This means that you can play Backgammon with all your buddies, not just those who can see or touch the board.
— Features
• Beautifully designed board with rich wood textures and felt lining
• An integrated Messages app experience to play with far away friends
• Remote play against other players over Game Center
• Highly accessible with VoiceOver and Dynamic Type
• A lightweight app that respects your privacy

Ratings & Reviews

4.3 out of 5 with 58 Counts

★★★★★

Age Rating 4+

Backgammon with Buddies is the ultimate social version of the world's oldest board game. Challenge your friends or meet new opponents in real-time matches. With a beautiful interface, fair dice rolling, and a variety of game modes from casual to competitive, it's the perfect way to enjoy Backgammon on the go.

Features

Real-time online multiplayer

Customizable boards and pieces

In-game chat and emojis

Detailed statistics and history

Tips

The Power of the Prime

A key strategy is building a 'prime'—a series of six consecutive points blocked by your pieces. This traps your opponent's checkers and prevents them from moving, regardless of what they roll on the dice.

Promotion Videos

Backgammon (Official trailer) - YouTube

Gameplays

Tournament Play

Join daily tournaments to climb the global rankings. These matches use a point-based system rather than just single games, requiring more long-term strategy and careful use of the doubling cube.