The first backgammon web site came online in 1994, but now that there are fast Internet connections, online backgammon has become extremely popular.

Before you challenge a human opponent to a game of online backgammon, you need to build up your playing skills - here's how to do it for free:

1. The basics of the game are easy to learn, and there's plenty of information for free on the Internet.

2. Download some Shareware and freeware backgammon programs from the Internet - these programs are often weak - but that's a good thing - you can learn to play against these programs without getting discouraged - everyone likes to win now and then.

3. When you can regularly beat the Shareware and freeware backgammon programs it's time to download a freeware version of a top-notch backgammon program - jellyfish.

JellyFish uses artificial neural networks, and the program was developed, by having the program play against itself!

A search for "Jellyfish Light" will lead you to the download page.

The freeware version of Jellyfish has had some useful features disabled but the playing strength has not been tampered with.

On the highest playing level, it is quite capable of beating top backgammon players.

You can decide later, whether to purchase one of the other three versions, in order to gain access to the disabled features.

Playing Online

When you are competent at playing against the Jellyfish program at the higher levels, it's time to challenge a human opponent to a game of Internet backgammon.

After you have located an Internet backgammon site, you will be able to choose from playing against a computer opponent or a human opponent that could be located anywhere in the world. The options surrounding Internet backgammon include the choice to join a league; play in a tournament; play for cash prizes, as well as move ahead in the ranking between a host of Internet backgammon players.

Internet backgammon is offered by a variety of websites that you may be familiar with, including MSN and Yahoo Games.

With MSN, a player could choose to play Internet backgammon, as well as other enjoyable games. Internet backgammon matches can be played either under Rated, Standard or Short play options. Friends can play amongst one another or could choose to challenge the computer to an Internet backgammon match. Many have praised the graphics that are used on this website, including an array of realistic, bright colors and graphics.

Yahoo Games offers numerous Internet backgammon rooms to wander about, displaying fun and interesting names such as the Veteran Vortex. Players can choose to initiate an Internet backgammon game in a variety of different levels of play, including beginner and advanced.

There is also an option to play a social game of Internet backgammon where players can chat with one another. For an extra charge, leagues can be established where members are allowed to join and challenge one another.

This website offers unlimited game play against the computer and human challengers.

For more information on backgammon and online gaming please visit our web site: http://www.net-planet.org