Opening 3-2: two builders, or split

13/11 13/10 and 24/21 13/11 are both standard. The rollouts are close enough that style and score decide.

13/11 13/10Rollouts are close

Backgammon board after the opening roll 3-2 played 13/11 13/10 — The position after 13/11 13/10. The 11-point and 10-point are highlighted.

Why this play

Two down puts builders on the 10 and 11 points. Between them they bear on every point you want: the 5, the 4 and the bar point. Next roll you are very likely to make one.
It leaves two blots, but both are in indirect range of the back checkers, so each is hit only a few rolls in 36.
The split, 24/21, takes a different approach entirely: it advances the back checkers toward an anchor instead of building the front. Against an opponent who likes to attack, this is the more solid choice.

The mistake to avoid

Playing 13/10 13/11 with the intent of 'playing safe' misunderstands it. This is the aggressive option and it is fine, but know which one you are choosing.

How settled is this? Rollouts are close. Either main option is defensible, and the match score should push you one way or the other.

Knowing the play and making it under pressure are different skills

Play a rated game and the computer reviews every decision you made afterwards, including this one. The dice are sealed before you move and verifiable after, so what the review measures is you.

Play a rated game free

Frequently asked questions

What is the best play for an opening 3-2 in backgammon?

13/11 13/10. 13/11 13/10 and 24/21 13/11 are both standard. The rollouts are close enough that style and score decide.

Why not play something else with 3-2?

Playing 13/10 13/11 with the intent of 'playing safe' misunderstands it. This is the aggressive option and it is fine, but know which one you are choosing.