Talk to any backgammon fans about tournaments ten years ago and they would likely say that they had been to one or two.  Perhaps members of local clubs would have attended some local competitions, and the odd national event.  However, with the advent of online game play, large backgammon tournaments are becoming more accessible to increasingly large numbers of online fans.  Virtual tournaments take place daily across the Internet, with membership offered to anyone keen enough to register and pay their subscription fees.  As well as increasing the popularity of the game, these tournaments are also providing winners with large cash prizes and attracting international sponsorship.

Of course, it’s not all just big business and gambling.  Backgammon fans can also meet for friendly competition as well.  Online game play now offers fans the opportunity to find games with fans right across the world on virtually a 24-hour basis.  Log into any of the free game sites and you will find hundreds of willing players eager to give you a match.  Forge new friendships, pick up useful tips and strategies, and learn more about your favourite pastime. 

However, it really is the large backgammon tournaments that are attracting the most interest.  A new industry has sprung up over the last five years bringing together fans from around the world.  Amateurs and pros compete for grand prizes on a level playing field.  And there is big money at stake, with some pots climbing up to the 100,000 dollar mark.  Check out the latest tournament sites via a simple Yahoo or Google search and see whether this aspect of the game is for you.