The History of Trigammon
A three-player strategy game created in the late 1970s
Trigammon was created in the late 1970s by William Bailey and Dennis Angelica as a strategy game designed specifically for three players.
The idea began with a simple question: Could the movement, tension and tactical thinking of backgammon be adapted into a balanced game for three people? Rather than simply adding another player to a standard backgammon board, Trigammon was developed around its own three-sided playing layout, movement system and strategic challenges.
The original concept
Early versions of Trigammon were designed and tested by hand. The board, playing pieces and rules were refined through repeated games, with particular attention given to keeping all three players actively involved. The game combines familiar race-game ideas with the added uncertainty of competing against two opponents.
Players must consider:
- their own route around the board
- the positions of both opponents
- when to attack or defend
- how to recover from setbacks
- when to begin bearing pieces off the board
The introduction of a third player creates changing threats, shifting priorities and tactical decisions not found in a traditional two-player game.
More than backgammon with an extra player
Trigammon was influenced by traditional race and table games, but it was designed as a game in its own right. The board geometry, player positions and movement patterns were developed specifically for three-way play. Each player begins from a different side of the board and works towards completing their own journey while competing against two opponents. This makes Trigammon familiar enough for people who know backgammon, while still offering a distinctly different playing experience.
For readers who are new to traditional backgammon, the U.S. Backgammon Federation beginner guide provides a clear introduction to the standard board, pieces and basic play. Australian players can also find rules and resources through the Victorian Backgammon Association.
Renewed development
Decades after the original concept was created, William Bailey returned to Trigammon and began refining the board, presentation and rules for a modern audience.
The current project includes:
- an updated physical board design
- clearer player areas and numbering
- refined rules and movement guidance
- improved visual presentation
- continued playtesting
- development of a digital version
Trigammon today
The goal is to preserve the character of the original game while making it easier to learn, produce and enjoy today. Trigammon continues to evolve through design work, playtesting and player feedback. The physical board game remains at the heart of the project, while TrigammonX is being developed as its digital evolution for computers, tablets and mobile devices.
What began as an idea in the late 1970s is now being prepared for a new generation of tabletop and digital players through TrigammonX.
Trigammon — Backgammon for Three.