Computer Backgammon

Computer backgammon programs using neural nets rival the best human players. Kit Woolsey, a noted backgammon expert, writes of one program:

I find a comparison of TD-Gammon and the high-level chess computers fascinating. The chess computers are tremendous in tactical positions where variations can be calculated out. Their weakness is in vague positional games, where it is not obvious what is going on.... TD-Gammon is just the opposite. Its strength is in the vague positional battles where judgment, not calculation, is the key. There, it has a definite edge over humans.

Computer programs have also discovered some novel plays that have caused humans to rethink some strategies.

Backgammon

Backgammon is my new favorite game. It requires strategic thinking, but there's also a good amount of luck. This makes games more interesting between mismatched players--and it allows you to blame your losses on poor luck. Backgammon is a relatively fast-paced game, especially with a doubling cube. You can play it on your Google personalized homepage.