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Believe it or not, backgammon has played a part in the history of human civilization. Sound far-fetched? Read on and find out just how old this game is.

Medieval art and artifacts suggest that backgammon may be the oldest game known to man-up to 5000 years old! The many versions of its name confirm its global reach throughout the years: shesh besh, mahbusa, maghribiyya, they all refer to the much-loved game of luck and counting skill. Versions of the game were played in ancient Rome, today's Iraq, as well as all those cities' neighboring regions. The term backgammon is a much more recent addition by 17th century Britain. Along with the innovation of the doubling cube in the early 20th century, the game has seen a revival and an elevated popularity worldwide.

The internet age has by no means left the game of backgammon behind. Still in its classic form, backgammon can be found on many websites and forums dealing with board games, and has even penetrated the online gambling community as one of the biggest hits of the casino. While the stone, wood, and pottery pieces have made way for more contemporary materials for the game pieces, backgammon still retains that mysterious feel of the old world with every drop of the dice onto the game board.

Oddly enough, Bermuda is one of the most popular places associated with the game of backgammon. As the game's popularity grew in the United States and Europe, a backgammon world championship was launched in the 1960's and it took place in the resort island, where a rich backgammon culture still exists. Online venues and automated opponents have contributed by adding a level of richness and diversity to the game and bringing together players from all over the world to compete with each other.