Comparison

Backgammon NJ HD vs Backgammon Galaxy

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both games, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

Backgammon NJ HD

Play backgammon against a powerful AI, a friend on the same device, or players worldwide. Improve your skills with tutor mode and detailed analysis. Offers customizable options and supports all iOS devices.

Highlights
  • Neural network AI
  • Online multiplayer (real-time & turn-based)
  • 2-player mode on one device
  • Tutor Mode & Hints
  • Customizable board and checkers
  • Match play and single games
  • Game Center integration
Features
Read full description

● GAME CENTER -- Play online, chat, invite friends, auto-match with random players { Real-time } Play online in real-time { Turn-based } Play online at your own pace ● VERSATILE -- Play offline vs. computer or against another person in 2-player mode ● CUSTOMIZABLE -- More options than any other backgammon app ● UNIVERSAL -- Supports iPad, iPhone, & iPod touch Play & learn backgammon at skill levels from beginner to world-class! Backgammon NJ HD is a full-featured game which uses an advanced, neural network-based, artificial intelligence. Play against a computer AI, another person in 2-player mode on one device, or online against friends & others. Using Tutor Mode & Hints, Backgammon NJ HD can show you how to improve your game. Discriminating players will appreciate how well the AI plays. It uses a neural network trained on millions of positions, a bearoff database, & a match equity table to achieve strong gameplay that will challenge even expert players. REVIEWS "[I] know strong bg play when I see it. This app is the strongest iPhone bg app I've played with by far. It does not cheat period. ...Analyzing these matches with eXtreme Gammon confirms a world class level of play with normal luck factors. If you are losing, get over it. So would 99.9% of the other backgammon players in the world. It is just that good. Learn from it." -Richard Munitz, Giant of Backgammon, #21 world ranking in 2009 "Backgammon NJ plays at an extremely high level with an excellent interface, and I often use it to practice on my iPhone when I am traveling. I recommend it highly to my students & friends." -Phil Simborg, Professional Backgammon Teacher & Player, www.mindgamescenter.com "I've played over 500 games now; I've checked about 5% of these against World Class Desktop programs (GNU, BGBlitz); and I've actually used some of the competition. NJ has the best interface & has more useful functions than any other backgammon apps out there." "For serious backgammon players, Backgammon NJ is the way to go." -Macworld.com, May 2012 IS THIS GAME RIGHT FOR YOU? This game is best for people: • Who recognize the strength of neural network backgammon bots • Who want to improve their game by playing against a world-class level AI • Who will use the in-depth, technical features included in the app to prove that it is honest (https://www.njsoftware.com/note.html) • Who won't expect to win consistently on the higher skill levels FEATURES • Neural network-based AI • 2 game types: Standard Backgammon or Nackgammon • 4 skill levels: Easy, Medium, Hard, Expert • Customizable board design & checker colors • Mersenne Twister algorithm for random number generation • Doubling cube • Single games or match play up to 25 pts • Crawford rule for match play • 1-player mode vs. computer • 2-player mode on one device • Game Center: Play real-time or turn-based online matches with friends & other players • Chat with your online opponent • Online Elo & Experience leaderboards • Block list for auto-match • Tap-to-move interface • Highlighted checker movement options • Hint & Undo • Learn with Tutor Mode • Game & dice stats, including Elo rating & ER • Match info: GnuBG ID, win chances, equity, top 10 moves, cube decisions • Email match files • Practice mode with unlimited undo (1-player vs. computer) • Manual match recording mode with unlimited undo & speed mode option • Options to reverse board direction, resign, use one-tap moves, auto bearoff, auto finish, use Jacoby rule, & much more • Match analysis (in-app purchase): Analyze past match files, view moves & errors for match, step through match, jump to position, play from position, save match files permanently IMPORTANT • If an online match ends for any reason, you'll receive the Elo pts you deserve. FAQ: https://gamecenter.njsoftware.com • Contact us for help: https://contact.njsoftware.com

About

Backgammon Galaxy

Master the classic game of skill and strategy with this app. Play unlimited games, analyze your moves with AI, and challenge opponents worldwide. Improve your strategy through quizzes and detailed stats.

Highlights
  • Unlimited online backgammon games
  • World-class AI analysis
  • Thematic tactical quizzes
  • Deep performance stats
  • Global matchmaking
  • Challenge friends
  • Practice against AI
Features
Currently charting
Read full description

Backgammon Galaxy - Play and Learn Online! Master the classic game of skill & strategy! Whether you call it Backgammon, Tavla, Narde, Tawula, ששבש (Shesh Besh), Tric Trac, or Takhteh Nard… join a passionate global community on Backgammon Galaxy, the ultimate place to play, learn, and conquer. Enjoy unlimited free backgammon games, elevate your strategy with world-class AI analysis, challenge yourself with unique themed quizzes, and test your skills against powerful computer opponents. Start your journey to backgammon mastery today! ONLINE BACKGAMMON ACTION: * Global Matchmaking 24/7: Instantly find opponents at your skill level. * Challenge Friends: Easily invite friends for private matches or connect with new players. * Thrilling Real-Time Games: From fast-paced matches to thoughtful strategic duels. * Official Tournaments (Coming Soon!): Compete for glory in Backgammon Galaxy tournaments. * Galaxy Rating & Leaderboards: Earn your official rating and climb the ranks. * Connect & Strategize: Chat with opponents post-game. * Quick Play with Guest Mode (Coming Soon!): Jump straight into action, no registration needed. ANALYZE & ELEVATE YOUR GAME: * World-Class AI Analysis: Dissect every move with our formidable xG-based AI engine – trusted by Grandmasters! * Your Personal Blunder Log: Automatically track & review critical errors to rapidly improve. * Deep Performance Stats: Monitor dice rolls, performance rating, progress & detailed match insights. * Thematic Tactical Quizzes: Sharpen your decision-making with our extensive, unique quiz database. * Master Every Decision: Pinpoint blunders, uncover optimal plays & refine your strategic thinking. LEARN FROM THE BEST (Expanding Soon!): * Interactive AI Tutor (Coming Soon!): Personalized feedback & guidance to simplify complex backgammon concepts. * Grandmaster Insights: Access strategy videos from top backgammon experts & GMs on Backgammon Galaxy. PRACTICE AGAINST THE AI: * Versatile Computer Opponents: Choose your challenge, from beginner to Grandmaster-level AI. * Strategy Sandbox: Experiment with new openings & tactics, pressure-free. THE BACKGAMMON GALAXY UNIVERSE: * Passionate Global Community: Connect with dedicated backgammon players worldwide. * Where Champions Play: Battle World #1 Masayuki "Mochy" Mochizuki & other elite Grandmasters. * Official Sponsor: Backgammon World Championship (BGWC). We support the global backgammon scene. * Community Forums (Future): Share games, discuss tactics & engage. ... AND SO MUCH MORE: * Gorgeous Boards & Themes: Personalize your game with stunning designs. * Competitive Coin Games: Test your skills & win virtual coins in exciting matches. * Stay Informed: Push notifications for game invites, tournaments, friend requests & updates. * Premium Star Memberships: Unlock exclusive features with flexible one-time payment options. * Commitment to Fair Play: Robust systems ensure a balanced, fair competitive environment. * Constantly Evolving: Regular updates with new features, content & improvements. Mastering backgammon online has never been more accessible or engaging! Backgammon Galaxy is the premier destination for all backgammon enthusiasts – from newcomers learning the ropes to seasoned pros chasing Grandmaster status. Crafted by Grandmasters, for the love of the game! We value your feedback! Please share suggestions and comments. Our support team is here to help. ABOUT BACKGAMMON GALAXY: Founded by Grandmaster Marc Olsen, Backgammon Galaxy offers the world's leading online backgammon experience. Proud official sponsor of the Backgammon World Championship. https://www.backgammongalaxy.com/terms-of-service https://www.backgammongalaxy.com/privacy-policy https://www.backgammongalaxy.com/support Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BackgammonGalaxy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/backgammongalaxy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/BackgammonGalaxy

Screenshots

Backgammon NJ HD4 screens
Backgammon Galaxy4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is price: Backgammon Galaxy at Free against Backgammon NJ HD's $7.99. Backgammon Galaxy also leads on update cadence (every 2 weeks vs every 5 months). Backgammon NJ HD's advantage is review sentiment (55% vs 30%) and chart position (#55 vs #165). On rating, ratings volume, ads and in-app purchases there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Backgammon Galaxy is free to download; Backgammon NJ HD costs $7.99 up front. Backgammon NJ HD sells 3 one-off in-app purchases and Backgammon Galaxy sells 18 in-app purchases, starting at $7.99 per month. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

ReceptionRating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings

On the App Store both sit at effectively the same score — 4.5 for Backgammon NJ HD against 4.5 for Backgammon Galaxy. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 3.6K and 1.8K respectively. Written reviews are what separate them: 55% of Backgammon NJ HD's written reviews are positive against 30% of Backgammon Galaxy's.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

Backgammon NJ HD ships an update every 5 months, Backgammon Galaxy every 2 weeks. The most recent releases landed on October 18, 2026 and October 19, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard4 real differences · 7 level
Backgammon NJ HD versus Backgammon Galaxy: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterBackgammon NJ HDBackgammon Galaxy
Price$7.99Free — better
Rating4.5 (3.6K ratings)4.5 (1.8K ratings)
Positive reviews55.4% of reviews — better30.4% of reviews
Number of ratings3.6K — better1.8K
Update frequencyEvery 5 monthsEvery 2 weeks — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesYes
MonetizationFree with in-app purchasesFree with in-app purchases
Best chart rank#55 — better#165
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPodiPhone, iPad, iPod
Requires iOS15.415 — better
Further details — not scored
Size55 MB167 MB
Age rating4+12+
DeveloperJimmy HuTadorne Ventures Limited

Customer experience

Backgammon NJ HD

All ratings3,647 ratings
Positive88.0%
Neutral4.0%
Negative8.1%
Written reviews581 reviews
Positive55.4%
Neutral7.9%
Negative36.7%

Backgammon Galaxy

All ratings1,827 ratings
Positive86.4%
Neutral3.9%
Negative9.6%
Written reviews685 reviews
Positive30.4%
Neutral9.2%
Negative60.4%

User reviews

Backgammon NJ HD

From 3.6K App Store ratings

What we love

  • 💻 Excellent backgammon app
  • 🧠 Challenging AI opponent
  • 🔍 Helpful analysis and stats
  • 📚 Great for learning and improving

Room to improve

  • 🎲 Questionable dice rolls and randomness
  • 🤖 AI appears to cheat or have unfair advantage
  • 🐛 Crashes and stability issues
  • 💰 Paid app with in-app purchases

Backgammon Galaxy

From 1.8K App Store ratings

What we love

  • 🚀 Excellent app for serious players
  • 🔍 Helpful game analysis and feedback
  • 💻 Seamless integration with web version
  • 🎨 Beautiful and intuitive interface

Room to improve

  • 🐛 Frequent bugs, crashes, and glitches
  • 🕰️ Slow matchmaking and long wait times
  • 💰 Aggressive monetization with coins and purchases
  • 🤖 Concerns about rigged or non-random dice

Bugs and requests

Backgammon NJ HD

Reported bugs

3 issues
  • Frequent crashes
  • Unreliable online play and matchmaking
  • Issues with syncing progress across devices

Requested features

4 requests
  • Manual dice rolling option
  • Ability to undo moves
  • Improved online/multiplayer experience
  • More difficulty levels

Backgammon Galaxy

Reported bugs

4 issues
  • Freezing and white screens during gameplay
  • Incorrect game results and loss of coins
  • Inability to start new games or log in consistently
  • Compatibility issues on older devices

Requested features

4 requests
  • Allow login with existing web account
  • Add option to choose opponent skill level
  • Improve chat functionality and communication
  • Provide more customization options for boards and avatars

In-app purchases

3 purchases

Backgammon NJ HD

One-time3
  • Analysis Package$2.99
  • Online VIP$2.99
  • Power User$4.99
18 purchases

Backgammon Galaxy

Subscriptions4
  • Star Membership7 Days trial$7.991 Month
  • Star Pro Membership7 Days trial$16.991 Month
  • Star Membership7 Days trial$79.991 Year
Show 1 more
  • Star Pro Membership7 Days trial$149.991 Year
One-time14
  • Pile of Coins$0.99
  • Capsule of coins offer$2.99
  • 1 Day Star Membership Package$2.99
Show 11 more
  • Capsule of Coins$4.99
  • VIP Deal - Capsule of Coins$4.99
  • VIP Deal - Comet of Coins$9.99
  • Comet of Coins3 variants$9.99
  • Planet of Coins$19.99
  • VIP Deal - Planet of Coins$19.99
  • Galaxy of Coins$49.99
  • VIP Deal - Galaxy of Coins$49.99
  • Coin Supernova$99.99
  • Star Membership Package 1 year$99.99
  • Universe of Coins2 variants$249.99

Questions

Is Backgammon NJ HD free?
Backgammon NJ HD costs $7.99, and also offers in-app purchases.
Is Backgammon Galaxy free?
Backgammon Galaxy is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Which has better reviews, Backgammon NJ HD or Backgammon Galaxy?
Backgammon NJ HD and Backgammon Galaxy are both rated 4.5 out of 5 on the App Store, from 3.6K and 1.8K ratings respectively.
Do Backgammon NJ HD or Backgammon Galaxy have ads?
Neither Backgammon NJ HD nor Backgammon Galaxy shows ads.
Which is updated more often, Backgammon NJ HD or Backgammon Galaxy?
Backgammon NJ HD ships an update every 5 months, and Backgammon Galaxy every 2 weeks. Most recently, Backgammon NJ HD was updated on October 18, 2026 and Backgammon Galaxy on October 19, 2026.
Which is more popular, Backgammon NJ HD or Backgammon Galaxy?
Backgammon NJ HD currently peaks at #55 in the App Store charts, and Backgammon Galaxy at #165. Chart position reflects recent download velocity rather than total install base.

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