Assodyo Tavli — Rules & How to Play

What Does Assodyo Mean

Assodyo is the rule that applies when the first roll of both players results in one player rolling a 1 (ass) and the other rolling a 2 (dyo) — a 1-2 combination. In variants that use it, the player who rolled this combination must play a specific predetermined move.

The rule is used mainly in Portes (backgammon) and some regional variants. In most online versions, including Tavli.net, assodyo is not applied automatically — but players can agree to use it during a game.

How the Assodyo Move is Played

In groups that follow the rule, a 1-2 roll on the first throw means the player must make a specific opening move. The classic Portes interpretation: move one checker from the 24-point to the 23-point and one from the 13-point to the 12-point — this creates an early anchor.

Other groups define a different "correct" move for assodyo. The prescribed move is typically advantageous for the player who rolled it.

Which Variants Use It & Scoring

In Portes: assodyo is most common. It may apply only on the very first roll or on any 1-2 roll during the game.

In Plakoto and Fevga: much rarer. The rule is a house/regional rule and is not part of official Greek Backgammon Federation rules.

On scoring: in some groups assodyo automatically wins the game or doubles the point value. Always agree on this before a match begins.