Last updated on July 13, 2022
At Deluxe Backgammon, like everyone else, we are being affected by the ongoing pandemic. Some of the lockdown restrictions have been lifted and we have been able to resume live play with very limited numbers. A long run of pleasant weather has meant we have been able to enjoy playing backgammon in the garden. However, the weather has started to turn and we are now resuming play again in our local pubs and cafes. The numbers obviously are very limited, but at least we are getting some sort of social interaction.
The other thing we haven’t been able to do is to look at any new backgammon sets, which is something we would normally do once or twice a month. Prior to the pandemic, in all of our recommendations, we have always viewed the backgammon set first hand. This is difficult at the moment, so we have decided to take a look at a new backgammon set from a trusted manufacturer, Manopoulos. This is on the Manopoulos website and is listed as new.
Construction
This quality backgammon set has been handmade by the Manopoulos craftsmen using traditional marquetry techniques. The frame is made from laminated hardwood. The outer cabinet is a natural cork, which has a carved cube design. Natural cork is a soft material and can be easily damaged. The playing field is also made of natural cork with a dark brown background and natural cork points. The ancient art of marquetry has been used to fit the points. The natural cork playing field allows a quieter game given the cushion effect of the cork. The cabinet has brass furnishings and is secured by a single front clasp.
Accessories
The set includes 4 plastic dice and a doubling cube. The finger-dish checkers are made of brown and natural olive wood and compliment the playing field. There are two dice cups made from an unspecified wood, which are not visible in the images on the website. There is also a branded linen drawstring bag for storing all of the accessories when not in play. The doubling cube and the dice cups are a welcome addition as they are not normally part of the traditional Greek game.
Dimensions
This is a small set, being only 20cm x 30cm, when closed and 40cm x 30cm when open. It would be perfect for households where space is at a premium. It weighs in at only 1kg. Considering the compact design and lightweight it could be used as a travel set, although it doesn’t have a carry handle. The natural cork outer cabinet could also be susceptible to damage, so we would be inclined to leave this set in the home.
Conclusion
As we noted at the start, because of the pandemic we haven’t seen this quality backgammon set first hand, but we trust this manufacturer from previous experience. Hopefully, at some point in the future, we will be able to examine this backgammon set first hand. In the meantime, if you are looking for a compact, decorative and quiet backgammon set, it would be well worth considering this offering from Manopoulos. Based on our past experience with Manopoulos we would have no hesitation in recommending this as a Deluxe Backgammon set.
The price at the time of writing: £125.
Cork is a nice material for a backgammon set. As much as I love the sound of the dice dancing across a hardwood backgammon board, it is sometimes nice to have a little peace and quiet. A cork playing field on a backgammon set muffles the sound of the dice, which is nice when playing in a quiet environment. The only downside of cork is that it will wear more quickly because it is so soft. I wouldn’t mind this Manopoulos backgammon set in my collection.