Freakonomics Radio

677. Can Backgammon Save Us from Ourselves?

June 12, 2026·59 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

It brings strangers together. It teaches probability, strategy, and emotional control. It has even helped N.F.L. teams win the Super Bowl. Stephen Dubner explores why this ancient game is having a renaissance. (Part two of a series, “We Are All Gamers Now.”)   SOURCES:  Remington Davenport, founder of NYC Backgammon Club. Frank Frigo, game strategy expert & two-time world backgammon champion. Masayuki "Mochy" Mochizuki, professional backgammon player. Marc Olsen, C.E.O. of Backgammon Galaxy. Robert Wachtel, author and professional backgammon player.   RESOURCES: The Backgammon Chronicles: A Pro's Adventures on Tour Volume 1, by Robert Wachtel (2019). In the Game Until the End, by Robert Wachtel (1993) "Tric Trac, Clic Clac," (The New Yorker, 1930). Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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