I have monitored this conversation for some time, and now that I have achieved a respectable ranking in Backgammon (as played on this site), and payed a modest subscription, I feel qualified to add my opinions.

I think it is a GREAT pity that the rules of Backgammon are not implemented fully on the site. The cube is central to Backgammon, as is scoring for gammons and backgammons, none of which is implemented by BrainKing. I know enough about computer programming to know that correcting the errors (like using the higher-numbered die when only one die can be used) and implementing a doubling cube and (say) a 5- or 9-point game would not be an arduous programming task for somebody who has developed what is already implememnted.

I am not a great fan of the various variations (Race, Nackgammon, Crowded, etc) and therefore I choose not to play them. I have absolutely no objection to other people playing these variations as long as I can be excused. If Fencer wants MY vote as to priorities, I would vote VERY VERY strongly (can you vote VERY VERY STRONGLY in a democracy?) to implement Backgammon according to the rules as a priority over implementing new games or new variations. I don't see a lot of merit in arguing the pros and cons of the rules - the rules published and well known. I would LOVE to play Backgammon according to the rules!

Having said that, I enjoy playing the Backgammon flavour which is already available. I would like to congratulate Fencer on an excellent site, and also say what a great bunch of people play on the site. I have now played with over a hundred people, and have only met two with whom I would rather not play again. That's not bad for a site like this.