Going backwards for landing. All I can say is that I'm not a big fan of this method. The last thing I want to do is linger in the danger zone with those large breakers any longer than I have to. It all depends on the beach, depth, water, whether this method can work. But my view is this, if there is a situation where going backwards can work, then someone in the know and experienced going forward can easily succeed going in forwards.
But, a situation where going backwards is far too slow, wham you get hit by a big breaker that rolls you, now what, your way out in the worst part of the danger zone, hopefully you have the moxy to take a few breakers to get back into shore. To me there's far too many risks with this method, especially with newbies or new locations. Better to eat it in closer than to eat it out further and unexpectantly. I'd rather roll while trying to brace into the white water, than eat a full on breaker.
As far as using an anchor or drogue, your probably not going to carry one on an Outback or Revo going into the ocean. Unnecessary weight/bulk. Secondly, at least at the rough beaches I've launched from, you'll never get close enough to toss the anchor/drogue from waist deep water thru the break zone, in fact I can't even cast that far with my rod and reel, definitely can't swim thru those breakers with an anchor.
More than likely it's the same situation as the backwards method, mild short break, thus easy for experienced forward method kayakers to navigate.
On a side note: If you don't feel comfortable with the surf strength, don't do it, there's always another day. If your crazy like me, go ahead and charge that big 10ft breaker straight on full speed, sometimes you make it, sometimes you end up on your back.
Night time landing is another animal. Hate those jellyfish.