Customer Reviews

Bridge Baron 19

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(7)
3 star:		(7)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(7)

 

 

The full paid version of bridge baron has an impressive array of conventions (both bidding and signaling). However, it's application of these is questionable, to say the least. For instance I recently had a hand where I opened 1H, computer partner bids 2NT, knowing it's Jacoby (the "Interpret" button available in the bidding screen makes this clear). The computer's own documentation recognizes that if I now bid a new suit at the 3-level, I'm showing a singleton or void, which I do, bidding 3C. The computer then decides to pass!!! WTF?!?!

Also, the claiming logic is questionable to say the least -- I've had Bridge Baron say I could claim, say, 10 tricks, and then when Bridge Baron goes to play the had from that exact point, only wins 8! If it knows how to claim 10, how come it doesn't know how to win 10?

However, more often than not the bidding and play is enjoyable. Hopefully the kinks can be worked out in future versions.

I recently changed my computer from a PC to an Apple and had to reconfigure my Bridge Baron software. I was using the old 12 and was very happy with it but the 19 series which I just installed in my computer is far superior - faster with many more options for participation; more user friendly (if that is possible) and superior graphics. Any one who has an earlier version will love the latest. Anyone considering bridge software should definately check out the Bridge Baron before making a selection - take the pre-purchase trial and you swill see that it is the best out there.

This program starts with the very basics, and then moves logically up through modern conventions. It uses step by step play of hands to illustrate each point. You can play the hand yourself first, then have the Baron play it as you watch, and read the reason for each card played.

Actually, after upgrading her computer system I bought this program for my mother who has been playing computer bridge to practice for her games at the "club" for years. She had been playing with several older programs however they wouldn't load into her new system (Vista); so began the search for a replacement. I came across Bridge Baron 19 and downloaded the free version for her to try. She loved it so I bought her the full version. Far superior to her former games citing, "Rather than just playing I'm actually learning. Now maybe my partner and I can win some games." She's happy, so I'm happy.

I am uncertain about how good Bridge Baron is for learning because Bridge is a very complicated game. I do play bridge and am pleased with the way this works. I ordered this edition because I got a new Vista computer. Of all the programs I installed on the new computer, this one seems to have worked the best with no tweaking.

Started off with Bridge Baron. Had problems with bidding sequences and play of the hand. After reading results of the Computer World Championsips and saw that Jack Bridge was winning in most years switched over and I am glad that I did. The 2009 Computer World Championships was won by Jack Bridge and now it is releasing a new Jack 5 version. Jack 4 was great and it was updated without charge to Jack 4.1. There are no additional charges for the updates within versions. Frankly, there is no comparsion between the two progams and Jack is the winner hands down. Note, in the Bridge monthly publication there is a bidding challenge with humans and in the past it included Bridge Baron which invariably was last in the standings. Now, Bridge Baron has not been included, wonder why. As a Bronze Life Master would want Jack Bridge as my partner. Also, great product support. Playing 2/1 had a disagreement about a bidding sequence and sent an e-mail concerning whether a bid was forcing or not. Received a prompt response for Jack's justification which was well thought out from the program's developers. At the last tournament I attended chatted with a Gold Life Master (2500 points) who I had suggested to purchase the program. She agreed it was difficult to compete against Jack at the higher levels. If you are going to buy any bridge program consider the computer tournament results and check Jack out.

Being VERY new to the world of Bridge, I found Bridge Barron a great aid in gettng the feel of playing bridge as well as a start to learning many of the conventions. After a little more than 6-weeks, it has become a psstime to "Play" hands for practice/amusement.
An important note for the first time user of the product: Set up your North-South Profile to have the Best Bidding Hands, and alternate which of you will be the openner or Responder. After playing a over a hundred hands where the deal is rotated amoung all 4 positions, you'll find the need to practice only one aspect of your game (Offense or Defense)

Bridge Baron, and the Beginning Bridge, are very good for learning or re-learning bidding and play of bridge. I have used several other computer bridge programs, but never with as much success as Bridge Baron. BB19 gets the best reviews from bridge experts, and I see why. Excellent, concentrated learning how to play and application to selected deals.

Bridge Baron 19This product was an upgrade for me, I had been using Bridge Baron 14. For this version, I found it more difficult to program the conventions used and also the "play now" button is annoying. Version 14 only had a delay in the North-South hands, this has a delay on the 3 computer hands. I really liked the older version better.

I've only just begun to explore, but have found this to be a good teaching tool for beginners. Only problem I found was when I pushed "help" and was informed this was no longer available (how can that be?). My friends are interested in purchasing this disk too.