Bridgette (1970) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Bridgette is a classic card game that was released in 1970 and is designed for 2 players. It falls under the category of auction/bidding and trick-taking games. The game has been published by various companies including Gamut of Games, Mayfair Games, and Xanadu Leisure, Ltd.

Game Components of Bridgette

A 55-card deck: the standard 52-card pack plus three extra cards called “colons” (grand colon ••, royal colon •º, and common colon ºº).

No additional boards or equipment are required for the classic version, though the ‘Bridgette Showdown’ variation includes bidding boards, dice, dice cups, and chips.

How To Setup Bridgette

To set up Bridgette, players simply need to shuffle the 55-card deck and deal the cards evenly between the two players. There is no complex board or additional setup required.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deck Composition: The deck includes the standard 52 cards plus three “colons” that separate the cards into groups (aces, picture cards, and spot cards).

Colons’ Role: On an opponent’s lead, a colon from the corresponding group can be played instead of following suit. The colon forces the opponent to lead one of the other three suits in the next trick.

Objective: The goal is to win tricks and manage the use of colons strategically to disrupt the opponent’s plans.

Gameplay: Each trick involves two cards, one from each player, with the colons adding a layer of strategy and complexity.

Player Experience

Bridgette offers a challenging and strategic gameplay experience, particularly appealing to bridge enthusiasts. The addition of colons introduces a subtle yet significant layer of strategy, making the game engaging and mentally stimulating.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game provides a rich strategic experience due to the unique role of the colons.

Portability: The game is highly portable, requiring only a deck of cards.

Classic Status: Bridgette has been inducted into GAMES Magazine’s Hall of Fame, indicating its enduring quality and play value.

Variations: The ‘Bridgette Showdown’ variation offers additional complexity and gameplay options.

Cons

Learning Curve: The unique mechanics of the colons may require some time to understand and master.

Limited Player Count: The game is designed for two players only, which may limit its appeal for larger groups.

Personal Thoughts on Bridgette

Bridgette is ideal for bridge enthusiasts and those who enjoy strategic card games. Its compact nature and deep strategic elements make it a great addition to any card game collection. It is particularly suited for players looking for a challenging and mentally stimulating experience that can be played in a variety of settings due to its portability. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a game for larger groups or simpler, more casual gameplay.

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