The BBC Bridge Companion is an 8-bit video game console designed for teaching bridge, produced by BBC Enterprises Ltd. It was released in 1985 in the United Kingdom, retailing for £199.99 (equivalent to £765 in 2023).[1]

BBC Bridge Companion
BBC Bridge Companion with a Bridge Builder cartridge inserted
DeveloperBBC Enterprises Ltd, Unicard Ltd
ManufacturerHeber
TypeHome video game console
GenerationThird generation
Release date1985; 39 years ago (1985)
Introductory price£199.99 (equivalent to £765.36 in 2023)
MediaROM cartridge
CPUZilog Z80A @ 3.579 MHz
Memory2kB SRAM, 16kB VRAM, 16kB ROM
Display280×216, 8 colours
GraphicsTexas Instruments TMS9129NL
InputKeypad
Power240V AC

History

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System PCB

Maths teacher Andrew Kambites wanted to generate income from bridge due to his love for the game. He would combine this with his programming background to develop the BBC Bridge Companion.[2]

List of cartridges

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The software library consists entirely of interactive tutorials on different aspects of bridge.

  • Advanced Bidding
  • Advanced Defence
  • Bridge Builder
  • Club Play 1
  • Club Play 2
  • Club Play 3
  • Conventions 1
  • Duplicate 1
  • Master Play 1[3]

References

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  1. ^ Frank, Ian (1998). Search & Planning Under Incomplete Information: A Study Using Bridge Card Play. Springer-Verlag. p. 294. ISBN 978-3-540-76257-7.
  2. ^ Kambites, Andrew. "Andrew Kambites". English Bridge Union. Retrieved 24 September 2021.
  3. ^ "github".
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