BBO is a terrific platform for playing, practicing, and learning bridge. We encourage ALL our players to try online bridge. Some of the things you can do on BBO are:
Use the best declarer play teaching software (FREE)
Play bridge with your friends or with strangers (FREE)
Play bridge against the computer (some FREE, some cheap)
Play ACBL games for masterpoints (costs $$)
ACBL games vs humans
ACBL games vs computer
Practice at bidding-only tables (FREE)
Play solitaire bridge (FREE)
Participate in teaching sessions
All you need to do is register with BBO to create an account. It's free and they don't ask for any personal information. Then you need to orient yourself to the basics of BBO - this can take a little time. Here are links to two helpful videos that show how to register and do some basic things:
Basics of BBO (9min) - register/login, add friends, host a table, bidding practice, solitaire
If you have specific questions or problems getting started on BBO let us know using the form on this page or send us email. We will provide answers or post more videos.
BBO User List
Add your name by sending us a note using the form on this page, or send us email. (note: HBW also maintains a list of names, so add your name to their list too
BBO is actually an ACBL bridge club and you can win real ACBL masterpoints in their games. The ACBL and BBO are also working to allow other clubs (like Bridge Studio) to host their own games on BBO, but this isn't available yet.
The ACBL has basic info and Q&A about these games here -- ACBL and BBO games
First, you need to make sure your BBO account includes your ACBL number. So they will know where to send those masterpoints! The ACBL games cost money so next you need to deposit money in your BBO account, the instructions to do that are here: BBO money link
The ACBL games are all located in the "ACBL World" link on BBO. There are several types, but the two newest types are the "support your club" games and the have the "ACBLSYC" name beside them:
Pairs games three times a day - 11am, 6pm and 8:30pm. You need a partner before you sign up. Registration opens two hours before game time and we recommend you sign up early! Currently these games have a maximum of 600 pairs.
Daylong robot game. You play 18 boards against the computer, and so does everyone else. You can play at your leisure and start/stop as often as you want. At the end of the day your score is compared to everyone else's.
The ACBL "support your club" games cost $5.00 (US), of which $4.00 will go to your local club. You will also win BLACK masterpoints.