Hoyle Card Games 2003

Couldn't get to load on my XP-Pro System. Crashed my computer every time I tried something to get it to load. When I called the number for tech support, I was told that the free tech support expired and I'd have to pay for help. NEVERMIND! I returned software for refund.

I got a new computer, and the old games didn't work with it, so bought this. My granddaughter loves to play Go Fish when she comes over, and she was ticked to death to see I bought it for the new computer. I enjoy playing Euchre myself, so these games get a lot of use.

Euchre:
I basically play euchre when my phone line is tied up. Otherwise I play on Yahoo!

Overall, Hoyle isn't too bad, but I find that even on the "advanced" setting, your partner is too timid, mostly by failing to lead trump on your call or order. However, they often order up from first with 2 bowers and no support, when they could have had 3 or 4 trump by passing for "next".

Also, 1st chair never donates.

Unrealistic loners, the computer often takes trick 1 with trump or off Ace, and properly leads the Right, but then leads offsuit to give the opps a chance to stop the loner. Even when holding JJ9, AK.

Pinochle:

In viewing the meld, you gain additional information that can be used later in the gameplay. The computer never makes use of this. Say your P in double-deck has 3 aces of diamonds (which you only know after the fact) and you make diamonds trump with a run (so the computer should know you have the 4th ace). You lead the Qd. Your P should play the 10 of diamonds and lead back at least 2 ace of diamonds before playing other suits.

Also, in the bidding, if you are in a game to 3550 and both teams have around 3000, you cannot count on your P to bid even if you have no marriage yourself. This is very frustrating because you now have to bid a lot more. I think it is so the player can have the glory, but I want the computer to play with the understanding that you must bid to win.

The Hoyle Card Games are really great! There are many characters you can play against in the different games, with different personalities. The facemaker isn't as great as some other Hoyle Games, but I got used to the difference quickly. The only other negative is that only one person can play the gamesat a time, because otherwise you could see each other's cards. This is a really great game, though! I give it a thumbs up!

I am satisfied with most games except for Bridge, the main reason I made the purchase. The players take far too long to respond and even longer to play their cards. It is so bad that I never even play bridge!
In hearts, the players make inappropriate comments when playing the queen of spades.
In gin rummy, you don't get a good look at the cards when the game is over.
Overall, the older versions are better for both the games and the characters. I look forward to reviews for the 2004 version to see if there is any improvement before I think of buying it!