gameforcing

Gameforcing is a term used in bidding-based games to describe moves that obligate the other player or partnership to respond and prevent the auction from ending in a noncommittal, part-score outcome. It marks a shift from flexible to compelled progression toward a higher-contract goal.

In contract bridge, a game-forcing bid guarantees that the partnership will reach at least a game contract and requires continued bidding by the opponents. The aim is to reveal strength and the fit between partners and to move the auction beyond part-scores toward a game contract.

In common bridge practice, certain sequences are described as game-forcing. For example, in many two-over-one systems, a responder's bid at the two level after a one-level opening is game-forcing, promising sufficient strength and forcing the opener to bid again. Variations exist across systems; some agreements specify exceptions, such as forcing to game for only a single round or not forcing after certain shapes.

Beyond bridge, gameforcing can describe any strategic move in which a player restricts the opponent's options and pushes toward a decisive outcome. In negotiations or other games, a forcing move may compel the opponent to commit to a course of action, reducing the chance to stall or retreat.

See also: contract bridge, forcing bid, two-over-one game force.