A maximal double is a form of game try used in competitive auction. It applies to situations when: * we have found a fit; * the opponents have taken away the bid immediately below our 3-level suit. * the partner has not denied invitational values. If it is in effect, the following double is a maximal double: Note that, if there is a space between the opponent's suit and 3 of our suit, maximal doubles are off and the space used is the general game try: In this case, X is for penalty, 3♦ is a game try, 3♥ is competitive.