Play Baffles | Commodore 64 Online Game (1993)

'Baffles' is a puzzle game written by Michael Gresham and published in COMPUTE!'s Gazette for the Commodore 64. The game challenges players to solve logic puzzles by deducing the correct sequence of colored pegs hidden by the computer. Players input their guesses, and the game provides feedback on the number of correct colors and positions, as well as correct colors in the wrong positions. This gameplay is reminiscent of the classic board game Mastermind. The game was designed to be both accessible and mentally stimulating, appealing to fans of logic and strategy.

The interface of Baffles is straightforward, utilizing the Commodore 64's graphical capabilities to display the colored pegs and input grid. Players use the keyboard to select colors and submit their guesses, with the game providing immediate feedback. The simplicity of the design ensures that the focus remains on the puzzle-solving aspect, making it easy for players to engage with the game without unnecessary distractions.

Baffles was distributed through COMPUTE!'s Gazette, a popular magazine that included type-in programs for Commodore 64 users. This method of distribution allowed enthusiasts to manually enter the game's code into their computers, a common practice at the time. The game's inclusion in the magazine highlights its appeal to the Commodore 64 community, which valued both entertainment and educational software.

The game's mechanics and design reflect the limitations and strengths of the Commodore 64, showcasing how developers like Michael Gresham created engaging experiences within the constraints of the hardware. Baffles remains a notable example of early home computer gaming, demonstrating the creativity and ingenuity of programmers during the 1980s. Its focus on logic and deduction ensures its place as a memorable title in the Commodore 64 library.