'Choc-a-Bloc Charlie' is a puzzle game written by Steve Hughes and published by MC Lothlorien in 1984 for the Commodore 64. The game tasks players with controlling Charlie, a character who must navigate a series of levels by pushing blocks into designated spaces. The objective is to clear each screen by strategically moving blocks, which often requires careful planning to avoid getting stuck. The gameplay is reminiscent of other block-pushing puzzle games, with a focus on logic and spatial reasoning.
The game features a top-down perspective, with Charlie moving through grid-based levels filled with walls, blocks, and target spaces. Players must push blocks into the correct positions while avoiding dead ends, as blocks cannot be pulled or moved once placed incorrectly. The difficulty increases as levels introduce more complex layouts and obstacles, requiring players to think several steps ahead. The simplicity of the mechanics is balanced by the progressively challenging puzzles.
'Choc-a-Bloc Charlie' is notable for its straightforward design and lack of additional frills, focusing purely on the puzzle-solving aspect. The graphics are minimalistic, with basic sprites and colors, while the sound design is similarly understated, providing only essential audio cues. The game's appeal lies in its cerebral challenge, making it a niche title for players who enjoy methodical problem-solving. It remains a lesser-known entry in the Commodore 64 library but is recognized for its clean execution of the block-pushing genre.