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Occasionally, you come across a game that is mindless, relaxing, and carefree. When this happens, you lose yourself in its simple ways. As such, when I installed The Block, this is exactly how I felt. This straightforward title lacks complexity. However, it makes up for it with its charming approach.
Developed by Paul Schnepf and published by Future Friends Games, this is a relaxed city builder. What’s more, its random nature ensures you never know what to expect. As a consequence, every playthrough is unique while allowing your creative juices to flow.
The Block is mindless.
Unlike other genres, city-building games don’t need a story. Instead, they rely on their creative nature to get you through. Moreover, a slight sense of OCD helps to keep you motivated as well. The Block doesn’t play out like Sim City or City Skylines instead; it lets you do as you wish. Subsequently, it has minor limitations, and this was a wonderful idea.
Each playthrough is experienced on a set-sized tile. Accordingly, you pick the map you wish to build on, and the game begins. From here, a procedurally generated algorithm selects your assets. Furthermore, it picks your theme as well. Therefore, in the beginning, you are in the lap of the gods. However, after this, you are the one in control.
Some limitations.
The Block isn’t some free-for-all madness without rules. No, there are limitations that keep you focused. For instance, you must place each asset next to another structure. As such, your city, forest, or hamlet expands from the centre to the edges. Next, you are given a small selection of buildings, vegetation, and paths to pick from. These items can be used freely, and the design and finish are entirely your choices.
On top of this, you can remove pieces as you wish, but you must abide by the above rules. However, once your creation is completed, you may view it freely and then start again. This is the crux of The Block. Thereupon, you’ll encounter no gore, there is no violence, and there are no high scores to aim for. Moreover, you can’t compare your city to friends, nor will you experience disasters or devastation. Accordingly, it is a relaxed game to unwind to after a hard day’s work.
The Block is pleasant to the eye.
The developer has done a nice but understated job of the graphics. Subsequently, the pixel imagery and soft pastel colour palette won’t wow anyone. However, it is still pleasant to the eye. Alongside this, the rudimentary UI and clean-cut display allow you to focus on the task at hand. Furthermore, the excellent camera angle and easy-to-move map make it easy to adjust your creation.
The stripped-back approach continues with the audio. A calm and folksy soundtrack is combined with simple sound effects. This minimalist approach was risky, as it could be deemed underwhelming. Yet, I loved its mellow nature and easy to listen to tracks.
Simple game = simple controls.
The above-mentioned UI ensures The Block is a simple game. You can use either your mouse or your keyboard to achieve your goals. Moreover, the inputs are responsive and the layout is minimalist.
Where The Block falls short is its replay value. Sadly, its gameplay is so basic that it can only be enjoyed casually. What’s more, this impacts longevity and its appeal. However, it’s an inexpensive game, so it’s still great value for money.
The Block is a basic and relaxed building game.
The basic nature of The Block will pique some gamers’ interest. Yet, sadly, many will overlook this charming and relaxing building game. Yes, it has limited appeal, but I enjoyed it, nonetheless. Despite its understated and minimalist ways, I recommend that you buy it here! Building a city needn’t be a complex task. Relax, enjoy the ambience, and let your creative juices flow.
