CHARK – A Chess-Roguelike of Strategy, Risk, and Combos

If you like games where every decision matters, where position, tempo, and synergy all combine to test your wits, CHARK is worth checking out. It’s a chess-inspired roguelike card-board game where you build piece-combos, manage risk, and aim to hit score goals while avoiding danger.

What Is CHARK?

• CHARK is a strategy & roguelike game made for Brackeys Game Jam 2025.2 by developer protzz.

• On a small 5×5 board, you use piece-cards each round, set up moves, respond to enemy threats, and try to survive while building your strength.

• Every round: you see three cards, but you may play only two. When you click a card, possible legal moves are shown. Then enemies advance. If you end your turn in “danger,” you lose a life.

• Between levels, you collect money (gold) and bonuses (e.g. for unused cards), and can spend those resources in a Shop. There you can buy Artifacts—items that bend rules, open up new tactics, or give you advantages.

How to Play CHARK: Step-by-Step

What Makes CHARK Fun & Interesting

• Blends of chess + roguelike + card mechanics — it’s not just moving pieces but choosing cards, planning combos, and reacting to enemy pressure.

• Tactical depth in a small board — the 5×5 size forces you to think spatially; you don’t have huge room, so every move counts.

• Risk vs Reward — sometimes playing riskier cards nets you more points, but might leave you exposed. Deciding how much risk to take is part of the fun.

• Replayability via artifacts & card choices — different artifacts change your options each run. Since you pick cards and artifacts, each session gives you new synergies to discover.

Tips to Play Better at CHARK

• Prioritize position early — get your pieces placed not just to attack, but to defend and stay safe from enemy movement.

• Save cards wisely — unused cards give you bonus gold; balance playing strong cards vs. holding for bonus.

• Upgrade artifacts strategically — invest in artifacts that complement your playing style (e.g. defensive, combo-focused, or momentum builds).

• Watch for danger zones — see where enemies will end up next turn; avoid ending your turn in places where they can reach or threaten you.

• Experiment with combinations — trying different piece combinations and artifacts can open new tactics. Don’t stick with what feels safe; explore & adapt.

CHARK is a clever, tight roguelike chess-card hybrid that rewards careful thinking and smart risk management. It’s built for players who like strategy, positioning, and figuring out how to push forward even when the odds seem against them. Small board, big decisions. If you enjoy games that force you to adapt and plan, CHARK is definitely worth your time.