
Balatro
Release Date: February 20, 2024
Puzzle, turn-based, roguelike, 2D, card games, indie games, Poker, Game Pass, singleplayer
OpenCritic
Steam
A roguelike card game loosely based on the poker rules. Balatro has us participate in solo card duels, gradually unlocking new card decks and joker cards with unique abilities and effects. The game offers a story campaign, as well as various single challenges.
Balatro is a card game with roguelike elements, loosely based on the poker rules. The game was developed by the independent studio LocalThunk, and its release was handled by Playstack.
Mechanics
The main attraction of Balatro are card games, during which we play cards and build an increasingly powerful deck, as well as collect tokens and use them to place bets before subsequent duels on the table.
Although the game was based on the rules of poker, the authors tried to introduce a number of their own changes, which significantly influence the course of the game. Allowed poker hands (card arrangements) can be combined with various jokers, each of which has unique properties and abilities. In addition to them, we have been given a variety of decks at our disposal, including standard cards, tarot cards (strengthening the former), planet cards (strengthening poker hands), astral cards, and coupon cards (which provide us with access to permanent upgrades).
By using them and relying on various moves, we create diverse, sometimes powerful card combinations that allow us to win subsequent duels. The game requires to build a deck in such a way that individual cards complement each other.
Throughout the course of the games, we unlock new elements of the deck, and also discover various secrets, which over time increase our chances of winning in each hand. An additional source of information about which hands and jokers we should use more often and which should be avoided are detailed statistics.
Game modes
Balatro only allows you to play solo. The game offers a story campaign with eight levels of difficulty, as well as single, daily challenges and set approaches.
Technical aspects
The graphic design of the Balatro game was made in the pixel art technique. The game is accompanied by a synthwave soundtrack.
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Videos and Screens
[1:27] Balatro - Friends of Jimbo (Pack 4) Reveal Trailer
[1:48] Balatro - Friends of Jimbo (Pack 3) - Reveal Trailer
OpenCritic Rating
Game is Recomended by 100% of Critics. There are 57 Critic Reviews.
PC Gamer: 91 / 100 by Abbie Stone
A roguelike deckbuilder debut already worth of joining Slay the Spire and Monster Train at the King's table. Essential.
Digital Spy: 4 / 5 by Jess Lee
It's easy to get a kick out of seeing how high the scores can get, but the game is as much about the gambles you take and the planning along the way. There's a deceptive simplicity to Balatro due to its roots in poker, and it uses that to its advantage to reel you in while regularly finding new ways to surprise you.
Push Square: 9 / 10 by Stephen Tailby
Between the main game, seeded runs, and a Challenge mode to really test your skills, there's endless fun to be drawn from Balatro. With so many variables to experiment with, sleek presentation, and hypnotically addictive gameplay, this is easily among the best deckbuilders, and possibly among the best roguelikes, we've played yet.
The main pros of the game
- Addictive Gameplay: Many users find the game incredibly engaging, often leading to extended play sessions where they lose track of time. The core gameplay loop of building decks and strategizing against various challenges is highly praised.
- Well-Designed Mechanics: The game's mechanics allow for a variety of strategies, making each run feel unique and rewarding. Players appreciate the depth and complexity that emerges from seemingly simple mechanics.
- Visual and Audio Appeal: The art style is described as charming and colorful, with satisfying sound effects that enhance the overall experience. Many players find the visuals and audio to be a significant part of the game's enjoyment.
- Replayability: The game offers a high level of replayability due to the numerous jokers, decks, and challenges available, ensuring that players can continually find new experiences.
- Accessibility: Players note that prior knowledge of poker is not necessary to enjoy the game, making it accessible to a wider audience.
The main cons of the game
- RNG Dependence: A significant number of reviews mention the game's reliance on random number generation (RNG), which can lead to frustrating experiences when luck does not favor the player. This can make some runs feel unfair or impossible.
- Lack of Progression: Some users express disappointment that there is no meaningful progression between runs, as each session resets the player's deck. This can lead to feelings of repetitiveness.
- Repetitive Music: While the soundtrack is generally well-received, several players note that it can become repetitive over time, detracting from the overall experience.
The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users
- Depth in Storytelling: Many reviews point out the absence of a compelling narrative or story, which some players feel would enhance the overall experience.
- More Strategic Options: Some users express a desire for more strategic depth and options to counter difficult bosses or unfavorable situations, indicating that the game could benefit from additional mechanics or features.
- Cross-Platform Save: A few players suggest the inclusion of cross-save functionality to allow for seamless gameplay across different devices.
Summary
- Overall, Balatro is celebrated for its addictive gameplay and engaging mechanics, but it faces criticism for its reliance on RNG and lack of progression, with some players wishing for a deeper narrative and more strategic options.
Summary generated on:
Balatro Summary
Platforms:
PC / Windows February 20, 2024
PlayStation 5 February 20, 2024
Xbox Series X/S February 20, 2024
Switch February 20, 2024
PlayStation 4 February 20, 2024
Xbox One February 20, 2024
Android OS September 26, 2024
Apple iOS September 26, 2024
Developer: LocalThunk
Publisher: PlayStack

Balatro System Requirements
PC / Windows
Minimum: Intel Core i3, 1 GB RAM, graphic card Intel HD or better, 50 MB HDD, Windows 7/8/10/11 64-bit

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