It’s the end of the year, and if you're reading this on schedule, it's likely December 29th. Unless Balatro unexpectedly won more awards, you're probably aware of its impressive sweep of accolades. It's taken home Indie and Mobile Game of the Year at The Game Awards, and even snagged two awards at our own Pocket Gamer Awards: Best Mobile Port and Best Digital Board Game. Jimbo's creation is undeniably a critical darling.
However, its success has also sparked confusion and even anger. Comparisons between its relatively simple visuals and flashier games are common. Some are baffled that a straightforward deckbuilder has garnered so much recognition. This, I believe, is precisely why it's my personal Game of the Year. But before delving into Balatro, let's acknowledge some other noteworthy releases:
Honorable Mentions:
- Vampire Survivors' Castlevania expansion: The long-awaited arrival of iconic Castlevania characters is a triumph.
- Squid Game: Unleashed is free-to-play: This bold move by Netflix Games could set a new precedent, potentially increasing player numbers and suggesting a focus on attracting new viewers.
- Watch Dogs: Truth audio adventure released: While not groundbreaking news, it's an interesting direction for the Watch Dogs franchise, especially considering Ubisoft's past struggles with the series. A mobile release seemed natural, but an Audible-exclusive adventure is a surprising choice.
My Balatro Journey:
My experience with Balatro has been a mixed bag. It's undeniably captivating, yet I haven't mastered it. I find detailed statistical analysis frustrating, and Balatro's late-game deck optimization has prevented me from completing any runs, despite countless hours played.
However, Balatro represents some of the best value gaming I've experienced in years. It's simple, engaging, and undemanding, both technically and mentally. While Vampire Survivors remains my go-to time-waster, Balatro is a close contender.
It's visually appealing and plays well. For $9.99, you get an addictive roguelike deckbuilder that won't draw ridicule in public (some might even mistake your poker hand for gambling genius!). LocalThunk's ability to elevate such a simple concept is commendable. The calming music and satisfying sound effects create an engaging loop. It's refreshingly honest about its addictive nature, subtly rather than overtly.
But you've likely heard all this before. So why am I discussing it? Apparently, for some, it's not enough.
"But it's just a game-!"
Balatro hasn't faced the backlash that Astrobot received after winning Game of the Year at Big Geoff's awards (ironically, we often get worked up about a show we acknowledge is self-important). The reaction to Balatro highlights how it's perceived.
Balatro is unapologetically "gamey" in its design and execution. It's colorful and engaging without being overly complex or flashy; it lacks the trendy "retro" aesthetic. It's not a cutting-edge tech demo, and it's worth noting that LocalThunk began it as a passion project before realizing its potential.
Many, both critics and the public, find Balatro's success perplexing. It's not a flashy gacha, nor does it push mobile gaming boundaries. It's not a battle royale featuring anime girls; to them, it's "just a card game."
Which it is—a very well-executed one that offers a fresh take on the genre. Game quality should be judged by its execution, not flashy graphics. It's a statement worth repeating.
It's What's Inside That Counts
Balatro's success teaches a valuable lesson: you don't need groundbreaking graphics or high-octane gameplay to succeed. This humble deckbuilder has found success across PC, console, and mobile—a significant achievement given the challenges of mobile development.
While not a massive financial success, considering the likely low development costs, LocalThunk is probably sitting pretty.
Balatro proves you can create multi-platform games that aren't massive, cross-platform, cross-progression, multiplayer gacha adventures. Simplicity and style can unite mobile, console, and PC players.
My own struggles with Balatro highlight its unique appeal. Some strive for perfect optimization, while others, like me, enjoy its relaxed pace.
Ultimately, the point is simple: as Balatro's success demonstrates, you don't need to be revolutionary to be successful; sometimes, a touch of simple ingenuity is all you need.
