My Game of the Year: Balatro – A Humble Success Story
It’s the end of the year, and if you're reading this on schedule, it's likely December 29th. Unless there have been other major award announcements, you're probably aware of the numerous accolades showered upon Balatro, a unique blend of solitaire, poker, and roguelike deck-building. This unassuming game has garnered significant recognition, including Indie and Mobile Game of the Year at The Game Awards, and two awards in our own Pocket Gamer Awards (Best Mobile Port and Best Digital Board Game).
However, Balatro's success hasn't been without its critics. Some have questioned its inclusion in these award ceremonies, citing its relatively simple visuals compared to other, more graphically impressive games. The skepticism stems from the perception that a seemingly straightforward deck-builder shouldn't receive so much acclaim.
This, I believe, is precisely why Balatro is my personal Game of the Year. But before delving deeper, let's acknowledge some other noteworthy games from 2024:
Honorable Mentions:
- Vampire Survivors' Castlevania expansion: A long-awaited addition that delivers on its promise, bringing iconic Castlevania characters into the game.
- Squid Game: Unleashed – Free for All: A bold move by Netflix Games, making the game free-to-play and potentially setting a new precedent for their future titles.
- Watch Dogs: Truth audio adventure: An intriguing choice by Ubisoft, opting for an Audible-only release for this entry in the Watch Dogs franchise.
A Surprisingly Addictive Experience
My personal experience with Balatro has been a mix of frustration and fascination. While undeniably engaging, I haven't yet mastered its intricacies. The need for meticulous deck optimization in later game stages has proven challenging, despite many hours of playtime.
Despite this, I consider Balatro one of the best gaming purchases I've made in years. It's simple, easy to pick up and play, and not overly demanding. While not my ultimate time-waster (that honor goes to Vampire Survivors), it ranks highly. Its visuals are appealing, and gameplay is smooth. For a modest price, you get a captivating roguelike deck-builder that won't elicit ridicule when played in public. LocalThunk's ability to elevate such a simple concept is remarkable. The calming music and satisfying sound effects enhance the addictive loop.
But you’ve likely heard this before. So why am I highlighting it? For some, its appeal isn't immediately obvious.
Beyond the Graphics
Balatro's success has been perplexing to some, who see it as merely "a card game." It's not a flashy gacha title, nor does it push technological boundaries. It lacks the retro aesthetic that often garners attention. It's not a high-budget, visually stunning game. But it's a well-executed card game that offers a fresh take on a familiar concept. This, I argue, is the true measure of a game's quality – not just its graphics or other superficial elements.
Substance Over Style
Balatro's multi-platform success (PC, console, and mobile) is significant, demonstrating that a game doesn't need to be a massive, cross-platform gacha title to thrive. It proves that simplicity and well-executed design can resonate with players across different platforms. While not a massive financial success, its relatively low development costs likely resulted in a healthy return for LocalThunk.
Balatro's unique gameplay allows for diverse approaches. Some players strive for perfect deck optimization, while others, like myself, appreciate its relaxing quality for casual play.
The key takeaway from Balatro's success is that you don't need groundbreaking graphics or complex mechanics to create a successful game. Sometimes, a simple, well-designed game with its own unique style is all it takes.
