The controversy surrounding the rating of Balatro, a popular deck-building roguelike game developed by LocalThunk, took an amusing twist when its creator humorously critiqued the PEGI rating system. Despite its lighthearted gameplay, Balatro received a PEGI 18 rating, a decision that left LocalThunk bewildered.
Operating anonymously from Canada, LocalThunk has been no stranger to social media, using it to connect with fans since Balatro’s explosive debut in early 2024. His latest Twitter post on December 15 was both clever and critical, poking fun at the high age rating by wondering if incorporating actual gambling elements, like those found in EA Sports FC 25, could perhaps lower the rating. The irony of EA Sports FC 25 securing a PEGI 3 rating despite its gambling mechanics didn’t escape LocalThunk’s sharp wit, and he likened the situation to a “comedy.”
According to PEGI, the game earned its high rating due to its ability to teach poker mechanics, which could potentially be used for gambling. Yet, LocalThunk has been adamant against any association with gambling. During a chat with PC Gamer in February 2024, he openly discussed his aversion to gambling, even going so far as to ensure that Balatro’s intellectual property would not be sold or licensed to any gambling-related entities.
Interestingly, the ESRB diverged from PEGI’s stance, rating Balatro as suitable for players aged 10 and older, recognizing the absence of any real wagering possibilities within the game. Similarly, Germany’s USK, known for its stringent ratings, categorized it for ages 12 and up.
This isn’t LocalThunk’s first critique of PEGI’s decision. Back in March 2024, during a Reddit AMA, he expressed his disappointment with the rating, calling it “unwarranted.” However, this didn’t hinder Balatro’s success. The game has impressed players and critics alike, selling over 3.5 million copies by December 2024, and securing three Game Awards, tying with Metaphor: ReFantazio for second-most wins.
Balatro has captivated the gaming community with its innovative poker-inspired mechanics, offering players the thrill of discovering jokers and creating powerful combinations without any real gambling involved. It’s a testament to creative game design that appeals to a broad audience, celebrating strategic gameplay in a fun and imaginative way.
