Balatro
Year: 2024
Rating: E10+
Time Played: ~20 hours
Sometimes the simplest games can be the most complex. Take Balatro, for example. The goal is to hit a certain score by making poker hands. Scored cards add chips, and a multiplier is used based on the poker hand played. As the game progresses, the required score grows and requires the use of special attributes on the cards, as well as a group of Jokers that apply different modifications to the cards, chips, or multiplier. That there are so many combinations means every run can be unique.
As with other card games (and Roguelikes), Balatro relies somewhat on the luck of the draw. There are tons of choices that can make or break a round. Do you buy a booster pack for the chance at a rare Joker? Which vouchers are worth it? Do you prioritize flushes over straights? Depending on how you like to play, finding these new synergies is part of the fun of the game. When a good set of Jokers and cards hits just right, it’s fun to watch the score balloon to insane levels.
Of course, with so many ways to play the game, there are also different decks and stakes to increase the difficulty. Since much of Balatro relies on luck, these higher difficulty stakes almost feel unfair with their limitations. I’m sure the rush of beating these higher difficulties is quite something, but I never made it to the highest stakes to know what that feels like. At any rate, I still sunk a good 20 hours into the game and unlocked most of the Jokers, Tarot Cards, Vouchers, and Planet Cards. Overall, it’s a fun game, but don’t get sucked down the “just one more game” path.
A simple card game with endless complexity, I give Balatro 4.5 stars out of 5.
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