It's the end of the year, and if you're reading this on schedule, it's probably December 29th. Assuming you've seen the accolades heaped upon Balatro, you're likely aware of its impressive sweep of awards. From Indie and Mobile Game of the Year at The Game Awards to Best Mobile Port and Best Digital Board Game at the Pocket Gamer Awards, Jimbo's creation has garnered widespread praise.
However, this success has also sparked confusion and even anger. Comparisons between Balatro's relatively simple visuals and the flashy gameplay videos of other nominees have led to questions about its numerous awards. Many seem baffled that a seemingly simple deckbuilder could achieve such recognition.
This, I believe, highlights why Balatro is my personal Game of the Year pick. Before delving into that, let's acknowledge some other standout releases:
Honorable Mentions:
- Vampire Survivors' Castlevania expansion: The long-awaited arrival of iconic Castlevania characters is a triumph.
- Squid Game: Unleashed is free for all: Netflix's decision to make this free could set a new precedent for mobile gaming and its relationship with streaming services.
- Watch Dogs: Truth audio adventure released: A unique approach from Ubisoft, showcasing an interesting alternative release method for the Watch Dogs franchise.
A Mixed Bag of Fun
My experience with Balatro has been a mixed bag. While undeniably captivating, I haven't quite mastered it. I've always struggled with the detailed statistical comparisons inherent in optimizing decks, and despite many hours played, I haven't completed a single run.
Yet, considering the cost-benefit analysis, Balatro represents some of the best gaming value I've experienced in years. It's simple, easily accessible, and doesn't demand significant technical prowess or intense brainpower. While Vampire Survivors remains my go-to time-waster, Balatro is a close contender.
Its aesthetic is pleasing, and the gameplay is smooth. For $9.99, you get a captivating roguelike deckbuilder that won't elicit scoffs in public (it might even make you look like a gambling mastermind!). LocalThunk's ability to take a simple format and inject it with "oomph" is commendable. Everything from the calming music to the satisfying sound effects is designed to keep you hooked, yet it's refreshingly honest about its addictive nature.
But you've likely heard all this before. So, why am I discussing it again? Apparently, for some, this isn't enough.
“But it’s just a game-!”
Balatro isn't the only game to face backlash this year—Astrobot faced similar criticism after its Game of the Year win. Ironically, we often get worked up about award shows that we acknowledge are somewhat self-important. The point is the reaction to Balatro and the way it's perceived.
Balatro is unapologetically "gamey" in its design and execution. It's colorful and eye-catching without being overly complex or flashy; it lacks the trendy "retro" aesthetic. This isn't a cutting-edge tech demo, and it's worth noting that LocalThunk began this project as a passion project before realizing its potential.
However, its success confounds many, both in the public and critical spaces. It's not a flashy gacha game, nor does it push the boundaries of mobile technology. To some, it's simply "a card game." And while that's true, it's a very well-executed card game that offers a fresh take on the genre. We should judge a game's quality based on its execution, not solely on visual fidelity or other superficial elements.
It's What's Inside That Counts
The lesson from Balatro is simple: You don't need cutting-edge graphics or high-octane gameplay to succeed. This humble deckbuilder has found success across PC, console, and mobile platforms, a feat many developers struggle to achieve.
While not a massive financial success story, considering the presumed low development costs, LocalThunk likely has a comfortable profit. Balatro proves that a multi-platform game doesn't have to be a massive, cross-platform, cross-progression gacha experience. A simple, well-executed game with its own unique style can resonate with players across different platforms.
My own struggles with Balatro highlight its versatility. For some, it's a game to optimize and master. For others, like myself, it's a relaxing way to pass the time.
Ultimately, the point is this: You don't need to be groundbreaking to be successful. Sometimes, being a bit of a joker is all it takes.
