The 2024 Best Video Game 'Balatro': A Solitaire-Like Delight

"Balatro" stands out in the gaming landscape as a unique card game that has captured the attention of players worldwide. It defies traditional categorizations and offers a gaming experience like no other.

Uncover the Simplicity and Fun of "Balatro"

Section 1: The Umbrella of "Game"

As a noun, "game" is a broad term that encompasses various activities. From Parcheesi to professional football and from "Genshin Impact" to Go Fish, it covers a wide range. However, as a verb in modern usage, "gaming" often refers specifically to playing video games. But "Balatro" is different. It is a playing card game that stands on its own, not bound by the limitations of video games.

It was picked up an armful of trophies, including the best mobile game at the Game Awards last week. You probably own a device on which you can play it, and if you're reading this article on a digital device, you're likely using it right now.

Section 2: The Gameplay

Released in February for PCs and consoles and with its mobile version launching in September, "Balatro" is now available on most online game and phone app stores. It's often described as a "roguelike deckbuilder," but in simple terms, it's a cross between solitaire and Tetris with a touch of poker.

Each game starts with a standard deck of 52 cards. To win, you need to create standard poker hands by drawing and discarding cards as needed. Clear the point threshold of each round (called blinds like in poker), enjoy the satisfying sound of shuffling, and move on to the next round. But then comes the twist. Between rounds, you can acquire Jokers and other power-up cards that give you an edge. With the right combinations, any hand can become a winning hand, and it's up to you to strategize on the fly.

Section 3: Player Experience

A certain group of players has dedicated themselves to breaking the game and achieving extremely high scores that the game can't even process. But the majority of players have simply fallen in love with the fun and satisfaction of playing "Balatro".

There's no story to hook you or world map to explore. Just you, the number to beat, and the luck of the draw. Build your stack of chips as high as possible before it comes crashing down. It's a game that's easy to start but hard to master. You can pause whenever you need, with no time limit, but once you see the game-over screen, your run is over.

Section 4: No Hidden Costs

One of the standout features of "Balatro" is that it won't devour your wallet. Buying the game itself is a one-time deal. Power-up cards are bought with in-game money that you earn within the game and nowhere else. Unlike other popular mobile games, there are no in-app purchases for real money or microtransactions.

At the Game Awards, "Balatro" won the best mobile game award, beating out major competitors. It was the only mobile nominee without microtransactions or lootboxes. This shows that the game values the player experience over making extra money.

Section 5: The Developer's Vision

The developer, a lone Canadian artist known only by his online pseudonym LocalThunk, is very clear about not allowing "Balatro" to be used for gambling. He even wrote it into his will to ensure that the game's IP can't be sold or licensed to a casino.

This shows the developer's commitment to providing a clean and enjoyable gaming experience. In a world where many games seem to be divided into free and paid tiers, "Balatro" remains a simple and reliable source of entertainment.