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This is a roguelike video game that fuses deck-building with poker dynamics, created by LocalThunk and published by Playstack in 2024 for Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S; macOS; and Android and iOS devices.
In this game, participants must pass a series of rounds called ‘blinds’, where they score points by playing poker hands. By succeeding in these rounds, players earn money that can be spent on joker cards with a variety of effects.
As in other roguelike titles, player success is based on a combination of ‘strategy, risk and reward, along with a bit of luck’.
One of the key aspects of the game is the management of jokers, those special cards that modify the rules of the game and alter the score of each hand.
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However, there is one important detail that the game does not explain clearly: the order in which the jokers are placed has a significant influence on the final result of each hand.
Although at first glance it may seem that the effects of the jokers are applied at the same time, they actually follow a strict left-to-right order.
This means that, if we have jokers that add to the multiplier (+ multi) and others that multiply it (multi x), placing them in the right order can make a big difference to the score.
In addition to this fundamental principle, the order mechanic also applies to other effects that may not be so obvious.
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In the game, calculations are made according to a hierarchy: first the cards played are scored and their effects, if any, are applied; then the effects that depend on having cards in hand are activated; and finally, the joker bonuses are activated.
It has been a huge success, winning ‘Best Independent Game’, ‘Best Indie Debut’ and ‘Best Mobile Game’ awards.
During the ID@Xbox Showcase, publisher Playstack also announced the game's upcoming expansion, Balatro: Friend of Jimbo Pack 4, which will add new custom cards inspired by franchises such as Bugsnax, Civilization, Assassin's Creed, Fallout and Friday the 13th, among others.
I would go as far as to say it's just the best game of 2024. I had to put my console away as it was just too addictive and costing me a lot of time. It's rare to see these innovating games that focus fully on fun and gameplay without the intention to milk as much money as they can from players and I'm glad it became such a success