Top mobile games of 2024: Iwan\'s picks, except it\'s mostly Balatro

Year-End Game Reflections: Why Balatro Deserves Game of the Year

It's the end of the year (likely December 29th if you're reading this on schedule), and Balatro's numerous awards are hard to ignore. This unassuming blend of solitaire, poker, and roguelike deck-building has swept up accolades, including Indie and Mobile Game of the Year at The Game Awards, and Best Mobile Port and Best Digital Board Game at the Pocket Gamer Awards. Its success has, however, left some puzzled.

The contrast between Balatro's relatively simple visuals and its gameplay has sparked debate. Many question why a seemingly straightforward deck-builder has garnered so much recognition. I believe this very fact highlights why it's my personal Game of the Year. But first, a few honorable mentions:

Honorable Mentions:

• Vampire Survivors' Castlevania expansion: The long-awaited arrival of iconic Castlevania characters is a triumph.
• Squid Game: Unleashed's free-to-play model: A potentially groundbreaking move by Netflix Games, suggesting a focus on attracting new viewers.
• Watch Dogs: Truth's audio adventure release: An intriguing, albeit unconventional, approach by Ubisoft to the Watch Dogs franchise.

Balatro: A Surprisingly Addictive Experience

My experience with Balatro has been a mix of frustration and fascination. While undeniably captivating, I haven't yet mastered its intricacies. The focus on deck optimization and statistical analysis can be challenging. Despite many hours played, I haven't completed a single run.

Yet, Balatro represents excellent value for its price. It's simple, engaging, and undemanding. While not my ultimate time-waster (that title goes to Vampire Survivors), it's a strong contender. Its appealing visuals and smooth gameplay further enhance its appeal. For under $10, you get a compelling roguelike deck-builder that's both enjoyable and socially acceptable. LocalThunk's ability to elevate a simple concept is commendable. Every element, from the calming music to the satisfying sound effects, is designed to keep you hooked.

Beyond the Hype: Substance Over Style

Balatro's success has surprised some, leading to criticism. Unlike flashy, high-budget games, it's unashamedly straightforward in its design. It's colorful and engaging, but not overly complex or visually extravagant. This isn't a cutting-edge tech demo; it's a passion project that blossomed into something extraordinary.

Many find its success perplexing, viewing it merely as "a card game." However, it's a well-executed card game, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar genre. Its quality shouldn't be judged solely on visual fidelity or flashy elements. The focus should be on gameplay and overall experience.

A Lesson in Simplicity and Success

Balatro's multi-platform success (PC, console, and mobile) is noteworthy, especially considering the challenges of mobile game development. While not a massive financial triumph, its relatively low development costs likely resulted in substantial profit for LocalThunk.

Balatro demonstrates that a game doesn't need to be a massive, cross-platform gacha experience to succeed. Simplicity, well-executed design, and unique style can resonate with players across different platforms. My own struggles with the game also highlight its versatility; it's enjoyable for both optimization enthusiasts and casual players seeking a less demanding experience.

Ultimately, Balatro's success underscores a vital point: a game doesn't need to be groundbreaking in terms of graphics or complexity to be successful. Sometimes, a touch of originality and solid gameplay is all it takes.