Balatro reclassified as PEGI 12 by ratings board after appeal by publisher

Balatro, the roguelike deckbuilder, has received a PEGI rating reclassification, moving from PEGI 18 to PEGI 12. This decision, following an appeal by the publisher, corrects what many considered an overly harsh initial assessment that placed it in the same category as games like Grand Theft Auto.

The initial PEGI 18 rating, baffling to the developer Localthunk, stemmed from the game's depiction of gambling-related imagery, despite the absence of real-money transactions or betting. This misclassification also impacted mobile platforms, a situation now rectified.

Previously, Balatro faced another hurdle, a brief removal from the Nintendo eShop due to concerns about its gambling content. This, again, was despite the game's in-game currency serving only as an abstract means to acquire cards.

The revised PEGI 12 rating provides a more accurate reflection of Balatro's content. While the initial misjudgment is frustrating, particularly considering the prevalence of in-app purchases in mobile gaming, the correction is a welcome development. For those intrigued by Balatro, a helpful tier list of Jokers is available to guide your gameplay.