Balatro, the latest sensation of 2024 in the gaming realm, is facing unavailability in certain console digital stores due to a recent alteration in its ratings. Fortunately, current players of Balatro are unlikely to experience any disruptions, as confirmed by the game's publisher.

Balatro made its debut on February 20 and swiftly became a sensation in the gaming community. It revolutionized the roguelike deck-building genre by infusing poker elements, allowing users to craft poker hands with unique cards featuring special abilities. With an outstanding 97% user rating on Steam from over 10,000 reviews, Balatro's distinct gameplay has garnered immense popularity. However, the game recently encountered an unexpected hurdle.

The publisher of Balatro, Playstack Games, addressed the game's recent challenges through a social media post. The removal of Balatro from various digital storefronts resulted from a ratings board's sudden decision to elevate the game's rating from 3+ to 18+. This change was based on an erroneous claim suggesting that Balatro contained explicit gambling references and promoted gambling activities. Playstack vehemently refuted these allegations by highlighting the absence of any gambling mechanics in Balatro, emphasizing that the developer took extensive precautions to ensure compliance. Playstack further revealed that the same ratings board had previously affirmed in October that Balatro did not feature any gambling-related content and warranted a 3+ rating. However, a recent reversal in the board's stance has led to the current predicament.

Unavailability of Balatro in Selected Digital Stores

Playstack provided assurance to Balatro enthusiasts that the game would remain accessible on Steam and all PC platforms without disruption for existing users. The publisher also outlined ongoing efforts to reinstate Balatro for sale across all platforms. While Playstack refrained from specifying a resolution timeline, it hinted at the potential return of the game with a temporary 18+ rating.

Thanks to the innovative Joker mechanic and other engaging elements, Balatro continues to surge in popularity. With a current OpenCritic rating of 92, it stands as the second-highest-rated game of the year, trailing only the recently launched Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Nevertheless, eager console players may encounter a delay in purchasing Balatro until the availability issue is resolved.

In the interim, gaming enthusiasts can explore other top-tier roguelike deck-building titles in the market. An appealing alternative is Slay the Spire, which remains accessible on Game Pass and offers a rewarding gaming experience based on skill and fairness. Additional games akin to Balatro encompass Dicey Dungeons, Inscryption: Kaycee's Mod, and more.