Balatro
Casual
Indie
Strategy
Single-player
Steam Achievements
Full controller support
Steam Trading Cards
Color Alternatives
Custom Volume Controls
Mouse Only Option
Playable without Timed Input
Touch Only Option
Steam Cloud
Family Sharing

The poker roguelike. Balatro is a hypnotically satisfying deckbuilder where you play illegal poker hands, discover game-changing jokers, and trigger adrenaline-pumping, outrageous combos.

Developers: LocalThunk
Publishers: Playstack
Release Date: Feb 20, 2024
Price (USD): $11.99
Current Players: 9.5k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Overwhelmingly Positive(98%)
addictive gameplay
strategic depth
roguelike elements
high replayability
unique mechanics
addictive nature
lack of synchronization
modding impact
overly reliant on luck
balance issues
technical problems
lack of updates
The general sentiment about the game is overwhelmingly positive, with most reviewers praising its addictive gameplay and unique combination of roguelike and poker elements. Players appreciate the strategic depth and variety of playstyles, which contribute to a high replay value. However, some criticisms arise regarding the balance and reliance on RNG, with certain features like the boss blinds being perceived as unfair. There are also mixed feelings about the game's lack of cross-platform progress synchronization and the impact of its addictive nature on personal time management.

Positive Points

  • The game is highly addictive and provides hours of entertainment according to many players.
  • Players appreciate the strategic depth and different builds that can be explored, which keeps the gameplay fresh.
  • The game's mechanics are easy to pick up but difficult to master, which adds to its replayability.
  • Many players enjoy the roguelike elements combined with poker mechanics, considering it a unique twist.
  • The game is praised for providing a gambling-like excitement without the financial risk.
  • Negative Points

  • Some players report feeling the game is overly reliant on luck and RNG, impacting the enjoyment for those who seek more skill-based gameplay.
  • There are complaints about the difficulty and balance, particularly concerning the
  • boss blinds
  • which can feel unfair.
  • A few players mention technical issues such as overheating and crashes, particularly on less powerful hardware.
  • Lack of updates and new content is noted as a downside for some players.
  • Mixed Points

  • While the game's addictive nature is generally viewed positively, a few players express concern about its impact on their time management.
  • The lack of synchronization between mobile and PC versions is a point of criticism, although the game is appreciated across all platforms.
  • Some players love the modding community for its creativity, while others find it unnecessary or problematic for achievements.
  • Common Themes

  • Gambling elements are central to the game's appeal, often mentioned by players who enjoy it as a safe alternative to real gambling.
  • There is frequent mention of the game's addictive nature, which is seen as both a positive and concerning aspect.
  • The strategic depth and variety of playstyles are consistently praised as key factors for the game's replayability and success.
  • Updated 5/5/2026, 12:01:01 AM UTC