Balatro, the poker-themed rogue-like developed by solo developer LocalThunk, has faced an unexpected setback following its recent release. The game, which has enjoyed both critical acclaim and commercial success since its launch last week, has been removed from sale in certain regions. Publisher Playstack attributes this removal to an unforeseen change in age ratings.
In a comprehensive statement shared on social media, Playstack acknowledged that Balatro’s removal from console stores has occurred in “some countries” but couldn’t ascertain the full extent of the impact. The publisher expressed hope that only a minority of stores would be affected and assured players of the game’s continued availability on PC platforms such as Steam.
The cause of this disruption stems from an abrupt adjustment in Balatro’s age rating, which has been elevated from 3+ to 18+. According to Playstack, this change was triggered by a ratings board’s misinterpretation, claiming that the game contains “prominent gambling imagery and materials that instruct about gambling.”
Though the statement does not explicitly name the ratings board, it is widely believed to be Europe’s PEGI. Balatro currently carries a PEGI 18 rating on Xbox and PlayStation digital stores, accompanied by a warning about its gambling imagery, which has been removed entirely from Nintendo’s UK eShop.
Playstack vehemently refutes the notion that Balatro promotes gambling, emphasizing the developer’s anti-gambling stance and the meticulous efforts taken to ensure the absence of gambling mechanics in the game.
Furthermore, Playstack expressed disappointment over the situation, highlighting efforts made to address similar concerns with the rating board previously. Despite successfully appealing an initial 18+ rating, the recent reclassification came as a surprise, especially since no alterations had been made to the game’s content since the appeal.
The publisher apologized to fans who were unable to access Balatro during this period and assured them of the game’s eventual return to the market, possibly with a temporary 18+ rating until the issue was resolved. Despite the setback, Playstack expressed gratitude for the community’s support and enthusiasm for Balatro.
Eurogamer’s Christian Donlan praised Balatro’s innovative blend of rogue-like elements with poker mechanics in his positive review, commending its striking design and engaging gameplay.
