Charlie Brooker, the creator of the acclaimed TV series Black Mirror, has recently expressed his fascination with the indie game Balatro, which has achieved remarkable success, selling over a million copies within its first month.
Known for his interest in video games and having previously explored the impact of gaming in his 2013 series How Videogames Changed the World, Brooker revealed his enthusiasm for Balatro in a recent interview with Deadline.
Brooker described Balatro as “possibly the most addictive thing ever created,” comparing it to poker and noting its impact on his gaming habits. He shared that he plays the game in short bursts as a reward while working, and mentioned that it is currently available on platforms like Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck. He also hinted at a forthcoming release on phones, predicting it could significantly impact human activity levels.
Aside from Balatro, Brooker also enjoys other titles such as Ghost of Tsushima and Dave the Diver. He praised these games as part of a “trifecta of greatness,” reflecting his discerning taste in video games. He also noted that Balatro is not limited to the platforms mentioned but is also available on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One.
Brooker’s excitement about Balatro highlights the game’s wide appeal and its strong position in the gaming market. The enthusiasm for the game from a prominent figure like Brooker underscores its significant impact and popularity among gamers.
In response to Brooker’s comments, LocalThunk, the creator of Balatro, took to Twitter to express his excitement and satisfaction. His reaction, marked by a devious smile, indicates his pleasure at the game’s success and its growing influence in the gaming world.