Balatro Reclassified to PEGI 12, Luck Be a Landlord Follows Suit
In a notable reversal, game rating organization PEGI has lowered the rating for indie card game sensation Balatro from PEGI 18 to PEGI 12. This decision comes after a successful appeal from publisher Sold Out Sales and Marketing.
Mitigating Fantastical Elements
PEGI initially rated Balatro as PEGI 18 due to its connection to gambling, specifically its teaching of poker skills. However, the Complaints Board has now determined that the mitigating fantastical elements in the roguelike deck-building game warrant a lower rating.
Granular Classification Criteria
This re-rating is part of a broader effort by PEGI to develop more granular classification criteria for gambling themes. By doing so, they aim to better assess the age appropriateness of games that simulate or teach gambling.
Luck Be a Landlord Also Reclassified
In a similar vein, Luck Be a Landlord, the slot machine roguelike that inspired Balatro, has also been re-rated from PEGI 18 to PEGI 12. This decision is based on the same reasoning that the slot machine mechanic does not confer specific transferable gambling skills.
Developer's Reaction
Developer LocalThunk has welcomed the re-rating, noting that it will allow developers to create games without fear of unfair punishment. They have also highlighted the importance of nuanced rating criteria.
New Friends of Jimbo Crossover
Alongside the re-rating, Balatro has received a new Friends of Jimbo crossover pack, featuring card skins inspired by games such as Civilization 7, Fallout, and Dead by Daylight. The pack is available for free to all players.