Balatro reclassified as PEGI 12 by ratings board after appeal by publisher

In a notable update for fans of the roguelike deckbuilder Balatro, the game has been reclassified from PEGI 18 to the more suitable PEGI 12 rating. This adjustment comes after an appeal by the game's publisher to the ratings board, rectifying a previous decision that placed Balatro in the same category as more mature titles like Grand Theft Auto. The shift to PEGI 12 better reflects the game's content and should put it on a more level playing field with similar titles.

The original PEGI 18 rating had sparked confusion and frustration, not only among players but also within the development team at Localthunk. The developer shared the news of the reclassification on Twitter, expressing relief at the outcome. This isn't the first time Balatro has faced scrutiny; it was temporarily removed from the Nintendo eShop due to concerns over gambling content. However, it's important to note that Balatro does not involve real money gambling; in-game currency is used solely to enhance gameplay by purchasing cards within each run.

One of the primary reasons for the initial harsh rating was the game's use of gambling-adjacent imagery, such as references to poker hands like straight flushes. This led to the unusual comparison to vehicular homicide in games like GTA, highlighting the disparity between the game's actual content and its perceived risks. The reclassification to PEGI 12 is a welcome change, especially considering that many mobile games feature in-app purchases yet receive less stringent ratings.

For those intrigued by Balatro and considering giving it a try, exploring our tier list of Jokers can provide valuable insights into which cards can enhance your gameplay experience. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer, understanding the impact of these game-changing cards is crucial to mastering Balatro.

The house always wins