The hit roguelike card game, Balatro, recently faced an unexpected obstacle when its age rating was changed overnight from 3+ to 18+ on some EU digital storefronts. This sudden shift prompted the game to be pulled from platforms such as the Nintendo eShop and PSN Store, causing concern among players and the developer alike.
Developer’s Response
Publisher PlayStack quickly addressed the situation, assuring players that the change was not due to any issues with the game itself, but rather a decision made by a ratings board without prior notice. PlayStack emphasized that Balatro does not promote or contain gambling elements, contrary to the board’s claims, calling the decision “unfounded.”
Resolution Plans
Despite the setback, PlayStack remains confident that Balatro will soon be available for purchase again, possibly sporting a temporary 18+ rating. The developer is actively working to resolve the issue and restore the game to its original status. In the meantime, Balatro continues to be accessible on digital storefronts in the United States.
This isn’t the first time a game has faced scrutiny over its content and age appropriateness. Sunshine Shuffle, another title featuring cute animals and poker elements, encountered similar challenges in certain markets last year. While Sunshine Shuffle managed to remain on Steam and itch.io, it faced restrictions in regions like North America and South Korea.
Despite the controversy surrounding its age rating, Balatro has achieved remarkable success in terms of sales and revenue. The game sold an impressive 250,000 copies within just 72 hours of its release across all platforms, grossing $1 million in sales within eight hours. This rapid profitability highlights the game’s strong appeal and the developer’s ability to create engaging content.
The unforeseen age rating change faced by Balatro serves as a reminder of the challenges developers and publishers may encounter in the gaming industry. It underscores the importance of clear communication between content creators and regulatory bodies to prevent misunderstandings and disruptions in the future. As Balatro prepares to return to digital storefronts, players eagerly anticipate the resolution of this issue and the chance to experience the game once again.
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