Iwan's 2024 Mobile Game Picks: Mostly Balatro

As the year draws to a close, it's time to reflect on the "Games of the Year," and my spotlight falls on Balatro. While it might not be my absolute favorite, its remarkable achievements make it a compelling choice for discussion. If you're reading this on the scheduled date, December 29th, you're likely familiar with Balatro's impressive haul of awards. From Indie and Mobile Game of the Year at The Game Awards to clinching Best Mobile Port and Best Digital Board Game at the Pocket Gamer Awards, Balatro's success has been undeniable.

Despite its accolades, Balatro has stirred a mix of confusion and frustration among some who question its eligibility alongside more visually striking games. The juxtaposition of Balatro's straightforward visuals with the dynamic gameplay of other titles has led to debates. Yet, it's this simplicity and excellence that make Balatro my personal Game of the Year pick. But before diving deeper into Balatro, let's give a nod to other notable releases and stories of the year.

A few honourable mentions

• Vampire Survivors' Castlevania expansion: The long-awaited integration of iconic Castlevania characters into Vampire Survivors has finally arrived, delighting fans after the intriguing Contra collaboration teased by Poncle.
• Squid Game: Unleashed is free for all: Netflix's decision to offer Squid Game: Unleashed for free could set a new standard for their gaming ventures, aiming to attract a broader audience without traditional monetization.
• Watch Dogs: Truth audio adventure released: Ubisoft's foray into an Audible-only adventure for Watch Dogs is an intriguing choice, reflecting their ongoing experimentation with the franchise's direction.

Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right

My personal journey with Balatro has been a mixed bag. While it captivates my attention, mastering its mechanics, particularly the optimization of deck strategies, has eluded me. Despite my numerous hours invested, I've yet to clear a run—a testament to its challenging nature. However, from a cost-benefit perspective, Balatro is one of the best purchases I've made in recent years. Priced at a modest $9.99, it offers an engaging roguelike deckbuilder experience that's both accessible and rewarding.

Balatro's appeal lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. Its design, from the soothing lounge music to the satisfying sound effects of hitting multipliers and earning cash, creates an addictive loop that's both honest and engaging. Yet, for some, Balatro's success remains puzzling.

“But it’s just a game-!”

While Balatro has faced criticism, it's not the most controversial winner this year—that honor likely goes to Astrobot at The Game Awards. The reaction to Balatro's success underscores a broader conversation about what constitutes a quality game. Balatro embraces its "gamey" essence without relying on high-end graphics or trendy aesthetics. It's a passion project turned success story, proving that a well-executed concept can resonate widely across platforms.

The lesson from Balatro is clear: success doesn't require flashy visuals or complex mechanics. It's about delivering a polished, enjoyable experience that appeals to a diverse audience. Balatro's multiplatform triumph, from PC and console to mobile, demonstrates that simplicity and style can unite players across different gaming ecosystems.

My struggles with Balatro highlight its versatility. Some players aim to optimize their decks to perfection, while others, like me, find it a relaxing way to pass time. Ultimately, Balatro's success reaffirms that in gaming, being a bit of a joker—a simple, well-crafted game—can lead to remarkable achievements.