The recent removal of the popular roguelike card game, Balatro, from EU digital storefronts such as the Nintendo eShop and PSN Store has caused quite a stir among gamers. This sudden disappearance is a result of an overnight change in the game’s age rating, from 3+ to 18+, by a ratings board. The ratings board made this decision without any prior warning, citing concerns about the game featuring “prominent gambling imagery and material that instructs about gambling.”
In response to this unexpected turn of events, the game’s publisher, PlayStack, has expressed confidence that the availability of Balatro on Steam will remain unaffected. PlayStack has clarified that they do not endorse or promote gambling in any way and have called the ratings decision “unfounded.” The developer had previously engaged with the ratings board regarding the game’s content in October, which resulted in a 3+ rating. PlayStack is currently working to address the issue and plans to reinstate the game for sale, potentially with a temporary 18+ rating.
This is not the first instance where a game has faced scrutiny over its content and age rating. Sunshine Shuffle, another game, encountered a similar situation last year due to its combination of cute animals and poker. While Sunshine Shuffle remained available on certain platforms, it was banned in specific markets, much like Balatro. These incidents highlight the challenges developers face in navigating the regulatory landscape across different regions.
Despite the setbacks, Balatro has enjoyed overwhelming success since its release, selling 250,000 copies in just 72 hours across various platforms. The game’s popularity is reflected in its impressive financial performance, grossing $1 million within eight hours of going on sale. Even during the first hour of availability, the game had already become profitable for the developer, underscoring its appeal to players worldwide.
The removal of Balatro from digital storefronts serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in the gaming industry, especially concerning content regulation and age ratings. While the developer is working to address the issue and bring the game back for sale, the incident sheds light on the challenges faced by creators in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of gaming regulations. Balatro’s commercial success amidst the controversy showcases the game’s strong appeal to players, despite the temporary setback it has faced.
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