"2024's Top Mobile Games: Iwan's Balatro-Focused Picks"

As we approach the end of the year, it's time to reflect on the standout games of 2023. My choice for discussion, Balatro, may not be my ultimate favorite, but its impact and accolades make it a compelling topic. If you're reading this on the scheduled date, December 29th, you've likely noticed Balatro's impressive run at various awards shows. From securing Indie and Mobile Game of the Year at The Game Awards to winning Best Mobile Port and Best Digital Board Game at the Pocket Gamer Awards, Balatro has captured the attention of gamers and critics alike.

However, not everyone is on board with Balatro's success. Some are puzzled or even frustrated by its wins, often comparing its simple visuals to more visually complex games. This reaction underscores why Balatro is my personal pick for Game of the Year. Before diving deeper into Balatro, let's acknowledge some other notable releases and stories from this year.

A Few Honourable Mentions

• Vampire Survivors' Castlevania Expansion: The long-awaited integration of iconic Castlevania characters into Vampire Survivors has been a thrilling addition, especially after the tease with the Contra collaboration.
• 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, potentially attracting a broader audience without traditional monetization.
• Watch Dogs: Truth Audio Adventure Released: While not groundbreaking, Ubisoft's choice to release an Audible-only adventure for Watch Dogs is an intriguing move, reflecting their ongoing experimentation with the franchise.

Clowns to the Left of Me, Jokers to the Right

My personal experience with Balatro has been a mix of fascination and frustration. While it's undeniably engaging, I've struggled to master its mechanics, particularly the mathematical optimization required in later stages. Despite not completing any runs, I consider Balatro one of the best value purchases I've made in years. For just $9.99, it offers a simple yet addictive roguelike deckbuilder that's easy to play and enjoy, even if it's not the ultimate time-waster like Vampire Survivors.

Balatro's design is both visually appealing and functional, with a soundtrack that subtly encourages continued play. The game's honest approach to its loop, with a playful nudge rather than overt manipulation, adds to its charm. Yet, some critics argue that Balatro's success is undeserved, given its straightforward gameplay and lack of flashy graphics.

Balatro's triumph challenges the notion that a game's worth is tied to its visual fidelity or complexity. It's a testament to the power of a well-executed concept, proving that a game can be successful across multiple platforms without relying on high-end graphics or gacha mechanics. LocalThunk's journey from a passion project to a multiplatform hit is a lesson in the potential of simple, well-crafted games.

My own struggles with Balatro highlight its versatility. While some players aim to optimize their decks to perfection, others, like myself, enjoy it as a more relaxed pastime. Balatro's success is a reminder that in gaming, as in life, sometimes you just need to embrace your inner joker.