While PlayStation 5 exclusive "Astro Bot" continues to dominate global gaming discussions after sweeping multiple accolades at The Game Awards 2024, another title, "Balatro," has also garnered significant praise from players, winning Best Indie Game, Best Debut Indie Game, and Best Mobile Game. 
However, this highly popular poker-themed roguelike recently received an unexpected 18+ rating from the Pan European Game Information (PEGI), leaving developer LocalThunk, the creator of this indie hit, both surprised and dismayed. 
This isn't the first time "Balatro" has been categorized as an "18+ gambling game." The title was initially rated "IARC: 3+" by the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC), suitable for all ages, but was abruptly changed to "IARC: 18+" due to perceived gambling imagery. LocalThunk expressed frustration on Reddit, lamenting that "the rating mechanism is baseless."
Notably, LocalThunk previously revealed in an interview that he doesn't actually play poker games. He chose a poker theme primarily because the mechanics, similar to games like Big Two, could help more players intuitively grasp the gameplay, while poker terminology and elements would make it easier for them to get started.
In contrast, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) classified "Balatro" as E10+, meaning "Everyone 10+," and Japan's Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO) rated it "A," suitable for all ages.