The decision of the European classification board PEGI of initially assign a rating of 18+ Balatro generated a great deal of controversy in the gaming and developer community. This title, a poker-inspired deck-building roguelike, It was considered inappropriate for minors on the grounds that it could encourage gambling.However, a recent appeal has reversed this classification, adjusting it to a PEGI 12, which significantly expands its accessibility.
The controversy arose when Balatro, after its release, received a classification that placed it in the same category as games with explicit adult content. This contrasted with the decision on other titles with similar mechanics, such as EA Sports FC, which, despite including elements such as loot boxes, It still had a PEGI 3 rating.
The apparent inconsistency in the evaluation criteria led its developer, LocalThunk, to file an appeal to review this decision.
The change in the PEGI classification
After reviewing the case, the classification body decided reduce Balatro's rating from 18+ to 12+, arguing that although the game explains the various combinations of poker, Its fantastic nature and roguelike mechanics justify granting it a less restrictive classification.
In addition to Balatro, another game affected by PEGI regulations, Luck Be a Landlord, which uses mechanics similar to those of a slot machine, also saw its classification reduced to PEGI 12This sets a precedent in the way games with elements of chance in their gameplay are evaluated.
PEGI will review its criteria
In light of the controversy generated by this case, the classification board has declared that will analyze the system used to evaluate titles with chance mechanics. Until now, any game that included teaching or representing betting It was automatically categorized as PEGI 18.
However, the response to Balatro's appeal has opened the debate on the possibility of establish more detailed criteria that allow us to distinguish between real gambling games and those that only use these mechanics as part of a playable fantasy.
En words of the regulatory body: «The automatic 18+ rating for games with chance mechanics will be re-evaluated in order to establish a more granular system, which will now include the 12+ rating for certain titles». This change could influence future releases with similar characteristics.
Impact on game visibility
The initial rating had greatly limited Balatro's presence on digital storefronts within the 35 regions that use the PEGI system. Now, With the adjustment to PEGI 12, it is expected that the game can have greater visibility in digital stores, thus facilitating access to a wider audience.
In addition, it has been confirmed that the title will be included in the Xbox Game Pass catalog, allowing more players to try it at no additional cost within this subscription service.
As for its success, Balatro has managed to sell more than 5 million copies Since its launch and has been recognized in various awards, including the award for Best Indie Game at The Game Awards 2024With this more flexible classification, its reach could expand even further.
Following the favourable resolution, PEGI has expressed its commitment to continue reviewing its policies to ensure that its rating system is perceived as transparent and fairAs more developers venture into gambling mechanics within non-casino games, this decision could mark a turning point in the way these titles are evaluated.
Balatro is still available in PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android, offering a challenging and strategic experience without the presence of real money betting.