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What Should I Play Now?

Balatro

Image: Steam / its publisher

  • Roguelike
  • Cards
  • Strategy

Poker turned into a roguelike: you play hands to reach ever higher scores and buy jokers that break the rules of the game. Finding a combination that multiplies your points absurdly is its great pleasure.

Why play it now

A full run fits into half an hour and you can pause between hands whenever you like. Thinking a little with no time pressure makes it perfect for the sofa.

Who it's for

For anyone who enjoys working out combinations and hunting for the broken synergy. You don't need to know how to play poker.

When not to pick it

If you're mentally exhausted it may be hard going: it's best when you feel like thinking, even just a little.

What it offers

  • Thinking: 85 out of 100
  • Relaxing: 55 out of 100
  • Creating: 45 out of 100
  • Managing: 35 out of 100
  • Building: 30 out of 100

Our own editorial classification, not Steam data.

Details

Controller
Controller support
Accessibility
Colour alternatives and no timed inputs
Disk space
100 MB (minimum)
Steam Deck
Verified
Steam reviews
98% positive (199,269)
Metacritic
90/100
Developer
LocalThunk
Release date
20 FEB 2024
Steam genres
Casual, Indie, Strategy

Based on what the game states on Steam.