Balatro's Rating Reversal: From 18+ to 12 Amidst Gambling Controversy

The gaming industry often witnesses contentious moments, particularly when it comes to content ratings. A notable case unfolded regarding the game Balatro, which faced a significant challenge soon after its release last year. Initially rated 3+, the game’s classification was abruptly shifted to 18+ due to concerns from PEGI about potential gambling influences impacting younger players. LocalThunk, the game's developers, responded vigorously, asserting that while Balatro included gaming mechanics reminiscent of gambling, it did not compel players to engage in actual wagering.

Over time, this conflict persisted, with LocalThunk continually highlighting the absence of genuine gambling elements and the lack of encouragement to spend real money. PEGI maintained that their policy mandated all games incorporating gambling references to receive an 18+ rating. This stance seemed to seal the fate of Balatro's hopes for a lower classification, but that narrative has now changed.

Recently, PEGI announced they would lower Balatro's rating from 18+ to 12. Their rationale hinged on the precedent set by another game that similarly featured gambling-style mechanics but received a lower classification. The PEGI statement emphasized that despite Balatro's inclusion of a slot machine element, there are no specific skills relating to actual gambling transferable to players, allowing for a PEGI 12 rating.

In their announcement, PEGI acknowledged the findings of the Complaints Board's appeals panel, which called for adjustments to the classifications of such games. They stressed that the PEGI system continually adapts to societal expectations and input from independent experts involved in the evaluation process. PEGI remains committed to applying rating criteria in a fair, consistent, and transparent manner, allowing audiences to understand the content present in games.

Presently, any depiction or promotion of simulated gambling immediately results in an 18+ rating. However, based on the recent appeals, the PEGI Experts Group will be developing a more detailed classification framework to address the themes of gambling and its simulation, education, and glorification, across different age categories. This framework will encompass the 12 rating while still preserving the 18 rating for games that mimic traditional gambling found in casinos or betting establishments.

Thus, Balatro has achieved another significant victory, amid its successful run in 2024, where it has garnered multiple awards and has recently joined the Game Pass lineup as well.