The Unfortunate Consequences of an 18-plus Rating
LocalThunk, the creator behind the popular poker roguelike game Balatro, has been vocal about their frustration regarding the game’s rating in Europe. In a recent post on X, LocalThunk shared their discontent with PEGI’s (Pan European Game Information) decision to assign an 18-plus rating to Balatro.
A Brief History of the Rating Controversy
The controversy surrounding Balatro’s rating is not new. Initially, the game was given a 3-plus rating by PEGI, but shortly after its launch in February, the rating was bumped up to 18-plus. This change led to the game being briefly delisted from various digital stores in some countries.
PEGI’s Explanation for the Rating
According to PEGI’s page on Balatro, the 18-plus rating was given due to the game’s "prominent gambling imagery." The organization also highlighted several content-specific issues:
- Teaching Poker Skills: The game teaches players poker skills and knowledge through images, information, and gameplay. This includes rewarding players with chips for playing certain hands.
- Poker Hand Names: Players can access a list of poker hand names, which are explained as they hover over them. As the player becomes more familiar with these hands, they learn to identify which ones would earn more points in a real-life game of poker.
While it is true that Balatro features poker imagery and hands that players could translate into an actual game of poker, it’s essential to note that the game does not have any gambling mechanics. LocalThunk has even stipulated in their will that Balatro cannot be sold or licensed to a gambling company.
A Comparison with Other Games
LocalThunk takes issue with PEGI’s inconsistent rating system. They point out that games like EA Sports FC, which include in-game purchases with randomized content, are often given a 3-plus rating. In contrast, Balatro is rated 18-plus despite not containing any gambling mechanics.
"I’m way more irked at the 3-plus for these games with actual gambling mechanics for children than I am about Balatro having an 18-plus rating," LocalThunk said in a recent post on X.
A Fruitless Attempt to Discuss the Rating
LocalThunk attempted to discuss Balatro’s rating with PEGI but was met with resistance. "They do not see anything wrong with Balatro being rated 18-plus, nor with EA Sports FC (and similar games) having a 3-plus rating," LocalThunk stated.
PEGI did not immediately respond to a request for comment on this matter.
The Debate Continues
This controversy highlights the complexities of game ratings and the need for consistent and fair standards. As the debate continues, it’s essential to consider the implications of these ratings on both players and game developers alike.
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This article will be regularly updated as more information becomes available.
