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Well I am finally finished with Balatro enough to write the Balatro review. I am happy to be doing this, it was a fun time and now I get to share it with everyone. This is for the Nintendo Switch 2 version, to be absolutely clear.
Gameplay
The name of the game is you have to score more than the bind you’re up against. The number increases as you complete them and sometimes, bigger binds come up that you can’t hope to reach with what you have. Your hands each have a level which increases by buying planet cards in the shop that give you a bigger outcome. With all that said, what you really want is to increase the mult which is what your chips are multiplied by.
It’s alright though because the game also allows for Jokers, which are special cards that do special actions. Such as adding chips, adding to the mult, giving you extra money and more. There are multiple decks you can use that offer different buffs to your run and the shop that allows you to purchase play cards, Tarot cards, Jokers and more. Speaking of Tarot cards, these do a multitude of different actions as well such as giving you planet cards, turning your cards into stone cards and more.
There is honestly a whole lot that is packed into this game that makes it a fun ride. Many different routes you can take to achieve your end goal. Different difficulties to choose from to challenge yourself. If you like a challenge and card games, this is perfect.
Graphics
These are pretty decent and where they really shine are the Joker’s faces and backgrounds. The icons they all have are thought out snd designed in an interesting way. Otherwise, the planet cards, tarot cards and practically the entire game is on point. Again, I can’t say they are anything special but they do what they are there for.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack for this game just fits the mood. I wouldn’t say it is anything great and special but it does what it is meant to do. Of course, how epic did you imagine music to be during a game of cards?
Controls
These aren’t complicated. You make your selection of cards and either play them or discard. You can also rearrange them or select them using the touchscreen if you prefer that way. Honestly they can’t get more sophisticated than that. They do what they’re supposed to do.
Replayability
Balatro retains a high replay value thanks to its roguelike nature, seed runs, variety of decks and difficulties. You could make it easier or harder on yourself. I love how each game requires some skill, luck and strategy. It’s the perfect mixture to keep you coming back.
Scores:
Gameplay: 10/10
Graphics: 7/10
Soundtrack: 7/10
Controls: 8/10
Replayability: 10/10
Conclusion
That’s it for this Balatro review. What did you think of the game? Fun? Not for you? I know all too well that I will pick this game up again in the future because it has such a high replay value and is just fun. Well, that’s all this go around. Stay tuned for another game review next week. If you’re interested in Balatro and haven’t bought it yourself, it is available on Steam, (paid link) Switch, Switch 2, (paid link) Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X.
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