PEGI Lowers Balatro Age Rating Following Guidelines Review
One of 2024’s most popular video games has had its 18+ age rating downgraded. Balatro, a card game that requires players to form poker hands while allowing deck modifications and the use of special joker cards to boost scores, was initially given an 18+ highest age restriction by PEGI.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:However, the game’s anonymous creator, known as LocalThunk, argued that it doesn’t include any betting or in-game spending features, so it shouldn’t be labeled as a casino game. Clearly PEGI (Pan-European Game Information) agreed, and it has now has revised the game’s classification to a 12+ rating. Another title, Luck Be A Landlord, has also been reclassified.
PEGI is responsible for game ratings in the UK and across Europe, and it has said that it will now be reassessing its approach to gambling elements in video games.
LocalThunk Criticizes Ratings Inconsistencies
Balatro became a standout hit in 2024 and won Best Indie Game at the Golden Joystick Awards and Best Mobile Game at The Game Awards. The game’s creator, LocalThunk, has criticized the inconsistency in age rating policies. In particular, LocalThunk criticized PEGI’s attitude towards loot boxes, virtual items that players can purchase without knowing their contents, which often contain new outfits, power-ups, or bonuses.
Loot boxes have long been controversial, with critics likening them to gambling. Belgium took a strong stance against them in 2018 and banned loot boxes for violating gambling laws. However, at present, loot boxes are not considered when PEGI awards an age classification.
LocalThunk drew attention to EA FC, one of the world’s most popular video games, which carries a 3+ rating despite featuring the Ultimate Team mode, a system which allows players buy packs of virtual cards. Some argue that it doesn’t constitute gambling as there is no option to cash out or win real money.
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Gambling Themes No Longer Automatically Assigned 18+
In a statement, Pan-European Game Information acknowledged its Complaints Board’s decision and spoke of its commitment to adapting to changing cultural standards and seeking expert guidance when necessary. Under its new guidelines, gambling-related themes won’t automatically receive an 18+ rating. Only games simulating casinos or betting environments will receive the highest restriction.
Unsurprisingly, LocalThunk was pleased with the decision:
This is a good step from PEGI, bringing nuance to their rating criteria that used to be 18+ or nothing. I hope this change will allow developers to create without being unfairly punished.
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