As we approach the end of the year, it's time to reflect on the standout games of 2023. My pick for Game of the Year (GOTY) is Balatro, a game that has surprised many with its success. It may not be my absolute favorite, but its impact and accolades warrant a closer look.

If you're reading this on the scheduled date, it's likely December 29th, and you've probably seen Balatro's name linked with numerous awards. From Indie and Mobile Game of the Year at The Game Awards to winning Best Mobile Port and Best Digital Board Game at the Pocket Gamer Awards, Balatro's achievements are undeniable. Yet, its success has also sparked confusion and criticism, particularly when compared to more visually flashy games.

This reaction underscores why Balatro stands out to me as a GOTY contender. Its simplicity as a deckbuilder, combined with its roguelike elements, has captured the attention of players and critics alike. Before diving deeper into Balatro, let's acknowledge some other notable releases this year.

A Few Honourable Mentions

• Vampire Survivors' Castlevania Expansion: The wait was long, but the inclusion of iconic Castlevania characters was well worth it. Poncle's collaboration with Contra set high expectations, and they delivered.
• Squid Game: Unleashed is Free for All: This move by Netflix Games could set a new standard, allowing more players to enjoy the game without traditional monetization, potentially drawing in new viewers.
• Watch Dogs: Truth Audio Adventure Released: While not groundbreaking, Ubisoft's choice to release an Audible-only adventure for Watch Dogs is intriguing, showing a different approach to the franchise.

Clowns to the Left of Me, Jokers to the Right

My personal experience with Balatro has been a mix of fascination and frustration. While the game is undeniably engaging, mastering it has proven challenging due to my struggles with statistics and deck optimization. Despite not clearing any runs, I find Balatro to be one of the best value purchases I've made in recent years. It's simple, addictive, and doesn't demand too much from your device or your mind.

For just $9.99, Balatro offers a captivating roguelike deckbuilder that you can play anywhere without drawing unwanted attention. Its creator, LocalThunk, has taken a basic concept and infused it with a unique charm. The game's sound design, from the calming lounge music to the satisfying dings and rattles, keeps you engaged in a loop that's both subtle and effective.

Despite its accolades, some people question Balatro's success. It's not a flashy gacha game or a high-fidelity tech demo; it's just a well-crafted card game. Yet, this simplicity is precisely what makes it stand out. Balatro reminds us that a game's quality should be measured by its gameplay and innovation, not just its visual appeal.

It's What's Inside That Counts

Balatro's success across PC, console, and mobile platforms is a testament to its appeal. It demonstrates that you don't need to be a cross-platform, cross-progression gacha game to succeed. Balatro's modest development costs likely mean a healthy profit for LocalThunk, showing that a well-executed, multiplatform release can be both artistically and financially rewarding.

My struggles with Balatro highlight its versatility. Some players optimize their decks to perfection, while others, like me, enjoy it as a slower-paced time-waster. The lesson from Balatro is clear: success in gaming doesn't require cutting-edge graphics or complex mechanics. Sometimes, all you need is a bit of creativity and a deck of cards.