A popular card game called Balatro has successfully appealed an age rating change from 18+ to 12+, earning more visibility on digital storefronts in Europe. The dispute began in March 2024, when the game’s publisher, Playstack, stated that Balatro received an 18+ rating due to “prominent gambling imagery and material” in the game.
However, developers LocalThunk pointed out inconsistencies in PEGI’s ratings system, citing games like EA Sports FC with microtransactions. The PEGI ratings board initially stuck by the 18+ rating but has now reversed its decision after a successful appeal.
According to the PEGI website, the Complaints Board concluded that Balatro’s fantastical elements made it suitable for a PEGI 12 rating. This change affects not only Balatro but also another game, Luck Be a Landlord, which will also receive a PEGI 12 rating due to similar reasons.
The decision marks a shift in how PEGI evaluates simulated gambling themes in games. The board has announced plans to develop more granular classification criteria for these types of games, including the creation of a new age category for games that simulate gambling typically played in casinos and betting halls.
Balatro is currently available on major platforms, but its availability was limited in some regions due to its original PEGI 18 rating. The game’s success in appealing this rating change may lead to increased visibility on digital storefronts in Europe.
Source: https://www.ign.com/articles/balatro-dev-successfully-appeals-pegi-18-rating-over-simulated-gambling