The European rating agency PEGI has given the game Balatro an 18+ rating due to its potential to teach players real-world poker skills. Developer Localthunk expressed surprise at this decision, questioning why other games with in-game spending and randomized item packs are considered suitable for children. While PEGI cited the game’s prominent gambling imagery as the reason for the rating, Balatro does not allow players to place bets in-game. The developer has made it clear that they do not want Balatro to become a true gambling game.
Overall, the inconsistency in rating criteria between games with similar mechanics raises questions about the effectiveness and fairness of age ratings in the gaming industry. It is important for rating agencies to consistently apply their guidelines to ensure that games are appropriately classified for different age groups.
Should rating agencies reconsider their criteria for games that feature gambling imagery or mechanics, in order to better protect younger players from potentially harmful influences?
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