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Review of Balatro on Xbox Series X/S

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Feb 2024
Cover image of Balatro on Xbox Series X/S
Gamefings Score: 9
Released: 20 Feb 2024
Genre: Roguelike Deck-Building
Developer: LocalThunk
Publisher: Playstack

Introduction

Picture this: it's a rainy day, you're cooped up inside, and all your friends are busy practicing their TikTok dances (yawn). What can you do? No worries! You've got Balatro on your Xbox Series X! This quirky poker-themed roguelike deck-builder is all set to become your new best friend. Want to know why you should grab your poker chips? Well, keep reading, and prepare to laugh harder than your uncle at a family barbecue!

Gameplay

In Balatro, you're not just drawing cards; you're building decks and forming poker hands to take down the toughest 'blinds.' With a mix of strategy, luck, and the occasional burst of 'Wait, what was I thinking?', this game teaches you that poker isn't just for gambling; it's a legitimate path to glory, one hand at a time! You'll start with a standard 52-card deck, and as you progress, you can purchase additional cards that can alter the game rules more than your friend's awful karaoke rendition of 'Sweet Caroline.' Throughout your journey, you'll need to clear a series of tough challenges called "Antes," and collecting Joker cards brings some crazy mechanics into play. (Jokers, the actual game-changer here, not just that friend who shows up late with pizza). Plus, unlocking new decks and endless mode is like getting the keys to a candy store; it keeps you coming back for more sugar-uh, I mean fun!

Graphics

Let's take a moment to appreciate the aesthetics of Balatro. The graphics are like colorful poker chips exploded in an art gallery! Everything from the card designs to the funky backgrounds feels like they were crafted with the finesse of a master painter who just chugged a gallon of energy drink. It's visually pleasing without taking itself too seriously, which is exactly what we love. A splash of humor here, a vibrant color there, and before you know it, you're enveloped in a world where the cards are practically begging to be played!

Conclusion

Balatro is the perfect mix of brain-teasing strategy and hilarious moments that can turn even the most serious poker players into giggling school kids. If you're looking for a game to sink your teeth into that will keep your mind buzzing and your spirits high, Balatro will surely do the trick. So, grab your Xbox, put your poker face on, and get ready for a card-playing adventure like no other. Who knows? You might just come out as the next Balatro champion and perhaps even impress those TikTok friends of yours (but let's be honest, probably not). So, shuffle those cards, and let's get to it!

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