Seeing games that cross genres is something we are all familiar with, but when it comes to ratings, it can be a more complicated affair that requires nuance. For developer LocalThunk and the game Balatro, there were issues in the European region, which comes under the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) video game rating system.
Published by Sold Out Sales & Marketing in the region, the game was originally classified as a PEGI 18 title, with content deemed too closely associated with gambling. It was thought to be teaching players how to play poker, and simulated the real-life gambling experience.
That is certainly not the point of Balatro, with the publisher appealing against the decision, and the final outcome is a positive one. After further investigation, PEGI ruled in favour of the appeal, determining that the game does not promote gambling in a way that warrants an 18+ restriction. With the new PEGI 12 rating, Balatro is now more widely accessible to a younger European audience.
“The Complaints Board concluded that, although the game explains the various hands of poker, the roguelike deck-building game contained mitigating fantastical elements that warranted a PEGI 12 rating,” the statement explained.
“PEGI acknowledges the finding of the Complaints Board appeals panel in regards to amending the classifications of these games. The PEGI system continuously evolves in line with cultural expectations and the guidance of independent experts who support our assessment process. PEGI strives to apply ratings criteria fairly, consistently, and transparently to ensure that audiences understand the type of content that is present in games.”
In response to the case, PEGI has also announced plans to refine its classification criteria to better address themes related to gambling, including its portrayal and potential glamorisation in video games. While games that simulate real-world casino experiences will continue to receive PEGI 18 ratings, titles with fantasy-based gambling mechanics may now fall into lower age categories.
