Poker Roguelike Balatro Crosses Five Million Sales

Balatro, the smash hit roguelike card game based on poker, has sold over five million units across PC, console, and mobile. The game was released in February last year and was a runaway success, making over $1 million in gross revenue in its first eight hours.

In Balatro, players build decks and play poker hands with score multipliers to beat the big blind. The twist is that there are unique Joker cards that change the meta of the game, along with other elements that alter the game’s pacing and force you to rethink your strategy.

“If this is your first time picking up an indie title, try to make it a habit!” said Balatro creator LocalThunk on social media.

The developer has been promoting many other independent games following The Game Awards. Following its release, Balatro has crossed over with other games like Dave the Diver, The Witcher, Among Us, Vampire Survivors, and more.

Balatro was nominated across five categories at The Game Awards 2024, and it won three of those. The little card game won awards for Best Mobile Game, Best Debut Indie Game, and Best Independent Game at the show.

There’s no doubt that the game’s big wins at The Game Awards have helped it reach even more players. Putting it on mobile, along with making it free for Apple Arcade subscribers, has also helped grow its popularity.

Balatro is available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Apple Arcade.