English version: Balatro Removed From European Nintendo eShops Due To Ratings Switch
Brief Description: The local roguelike deckbuilder game, Balatro, has been removed from various European Nintendo Switch eShops due to a sudden age rating change from 3+ to 18+ by the European ratings board. Publisher Playstack expressed disappointment and confusion over this sudden decision by the ratings board.
What’s going on here?
Balatro, a popular roguelike deckbuilder game, has been removed from several European Nintendo Switch eShops without prior warning due to an unexpected age rating change from 3+ to 18+ by PEGI. The publisher, Playstack, expressed their disappointment in the actions of the ratings board, especially since they had previously addressed and received assurance regarding the absence of gambling themes in the game during an appeal in October 2023.What does this mean?
This incident means that European gamers who were looking forward to purchasing Balatro on the Switch will be unable to do so temporarily. The sudden age rating change has created confusion and frustration, as it contradicts the previous assurance given to the publisher after an appeal. Playstack emphasized that the game does not promote or feature gambling, and they are working on resolving the issue to make the game available again with a possible temporary 18+ rating.Why should I care?
This situation highlights the impact of age ratings on game availability and consumer access. It raises questions about the transparency and consistency of the ratings process, as well as the potential repercussions for developers and players when such changes occur unexpectedly. Gamers interested in Balatro or those concerned about the influence of ratings boards on game distribution may find this incident particularly relevant and insightful.
For more information, check out the original article here.
