The Unique Development Process of Balatro: A Deckbuilder Success Story

The success of Balatro, the poker-themed deckbuilder, has been remarkable, but what sets it apart is the creator’s deliberate avoidance of other similar roguelikes in order to craft the best game possible. In a recent Q&A session on Reddit, developer Localthunk disclosed that their primary inspiration for Balatro was not from traditional card-based roguelikes, but rather from the game Luck Be A Landlord. This surprising revelation stemmed from watching YouTuber Northernlion play the game, which sparked Localthunk’s admiration for a non-fantasy themed, score-attached roguelike.

Despite the prevalence of other card-based roguelikes in the market, Localthunk made a conscious decision to steer clear of the genre while developing Balatro. By isolating themselves from similar games, they were able to approach the design process with fresh eyes and explore the game’s mechanics with a sense of naivety. This deliberate choice allowed Localthunk to make their own mistakes and push the boundaries of the deckbuilding genre.

While Balatro has been likened to popular titles like Slay the Spire, Localthunk admitted that they had never played or even seen footage of the acclaimed card-based roguelike until much later in Balatro’s development process. Despite the frequent comparisons to Slay the Spire, Localthunk’s unique approach to game design ultimately led to the creation of a game that stands on its own merits and offers players a fresh experience in the genre.

Localthunk’s unconventional research process, which involved distancing themselves from established norms in the genre, ultimately yielded impressive results with the creation of Balatro. By drawing inspiration from unexpected sources and approaching game development with a sense of curiosity and experimentation, Localthunk was able to craft a game that defied expectations and captivated players with its innovative mechanics and engaging gameplay. Balatro’s success serves as a testament to the power of thinking outside the box and embracing creativity in game design.