Local developer LocalThunk‘s roguelike card game “Balatro” (Joker Card) was shortlisted for five TGA 2024 awards, and was the only European and American developed work nominated for “Game of the Year”. a little “just right” and it was more polite I recommend everyone to play the other 7 independent games.
“Balatro” was released on Steam in February this year and sold more than 2 million units in August and points chain effects.
BALATRO https://t.co/7ZGZDYEsXK
— Balatro (@BalatroGame) November 18, 2024
Regarding my work to be able to compete on the same stage with 3A masterpieces such as “Black Myth: Wukong”, “Space Robot”, “Elden Ring: Shadow of the Golden Tree”, “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth “, “Metaphorical Fantasy: ReFantazio” Best Game of the Year, LocalThunk Taking to Reddit to thank fans for giving him a chanceand he said it was too unreal.
“Over the past year I have learned how friendly and supportive the indie developer community is. Everyone knows how difficult the game industry is and supports each other whenever possible .I have met and interacted with many people who love what they do and work with amazing people.
LocalThunk went on to say that he felt uncomfortable considering Balatro’s nomination and shortlisted awards as “my own,” and humbly added, “My game is just representing the beautiful and passionate indie game industry right now, I happen to be the lucky one to be recommended.”
LocalThunk hasn’t talked too much about its own games my friends.
In the turn-based strategy RPG “Arco”, the player’s choices will shape the development of the plot, “traveling through green forests, vast plains and scorching deserts, leading four amazing heroes to deal with the Red Company Gang.”
Roguelike Pachinko “Ballionaire”(Pinball Billionaire), a pinball machine with various special incentives and receiving bonus effects The realistic physics system provides dynamic and chaotic special effects, allowing players to enjoy crazy chains and rising numbers.
Roguelike card-based strategic battle “StarVaders”, pilot three different mechas to fight against alien invaders on a strategic grid, and eliminate the enemy to protect the earth through hundreds of upgradeable cards, items and combinations .
Roguelite space barrage “Nova Drift” combines classic ARPG mechanics with deep game strategy by defeating enemies allows the spaceship to advance quickly. place
The Roguelike card “Dungeons and Degenerate Gamblers” is similar to the gameplay and art style of “Balatro”. , opening card packages, pouring into hotels and other random events increase uncertainty.
In the roguelike pool adventure “Rack and Slay”, players become billiard balls and push monster balls into holes or traps at random levels in dungeons.
Game Donkey Development competes with Balatro for big game prizesAnimal Wellplatform maze presented with non-linear paths and pixel-style backgrounds Players explore and solve puzzles in depth There is almost no text narration throughout the process, and they must be relies on observation and imagination to advance the story.
What challenges did LocalThunk face while developing Balatro, and how did those challenges shape the final product?
Sure, I’d be happy to help with that! Here’s an interview with 2 guests about the information in the article:
Guest 1: LocalThunk, developer of Balatro
Guest 2: Calibur, gaming reviewer and journalist
Interviewer: Today, we have LocalThunk and Calibur with us to discuss LocalThunk’s roguelike card game “Balatro” being shortlisted for five TGA 2024 awards, including Game of the Year. Thank you both for joining us.
LocalThunk, can you tell us how it feels to be shortlisted for such prestigious awards and competing with big-name titles like Black Myth: Wukong and Elden Ring: Shadow of the Golden Tree?
LocalThunk: Hi, it’s really an honor to be nominated among these amazing games. I was surprised and excited when I found out. It’s humbling to be recognized in the industry, and I hope it helps to bring more attention to independent game developers like me.
Interviewer: That’s incredible. Calibur, as a gaming journalist, how significant is it to see independent games like Balatro being recognized on a global stage like this?
Calibur: It’s extremely important. It shows that indie games can compete with AAA titles and carry their weight. The gaming industry is growing, and we’re seeing more and more diverse and innovative games coming from independent developers. It’s refreshing to see these games get recognized for their creativity and quality.
Interviewer: Absolutely. LocalThunk, you mentioned that the indie game community has been very supportive. Can you share more about your experience working in this community and how it has contributed to your success?
LocalThunk: The indie game community is incredibly supportive. We all know how tough the industry can be, and we help each other as much as we can. I’ve met and worked with some amazing people who are passionate about their craft. We share ideas, feedback, and resources to improve our games. It’s been a wonderful experience.
Guest 2: That’s wonderful to hear! Can you tell us about the gameplay elements that set “Balatro” apart from other