News Summary

In 2024, Canadian game developer LocalThunk achieved significant success with his indie game Balatro, which became an unexpected hit in the gaming world. Released in February, Balatro, a unique sequel to poker, sold millions of copies across multiple platforms and received a nomination for Game of the Year at The Game Awards. LocalThunk, who has chosen to remain anonymous, has been recognized alongside renowned solo developers like Markus Persson and Lucas Pope. Despite the game’s similarities to poker, LocalThunk is committed to keeping Balatro free from gambling associations and has stipulated in his will that the IP should never be sold to gambling companies.