2024 has come and gone and with it, a slew of incredible games. Everything from RPGs, platformers and shooters to fighting, puzzle and simulation games, there was something for everyone. However, before we talk about the good, we do have to acknowledge the unfortunate, which are the continuing layoffs in the gaming industry. The situation looks to get worse before it gets better, here’s to hoping for better news in 2025.
2024 was a fairly light year for big, Nintendo published releases. Though their output volume was consistent, and there were some highlights, it’s increasingly clear that the Switch is in its waning years. It might take until the Switch 2’s release to reach the heights we’ve come to love from the current console, but that hasn’t stopped incredible indies like Animal Well and Neva from rising to the occasion.
Here at Nintendo Wire, our staff has all voted on which game we’d consider our Game of the Year, and while we had a few options we debated on, ultimately Balatro emerged as the winner.
Balatro, at its core, is one part poker, one part roguelike, and one part deck builder. Every single run will be different as combinations come together across its varied card types. There’s no plot, no real goal beyond playing well, and the only character to speak of is a chatty Joker named Jimbo. Yet these elements come together into an unquestionably addictive experience that rewards player expression and knowledge — along with plenty of luck, of course. In a year where other platforms saw planet-saving sagas and the most Mario-like platformer Nintendo never made, it’s these digital cardboard squares that stuck with us most.
There are many more aspects that go into the game, but the best way is to play it for yourself! Balatro was a contender for Game of the Year at the 2024 Game Awards, walking away with three awards — Best Indie Game, Best Debut Indie Game and Best Mobile Game. Balatro is available on Nintendo Switch for $14.99, but be warned; it’s incredibly addicting!
Leave a Comment
Written by Roberto Diaz
Embark on a gaming odyssey with a passionate player deeply immersed in pop culture. Roberto not only conquers virtual realms but also dominates the pop music scene, turning life into a harmonious adventure filled with gaming triumphs and cultural insights.
