One of this year’s best indie surprises is getting a major upgrade next year.

That’s right: the roguelike card game Balatro, a turn-based title where you use playing cards to beat the required number given (much like a boss in a dungeon for a roguelike), is getting a major gameplay update in 2025. Given that the game is made by one person, that’s understandable. But it’ll be free and it’s part and parcel of giving back to the fanbase who find the concept of playing cards and multiple Joker card modifiers of varying power levels fun.

“This update will bring new ideas and strategies to the game and as a token of huge appreciation to the game’s brilliant and passionate community, the update will be completely free.”

As an aside, Balatro has sold 2 million copies on Steam and other platforms. The game will also get “two more surprises this summer”. We do hope that one of these surprises is a mobile port of the game. This has been a long-requested feature, though the consequences may be severe. If a game as addictive as Balatro were to be available to buy on mobile phones, all productivity worldwide might grind to a halt.

The first major gameplay update is coming to Balatro in 2025!

This update will bring new ideas and strategies to the game and as a token of huge appreciation to the game’s brilliant and passionate community, the update will be completely free. pic.twitter.com/xS8ZQrTZGi

— Balatro (@BalatroGame) August 7, 2024