LocalThunk, the creative mind behind the card-based roguelite Balatro, dives into his journey from childhood gamer to developer. He discusses how personal experiences shaped the unique Joker designs and the importance of community feedback in game mechanics like the innovative blind skip. The conversation also touches on ethical concerns regarding gambling-like mechanics, emphasizing the need for safety in gaming, while celebrating the blend of humor and nostalgia that influences his creative process.

We're joined by LocalThunk, solo creator of the hypnotic deckbuilder Balatro. We discuss flauting the fashion of a genre and going into development blind, the benefits of balacing by feel, and why Balatro shouldn't exist. Show Notes: Balatro LocalThunk Big two Luck Be a Landlord Slice & Dice Slay the Spire Risk of Rain 2

LocalThunk, the ingenious Canadian developer behind Balatro, shares his unique journey from mechanical engineering to game design. The thrilling discussion dives into the evolution of Balatro's design, its influences from ancient card games, and the challenges of pre-launch success. Listeners will learn about the fusion of unconventional career paths and the joy of creating for personal satisfaction, alongside the fascinating aesthetics that shape the game's immersive experience. This is a tale of passion and creativity that champions the beauty of game development.