Summary
- Balatro has announced that it managed to rack up 5 million sales since release back in February 2024.
- On Twitter, the opportunity was used to try and get more people to buy indies games, as the game’s Twitter account urged first-time indie game buyers to “make it a habit”.
Balatro emerged as the breakout indie sensation of 2024, an impressive feat in a year that also saw the release of acclaimed titles like Animal Well and Lorelai and the Laser Eyes. Its addictive gameplay and widespread appeal made it a fan favorite, dominating the indie category at The Game Awards and even earning a nomination for the grand prize.
The buzz surrounding Balatro—fueled by critical acclaim, word of mouth, and widespread publicity—has translated into extraordinary commercial success. Earlier today, the game’s official Twitter account proudly announced that Balatro has surpassed 5 million sales, a remarkable achievement that even many triple-A titles struggle to match. Reaching this milestone in under a year highlights the game’s undeniable impact on the industry.
Balatro Hits 5 Million Sales, Urges People To Buy More Indies
There Truly Is Some Amazing Stuff Out There
In typical Balatro fashion, the developer behind the title didn’t rest on their laurels after the game’s success. While expressing their hope that everyone has an “amazing time” with Balatro, they swiftly shifted focus to the broader gaming industry. They used the moment to encourage more people to explore and support indie games, highlighting the creativity and passion that define the indie gaming community.
This comment is directed primarily at those who don’t often purchase indie games—a group that likely includes many people, considering Balatro has already captivated five million players. In the tweet, the creators specifically encourage those whose first indie game was Balatro to explore more titles in the genre, urging them to “make it a habit.” They emphasize that “there’s some amazing stuff out there” waiting to be discovered.
For fans of Balatro, these remarks probably come as no surprise. The creator behind the game, known online as LocalThunk, has consistently used his social media platforms to promote the joy of indie games, often reaching audiences who might not have explored them otherwise. Last year, he even compiled a thread highlighting indie games he enjoyed, following his prestigious “Golden Thunk Award” being awarded to Animal Well.
The idea that there’s incredible indie content out there isn’t just a claim—it’s backed by science. In 2024, indie games had an extraordinary year, and the numbers prove it. More indie titles scored 90 or higher on Metacritic than in any previous year, making it a record-breaking period for indie excellence. If you’re considering exploring LocalThunk and want to support indie creators, picking a game from that top-rated list is one of the best ways to start.