Balatro Nintendo DS Homebrew Port Released, But Lacks Key Features Compared to Switch Version

Balatro, the acclaimed roguelike deckbuilding game developed by LocalThunk, has captured the gaming community’s attention since its original release on PC and Nintendo Switch in 2023.

Having garnered over 5 million copies sold globally and sweeping up accolades—including three DICE Awards such as 'Outstanding Achievement for an Independent Game'—Balatro demonstrates the continuing strength of indie game innovation on platforms like the Nintendo Switch and the wider eShop ecosystem.

Now, Balatro has made an unexpected appearance on the Nintendo DS, thanks to the technical ingenuity of homebrew developer Haynster.

Built with the MicroLUA homebrew development kit and first publicized via GBATemp and Github, this unofficial port allows DS enthusiasts to experience the hit title on classic hardware.

Installation instructions are provided by the developer for those equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to run homebrew titles on their handheld. However, potential players should be aware that the Nintendo DS homebrew port comes with a number of significant limitations compared to the official Nintendo Switch version.

In a comprehensive statement shared on Github by Haynster, it is confirmed that the port currently omits music, lacks access to different decks, and restricts gameplay to just 12 Boss Blinds and 15 Jokers.

Furthermore, as described by the developer, the hand detection system in this homebrew iteration is limited: if a player attempts to play a hand that doesn't match the precise card count for standard hands—such as pairing a legitimate combination with excess cards—the game is unable to register or evaluate it correctly.

According to Haynster, considerable effort went into optimizing this aspect within the constraints of the platform, and a simpler implementation was ultimately necessary to ensure the port’s release. Despite these constraints, the DS version stands as a testament to community passion and coding expertise.

Still, for those seeking the full, feature-complete experience of Balatro, the Nintendo Switch edition remains the definitive version, fully supported by its developer and available via the eShop. In other recent developments, the content ratings landscape for Balatro has also evolved.

Originally classified as 18+ by the European ratings board PEGI, a formal appeal led to a reassessment, lowering the rating to 12+.

The updated classification reflects the game's use of fantastical elements, which were found to distinguish it sufficiently from traditional gambling games such as poker. Players interested in exploring this imaginative deckbuilder can opt for the original Nintendo Switch release for the intended experience, or try the DS homebrew version as a novel alternate option for retro hardware.

Either way, Balatro’s ongoing success and creative adaptations continue to underline its strong appeal within the indie gaming community.

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