Balatro+ Hits Apple Arcade, Alongside Updates to Existing Games

Canadian-made poker roguelite Balatro+ hits Apple Arcade today. Developed by LocalThunk, a solo developer, the critically acclaimed game is being made playable across  iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro as part of its launch on Apple Arcade.

Published by Playstack, Balatro+ is a mix between a traditional poker game and the risk/reward of a roguelite. Play poker hands to land big scores each round and overcome increasingly difficult Blinds and Boss Blinds. Purchase joker cards, and booster packs using in-game cash each round to boost your Chip count and Mults.

iPhone in Canada got a chance to go hands-on with Balatro on iOS ahead of its launch on mobile. The adoption of touch controls provides a fluid experience. Now, for better or worse, it’s easy to pull your iPhone out, jump into a quick round, and kill five to 10 minutes. With an addictive gameplay loop, productivity is surely to tank thanks to Balatro.

Apple Arcade update to round out the month of September include:

• Crossy Road Castle — A Among Us crossover hits Crossy Road Castle. This update features a unique and exciting Challenge Event featuring 20 new levels.
• Synth Riders — Subscribers with Apple Vision Pro can try out the all-new music pack “Groovin’ Essentials” featuring Bruno Mars.
• SpongeBob: Patty Pursuit — The conclusion of the Tale of the Deep storyline sees Sandy finally reach Master Udon’s stronghold.
• WHAT THE GOLF? — A nautical-themed Oh Ship! limited-time event is running from now until October 6.
• Hill Climb Racing+ — A new collection of sports-themed minigames lands on Hill Climb Racing+,  including Drag Strip, Hurdles, Carchery, and Pole Vault.
• Angry Birds Reloaded — Enter the Mirror Worlds, where levels are mirrored, to stop villain Hektor Porko.
• Temple Run+ — An autumn-themed event brings new challenges to the game and the ability to unlock Sigur Frostbeard for a limited time.
• Disney Coloring World+ — Frozen’s Arendale Castle comes to life in a brand-new pop-up sticker book. Pixar characters, like Buzz, WALL·E, and Remy, are also available.

Apple Arcade is available in Canada for $8.99 per month.