Balatro 1.1 Update Pushed Back as Developer LocalThunk Prioritizes Health
Fans eagerly awaiting the next major update for the popular deck-builder roguelike, Balatro, will have to wait a bit longer. Developer LocalThunk has announced that Patch 1.1 will not be released in 2025 as initially planned, with the new timeline simply being "it's done when it's done." The developer openly apologized for the delay, attributing it primarily to burnout and the immense pressure that came with Balatro's unexpected success.
In a detailed blog post, LocalThunk explained the challenges of transitioning from a hobbyist developer to one under intense public scrutiny. "I probably shouldn't have announced a release date for 1.1 at all," he admitted, highlighting his preference for a relaxed, experimental development style. He revealed that since Balatro's announcement in Summer 2023, he has become intimately familiar with the crunch and stress often associated with professional game development. These pressures, unfortunately, didn't ease after the game's highly successful launch in February 2024.
Immediately following the release of Balatro 1.0, LocalThunk found himself immersed in developing a significant balance patch (1.0.1) and then a mobile port. By the time the mobile version launched in late 2024, he was, in his own words, "hopelessly burnt out." This led to several months of much-needed rest from the project, with a gradual return to development only beginning in early 2025. During this period, he consciously decided to step away from gruelling 12-hour workdays, limiting his development time to just a few hours daily.
LocalThunk emphasized that he still views Balatro's ongoing development as a passion project, enjoying the process of brainstorming new ideas. However, the prospect of rushing to complete the 1.1 update by a year-end deadline became a source of significant anxiety. "I work slow, and I like it," he stated, valuing the freedom to explore ideas without creative constraints. "Before Balatro, I never set deadlines for my creative projects, and now I realize how important that is for my workflow."
The developer is committed to maintaining a healthy and sustainable work pace, believing it's crucial for the long-term future of Balatro. "I don't want 1.1 to be the last update for this game," he affirmed, indicating a desire to continue supporting the title for years to come. Players can rest assured that when the update does arrive, it will be a free addition for all owners across every platform.
LocalThunk concluded by reassuring the community of his enduring commitment, stating that his personal love for the game and its mechanics—evidenced by his achievement of all roguelike milestones and plans to do so again on a second account—will prevent him from ever abandoning Balatro. This patient approach means that while players will wait longer, they can anticipate a polished and thoughtfully developed update designed to extend the game's lifespan and enjoyment for everyone.
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