: Nintendo actively tracks modified systems and unauthorized software tickets. Connecting a console with pirated NSPs to the internet can lead to a permanent hardware ban from Nintendo Network services.
However, the developers of Balatro have had a significant legal victory against age rating boards. Initially, PEGI rated the game 18+ for "gambling themes," which was incorrect because Balatro uses no real money or actual gambling . LocalThunk won the appeal, and the game is now rated PEGI 12 or ESRB E10+ , making it legal for teenagers to purchase and play. This makes the ethical argument to buy the game much stronger—it is cheap, accessible, and supports an indie developer.
Score: 9/10
As one reviewer noted, "Getting a Balatro run to really pop... remains one of gaming’s purest pleasures".
