Regular readers of TMA are likely familiar with the addictive card-game-that-isn’t-a-card-game, Balatro, a single-player poker-themed rogue-like deck builder where players use powerful joker cards to overcome increasing scores in each round. While it may sound boring on the surface, it is truly an amazing game. If you haven’t started playing Balatro yet, now is the time to do so as the makers have announced a collaboration with games like The Witcher, Vampire Survivors, Dave the Diver, and Among Us, introducing new themed decks for added challenges. Despite the lack of super-powered new jokers, the themed decks bring a refreshing twist to the game. Now, fans are eagerly awaiting the mobile version. In other news, French authorities have arrested Telegram boss Pavel Durov on charges of money laundering and distributing child pornography, sparking a debate on platform owners’ responsibility for content. On a lighter note, HMD’s Barbie Phone is set to launch in October, offering a hot pink flip-phone inspired by Greta Gerwig’s movie at an affordable price.
