Balatro Update 1.1 Put on Hold Indefinitely

In an unexpected turn of events, LocalThunk, the creative mind behind the hit poker roguelike Balatro, has delayed the highly anticipated 1.1 update indefinitely. This decision comes as LocalThunk acknowledges a desire to avoid the notorious "crunch mode" that often plagues game development.

A Transparent Announcement

On September 12, 2025, in a candid post titled "I’m Slow," LocalThunk revealed that the 1.1 update will not meet its initial 2025 timeline. "I must confess, I can’t uphold my earlier promise; it's clear the update won’t be released by year-end," they expressed regretfully.

The Dangers of Crunch Mode

Having launched Balatro in February 2024, LocalThunk plunged directly into a series of updates and even a mobile port. But by the release of the mobile version in September, the developer was grappling with burnout. "The pressure and stress of professional game development have followed me since Balatro went public in 2023," they shared.

Returning to Roots: The Hobbyist Mindset

Taking a breather from the game for several months, LocalThunk chose to return to his work as a hobbyist, committing only a few hours daily. This slower-paced method has yielded a more fulfilling creative experience. "Rushing the work to meet a deadline feels terrible," they admitted, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the creative process.

A Promise for Quality Over Speed

LocalThunk reassured fans that the 1.1 update will be done when it’s ready. They remain committed to Balatro’s development, stating, "I won’t walk away from this game; I’m excited to dive back into it as soon as possible. I’m already eager to 100% the game again once it’s ready."

Balatro's Monumental Success

Since its launch, Balatro has skyrocketed in popularity, generating a staggering $1 million within just eight hours of release. Garnering multiple accolades—including Game of the Year at the 2025 Game Developers' Choice Awards—it's clear the game has made waves in the indie scene.

Industry Impact and Future Outlook

Playstack, Balatro’s publisher, has hailed the game as a transformative piece for the industry. CEO Harvey Elliott hailed it as a testament to the fact that captivating games can come from any size development team, emphasizing the game’s significant impact on both their company and the industry as a whole.

As fans await the future of Balatro, one thing is certain: LocalThunk's focus on mental health and creative integrity will ensure that when the 1.1 update arrives, it will be worth the wait.