Official Pronunciation of Indie Hit 'Balatro' Confirmed as 'BAH-la-tro'

The creator of the critically acclaimed poker-inspired roguelike embraces multiple pronunciations, fostering community engagement.

The official pronunciation of 'Balatro' is 'BAH-la-tro,' as confirmed by the game's creator, LocalThunk, via publisher Playstack.
Alternative pronunciations, such as 'ba-LAH-tro' and 'BAY-la-tro,' are also considered acceptable, reflecting the creator's relaxed stance on the matter.
'Balatro,' released in February 2024, has sold over 5 million copies as of January 2025, cementing its status as a major indie success.
The game has won numerous awards, including Best Indie Game and Best Mobile Game at The Game Awards, and received critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay.
Community discussions around the game's pronunciation highlight its ongoing cultural impact and strong engagement with players.