RunsOnLinux

Does Balatro run on Linux?

Verdict: Yes

Yes. Balatro is a Windows game that runs on Linux through Proton, the tool built into Steam, and players on ProtonDB rate it Platinum, the top rating.

Balatro by LocalThunk · Casual, Indie, Strategy · number 95 on Steam's most-played list when checked

Balatro is an indie casual and strategy game from LocalThunk, published by Playstack, first released on 20 February 2024.

It is a game for one player. Steam lists it as fully playable with a controller. Critics scored it 90 out of 100 on Metacritic.

The evidence

Its own Linux version
No, it runs through Proton
Player rating on ProtonDB
Platinum, from 507 reports
Steam Deck (which runs Linux)
Verified by Valve
Anti-cheat
None listed

How to play it

  1. Install Steam from your Linux app store and sign in. Your library is already there.
  2. In Steam's settings, under Compatibility, switch on "Enable Steam Play for all other titles". That turns on Proton for every Windows game. You only do this once.
  3. Install Balatro and press Play.

New to this? Can I play my games on Linux? explains Proton, anti-cheat and which Linux to pick for games.

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Ratings are reported by players at ProtonDB and anti-cheat status by Are We Anti-Cheat Yet. Both change, so follow the links below for today's picture.

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