The poker-based roguelike game has earned a prestigious five nominations for the 2024 Game Awards, including the coveted title of Game of the Year. LocalThunk, a solo developer, emerged victorious in both the Game of the Year and Best Game Direction categories, boasting the same impressive roster that could also be eligible for Best Independent Game, Best Debut Indie Game, and Best Mobile Game. Launched in February on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X. The package arrived at my cell phone store in September.
Developer LocalThunk, who operates under a pseudonym online, described being nominated alongside gaming giants like Heavy Hitters, and others as “utterly surreal.” “The more time that passes, the more I realize I’ve simply lucked out and stumbled into being a successful game developer.” While I’d like to believe the sport holds some allure, its appeal is vastly overshadowed by the truly astonishing range of nominees.
LocalThunk said he was “utterly caught off guard” by the year’s recreation nomination, but intends to mark the occasion with a celebratory dinner for two.
“I’ve felt incredibly blessed to have shared this experience with numerous fellow independent developers, and the tidal wave of support and kindness I’ve received from them, as well as my loved ones and friends, has been truly humbling.”
