LocalThunk, the solo developer behind the hugely successful indie game Balatro (3.5 million copies sold!), has declared Animal Well his 2024 Game of the Year. This accolade, playfully dubbed the "Golden Thunk" award, highlights Animal Well's "engrossing experience," "style," and numerous "secrets." LocalThunk's praise extends to the game's developer, Billy Basso of Shared Memory, calling Animal Well Basso's "true masterpiece." Basso responded with a gracious acknowledgment of LocalThunk's kindness and humility.
The positive interaction between these two indie developers generated considerable online enthusiasm, showcasing the supportive community within the indie game scene. The success of both Balatro and Animal Well, both critically acclaimed indie hits of 2024, underscores the year's rich landscape of innovative game design.
Beyond Animal Well, LocalThunk also shared his appreciation for several other 2024 indie titles, including Dungeons and Degenerate Gamblers, Arco, Nova Drift, Ballionaire, and Mouthwashing, mentioning specific aspects he enjoyed about each. The inclusion of Dungeons and Degenerate Gamblers, a fellow pixel art deck-building game created by a solo developer, further highlights the shared experiences and creative spirit within the indie development community.
LocalThunk's continued dedication to Balatro is evident in the three "Friends of Jimbo" updates released since its launch. These updates introduced crossover content from popular IPs such as Cyberpunk 2077, Among Us, and Dave the Diver, enhancing player engagement. He also teased a potential future collaboration with another top 2024 title. This commitment to post-launch support demonstrates a strong focus on player satisfaction and community building.
