Every fact on this page applies to update 1.1.3, the one version tested. Other versions may behave differently.
No emulator needed: Balatro runs natively on the Apple chip. How nxnative compares with emulators
Running through nxnative
How Balatro runs
Balatro is a light Game: when the project developers last published sizes, its iPhone app came to about 82 MB, so storage is rarely a concern. It is also unusual under the hood. Most tested Games draw through Nintendo's own graphics API, while Balatro is built on the LÖVE engine and draws with OpenGL, which nxnative translates to Apple's Metal.
How it runs
Balatro plays on the iPhone, by touch, in handheld mode. On the Mac it reached the intro, the title screen, a new run and the first tutorial steps at 60 fps with sound, with memory use staying flat over several minutes of play.
Controls
Balatro is played entirely by touch. The Packed app starts in the Tap layout, which hides the virtual gamepad except for the layout button, so every tap goes straight to the game: tap a card to select it, drag it to move it. The layout button switches to the 2D or 3D gamepad if you prefer buttons, and the app remembers your choice. On the Mac the mouse acts as your finger.
Good to know
- The game is packed in handheld mode on purpose: that is the mode in which the Switch version accepts touch input.
- Tested with update 1.1.3. Other versions may behave differently.
Known issues
None reported
Packing command
Run this in your nxnative folder on the Build Mac. Replace the game folder and the keys path with your own. Add --platform mac-app to get a Mac app instead of an iPhone and iPad app.
python3 scripts/build_ipa_from_nsp.py ~/Games/balatro -k ~/keys/prod.keysFAQ
Does Balatro work with nxnative?
Yes. Balatro is tested with nxnative on update 1.1.3.
Which iPhone, iPad or Mac do I need to play Balatro?
An iPhone 15 Pro or newer (A17 Pro chip or later) or an iPad with an M1 chip or later, on iOS or iPadOS 26 or later, or a Mac with Apple silicon. iPads with the A17 Pro chip (iPad mini) have the iPhone 15 Pro's chip but are untested by nxnative. Packing needs a Mac with macOS 26.6 or later and Xcode 27.1.
Is Balatro included?
No. Neither this site nor nxnative includes any game. You Pack Balatro from your own copy of the game, with keys dumped from your own Switch.
Does online play work in Balatro?
Online play in Balatro is not confirmed to work, so do not count on it.
