The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Balatro’s original Friends of Jimbo update adds cosmetic playing-card artwork inspired by four games: The Witcher, Vampire Survivors, Dave the Diver, and Among Us. The crossover content is free; it changes the look of Balatro’s decks rather than adding four games or a new paid expansion.
Which games are in the original Friends of Jimbo update?
The first pack features four partner franchises: The Witcher, Vampire Survivors, Dave the Diver, and Among Us. GameSpot Trailers’ August 27, 2024 announcement-trailer description called it a “free update” and said players could customize their decks with these four collaborations: GameSpot Trailers’ announcement trailer.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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dV Giochi Bang | $39.10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Dutch Blitz Card Game - Original Fast Paced Family Game with 160 Cards | $9.49 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Grandpa Beck's Games Skull King Trick-Taking Card Game | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Balatro: Special Edition - For Nintendo Switch | $34.20 | Buy on Amazon |
What does the update change in Balatro?
Friends of Jimbo adds pixel-style crossover artwork to Balatro’s playing-card decks. It is a cosmetic customization update, not a set of playable versions of the partner games or a paid downloadable-content pack. Nintendo’s May 27, 2025 overview describes the Friends of Jimbo updates as free and explains that they add themed card art: Nintendo’s overview of Balatro and Friends of Jimbo.
Balatro is a poker-inspired roguelike deck-builder. Players make card combinations to build a chip score and beat each Blind, while Joker cards can add effects and enable further combinations. The crossover artwork changes the deck’s appearance within that existing game loop.
#1 Best Overall
- WILD WEST SHOWDOWN: Experience a tense hidden-role battle as Outlaws target the Sheriff, the Sheriff fights for justice, and the Renegade maneuvers between both sides, creating fast, high-stakes decisions every round.
- UNPREDICTABLE EVENTS: Face sudden twists from High Noon effects that disrupt plans, force gunmen to improvise, and introduce shifting dangers that keep every game suspenseful, dynamic, and highly replayable.
- NEW CHARACTERS & ABILITIES: Explore Dodge City additions that introduce fresh gunmen, unique powers, and tactical interactions, expanding strategic depth and offering new ways to outplay opponents.
- RAISE THE STAKES: Add A Fistful of Cards and other expansions to intensify the action with bold risks, dramatic shootouts, and unexpected turns that keep players guessing until the final bullet is fired.
- FAST, SOCIAL GAMEPLAY: Ideal for families and hobby groups, BANG! delivers quick setup, engaging bluffing, and lively card-driven strategy that brings the Wild West to life for 3–8 players ages 8 and up.
Is Friends of Jimbo free?
Yes. The announcement for the first pack describes it as a free update, and Nintendo’s later overview also describes Friends of Jimbo updates as free. The crossover content is cosmetic; the game itself is a separate purchase. Nintendo’s Canadian product page lists Balatro for Switch at a regular price of C$18.99, a regional listing rather than a universal or necessarily current price: Balatro for Nintendo Switch on Nintendo’s Canadian store.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How is the first pack different from later Friends of Jimbo updates?
“Four beloved games” refers specifically to the original pack, not the complete set of collaborations. Nintendo’s May 27, 2025 overview lists additional themes from later updates, including Assassin’s Creed, Bugsnax, Cult of the Lamb, Dead by Daylight, Fallout Shelter, Shovel Knight, Stardew Valley, and Warframe, among others. Those later partners should not be mistaken for part of the original four-game pack.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 150 Jokers, each with their own unique abilities.
- 15 Decks with distinct modifiers to choose from for each run.
- 5 potential variants of each Joker which add further abilities.
- 22 Tarot cards variants that can enhance your regular playing cards.
- 11 Planet cards that help level up your possible poker hands.
Rank #3
- FUN FOR 2–8 PLAYERS: Designed for ages 8+ with a 30–45 minute playtime that’s ideal for families, teens, adults, and larger groups.
- BID YOUR TRICKS, PLAY YOUR CARDS: This trick-taking favorite challenges you to predict your wins each round, then use strategic card play, powerful characters, and perfect timing to hit your bid.
- QUICK TO LEARN, FUN TO MASTER: Straightforward rules welcome new players, while pirates, mermaids, and surprising twists keep experienced players coming back.
- MADE FOR PLAYING TOGETHER: Bring it to family game nights, parties, holidays, vacations, camping trips, and gatherings with friends.
- FAMILY FUN FROM GRANDPA BECK’S GAMES: Nearly 4 million games sold worldwide! Discover thoughtfully designed card games that bring families and friends together.
Rank #2
- Fast-paced gameplay you love: Experience exciting competition as you speed to clear your Blitz pile. No turns taken; first to place cards in sequence wins!
- Perfect for family gatherings: Designed for 2 to 4 players, this game ensures fun-filled family nights and keeps both kids and adults entertained for hours.
- Easy rules for all ages: Simple yet challenging, Dutch Blitz offers effortless learning and engaging gameplay for children, teens, and adults, ages 8 and up.
- 160 colorful cards included: Enjoy endless fun with four decks of vibrant playing cards that enhance your gaming experience with their cheerful color scheme.
- Boosts strategic thinking: Dutch Blitz sharpens reflexes and strategy skills as you aim to outpace opponents in this unique and dynamic card-playing adventure.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
