Aotenjo: Infinite Hands offers a tasteful experience with its enchanting tile mechanics that allow players to accumulate multipliers subtly.

Every so often, while enjoying Balatro on Steam Deck, I ponder if it’s time to venture into other genres, yet I find myself drawn back to the charm of Balatro-inspired games.

This week, emerging from early access, is a Mahjong variation aptly named Aotenjo: Infinite Hands. Out of the myriad Balatro-inspired games I’ve engaged with, this one captivates me the most. It diverges significantly from its predecessors by eschewing flashy graphics in favor of a laid-back aesthetic reminiscent of Windows 95 Solitaire.

I should mention that Mahjong isn’t my go-to game; I often stumble through the learning process repeatedly. However, Aotenjo offers a solid tutorial, rebooting my familiarity with the game’s principles and promptly immersing me into its Balatro-like mechanics.

In this game, you construct hands against an ascending score, confronting various foes who innovate challenges by disabling specific suits. Utilizing coins amassed through victories, players can enchant their tiles, employing clever strategies to swap values and amplify points.

Although it may not eclipse Balatro in my gaming lineup, Aotenjo has proven to be a quietly engaging title worth exploring, accessible now on Steam with a timely discount until February 2.