Balatro dev: Talked with PEGI and they do not see anything wrong Balatro being rated 18+, nor with EA sports FC (and similar games) having a 3+ rating

Actual gambling = I see nothing wrong (Shareholder $$$$)

Funny card sprites = fucken adults only you might get addicted! (No GaS, Less $$$$$)

Nice clothes you got there, imperator.

Well frankly, that's a pretty clear signal that PEGI can't be trusted with the purpose it exists for IMO

Anyone with a brain can see that EAFC's gambling mechanics are much more harmful than Balatro.

And what has Balatro got that "Poker night at the inventory", a PEGI 12, doesn't?

Not the EU, at least in my country, it wouldn't be gambling if you can prove that you need a certain amount of dexterity and direct involvement to influence the outcome. You can clearly do this in Balatro. Also, no money is involved.