Using Tarot Cards Effectively in Balatro: A Guide

It didn’t take long for Balatro to carve out a niche in the gaming community, captivating players with its addictive gameplay. However, one element that often flies under the radar is the strategic use of Tarot cards. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to harness the power of Tarot cards in Balatro.

Getting Tarot Cards in Balatro

Balatro Arcana Packs in Shop Screenshot by The Escapist

Before you can wield the mystical power of Tarot cards, you must first acquire them. The primary method to obtain Tarot cards is by purchasing Arcana Packs from the in-game Shop. You also have the option to buy individual Tarot cards directly from the Shop. Additionally, you can gain Tarot cards by discarding a card with a Purple Seal.

Using Tarot Cards

Tarot cards are consumable items, allowing you to use them immediately upon acquisition. You'll find them in the top right corner of the screen. To use a Tarot card, select it, and a set of applicable cards will appear. Choose the number of cards as indicated by the Tarot card, confirm your selection, and the effects will be applied to the chosen cards.

All Tarot Cards

Balatro features 22 unique Tarot cards, each with its own distinct effects. Below is a detailed table of all Tarot cards and their effects:

Card	Effect
The Fool	Recreates the last Tarot or Planet card used during your current run.
The Magician	Enhances two cards to Lucky Cards.
The High Priestess	Creates up to two Planet cards if you have the space for them.
The Empress	Enhances two cards to Mult Cards.
The Emperor	Creates up to two random Tarot cards if you have the space for them.
The Hierophant	Enhances two cards to Bonus Cards.
The Lovers	Enhances one card to a Wild Card.
The Chariot	Enhances one card to a Steel Card.
Justice	Enhances one card to a Glass Card.
The Hermit	Doubles Money (up to $20).
The Wheel of Fortune	1 in 4 chance to add Foil, Holographic, or Polychrome to a random Joker.
Strength	Allows you to increase the rank of up to two cards by one.
The Hanged Man	Allows you to destroy up to two cards.
Death	Allows you to convert the left card into the right card.
Temperance	Grants the total sell value of all current Jokers up to $50.
The Devil	Enhances one card to a Gold Card.
The Tower	Enhances one card to a Stone Card.
The Star	Allows you to convert up to three cards to Diamonds.
The Moon	Allows you to convert up to three cards to Clubs.
The Sun	Allows you to convert up to three cards to Hearts.
Judgement	Creates a random Joker if you have room.
The World	Allows you to convert up to three cards to Spades.

Tarot cards are a crucial element that sets Balatro apart from traditional poker games. While some players might overlook their potential, especially the cards that change card suits, understanding their full range of effects can significantly enhance your gameplay. Once mastered, Tarot cards can become a powerful tool in your Balatro runs, offering strategic depth and versatility.