It didn’t take long for Balatro to captivate gamers worldwide, with its addictive gameplay drawing players in. However, one often overlooked aspect of the game 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
Screenshot by The Escapist
Before you can leverage the power of Tarot cards, you need to acquire them. The most straightforward method is purchasing Arcana Packs from the in-game Shop. You can also opt to buy individual Tarot cards directly from the Shop. Additionally, keep an eye out for cards marked with a Purple Seal; discarding these can reward you with Tarot cards.
Using Tarot Cards
Tarot cards are consumables that you can use immediately upon acquisition. They're located in the top right corner of your screen. To use a Tarot card, simply select it, and a selection of cards will appear, indicating which cards the Tarot card can affect. Choose the number of cards specified by the Tarot card, confirm your selection, and watch as the Tarot card's unique effects transform your chosen cards.
All Tarot Cards
Balatro features 22 distinct Tarot cards, each with unique effects that can dramatically alter your gameplay:
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 space is available. |
The Empress | Enhances two cards to Mult Cards. |
The Emperor | Creates up to two random Tarot cards if space is available. |
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 | Increases the rank of up to two cards by one. |
The Hanged Man | Destroys up to two cards. |
Death | Converts the left card into the right card. |
Temperance | Receives 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 | Converts up to three cards to Diamonds. |
The Moon | Converts up to three cards to Clubs. |
The Sun | Converts up to three cards to Hearts. |
Judgement | Creates a random Joker if space is available. |
The World | Converts up to three cards to Spades. |
Tarot cards are a key feature that sets Balatro apart from traditional poker games. While some players might initially overlook their potential, especially those that change card suits, mastering the use of Tarot cards can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. Once you familiarize yourself with their effects, Tarot cards can become an invaluable asset in your Balatro runs.