Balatro quickly carved out a niche in gaming circles, captivating players with its addictive mechanics. Yet one crucial gameplay element often gets underestimated. Here's your complete guide to mastering Tarot cards in Balatro.
Acquiring Tarot Cards
The primary way to obtain Tarot cards is through Arcana Packs purchased from the Shop. Alternatively, individual Tarot cards occasionally appear as direct purchases. You can also earn them by discarding cards bearing Purple Seals.
How Tarot Cards Work
These single-use items activate immediately from your inventory panel (top-right corner). Selecting a card highlights potential targets - simply choose the required number of cards and confirm to apply the effect.
Complete Tarot Card Effects
| Card | Effect |
|---|---|
| The Fool | Replicates the last used Tarot or Planet card |
| The Magician | Upgrades two cards to Lucky status |
| The High Priestess | Generates up to two Planet cards |
| The Empress | Upgrades two cards to Mult Cards |
| The Emperor | Creates two random Tarot cards |
| The Hierophant | Upgrades two cards to Bonus Cards |
| The Lovers | Enhances one card to Wild status |
| The Chariot | Transforms one card to Steel Card |
| Justice | Converts one card to Glass Card |
| The Hermit | Doubles current funds (max $20) |
| The Wheel of Fortune | 25% chance to enhance random Joker |
| Strength | Boosts rank of two cards |
| The Hanged Man | Removes two cards |
| Death | Transforms left card into right card |
| Temperance | Grants Joker sell value (max $50) |
| The Devil | Upgrades one card to Gold |
| The Tower | Transforms one card to Stone |
| The Star | Converts three cards to Diamonds |
| The Moon | Changes three cards to Clubs |
| The Sun | Alters three cards to Hearts |
| Judgement | Creates random Joker |
| The World | Converts three cards to Spades |
Tarot cards distinguish Balatro from traditional poker games. While suit-changing effects might seem situational, mastering these powerful tools can significantly enhance your runs once you understand their strategic applications.
