*Balatro* has quickly captivated gamers worldwide, with its unique gameplay drawing many into its addictive loop. Among its standout features are the Tarot cards, which can significantly enhance your strategy. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively use 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 primary method is through purchasing Arcana Packs available in the Shop. Additionally, you can opt to buy individual Tarot cards directly from the Shop. Another way to obtain them is by discarding a card marked with a Purple Seal.
Using Tarot Cards
Tarot cards in *Balatro* are consumable items, ready for immediate use once you acquire them. You can access them from their designated spot in the top right corner of the screen. When you select a Tarot card, a selection of cards eligible for its effect will appear. You'll then choose the number of cards specified by the Tarot card, apply the effect, and watch as the chosen cards transform or enhance according to the Tarot card's unique abilities.
All Tarot Cards
*Balatro* features 22 distinct Tarot cards, each with its own unique effect to diversify your gameplay:
Card | Effect |
---|
The Fool | Creates the last Tarot or Planet card used during your current run. |
The Magician | Two cards are enhanced to Lucky Cards. |
The High Priestess | Creates up to two Planet cards if you have the space for them. |
The Empress | Two cards are enhanced to Mult Cards. |
The Emperor | Creates up to two random Tarot cards if you have the space for them. |
The Hierophant | Two cards are enhanced to Bonus Cards. |
The Lovers | One card is enhanced to a Wild Card. |
The Chariot | One card is enhanced to a Steel Card. |
Justice | One card is enhanced 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 | Pick up to two cards to increase their rank by one. |
The Hanged Man | Pick up to two cards to destroy. |
Death | Pick two cards and convert the left card into the right card. |
Temperance | Receive the total sell value of all current Jokers up to $50. |
The Devil | One card is enhanced to a Gold Card. |
The Tower | One card is enhanced to a Stone Card. |
The Star | Pick up to three cards to convert to Diamonds. |
The Moon | Pick up to three cards to convert to Clubs. |
The Sun | Pick up to three cards to convert to Hearts. |
Judgement | If you have room, it creates a random Joker. |
The World | Pick up to three cards to convert to Spades. |
Tarot cards are a key element that sets *Balatro* apart from traditional poker games. While some players might initially overlook their potential, especially the cards that change the suits of cards in your deck, mastering their use can significantly enhance your gameplay. As you become more familiar with them, Tarot cards can become a powerful tool in your *Balatro* strategy, offering unique advantages that can turn the tide of your runs.