"Mastering Tarot Cards in Balatro: A Guide"

Author : Simon Apr 15,2025

It didn’t take long for Balatro to carve out its niche in the gaming community, captivating players with its unique blend of strategy and chance. While many are drawn to its poker-like mechanics, the use of Tarot cards often remains underappreciated. Let's dive into 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 need to acquire them. The primary method is through purchasing Arcana Packs from the in-game Shop. You can also opt to buy individual Tarot cards directly from the Shop. Another way to snag these cards is by discarding a card with a Purple Seal.

Using Tarot Cards

Tarot cards are consumable items, meaning you can use them immediately upon acquisition. They are located in the top right corner of your screen. When you select a Tarot card, a selection of cards that it can affect will appear. You'll then choose the number of cards specified by the Tarot card, confirm your selection, and watch as the Tarot card's effects are applied to your chosen cards.

All Tarot Cards

There are 22 Tarot cards in Balatro, each with its own unique effect. Here's a comprehensive list:

CardEffect
The FoolCreates the last Tarot or Planet card used during your current run.
The MagicianTwo cards are enhanced to Lucky Cards.
The High PriestessCreates up to two Planet cards if you have the space for them.
The EmpressTwo cards are enhanced to Mult Cards.
The EmperorCreates up to two random Tarot cards if you have the space for them.
The HierophantTwo cards are enhanced to Bonus Cards.
The LoversOne card is enhanced to a Wild Card.
The ChariotOne card is enhanced to a Steel Card.
JusticeOne card is enhanced to a Glass Card.
The HermitDoubles Money (up to $20)
The Wheel of Fortune1 in 4 chance to add Foil, Holographic, or Polychrome to a random Joker.
StrengthPick up to two cards to increase their rank by one.
The Hanged ManPick up to two cards to destroy.
DeathPick two cards and convert the left card into the right card.
TemperanceReceive the total sell value of all current Jokers up to $50.
The DevilOne card is enhanced to a Gold Card.
The TowerOne card is enhanced to a Stone Card.
The StarPick up to three cards to convert to Diamonds.
The MoonPick up to three cards to convert to Clubs.
The SunPick up to three cards to convert to Hearts.
JudgementIf you have room, it creates a random Joker.
The WorldPick 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. These cards may not always be immediately beneficial, but with practice, you'll find them invaluable in navigating your Balatro runs successfully.