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How to Use Tarot Cards in Balatro

Author : Simon Update : Apr 11,2025

It didn’t take long for Balatro to carve out its niche in the gaming world, captivating players with its addictive gameplay. One often overlooked aspect of Balatro is the strategic use of Tarot cards. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to leverage Tarot cards to enhance your gameplay.

Getting Tarot Cards in Balatro

Balatro Arcana Packs in Shop

Screenshot by The Escapist

To start using Tarot cards, you first 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 Tarot cards is by discarding a card that bears a Purple Seal.

Using Tarot Cards

Tarot cards in Balatro are consumable items, meaning you can use them immediately upon acquisition. They are located in the top right corner of your screen. To use a Tarot card, simply select it, and a set of cards that it can affect will appear. Choose the number of cards specified by the Tarot card, confirm your selection, and the effects will be applied to the chosen cards.

All Tarot Cards

There are 22 Tarot cards in Balatro, each with unique effects that can significantly alter your gameplay strategy. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each card and its effect:

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 play a pivotal role in distinguishing Balatro from traditional poker, adding layers of strategy and excitement. While some players might initially overlook the utility of Tarot cards, particularly those that swap suits, understanding and mastering their use can significantly boost your performance in Balatro runs. With practice, you'll find Tarot cards to be invaluable tools in your gaming arsenal.