How to Use Tarot Cards in Balatro

Balatro has quickly captivated gamers, but one often-overlooked element is the strategic use of Tarot cards. This guide explains how to acquire and utilize these powerful in-game assets.

Acquiring Tarot Cards in Balatro

Screenshot by The Escapist

To use Tarot cards, you first need to obtain them. The primary method is purchasing Arcana Packs from the in-game Shop. Individual Tarot cards are also frequently available for purchase. Finally, discarding a card with a Purple Seal can also reward you with a Tarot card.

Using Tarot Cards

Tarot cards are single-use items. Once acquired, select a card from the top-right corner of your screen. The game will then display the cards eligible for the selected Tarot card's effect, indicating the number of cards you can target. Confirm your selection to apply the effect.

All Tarot Cards and Their Effects

There are 22 unique Tarot cards, each with a distinct effect.

Card	Effect
The Fool	Creates a copy of the last Tarot or Planet card used in your current run.
The Magician	Enhances two cards to Lucky Cards.
The High Priestess	Creates up to two Planet cards (if space allows).
The Empress	Enhances two cards to Mult Cards.
The Emperor	Creates up to two random Tarot cards (if space allows).
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 your money (up to $20).
The Wheel of Fortune	25% 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	Transforms one selected card into another.
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 allows).
The World	Converts up to three cards to Spades.

While Balatro's Tarot card system distinguishes it from traditional poker games, its potential often goes untapped. Mastering the use of these cards, particularly those that alter card suits, can significantly improve your gameplay and boost your chances of success.