Balatro has quickly captivated gamers worldwide, but one often-overlooked element significantly impacts gameplay: Tarot cards. This guide explains how to acquire and utilize them effectively.
Acquiring Tarot Cards in Balatro

To use Tarot cards, you must first obtain them. The primary method is purchasing Arcana Packs from the in-game Shop. Individual Tarot cards are also often available for purchase. Alternatively, discarding a card with a Purple Seal can sometimes yield a Tarot card.
Using Tarot Cards
Tarot cards are single-use items. To activate one, select it from the top-right corner of the screen. The game will then display the cards eligible for its effect, indicating the number of cards the Tarot card can be used on. Choose your cards, confirm your selection, and the Tarot card's effect will be applied.
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 (space permitting). |
The Empress | Enhances two cards to Mult Cards. |
The Emperor | Creates up to two random Tarot cards (space permitting). |
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 (space permitting). |
The World | Converts up to three cards to Spades. |
While the suit-changing cards might not always be immediately useful, mastering Tarot cards adds a strategic layer to Balatro gameplay. With practice, they can become invaluable assets in your quest for victory.