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Tarot Cards in Balatro: A Guide

by Sebastian Mar 29,2025

*Balatro* has quickly captured the hearts of gamers everywhere with its addictive gameplay. One key element that often goes unnoticed is the use of Tarot cards. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to utilize these mystical cards to enhance your gaming experience.

Getting Tarot Cards in Balatro

Balatro Arcana Packs in Shop

Screenshot by The Escapist
To harness the power of Tarot cards in *Balatro*, you first need to acquire them. The primary method is through purchasing Arcana Packs available in the Shop. You can also opt to buy individual Tarot cards directly from the Shop. Another way to obtain them 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. Choose the number of cards specified by the Tarot card, confirm your selection, and watch as the card's effects are applied to your chosen cards.

All Tarot Cards

*Balatro* features 22 unique Tarot cards, each with distinct effects that can significantly alter your gameplay. Here's a detailed look at 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 are a unique feature that sets *Balatro* apart from traditional poker games. While some players might overlook their potential, especially the cards that change the suits of cards in your deck, mastering their use can significantly enhance your gameplay. With practice, you'll find that Tarot cards can be a game-changer in your *Balatro* runs.