Balatro is a game about poker, but it is also a game about math. If you want to win, you need a lot of cash. This guide will show you how to earn money balatro so you can buy the best cards and beat the boss blinds every single time.
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Introduction
In Balatro, money is power. You use it to buy Jokers. You use it to buy Tarot cards. Without cash, your run will end early.
Many players focus only on points. That is a mistake. You must build your "economy" first.
If you have a lot of money, you can find the cards you need. This makes the game much easier. Let's learn how to fill your pockets.
Tools & Prerequisites
Before you start, you need to know what helps you get rich. Some items are better than others.
| Item Type | Name | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Joker | Rocket | Earns $1 at end of round. Increases by $2 if Boss Blind is defeated. |
| Joker | Golden Joker | Gives you $4 at the end of every round. |
| Joker | Rough Gem | Gives you $1 for every Diamond card played. |
| Tarot | The Hermit | Doubles your current money (up to $20). |
| Tarot | Temperance | Gives the sell value of all current Jokers. |
Things You Need to Know
- Interest: You get $1 for every $5 you have at the end of a round.
- Cap: Interest usually stops at $5. This means having $25 is the goal.
- Hands: You get money for every hand you don't use.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Build Your Interest Early
The easiest way to get rich is to stop spending. Do not buy every card you see in the first shop. Try to save your money until you hit $25.
Why $25 is the Magic Number
Once you have $25, you get $5 for free every round. This is called "max interest." If you stay above $25, you will never be poor again.
When to Break the Rule
Only spend money if you think you will lose the next fight. Buying one strong Joker is better than losing the game with $25 in your pocket.
Step 2: Pick the Right Economy Jokers
Some Jokers are designed just to make money. These are "Economy Jokers." You should try to find at least one of these in the first three rounds.
The Best Money Makers
- Business Card: Gives you a 1 in 2 chance to get $2 when a face card is played.
- Cloud 9: Gives you $1 for every "9" in your full deck at the end of a round.
- Egg: This card gains $3 in sell value every round. It costs nothing to keep.
The "Sell" Strategy
Some cards like the Gift Card increase the sell value of other cards. You can use this to build a "savings account." When you need a lot of cash fast, sell the cards.
Step 3: Use Tarot Cards Wisely
Tarot cards are found in Arcana Packs. Two specific cards are your best friends for cash.
Using The Hermit
The Hermit doubles your money. Never use it when you have $0. Wait until you have $20 to get the full $20 bonus.
Using Temperance
Temperance gives you the sell value of your Jokers. If you have "Rare" Jokers, this card can give you $15 or $20 instantly. Check the "Sell" price on your Jokers before using it.
Step 4: Play Efficiently
You get $1 for every "Hand" you have left when a round ends. If you can beat a blind in one hand, you keep the rest.
Save Your Hands
If you have 4 hands total and win in 1 hand, you get $3 extra. Over 10 rounds, that is $30. That is enough to buy many powerful items.
Skip for Tags
Sometimes, skipping a fight gives you a "Money Tag." The Investment Tag gives you $15 after beating the Boss Blind. Only skip if your deck is already strong.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
Tip 1: The Golden Needle
If you find the Golden Ticket Joker, make your cards "Golden." Golden cards give you $3 just for being in your hand when you play a round. This is the fastest way to get over $100.
Tip 2: Don't Over-Reroll
The "Reroll" button is a trap for beginners. Each time you click it, the price goes up.
Pro Tip: Only reroll once per shop unless you have a huge amount of cash.
Tip 3: Watch Out for the "Ox"
There is a Boss Blind called The Ox. It sets your money to $0 if you play your "Most Played Hand." Check the boss's ability before you start the round!
How to Fix a Bad Economy
If you are broke, look for the Voucher called "Seed Money." It raises your interest cap. If you are still struggling, focus on "Face Cards" and the Business Card Joker.
| Strategy | Risk Level | Reward |
|---|---|---|
| Maxing Interest | Low | Constant +$5 |
| Golden Cards | Medium | High per-hand cash |
| Selling Egg | Low | One-time big payout |
| Skipping for Tags | High | Instant $15-$40 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Joker for money?
The Rocket is often considered the best. It grows every time you beat a boss. By the end of the game, it can give you $20 every single round.
Should I always save $25?
Yes, in the beginning. Once you are rich (over $50), you can spend more freely. But never drop below $25 unless it's a life-or-death situation.
Does discarding cards cost money?
No, discarding is free. But using fewer hands to win earns you more money.
What does the "Money" Voucher do?
There are several. One increases interest. Another makes the shop items cheaper. Liquidation makes everything 25% off.
Can I have too much money?
No! Having $100 or more lets you "fish" for the best Jokers in the game. It allows you to buy every Tarot pack and Spectral pack you see.
Conclusion
To master how to earn money balatro, you must be patient. Start by saving your first $25 to get max interest. Use Economy Jokers like the Golden Joker or the Egg to build wealth. Use Tarot cards like The Hermit only when your wallet is already half-full.
If you follow these steps, you will always have enough cash to build a winning deck. Money doesn't just buy cards; it buys you the freedom to win.