Balatro: 5 best Balatro beginner tips

For Balatro beginners, the numerous mechanics and strategies can feel overwhelming. The Best Mobile Game winner at The Game Awards 2024 has been experiencing tremendous growth within just a year of its release. However, also because it is fairly new, many beginners are prone to mistakes that slow their progress and reduce their enjoyment.

We have compiled a list of the five Balatro beginner tips to help you dominate and avoid common mistakes.

Note: This article is based on the writer's opinion. The entries are in no particular order.

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Here are the five best Balatro beginner tips to improve your gameplay

Tip	Key focus
Card synergies	Combo-based decks win consistently
Manage resources	Conserve Jokers and multipliers for later
Observe the opponent's moves	Predict their strategy for better counters
Use Planet cards	Planet Cards have unique game-changing effects
Retreat when necessary	Preserve resources for better rounds

1) Understand card synergies

Just adding high-value cards to your deck may not work. (Image via Playstack)

Learning card synergies is a crucial tip for Balatro beginners. Without synergy, your hand will lack the strength needed for consistent wins. Balatro decks work best with combos. Knowing how your cards work together can turn a typical deck into a strong one. For example, using cards like Venus and Saturn not only scores high but also gives you extra resources.

How to get started:

Focus on one strategy, like pairs, flushes, or specific planet cards.
Learn how your cards’ abilities help each other so that each move brings you closer to your goal.

Tip: Try different deck setups in casual matches to find synergies that suit your style. Over time, you'll discover combinations that boost your performance.

Also Read: Planet cards in Balatro: Details and how to get them

2) Manage resources

For example, using a Joker too soon can prevent you from creating a big combo later. (Image via Playstack)

Resources like Jokers, bonus cards, and multipliers are limited for Balatro beginners. They often use these resources too quickly, leaving them unprepared for later rounds. Managing resources well ensures you have options during critical moments.

How to get started:

Save versatile cards like Jokers for important rounds or when completing a crucial hand.
Focus on rounds where you can make a big impact instead of chasing small wins.

Tip: Think ahead by three turns. This keeps you ready for surprises while maintaining strategic flexibility.

3) Pay attention to your opponent’s moves

For instance, if they build a hand-around pair, using a card like Mars can disrupt their plans. (Image via Playstack)

A common mistake made by Balatro beginners is focusing only on their cards and ignoring the opponent’s strategy. This can lead to missed chances to counter their moves or take advantage of their mistakes. Understanding your opponent’s actions lets you predict their plays and adjust your strategy.

How to get started:

Watch for patterns in your opponent's card use. Are they hoarding certain cards or playing aggressively?
Use this knowledge to time your moves, like blocking their combos or forcing reshuffles.

Tip: Balatro is about both building your hand and disrupting your opponent. Learn to think one step ahead for a real advantage.

Also Read: All Balatro Joker cards

4) Learn the strengths of Planet Cards early

Cards like Jupiter can double your score under certain conditions, while Neptune can protect your hand from disruption. (Image via Playstack)

Planet Cards are crucial for Balatro beginners, each with unique abilities that can turn the game in your favor. However, beginners often overlook their potential or use them poorly. Knowing how to use Planet Cards strategically can greatly impact your success.

How to get started:

Spend time learning each Planet Card’s ability.
Build your deck to regularly use Planet Cards’ effects to enhance your strategy.

Tip: Use Planet Cards thoughtfully. Instead of playing them automatically, think about how their effects can improve your hand or mess up your opponent’s plans.

5) Retreat when necessary

It’s about preserving resources and staying competitive. (Image via Playstack)

Knowing when to retreat is an important tip for Balatro beginners. Many players stay in losing rounds out of stubbornness, wasting resources and points. Retreating wisely helps minimize losses and keeps you in a better position for future rounds.

How to get started:

Assess your chances of winning each round. Retaining may be smart if your hand is weak and your opponent is strong.
Remember that winning the most rounds is the goal, not winning every single one.

Tip: Understanding when to retreat helps you play smarter. Use this strategy to regroup and perform better in the next round.

Conclusion

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Starting strong in Balatro means mastering the basics and avoiding common pitfalls. By focusing on card synergies, managing resources wisely, watching your opponent, using Planet cards, and knowing when to retreat, you’ll quickly excel in the early phases of the game.

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Edited by Jito Tenson