Cyberpunk 2077 Tarot Cards: Meanings, Locations & Hidden Lore

Introduction

Night City pulsates with neon, chrome, and secrets. Beneath the surface of its gritty streets and corporate skyscrapers lies a hidden layer of symbolism woven into the very fabric of the game. One of the most intriguing aspects of Cyberpunk is the presence of Tarot cards, scattered throughout the city and offering glimpses into the fates and fortunes of its inhabitants. These cards are not mere collectibles; they are keys to unlocking the deeper narratives, exploring the characters’ hidden motivations, and understanding the complex themes that define Cyberpunk . Join us as we delve into the world of Cyberpunk Tarot cards, exploring their locations, meanings, and the hidden lore they reveal.

The Cyberpunk Tarot cards serve a dual purpose within the game. On the surface, they act as collectible items that players can find scattered throughout the game’s open world. However, beneath this surface, is a much deeper meaning. Each card is carefully designed to be symbolic of the characters, storylines, and lore of Cyberpunk , thus, enhancing the gameplay experience. They give the player a new way to understand what is happening in the game.

The Major Arcana in Night City

The Tarot cards found in Cyberpunk are based on the Major Arcana, the twenty-two trump cards that make up the heart of a traditional Tarot deck. Each card represents a significant life lesson, archetypal figure, or turning point in one’s journey. The artists at CD Projekt Red have masterfully adapted these traditional symbols to fit the Cyberpunk universe, creating a set of cards that are both familiar and uniquely their own.

The Fool’s Journey

Let’s examine some of these cards and how they resonate within the context of Night City. One of the most relevant cards is the Fool. In traditional Tarot, the Fool represents new beginnings, innocence, and a leap of faith. In Cyberpunk , the Fool can be seen as an allegorical representation of V’s journey. V, regardless of the chosen lifepath, starts out as a relatively unknown mercenary, taking on risky jobs and venturing into uncharted territory. Their decision to take on the Konpeki Plaza heist is a quintessential Fool’s act – a bold, perhaps reckless, step into the unknown. The card reminds us that every journey begins with a single, uncertain step.

The Charismatic Magician

The Magician is another powerful card, embodying willpower, skill, and the ability to manifest one’s desires. This card resonates strongly with Johnny Silverhand. Johnny’s persona is marked by his charisma, his persuasive power, and the way he is able to influence events. Despite his rebellious attitude, Johnny possesses the ability to charm people and manipulate situations to his advantage. He is a master of crafting his image and using his skills to achieve his goals, aligning perfectly with the essence of the Magician.

Lovers and Relationships

The Lovers represents choices, partnerships, and the complexities of human connection. In Cyberpunk , this card is beautifully demonstrated in V’s romantic relationships with Judy Alvarez, Panam Palmer, and River Ward. Each relationship offers V a unique path, a different kind of intimacy and loyalty. The card highlights the difficult choices V must make, not just in love, but in navigating the complex web of alliances and betrayals that define Night City.

Acceptance of Death

Death, often misunderstood, is not a literal depiction of physical demise but rather a symbol of transformation, endings, and new beginnings. In the context of Cyberpunk , this card is particularly poignant. V faces their own mortality, grappling with the Relic and the imminent threat of death. This confrontation with mortality forces V to re-evaluate their priorities, their relationships, and the legacy they wish to leave behind. The Death card serves as a reminder that even in the face of the end, there is the potential for growth and rebirth.

Greed and Power

The Devil card represents temptation, addiction, and the chains that bind us to our desires. This card is a powerful indictment of corporate greed and the insatiable pursuit of power that pervades Night City. The corporations that rule the city, like Arasaka and Militech, embody the Devil’s energy. They offer promises of power, wealth, and immortality, but at the cost of human freedom and dignity. The Devil card reminds us to be wary of the allure of easy answers and to resist the temptations that can lead to our downfall.

The Destruction of Night City

The Tower symbolizes sudden upheaval, chaos, and the shattering of old structures. This card embodies the explosive events that shake Night City to its core, from corporate wars to personal betrayals. The Tower represents the destruction of old ways, the collapse of corrupt systems, and the potential for rebuilding something new from the rubble. V’s experiences, particularly the events of the Konpeki Plaza heist, serve as a prime example of the Tower’s destructive and transformative power.

Finding the Tarot Cards of Night City

Finding these insightful pieces of art is part of the experience and an integral part of Cyberpunk , and thankfully, these cards are not hidden behind difficult puzzles or hard-to-reach places. The Tarot cards become available as collectibles once V meets Misty Olszewski, Jackie’s girlfriend, who has a small shop adjacent to V’s apartment. After speaking with Misty, she will send you on the “Fool on the Hill” side quest. After completing the quest, the cards will be available to find throughout Night City.

Most cards are found painted on walls, buildings, and other structures throughout the game, and most are in plain sight and easy to collect. For example, The Fool can be found on a wall near V’s apartment. Justice can be found on a wall on the way to a meeting with Takemura. The Hermit can be found outside of the Voodoo Boys chapel in Pacifica. Strength can be found painted on a building in Japantown. The locations are usually found near or at places that the cards are meant to represent.

Diving Deeper into Symbolism

The Tarot cards serve as a commentary on the major themes present in Cyberpunk . Fate vs. free will is a question that threads its way throughout the game, and the Tarot cards are representative of that. Do the cards predict the journey V will take, or does V have the power to alter their own destiny? Can you choose your own path?

Furthermore, the game’s Tarot cards examine what it means to be human. V is dealing with his/her/their own morality. They must deal with the themes of death, legacy, and how they will be remembered once they are gone. The cards symbolize corporate corruption, the decay of society, and how unchecked greed can destroy humanity. It asks if technology will liberate humanity or if it will destroy it.

Fan Theories and Unresolved Mysteries

Naturally, the game’s cards have left fans with their own theories and interpretations. For instance, the significance of specific card placement in relation to certain characters is a matter of ongoing debate. Some players believe that certain cards hint at hidden character arcs or foreshadow plot twists that are yet to be fully revealed. Fan theories have also arisen as a means to suggest what events will transpire in future DLC content, adding a level of excitement and speculation around the narrative’s future.

These unresolved mysteries surrounding the cards are a testament to their depth. As players continue to explore Night City and dissect its lore, they may uncover new meanings and connections hidden within the Tarot cards. The cards offer room for players to piece together information and add their own theories.

A Lasting Impression

The Tarot cards in Cyberpunk are far more than just collectibles; they are a powerful storytelling device that enriches the game’s narrative and world-building. They add layers of depth to the characters, themes, and lore of Night City, inviting players to look beyond the surface and explore the hidden meanings that lie beneath. As you navigate the dangerous streets of Night City, remember to keep an eye out for these symbolic treasures. They might just offer a glimpse into your own fate. So, seek out Misty, collect your deck, and let the Cyberpunk Tarot cards guide you through the dark and dazzling world of Night City.