In the dystopian, neon-lit world of Cyberpunk 2077, the integration of tarot cards serves as a profound narrative device, blending futuristic aesthetics with ancient mystical symbolism. This approach allows players to engage with the game's themes on a deeper level, transforming the exploration of Night City into a journey of self-discovery and archetypal reflection. The tarot elements are not merely decorative; they are woven into the fabric of the story, offering insights into the characters' psyches and the overarching existential questions of transhumanism, power, and identity. By locating and interpreting these cards, players can uncover hidden layers of meaning that enrich their experience and provide a unique lens through which to view the game's complex world.
The game features a collection of 22 Major Arcana tarot cards, which are dispersed throughout Night City and the Badlands as thematic graffiti murals. These cards are not physical items to be collected in the traditional sense; instead, players must scan them using their in-game scanner to "collect" them. This mechanic is tied directly to the "Fool on the Hill" side quest, which becomes accessible at the beginning of Act 2, following the player's neural connection with Johnny Silverhand. The quest guides players to discover 20 of these cards, each representing a figure from the traditional tarot deck, such as the High Priestess or the Emperor. The remaining two cards, Judgement and The Devil, are not part of the standard quest but are revealed during specific story endings, adding an element of replayability and mystery to the game's narrative structure.
The artwork for these tarot cards was created by Polish cartoonist Jakub Rebelka, whose futuristic, dystopian, and bleak style complements the cyberpunk genre. The designs incorporate elements from the Rider-Waite tarot tradition, such as the High Priestess positioned between two pillars marked with the letters B and J, while also infusing them with the cyberpunk motifs of technology, chaos, and societal oppression. This fusion of old and new symbolism mirrors the game's core themes, where advanced technology intersects with timeless human struggles. Although the cards appear only within the game's story and there are no official printed copies, bootleg decks have been produced by unofficial sources, highlighting the cultural impact of this in-game feature.
The meanings of the tarot cards in Cyberpunk 2077 are deeply tied to the game's plot and the player's journey. For instance, The Fool card symbolizes the beginning of a journey, filled with enthusiasm but also unawareness of one's capabilities and the threats ahead. It represents the player's entry into the brave new world of Night City, embodying the hope and naivety that drive the protagonist forward. The Magician card, on the other hand, signifies self-confidence and the ability to adapt through intellect and will, often interpreted as a call to resist destructive influences within the story. Other cards, such as The Emperor, are located at significant narrative sites like Konpeki Plaza, where pivotal events unfold, reinforcing the connection between the tarot and the game's key moments.
Beyond the "Fool on the Hill" quest, tarot readings are available from the character Misty, who provides divinatory insights that foreshadow the player's experiences. These readings serve as a form of guidance, helping characters navigate difficult choices and offering a mystical counterpoint to the technological dominance of the setting. The inclusion of tarot in Cyberpunk 2077 demonstrates how the game blends tech with mysticism, creating an engaging experience that encourages players to reflect on their actions and the broader themes of capitalism, ethics, and what it means to be human in a transhumanist world. By embracing this aspect, players gain a deeper understanding of the narrative and uncover the secrets of the Night City oracle, making the tarot an integral part of the cyberpunk experience.
The game's use of tarot extends beyond Cyberpunk 2077, as seen in other titles like Dragon Age: Inquisition, which uses tarot for character codex entries, or The Binding of Isaac, where tarot cards enhance gameplay mechanics. However, in Cyberpunk 2077, the tarot is primarily a narrative tool, inviting players to explore hidden layers of the imaginative world and connect with the "evator tarot" of this futuristic realm. This approach not only enriches the player's journey but also highlights the potential of mystical elements to add depth to video game storytelling, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern technology.
For those seeking to fully immerse themselves in this aspect, the journey involves meticulous exploration of Night City's graffiti-covered walls, where each card tells a story and adds symbolism to the game. The process of finding all 20 cards completes the "Fool on the Hill" side job, while the secret cards tied to endings offer additional narrative closure. This collection mechanic encourages players to engage with the environment, turning the city itself into a canvas for mystical expression. The tarot cards in Cyberpunk 2077 are more than just collectibles; they are a reflection of the game's soul, a tool for understanding its complex themes, and a guide for players navigating the moral ambiguities of their cybernetic existence.
In conclusion, the tarot cards in Cyberpunk 2077 represent a masterful integration of mystical symbolism into a sci-fi narrative, providing players with a unique means of self-reflection and story engagement. Through the 22 Major Arcana, the game explores archetypes that resonate with its futuristic setting, from the Fool's new beginnings to the World's discoveries. By scanning these graffiti murals and interpreting their meanings, players can unlock deeper insights into the game's world and their own journey within it. The collaboration with artist Jakub Rebelka and the inclusion of divinatory readings from Misty further enhance this experience, making the tarot a pivotal element in understanding Cyberpunk 2077's exploration of humanity in a technologically advanced society.