The Arm
Effect: Permanently decreases the level of each played hand by 1 (min Level 1).
The Arm in Balatro: Permanently decreases the level of each played hand by 1 (min Level 1). Counter strategies and which jokers beat it.
Eligible antes: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Threat level: Medium
Strategy
Don't rely on a heavily leveled hand. Use joker damage to compensate.
Strategy Tip
Painful for hand-leveling strategies. Level downgrade is permanent. Win in fewer hands to limit level loss, or lean on joker scaling.
How to counter The Arm
Danger Tier: B
Group: Score and hand levels (Higher targets or weaker hand values)
Counter: Win in fewer hands to limit level loss, or use a backup hand if your Jokers can carry it.