Deck Review: The Nightfall Tarot by Amory Abbott

Every month, Amazon, Etsy, crowd-funding platforms, and bookstores release numerous tarot and oracle decks. There are now thousands of decks available, ranging from new releases to out-of-print ones. Reviewing a deck helps readers decide whether to purchase it, focusing on factors like card quality, artwork, and guidebook usefulness. This month, I’ve chosen to critique The Nightfall Tarot by Amory Abbott.

The Cards

From the Publisher’s (Red Feather) Website:

Introducing the Nightfall Tarot y Amory Abbott, a captivating and evocative rendition of the renowned Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot. Crafted with both newcomers and seasoned practitioners in mind, this exceptional 78-card deck remains faithful to the original interpretations conceived by Arthur Waite and Pamela Colman Smith. However, it also breathes new life into the Tarot realm, infusing it with a host of updated symbols and scenes. In an exploration that transcends the boundaries of traditional Judeo-Christian themes, the Nightfall Tarot incorporates elements from Norse runes, Icelandic staves, Wiccan designs, and astrology, culminating in a Tarot experience that is both inclusive and culturally diverse, perfectly suited for the modern age.

Complementing the deck, the accompanying guidebook offers insightful interpretations and a collection of spreads, allowing for a seamless integration of the powerful imagery contained within. Within the Nightfall Tarot, darkness prevails, enveloping each card in an enchanting melancholy that beckons you to delve into the mysterious depths of your own existence. Within this twilight realm, hidden truths are illuminated, revealing profound insights that lie dormant within the recesses of your being. Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey, as the Nightfall Tarot invites you to explore the shadowy corners of your life and embrace the enigmatic beauty found within the realm of twilight.

The Marvel Tarot by Syndee Barwick and Lily McDonald

Card Stock and Shuffling

Printed on thick card stock, these cards feature a semi-gloss finish and rounded corners. They are challenging to riffle shuffle at first because of the stiffness of the cards. Thankfully, the semi-gloss finish prevents the cards from sticking together when first removed from the box. With their high-quality card stock, these cards are durable and will last for many years, even with extended use. As an added bonus, the cards edges are silver foil, which is a nice accent on the black card borders.

Artwork and the Visual Accessibility of the Nightfall Tarot by Amory Abbott

The artwork for this deck is powerful and intense. And, Amory Abbott puts plenty of gravitas into each image. The deck is not as visually accessible as it could, just like the Rider Waite cards it copies. Therefore, you will need to learn the meanings of the cards if you are not familiar with tarot. Additionally, you will struggle to learn the cards if you are not a fan of Medieval or Renaissance historical periods. This deck is only “modern” in terms of printing, not in terms of content. Since the cards do not have any keywords on them, the booklet is necessary.

The Magician

Meaning: The Magician card represents harnessing your skills, willpower, and resourcefulness to manifest your desires. You have all the tools you need to turn your ideas into reality, encouraging focused intention and inspired action. As a master of your own destiny, you can create and transform with confidence and clarity.

Reversed Keywords: Manipulation, deceit, lack of direction, misuse of power, scattered energy, unfulfilled potential.

Ace of Cups

Meaning: The Ace of Cups symbolizes new emotional beginnings, deep connections, and spiritual awakening. It invites you to embrace love, compassion, and creativity flowing into your life. This card encourages you to open your heart to new experiences and express your true feelings with authenticity and joy.

Reversed Keywords: Emotional block, suppressed feelings, missed opportunities, creative blocks, disconnection, lack of fulfillment.

4 of Pentacles

Meaning: The 4 of Pentacles represents stability, security, and control over resources. It encourages you to manage your finances wisely and protect what you’ve built. However, it also warns against becoming too possessive or rigid. Balance saving with generosity, and remain open to growth and change to avoid stagnation.

Reversed Keywords: Greed, financial insecurity, loss, letting go, materialism, imbalance, fear of change.

Explanation of the Cards

The deck comes with a very nice, concisely-written guidebook. It has five sections: Introduction, Major Arcana, Minor Arcana, Readings, and Author’s Note. Along with the artwork, the booklet is a nice addition to this deck. The Major Arcana cards get two pages. One page explains the card’s meaning, including upright and reversed, and the other is an image of the card. The Minor Arcana cards get one page – the card image and description, including upright and reversed meanings.

Phantomwise Tarot by Erin Morgenstern

Usefulness of the Nightfall Tarot by Amory Abbott

The Nightfall Tarot works well once you learn the cards. If you are a traditionalist, you will certainly enjoy this deck. Positively, the artwork makes the deck worth collecting and using. Negatively, it is intense, and not the best deck for beginners. More suitable for private settings, the deck can be a bit much in a public venue. Without a doubt, its engaging art ensures a memorable experience when using the deck. Therefore, the deck works for personal growth and professional use with tarot knowledgeable clients.

Rating

I rate the Nightfall Tarot by Amory Abbott 4 out of 5 stars. I do so for its excellent artwork and honest adherence to the Rider Waite design. The card stock is high quality, promising durability and a great feel during readings. Additionally, the accompanying guidebook is very good, providing helpful guidance and straightforward interpretations. However, a beginner to taro, needs to learn a lot to read with these cards effectively.