To optimize Joker’s skills in Persona 5 Tactica, focus on a combination of skills that enhance his survivability, offense, and mobility. Here are the recommended skills for Joker:

Early Skills
1. Break & Recovery: This skill allows Joker to restore HP using Triple-Threat and SP by ending the turn in cover. It is crucial for maintaining the offensive and utilizing Persona skills consistently during combat.
2. Soul Repose: This skill helps Joker recover SP when ending a round after using a cover, which is vital for sustaining his ability to cast spells.

Mid-Game Skills
1. Trigger Synergy: Focus heavily on unlocking and upgrading Joker’s “Trigger Synergy” skill to give the entire party more gun damage. This is crucial for taking down stronger foes efficiently and can stack with Fox’s own “Trigger Synergy” for significant returns.
2. Amp Skills: After upgrading “Trigger Synergy,” pick up some of the Amp Skills on the far left of the skill tree. These will greatly improve the damage dealt by his despair-inflicting spells without requiring him to spend more SP.
3. Charge Upgrades: Push down the central skill tree to pick up the Charge upgrade, which improves his ranged attack range. This is essential for maintaining a strong offense.

Late-Game Skills
1. Trump Card: This skill allows Joker to restore his health and get a damage bonus the first time his health drops below 50% in a mission. It is highly valuable in longer missions.
2. Phantom Judge: While not a priority early on, upgrading Joker’s unique skill “Phantom Judge” extends its AOE range and damage, making it more effective when dealing with groups of foes.

Additional Recommendations
1. Hawkeye and God-Like Speed: These passive bonuses offer Joker incredible mobility and improved range, making him a formidable opponent in both close and long-range combat.
2. Ironclad Guard: This skill enhances Joker’s defensive capabilities, making him much better at surviving in battles.

By focusing on these skills, you will significantly enhance Joker’s performance in Persona 5 Tactica, making him a key member of your team.