Blobs look different. Locked blobs trade a lower multiplier ladder for their ability, shown as Top x.
Two ways to unlock a blob: HOLD the $SOUL amount in your wallet (it stays unlocked only while you hold it), or WAGER the ETH amount (permanent). Every run counts toward wagering, win or lose. Holding is checked when you start a run.
One wallet transaction starts a run. Moves and cash out are free. Every unrevealed tile looks the same.