Abakan by Asi Wind
Created by: Asi Wind
Key features
Builds upon the Pneum Monica stack for a seamless performance
Allows for 'any card at any number' effect
Requires a marked and stacked deck setup
Flexible patter directions for personalized performances
Ideal for close-up magic settings
Pros
Highly versatile and can be adapted to various performance styles
Leaves a lasting impression on the audience
Combines skill, memory, and surprise for a comprehensive magic experience
Supported by Asi Wind's reputation for innovative magic tricks
Cons
Requires mastery of the Pneum Monica stack and marked deck techniques
May not be suitable for beginners due to its complexity
Performance is dependent on the setup of the deck
Effect
Abakan by Asi Wind is a modern take on the classic "Any Card at Any Number" effect. The magician asks a spectator to name any card and any number between 1 and 52. Without any suspicious moves, the magician reveals that the exact named card is at the exact named position in the deck. The trick appears impossible, leaving the audience stunned by the precision and impossibility of the outcome.
Full Details
Abakan builds on the Pneum Monica stack, a memorized deck system that allows for powerful mathematical and psychological forces. Asi Wind’s method refines the classic ACAAN (Any Card at Any Number) effect, making it more deceptive and streamlined. The trick requires no gimmicks or extra cards—just a standard deck set up in the Pneum Monica stack.
The performance is clean, with minimal handling, making it difficult for even experienced magicians to detect the method. Asi Wind’s approach emphasizes naturalness, ensuring the effect feels organic rather than mechanical.
Who Should Consider the Trick
This trick is ideal for magicians who:
- Enjoy stack work and memorized deck systems.
- Want a strong, repeatable ACAAN effect.
- Appreciate mathematical magic with minimal sleight of hand.
- Are fans of Asi Wind’s elegant and deceptive approach to card magic.
Difficulty
Abakan is intermediate-level magic. It requires:
- Familiarity with the Pneum Monica stack (or willingness to learn it).
- Comfort with subtle psychological forces and natural handling.
- Practice to ensure smooth execution and convincing presentation.
While the method itself is not overly complex, the real challenge lies in making the trick appear effortless. Magicians who invest time in mastering the stack and refining their performance will find this effect incredibly powerful.
What Magicians Say
Kevin Haggard, a magician featured in the AlakazamMagicUK discussion, praises Abakan:
"Once you've mastered the move, it leaves audiences in awe, and the patter can go in so many directions. His performance of this on YouTube is a great starting point."
He also notes that Asi Wind’s influence is evident in the trick’s deceptive simplicity:
"The trick builds on the Pneum Monica stack I've already committed to memory, making it an excellent extension of the skill."
The trick’s reliance on a memorized stack means it integrates well into routines that use similar principles, making it a versatile addition to a magician’s repertoire.
For those looking for a clean, baffling, and mathematically elegant card trick, Abakan by Asi Wind is a strong contender. Its deceptive method and strong audience impact make it a favorite among magicians who value precision and subtlety.
What people are saying about Abakan by Asi Wind
Kevin Haggard says...
Abakan by Asi Wind is a brilliant take on the classic trick once you've mastered the move it leaves audiences in awe and the patter can go in so many directions.
Review videos
Stranded with a Stranger: Kevin Haggard
AlakazamMagicUK mentioned this magic trick in this video.