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Cheapest Match by Max Maven

Created by: Max Maven

The 'Cheapest Match' is a captivating ESP (Extrasensory Perception) trick based on the Ramy principle, designed to create the illusion of psychic ability through a series of seemingly free choices. Utilizing a specially prepared deck of ESP cards, the performer and spectator each end up with matching cards, despite the spectator's free choices throughout the routine. This trick falls under the mentalism category and is perfect for close-up or parlour settings. The use of stones or crystals adds a mystical element, enhancing the mentalism presentation. The trick is self-working, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels.

Key features

  • Based on the Ramy principle, a self-working effect that ensures impossible matches.

  • Can be performed with ESP cards, plain cards, or hand-drawn symbols.

  • Involves spectator interaction and the use of stones or crystals for a more engaging presentation.

  • The order of the cards is crucial to the effect, but the setup is straightforward.

  • Designed to give the impression of genuine free choice to the spectator.

Pros

  • Self-working, making it easy to perform.

  • Highly engaging and interactive for the spectator.

  • Versatile in terms of the objects used (stones, crystals, etc.).

  • Can be performed with a variety of card types, including the recommended Eclipse ESP deck for durability and readability.

Cons

  • Requires a specific setup of cards, which might need preparation before performance.

  • The use of stones or crystals, while enhancing the effect, requires additional props.

Effect

The Cheapest Match trick creates the illusion of psychic ability. A spectator freely chooses how many stones or objects to use while interacting with a set of ESP cards. Despite their choices seeming random, their final card always matches the performer's. The routine ends with a surprising reveal where all remaining cards also match, reinforcing the idea of a genuine psychic connection.

Full Details

Cheapest Match is based on the Ramy principle, a self-working method that ensures matching results without complex sleight of hand. The trick uses a mirrored stack of ESP cards, where two identical sets are reversed and combined. The performer maintains this setup through casual shuffles and cuts, making the process appear fair.

The routine involves a spectator selecting stones (or similar objects) to determine how many cards they move. Each choice reduces the number of cards until only one remains. The final card always matches the performer's, and the remaining cards also align perfectly. The Eclipse ESP deck by Louis Lal & D. Christopher is recommended for durability and readability, though standard cards can also work.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who enjoy mentalism and self-working effects. It works well for performers who want a clean, interactive routine with minimal sleight of hand. Those who prefer storytelling—such as referencing gypsy traditions or ESP experiments—will find this presentation engaging.

Difficulty

Cheapest Match is easy to perform. The method relies on setup rather than advanced techniques. The main challenge is maintaining a natural presentation while handling the mirrored stack. The overhand shuffle and spectator cuts are simple, making this accessible to beginners.

What Magicians Say

SeanDevine describes the Ramy principle as "mindblowing" and praises the trick's self-working nature. He prefers using stones over coins, stating it makes the routine "more believable and engaging." He also highlights the Eclipse ESP deck's quality, calling it "one of the best" due to its durable PVC material and clear markings.

The trick's fairness is emphasized, with Sean noting that the spectator's choices "really are free" while still guaranteeing a match. He appreciates the final kicker where all cards align, calling it a strong finish for a self-working effect.

Cheapest Match offers a compelling mentalism routine with minimal effort, making it a strong choice for performers seeking an interactive and baffling effect.

What people are saying about Cheapest Match

SeanDevine says...

This is sort of my variation or my take on an old trick called cheapest match by Max Maven now this does use a principle called the Ramy principle which is so just mindblowing that you it's impossible to figure out how it works [...] The routine is designed to be 'clean and fair,' giving the impression of genuine free choice to the spectator.

Tutorial videos