Chip Reader by Dave Forrest

Effect

The Chip Reader by Dave Forrest is a mentalism routine where the magician accurately identifies a poker chip selected by a spectator. The performer conducts an ESP-like test, asking the spectator to focus on the chip's color and design. Without any forces, peeks, or gimmicks, the magician reveals the exact chip—such as the "Last Laugh Casino $25 chip" or "Tiffany’s $1,000 chip"—leaving the audience stunned. The effect is clean, interactive, and creates a strong impression of genuine mind-reading.

Full Details

The routine uses five distinct poker chips from different casinos, each with unique designs and colors. The spectator freely selects one, examines it, and conceals it. Through a series of questions framed as an "ESP test," the magician narrows down the possibilities, ultimately naming the correct chip. The method relies on psychological techniques rather than sleight of hand or gimmicks, making the revelation feel organic.

Key features:

• No forces, peeks, or gimmicks.
• Uses standard poker chips (specific designs required for optimal performance).
• Emphasizes audience interaction and psychological framing.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Chip Reader is ideal for:

• Mentalism enthusiasts who enjoy conversational, interactive routines.
• Close-up performers seeking a compact, easy-to-carry effect.
• Magicians who value clean methods without complex sleights or gimmicks.

It’s less suited for high-energy stage shows due to its one-in-five odds structure, but excels in casual or close-up settings where subtlety and connection matter.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to learn but requires practice to master the verbal angling and pacing. As Steve Faulkner notes, "It’s easy, but you’ll need to fine-tune your skills to make the fishing feel natural." The method is straightforward, but the performer must deliver the questions confidently to avoid tipping the technique.

What Magicians Say

• KaymarMagic7211: "The routine is very clean—no forces, sleights, or gimmicks. It creates a powerful mentalism effect, though you’ll need specific poker chips."
• RealMagicReview (Steve Faulkner): "Great for interactive mentalism. Not high-impact, but perfect as a middler or opener. Requires practice to nail the verbal angling."
• MonsterMagicShop (Alex Kirk): "A deceptive, clever design. The chips are brilliantly thought out to make the fishing foolproof. One of my favorites of the year."

The consensus highlights the Chip Reader as a strong, practical mentalism piece that prioritizes audience connection over flashy methods.