ESP Trick by Max Maven and Louis Lal & D. Christopher

Effect

The ESP Trick creates the illusion of mind reading or psychic ability. A spectator freely selects an ESP card, mixes it behind their back, and places it into one of several envelopes. The magician, without any apparent clues, reveals the exact card the spectator chose. The effect is clean, direct, and leaves the audience questioning how such an impossible match could occur.

Full Details

The trick often uses nested envelopes and ESP cards, with a secret principle ensuring the magician always knows the selected card. Some versions, like Psycho II 2.0, include durable plastic envelopes and ESP cards, along with instructional materials. Other variations, such as those based on the Ramy principle, use mirrored card stacks to force a match through seemingly free spectator choices.

The Eclipse ESP deck by Louis Lal & D. Christopher is frequently recommended for its durability and clear markings, though standard ESP cards or even hand-drawn symbols can also work. The trick requires minimal sleight of hand, relying instead on clever setup and psychological presentation.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

• Mentalists who want a strong, self-working ESP routine.
• Close-up or table magicians looking for a clean, interactive effect.
• Performers who enjoy psychological magic over complex sleight of hand.
• Beginners, as many versions require no advanced techniques.

Difficulty

The ESP Trick is generally easy to perform, with most versions being self-working. The challenge lies in presentation—selling the effect as genuine mind reading rather than a mechanical trick. Spectator management is crucial, especially in routines where the participant handles cards behind their back. As David from Magic Orthodoxy notes, "It's super easy as long as the spectator follows your instructions."

What Magicians Say

• Magic Orthodoxy (David) calls Psycho II 2.0 "the best ESP trick I have seen in a long time," praising its commercial appeal and ease of use. However, he cautions that the $60 price warrants consideration.
• Sean Devine highlights the Ramy principle as "mindblowing," emphasizing how impossible it feels for the audience. He recommends the Eclipse ESP deck for its durability and readability.
• Alakazam Magic UK describes a new ESP trick as a standout release, calling it "easy to perform" and highly commercial.

Overall, magicians agree that a well-presented ESP Trick can be a powerful addition to any mentalism or close-up set.