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First Love by Alex In and Henry Harrius

Created by: Alex In, Henry Harrius

First Love is a modern twist on classic ESP card magic, using emoji imagery instead of traditional symbols (circle, square, cross, star) to make the trick more relatable to contemporary audiences. The deck consists of two identical sets of 26 cards, each with different colored backs (purple and yellow), allowing for versatile routines like oil and water effects, marked card tricks, and cyclical stack memory-based performances. The cards are cleverly marked for both identity and stack order, making them highly functional for a variety of effects. The trick is ideal for close-up or parlour magic, appealing to both beginners and experienced magicians. The purchase includes a 1-hour 23-minute tutorial featuring five routines, including the titular 'First Love,' which ties emotions to the spectator's chosen card.

Key features

  • Emoji-based design for modern appeal

  • Dual-backed decks (purple and yellow) for versatile routines

  • Marked for card identity and stack order

  • Cyclical alphabetical stack for memory tricks

  • Includes a 1-hour 23-minute tutorial with five routines

  • High-quality, durable cards with disguised markings

Pros

  • Highly versatile for multiple effects

  • Relatable emoji design engages audiences

  • Well-made and durable cards

  • Comprehensive tutorial included

  • Suitable for beginners and pros

Cons

  • May require practice to master the markings

  • Emoji theme might not appeal to traditionalists

Effect

The First Love trick uses the ESP OG deck to create a personal and emotional connection with the audience. A spectator selects a card based on their feelings, and the magician reveals it in a surprising and meaningful way. The trick plays on themes of love and nostalgia, making it engaging and relatable.

Full Details

First Love is part of the ESP OG deck by Alex In, presented by Henry Harrius. The deck replaces traditional ESP symbols with emojis, making it more accessible to modern audiences. The trick involves a spectator choosing a card tied to their emotions, particularly their first love. The magician then reveals the selected card in a way that feels personal and magical.

The deck is marked for card identity and stack order, allowing the magician to know which card was chosen without obvious methods. The cards are also in a cyclical alphabetical stack, making them compatible with memory-based tricks. The deck includes two sets (purple and yellow backs) for additional effects like oil and water routines.

Who Should Consider the Trick

First Love is ideal for magicians who want to perform emotional, interactive magic. It works well for close-up performances, social settings, or mentalism acts. The emoji theme makes it especially appealing to younger audiences or casual settings where traditional ESP symbols might feel outdated.

Difficulty Level

The trick is beginner-friendly, with clear instructions in the included tutorial. The deck’s markings are subtle and easy to read with practice. The performance relies more on presentation than complex sleight of hand, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels.

What Magicians Say

Magic Orthodoxy’s David praised the ESP OG deck, calling it "versatile" and "well-made." He highlighted the emoji design as a smart update to traditional ESP cards, saying, "People don’t know what ESP symbols are, but emojis are part of our lives." He also noted the deck’s durability and the clever disguise of the markings, stating, "I couldn’t find the marks at first—they’re really well hidden."

David described First Love as a "playful" and "approachable" trick, emphasizing its emotional appeal. He recommended the deck for its creativity and practicality, saying, "You can do so much more than what’s included in the tutorial."

Overall, First Love and the ESP OG deck offer a fresh take on mentalism, combining modern design with classic magic principles.

What people are saying about First Love

magicorthodoxy says...

The deck is creative, looks realistic, and is packed with versatility. For $40, the price point is fantastic for what you're getting.

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