Fortuity by David Jonathan

Effect

Fortuity is a card trick that creates a moment of pure astonishment. The magician presents a deck where every card has a unique back design, making it visually striking. A spectator rolls dice to randomly select a card, first determining its back design and then its value. Despite the seemingly impossible odds, the magician reveals a hidden prediction—a single card in an envelope—that matches both the chosen back design and value perfectly. The effect is a stunning double coincidence that feels like a genuine miracle.

Full Details

Fortuity uses a custom deck where each card has a different back design, assembled from various decks. The magician introduces the deck as a collection of unique pieces of art, emphasizing its one-of-a-kind nature. The trick involves dice rolls to randomize the selection process, ensuring fairness. The spectator chooses whether to count from the top or bottom of the deck, adding an extra layer of unpredictability.

The climax reveals a pre-sealed envelope containing a single card that matches both the randomly selected back design and value. The odds of this happening by chance are over 1 in 2,700, making the moment feel mathematically impossible. The trick is self-contained, requiring no additional sleight of hand beyond handling the deck and dice.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Fortuity is ideal for magicians who enjoy:

• Impromptu-style tricks with minimal setup.
• Mathematical or probability-based effects that feel fair and impossible to fake.
• Visually engaging routines, as the unique deck design adds an artistic element.
• Performers who like audience interaction, since the spectator actively participates in the selection process.

It’s also great for those who want a strong, repeatable trick that doesn’t rely on complex sleights.

Difficulty

Fortuity is moderate in difficulty, primarily due to the handling of the custom deck and the need for smooth presentation. The method itself is straightforward, but selling the fairness of the selection process requires clear scripting and confidence. No advanced sleight of hand is needed, making it accessible to intermediate magicians.

What Magicians Say

• AlakazamMagicUK describes Fortuity as a "miracle" with odds of 1 in over 2,700, calling it a "stunning display of magic that leaves a lasting impression."
• The trick has been praised for its visual appeal and strong audience impact, with many noting how the unique deck design enhances the mystery.
• Some reviewers mention that the custom deck requirement might limit its accessibility, but those who perform it find it highly effective.

Fortuity is a standout trick for those who want a powerful, self-working effect with a strong mathematical hook. Its combination of randomness, prediction, and visual uniqueness makes it a memorable addition to any magician’s repertoire.