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Four of a Kind by Joao Miranda and Victor Sanz

Created by: Joao Miranda, Victor Sanz

Four of a Kind is a captivating card magic trick that involves a seemingly impossible prediction of a card selection, making it a perfect fit for close-up and street magic performances. The trick guides the spectator through a series of choices—selecting a four-of-a-kind, then a color (red or black), and finally a suit (hearts or diamonds)—culminating in a reveal that the performer had predicted the exact card all along. The use of colored bags and psychological manipulation enhances the illusion, creating a sense of inevitability and astonishment. This trick is ideal for magicians looking to add a strong mentalism element to their repertoire.

Key features

  • No sleight of hand required, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels.

  • Utilizes psychological manipulation and misdirection for a powerful effect.

  • Quick reset allows for multiple performances in a row.

  • Perfect for impromptu performances, fitting easily in a wallet or pocket.

  • Endorsed by renowned magicians, adding credibility to its effectiveness.

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and visually striking.

  • Easy to learn and perform with no complex sleights.

  • Versatile for both close-up and stand-up settings.

  • Strong psychological impact on spectators.

Cons

  • May require careful handling of gimmicked cards to maintain the illusion.

  • The psychological aspect might be challenging for beginners to master.

Effect

The Four of a Kind trick creates the illusion that a spectator's freely chosen card is predicted in an impossible way. A performer presents four cards of the same value (such as four sixes) and asks the spectator to name any four-of-a-kind. The spectator then narrows down their selection by color and suit, only to discover that the performer knew their exact choice all along. The final reveal often involves a visual surprise, such as a card facing the wrong way or appearing in a uniquely colored bag.

Full Details

The trick relies on a carefully constructed setup that ensures only one outcome is possible, despite the spectator believing they have free choice. Some versions use gimmicked cards or specially designed props to enhance the effect. The performer may use psychological techniques to guide the spectator's decisions subtly. The trick can be performed with minimal sleight of hand, making it accessible to many skill levels.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who want a strong, self-working prediction effect. It works well for street performers, close-up magicians, and those who enjoy psychological magic. Since some versions require no advanced sleight of hand, beginners can perform it effectively. However, experienced magicians can enhance it with their own presentation and misdirection.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty varies depending on the version. Some methods require no sleight of hand, while others may involve subtle handling. The key challenge is in the presentation—making the spectator believe they have complete freedom in their choices. Performers must practice timing and scripting to ensure the trick feels organic.

What Magicians Say

AlakazamMagicUK describes the trick as "unbelievable" and acknowledges its deceptive power, though they warn against unethical presentations. They note that the performer's insistence on a predetermined outcome makes the trick particularly strong.

MurphysMagicSupplies highlights versions of the trick that require no sleight of hand, making them ideal for quick performances. They emphasize the visual impact and instant reset, calling it a great everyday carry trick.

Jordan Victoria’s adaptation of a similar concept focuses on increasing difficulty for the spectator, making the trick progressively more impossible. He praises the method for its psychological impact.

Overall, magicians agree that Four of a Kind is a powerful and versatile trick that can be adapted to different performance styles.

What people are saying about Four of a Kind

AlakazamMagicUK says...

That absolutely blew my mind but there was one step further he said no honestly that was the only card you could have thought of I've got four cards yours is a redback and the other six is well they didn't even exist it was only one outcome was ever possible and that is unbelievable.

Jordan Victoria says...

The trick's strongest element is the increasing difficulty for the spectator. The routine utilizes a four-of-a-kind and progressively asks the spectator to track individual cards, making it increasingly challenging for them to follow.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Four eye popping color changes with no difficult slight of hand what a packet trick with no false counts that's right poker packet trick has no difficult slight of hand and no false counts in less than 20 seconds you're going to do four eye popping color changes.

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