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Game, Set, Match by John Bannon

Created by: John Bannon

Game, Set, Match is a deceptive card trick where freely chosen cards mysteriously match the total of pocket change that’s been on the table from the start. This trick is a blend of classic elements with a surprising twist, designed for close-up magic performances. It leverages mathematical principles in a way that appears as real magic to the audience, making it a foolproof and engaging routine for all spectators.

Key features

  • Self-Working & Disguised Math: The trick is built on mathematical principles but cleverly disguises the mechanics to appear as real magic.

  • Foolproof for All Audiences: Designed to fool spectators unless they know the method, making it engaging for both magicians and lay audiences.

  • Real-World Performance Ready: Minimal setup with maximum impact, practical for professional use.

  • Natural Handling: Emphasizes making mathematical underpinnings invisible to focus on the magic.

Pros

  • Deceptive and engaging for both magicians and lay audiences.

  • Minimal setup with maximum impact.

  • Leverages mathematical principles in a way that appears as real magic.

Cons

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Effect

In Game, Set, Match, the magician presents a seemingly impossible coincidence. A spectator freely selects cards, and their total value mysteriously matches the exact amount of pocket change that has been on the table from the beginning. The effect feels organic and unforced, leaving the audience baffled by the unexpected connection between the cards and the coins.

Full Details

This trick is part of John Bannon’s Outnumbered collection, which focuses on mathematical card magic disguised as pure sleight-of-hand. Game, Set, Match uses a clever combination of counting and natural card handling to create a surprising revelation. The method is self-working, meaning no advanced sleight of hand is required, but the presentation makes it appear as if real magic is at play.

The routine is structured for real-world performance, with minimal setup and maximum impact. The mathematical principle behind the trick is well-hidden, ensuring that spectators focus on the magic rather than the method.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who:

  • Prefer self-working effects with strong audience reactions.
  • Want a reliable, repeatable routine that doesn’t rely on difficult sleights.
  • Enjoy mathematical magic but want it to feel organic and deceptive.
  • Perform in casual or professional settings where quick, impactful tricks are valuable.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

Game, Set, Match is rated as easy to perform because it requires no advanced card handling. The trick is self-working, meaning the method does the heavy lifting. However, the effectiveness depends on smooth presentation and natural handling. Magicians should practice the pacing and scripting to ensure the mathematical aspect remains hidden.

What Magicians Say

John Bannon describes Game, Set, Match as a deceptive routine that blends classic elements with a surprising twist. He emphasizes that the trick is designed to fool spectators unless they already know the method.

The trick is praised for its real-world practicality, with minimal setup and maximum impact. Bannon highlights the importance of natural handling, noting that since non-magicians deal and count cards regularly, these actions don’t raise suspicion when framed correctly.

Magicians looking for self-working miracles that feel organic and baffling will find Game, Set, Match a strong addition to their repertoire.

What people are saying about Game, Set, Match

penguinmagictricks5930 says...

John Bannon’s Outnumbered is a tutorial (and promotional) video showcasing his latest collection of mathematically inspired card tricks designed to feel like real magic rather than procedural puzzles. [...] Bannon confidently states that every trick in the book will fool spectators—unless they already know the method.

Tutorial videos