Larry Becker's Psycho II 2.0 by Larry Becker, Steve Cook, and Alan Wong

Effect

Larry Becker's Psycho II 2.0 is a mentalism routine that creates the illusion of mind reading with ESP cards. The performer presents three nested envelopes, each opaque and seemingly impossible to see through. A spectator secretly moves and turns a card face down within a packet of thick ESP cards behind their back. Despite the performer never seeing the card, they correctly identify the chosen symbol as if they had a supernatural connection.

Full Details

The routine uses three envelopes—large, medium, and small—to reinforce the idea of complete opacity. Inside the smallest envelope are thick ESP cards with symbols like wavy lines, squares, and an "M." The spectator shuffles the cards behind their back, turns one face up, and places it randomly in the middle. The performer then deduces the correct symbol without ever seeing the card.

The method relies on controlled card movement and misdirection. The thick, opaque cards prevent any accidental exposure, and the envelopes further sell the impossibility. The performer emphasizes fairness by handling everything slowly and deliberately, reinforcing the idea that no trickery is involved.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine suits mentalists and magicians who enjoy psychological illusions. It works well in close-up or parlor settings where spectators can examine the envelopes and cards. Performers who like interactive routines will appreciate the spectator involvement. Those who prefer quick, visual tricks may find the pacing too deliberate.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The mechanics are straightforward, but the performance relies on pacing and audience management. The card handling behind the back is simple, but selling the fairness of the method requires confidence. SaturnMagicShop recommends a slow, deliberate presentation to build suspense. The trick does not require advanced sleight of hand, making it accessible to intermediate performers.

What Magicians Say

SaturnMagicShop highlights the importance of psychological presentation: "The creator stresses the importance of doing this behind the back to maintain the illusion of randomness." They also emphasize the performer's role in selling the effect: "Creating a 'connection' with the spectator through gestures, even without knowing the specific card, enhances the performance."

MurphysMagicSupplies lists Psycho II 2.0 among notable new releases, indicating its popularity among mentalism products. While their video does not provide a detailed review, its inclusion suggests it is a respected routine in the magic community.

The effect is designed to leave spectators questioning how it works, as SaturnMagicShop notes: "The creator's goal is not to simply teach a trick, but to inspire questions and encourage exploration of mentalism's underlying principles."