Omen by Chris Congreave and Alakazam Magic

Created by: Chris Congreave, Alakazam Magic

Omen is a powerful close-up card trick that combines elements of mentalism and magic to create a mind-blowing prediction effect. The spectator is asked to name any card freely (e.g., Five of Clubs), then later cuts the deck anywhere they choose to reveal a random card (e.g., King of Hearts). The magician then produces a prediction envelope that was in view the entire time, and when opened, reveals the spectator's named card written on the back in Sharpie, creating an impossible coincidence. This dual-phase structure builds maximum impact, with the first phase feeling like organic mind reading and the second delivering a jaw-dropping climax. The trick requires no sleight of hand, is self-working with instant reset, and comes with all necessary cards and full video instructions, making it ideal for beginners and experienced magicians alike. It's versatile for close-up or parlor settings and creates strong reactions from spectators.

Where to buy

Monster Magic

Omen by Chris Congreave

£24.99

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Key features

No sleight of hand required - beginner-friendly
Self-working with instant reset
Dual-phase structure for maximum impact
Combines mind reading and card magic
Spectator cuts anywhere and names any card freely
Comes with all necessary cards and full video instructions
Versatile for close-up or parlor settings
Creates strong audience reactions

Pros

Powerful visual and mental impact
Easy to perform with minimal practice
Instant reset allows for repeated performances
Modular design - can end after first prediction if desired
Affordable price point (around $29.99/£30)
Tangible prediction with Sharpie writing adds authenticity
Engages two participants for better audience interaction

Cons

Method's novelty might fade with repeated performances for same audience
Some practice needed to master presentation and pacing
Limited availability at times (though currently in stock)

Effect

The Omen trick is a card prediction effect. A spectator names any card they like. Later, they cut the deck to a random card. The magician reveals a prediction envelope. Inside the envelope is a card. The back of this card shows the name of the spectator's freely named card. The face of the card matches the card they randomly cut to. The magician appears to have predicted both choices.

Full details

Omen is a self-working card trick created by Chris Congreave. It requires no sleight of hand. The trick uses a special deck and a prediction envelope. The routine has two phases for a stronger impact. The first phase involves the spectator naming any card. The second phase is the cutting and final revelation. All necessary cards and a full video tutorial are included. The trick resets instantly for repeated performances. It works for close-up settings or for larger groups.

Who should consider the trick

Omen is ideal for beginner magicians. It requires no prior skill. Magicians who perform at weddings or events may find it useful. It is also suitable for performers who want a strong mentalism-style effect. The trick is good for magicians with a budget. It is designed for high impact with minimal practice.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Omen is not difficult to perform. The method is self-working. The video instructions are clear. A beginner can perform it after learning the routine. No sleight of hand is needed. The performer only needs to follow the provided steps. The difficulty level is very low.

What magicians say

Reviewers from Alakazam Magic praise Omen. They call it "mind-blowing" and "sublime." One reviewer says it is "one of my favorite effects ever." They note it creates strong reactions from spectators. The trick is described as "powerful, visual, and mind-blowing." Reviewers highlight that it is beginner-friendly. They say it is "ideal for magicians of all levels." The dual-phase structure is noted for maximum impact. One summary states the trick is "a great addition to any magician's repertoire."

What people are saying about Omen

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Omen delivers a mind-blowing prediction effect that wows with its simplicity and strong impact. It's a great addition to any magician's repertoire.

Alexand Magic Creator says...

Omen is one of my favorite effects ever and one of my favorite C tricks of all time. It involves two participants and produces an 'unbelievable outcome' that I describe as 'sublime'.

Chris Congreave says...

Omen is a clever card trick where the magician seemingly reads a spectator's mind to predict their chosen card, ending with a surprising reveal. What makes it stand out is that it requires no sleight of hand, making it ideal for beginners.

Performance Demonstrator says...

Omen combines mind reading and magic for a stunning effect. The trick's power lies in its two-phase revelation - the initial mind reading feels organic, while the second phase amplifies the impossibility. It's one of the best tricks for its price point.

Promotion Video Creator says...

Omen is presented as a powerful, visual, and self-working effect that requires minimal skill to perform, making it accessible to magicians of all levels. The emphasis is on its high impact relative to its ease of execution and affordable price point.

Wayne Goodman and Dan says...

Omen is a mind-blowing card prediction that creates strong reactions from spectators. It's effective and entertaining, though some may require practice to master.