Outstanding (Blue) by Mark Mason

Created by: Mark Mason

Outstanding (Blue) is a close-up card magic trick that begins with the magician displaying four Kings. The King of Spades and King of Clubs are placed on the table, seemingly switching places with the King of Hearts and King of Diamonds. The climax reveals that the black Kings have transformed into the Ace of Spades and Ace of Clubs, while the red Kings become the Ace of Hearts and Ace of Diamonds—all while the cards remain fully examinable. This trick combines clever mechanics with psychological misdirection, making it a baffling and engaging routine for spectators.

Where to buy

Outstanding (Blue) by Mark Mason from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicOutstanding (Blue) by Mark Mason£26.15
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Outstanding (Blue) by Mark Mason from Magicbox
MagicboxOutstanding (Blue) by Mark Mason£26.64
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Key features

  • The routine is easily repeatable and adaptable for custom variations.

  • All cards are fully examinable, enhancing the trick's credibility.

  • Relies on subtle card handling and verbal misdirection for maximum deception.

  • Playful presentation and audience management are key to the illusion.

Pros

  • Highly deceptive with a strong, surprising finale.

  • Examinable cards add to the trick's believability.

  • Versatile for creating custom routines.

Cons

  • Requires precise handling and timing to avoid exposure.

  • Verbal misdirection may need practice to perfect.

Effect

The Outstanding (Blue) trick begins with the magician showing four Kings. The King of Spades and King of Clubs are placed on the table, seemingly switching places with the King of Hearts and King of Diamonds. The black Kings are then placed into the deck, but when revealed, they have transformed into the Ace of Spades and Ace of Clubs. The red Kings also change into the Ace of Hearts and Ace of Diamonds. All cards remain examinable, making the effect even more baffling.

Full Details

The trick relies on clever card handling and psychological misdirection. The magician uses subtle touches and separations to create the illusion of a switch. Verbal misdirection plays a key role, as the performer distracts the audience from the method while reinforcing the impossibility of the transformation. The routine is repeatable and adaptable, allowing for variations in presentation.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who enjoy close-up card magic with strong visual transformations. It works well for performers who like interactive routines where spectators can examine the cards. If you appreciate tricks that combine sleight of hand with psychological deception, Outstanding (Blue) is a strong choice.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick requires basic card handling skills, particularly in controlling card positions and executing subtle moves. The method is not overly complex, but timing and misdirection are crucial. As Mark Mason notes, "You can't look, 'cause then that would be cheating," emphasizing the need for smooth execution. With practice, intermediate magicians should be able to perform it effectively.

What Magicians Say

Mark Mason highlights the deceptive nature of the routine, stating, "I was never really talking about the Four Kings, I was actually talking about the heart, the ace of hearts and the ace of diamonds." This underscores the importance of verbal misdirection. The trick is praised for its examinable nature and adaptability, making it a versatile addition to a magician’s repertoire. The surprise finale leaves audiences stunned, as one spectator exclaims, "What the what? What is going on?"

The combination of strong mechanics and engaging presentation makes Outstanding (Blue) a compelling choice for magicians looking to add a deceptive yet examinable card trick to their performances.

What people are saying about Outstanding (Blue)

SaturnMagicShop says...

The routine is easily repeatable and adaptable, combining clever mechanics with strong presentation. [...] Mason emphasizes the importance of *lying and deceiving* the audience, but in a way that is entertaining and engaging.

Tutorial videos