Playing Heavy Demo 2.0 by Brandon Toh
Created by: Brandon Toh
Key features
Part of a limited edition book with only 150 copies, making it a collector's item
Includes essays on magic philosophy, adding depth beyond just tricks
Designed for intermediate to advanced magicians, not beginners
Features narrative-driven routines that play with magical conventions
High-quality softcover book with 96 pages, praised for readability
Pros
Highly original and creative content
Engaging and well-written, making philosophical essays accessible
Good value for the price, offering unique material unlikely to be widely performed
Encourages deeper thinking about magic as an art form
Cons
Not suitable for beginners due to lack of basic instructions
Small typeface in the book may be difficult to read for some
Limited availability might make it hard to obtain
Effect
Playing Heavy Demo 2.0 is a card routine with a poker theme. It begins with standard playing cards and concludes with an unexpected transformation into Uno cards. The effect presents a playful and surprising twist on traditional card magic, engaging the audience with a familiar game context before delivering a memorable visual change.
Full details
Playing Heavy Demo 2.0 is one of six original card tricks featured in Brandon Toh's book Quaint Time-Waste. The routine is designed for magicians who appreciate narrative and conceptual approaches to card magic. It integrates a poker theme throughout the performance, building a context that feels familiar to spectators. The climax involves a switch to Uno cards, providing a clear and surprising visual endpoint. The trick is part of a collection that includes essays on magic philosophy, emphasizing creative thinking and personal expression in performance.
Who should consider the trick
This trick is intended for intermediate to advanced card magicians. It requires a solid foundation in card handling and an understanding of magical theory. Magicians interested in adding unique, story-driven routines to their repertoire will find value in Playing Heavy Demo 2.0. It appeals to those who enjoy material that challenges conventional magic structures and incorporates playful, unexpected elements.
Information on how difficult it is to perform
Playing Heavy Demo 2.0 is not for beginners. The routine assumes prior knowledge of essential card techniques and does not include basic instructions. Performers must be comfortable with card sleights and routine construction. The difficulty level is moderate to high, depending on the performer's existing skill set. Mastery requires practice to seamlessly integrate the poker theme and the final transformation.
What magicians say
Reviewers highlight the originality and conceptual strength of Playing Heavy Demo 2.0. David from Magic Orthodoxy notes that the trick ends with Uno cards, calling it a "fresh routine" within a book full of creative material. EverythingMagicPro99 praises the narrative elements, describing tricks in the book as "almost narrative experiences" that play with magical conventions. Both reviewers emphasize that the material is best suited for magicians with experience, as Brandon Toh does not provide beginner-level instructions. The book is limited to 150 copies, making it a collector's item for those interested in boutique magic publications.
What people are saying about Playing Heavy Demo 2.0
EverythingMagicPro99 says...
The book is a 'labour of love,' blending original effects and thoughtful essays that aim to engage the reader's mind as much as their hands. It's highly recommended for magicians who enjoy material that challenges conventional thinking.
magicorthodoxy says...
David calls the book a 'steal' for its price and originality, praising it for offering unique material unlikely to be widely performed and encouraging exploration of personalized, niche magic literature.
Review videos
Quaint Time-Waste by Brandon Toh Review (This will be a timeless classic 💎)
EverythingMagicPro99 mentioned this magic trick in this video.
Magic Review - Quaint Time-Waste by Brandon Toh
magicorthodoxy mentioned this magic trick in this video.
Promotional videos
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