Poker Test by Erik Casey

Created by: Erik Casey

The Poker Test is a classic mentalism routine that creates the illusion of mind-reading, typically performed in close-up or parlor settings. In this trick, a spectator freely selects a playing card, often through psychological forces or clever scripting, leading to an impossible revelation such as the card vanishing or being revealed in a surprising way (e.g., turning blank). It's designed to be highly visual and impactful, with strong audience reactions, and may incorporate elements like wallet switches or pickpocketing routines for added entertainment. Buyers should note that it often involves gimmicked cards or props, requiring basic card handling skills, and is praised for its portability and ability to deliver stage-level effects in intimate settings.

Key features

Classic mentalism routine with modern updates for contemporary performers
Involves free selection of a card by the spectator, enhancing the illusion of mind-reading
Can incorporate additional elements like wallet switches or pickpocketing for extended routines
Designed to be pocket-sized and portable, yet delivers high visual impact
Often uses gimmicked cards or props, but methods are practical and require only basic card skills
Suitable for various environments, from close-up to stage, with strong audience reactions

Pros

Elicits strong, unfiltered reactions from audiences, such as screaming or astonishment
Highly visual and impossible-seeming, making it memorable for spectators
Portable and easy to carry, allowing for impromptu performances
Can be adapted with creative presentations, like incorporating wallets or pickpocketing
Based on acclaimed work by Erik Casey, ensuring quality and reliability

Cons

May involve gimmicked elements that limit use for other card routines
Requires confidence and boldness in performance, especially for high-energy audiences
Some versions might have angle sensitivity or require careful handling to maintain the illusion

Effect

The Poker Test creates a powerful mentalism experience. A spectator freely thinks of a playing card from a small group. The performer then places one card into the spectator's hand. The remaining cards are shown again, and the mentally selected card has visibly vanished. The spectator turns over the card they are holding, and it is completely blank. This blank card can be handed out for examination, creating a moment of astonishment.

Full details

The Poker Test is a modern reinvention of a classic mentalism plot. It uses specially engineered cards that allow the performer to show the full faces of all cards before and after the vanish. There are no awkward angles or hiding required. The method is practical and ready to use immediately. An optional clean ending is taught, allowing the performer to swap the gimmicked card for an ordinary one if full examination is desired. The trick is pocket-sized but delivers a stage-level impact.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits mentalism performers and card magicians looking for a strong, visual miracle. It is ideal for those who perform in close-up or parlor settings. The routine works well for entertainers who value clean methods and examinable props. Performers who appreciate upgrades to classic plots will find this version particularly appealing.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The method requires only basic card handling skills. If you can hold and fan cards, you can perform this trick. The practical method makes it accessible to many skill levels. The routine is designed to be straightforward, with no complex sleight of hand needed.

What magicians say

Erik Casey, the creator, is known for his work on effects like Poker Test and POW. He designed this version to be cleaner and fairer than previous methods. Harry from Alakazam Magic uses the Poker Test in his performances. He enhances it with a wallet and a faux pickpocketing routine to extend the effect. Peter Nardy demonstrated a poker test routine using wallet switches, highlighting the shared skills of card cheats and pickpockets. Performers note that the trick generates strong reactions, especially in high-energy environments.

What people are saying about Poker Test

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Harry enhances the Poker Test with an Alakazam Elite Z-fold wallet and a faux pickpocketing routine, emphasizing the importance of presentation and using the wallet to direct attention away from the gimmicked cards.

itsallthingsmagic says...

Erik Casey presents a modern reinvention with Princess Test, offering a fast, ultra-visual miracle that respects the history of the effect while leveraging modern manufacturing and thoughtful routining.

penguinmagicshop says...

Poker tests are classic mentalism routines that create the illusion of mind-reading. Performing for athletes requires confidence and boldness to match their high-energy environment.

Peter Nardy says...

He showcased a clever switch using wallets and blank-faced cards, highlighting the shared skills of card cheats and pickpockets in the new poker test routine.