Progressive Kings by Adrian Vega and Mariano Goñi

Created by: Adrian Vega, Mariano Goñi

Progressive Kings is a captivating close-up card magic routine created by Adrian Vega and Mariano Goñi, where the four Kings visually and progressively transform into the four Aces in a seamless, logical build-up. This sandwich effect involves a spectator freely selecting a card (no force required), which is then impossibly found by the Kings, culminating in a dramatic climax. The trick uses special gimmicks to handle the heavy lifting, making it nearly self-working with an instant reset, and the deck remains examinable throughout. It's designed for professional performers seeking a strong visual impact with minimal sleight of hand, ideal as a closer in card sets due to its natural choreography and audience engagement.

Key features

Uses special gimmicks for a nearly self-working routine
Features an instant reset and examinable deck
No advanced sleights required, focusing on presentation
Builds anticipation, ideal as a closer in card sets
Praised for natural choreography and seamless effect

Pros

Highly deceptive with minimal sleight of hand, accessible to all skill levels
Strong visual impact and logical progression for a satisfying climax
Practical for professional use with instant reset and examinable properties

Cons

Requires specific gimmicks, which may need careful handling
May not be suitable for performers who prefer sleight-heavy routines

Effect

The Progressive Kings trick shows a clear and visual transformation. The magician displays the four Kings. One by one, each King visibly changes into an Ace. The routine builds logically, creating a strong climax as the final King transforms. To the audience, it appears the cards are magically evolving in the performer's hands.

Full details

Progressive Kings is a card routine created by Adrian Vega and Mariano Goni. It is a sandwich effect, where two cards are used to find a spectator's selected card. The routine uses special gimmicks to achieve the magic. These gimmicks allow for a nearly self-working performance. The deck of cards can be examined by the audience both before and after the trick. The gimmicks can be introduced or removed at any time during a performance. The routine features an instant reset, meaning the magician can be ready to perform it again very quickly. The method requires no advanced card sleights. The focus is on the presentation and the natural choreography of the moves.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is good for magicians who perform with cards. It is suitable for performers of all skill levels because it does not need advanced sleight of hand. Working professionals may like it for its instant reset and examinable deck. Magicians looking for a strong closing effect for their card set will find it useful. The routine builds anticipation, making it a powerful finale. It is also a good choice for those who enjoy sandwich effects and want a visually impactful version.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Progressive Kings is not difficult to perform. The method is described as almost self-working. The special gimmicks handle the complex mechanics. This allows the performer to concentrate on their presentation. No advanced sleights are required. The difficulty level is low, making it accessible for beginners. Experienced magicians can focus on refining the pacing and audience engagement. The choreography is designed to feel natural and seamless.

What magicians say

Craig Petty and his son Ryland reviewed the trick. They commended its smooth handling and logical build-up. Craig, with his professional experience, noted the clear progression that leads to a satisfying climax. The routine was praised for its visual impact.

In a promotional video, the trick was highlighted for its natural choreography. The creators designed every movement to be deliberate, making the magic feel effortless. Javi Rufo praised it as a "final blow" in a sequence of sandwich routines, suggesting it works best as a powerful closing effect. The trick is considered a pro-level worker because it is easy to perform but highly deceptive.

What people are saying about Progressive Kings

magic-tv says...

Progressive Kings features Kings transforming into Aces in a progressive routine, commended for smooth handling and logical build-up. [...] The reviewers were positive about the smooth handling and the clear, logical progression of the effect, which builds to a very satisfying climax.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Uses special gimmicks for a nearly self-working routine. [...] It’s almost self-working, with an instant reset, making it ideal for professional performers. [...] Javi Rufo praises it as a 'final blow' in a sandwich routine sequence, suggesting it’s best used as a powerful climax.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The creators, Adrian Vega and Mariano Goñi, are known for their innovative card magic, so this effect likely carries their signature blend of visual impact and clever methodology.