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Reverse Engineering by Asi Wind

Created by: Asi Wind

Reverse Engineering is a close-up card trick where the magician asks a spectator to think of any card, then has them shuffle and cut the deck under the table. The spectator turns one card around in the middle of the deck, and when the magician spreads the cards, the only reversed card is the one the spectator named. This is a highly visual and baffling effect that plays with the idea of impossible coincidence and mind reading.

Key features

  • No knuckle-busting sleight of hand required

  • Uses psychological techniques to enhance the effect

  • Can be performed with any deck of cards

  • Works well in close-up or parlour settings

Pros

  • Highly visual and baffling

  • Direct and easy to follow for spectators

  • No complex moves or gimmicks needed

  • Versatile for different performance settings

Cons

  • Requires practice to perfect the psychological aspects

  • May not suit performers who prefer physical sleight of hand

Effect

Reverse Engineering is a card trick where the magician asks a spectator to name any card. The deck is placed under the table, and the spectator cuts it, turns a card around, and brings the deck back. When the magician spreads the cards, the one reversed card matches the spectator's freely named selection. The effect is direct, clean, and seemingly impossible.

Full details

The trick relies on a clever method that does not require complex sleight of hand. It uses a combination of psychological principles and subtle techniques to ensure the spectator's chosen card is the one reversed in the deck. The method is practical and can be performed in casual settings. The spectator handles the deck, making the trick feel fair and impossible to reverse-engineer.

Who should consider the trick

Reverse Engineering is ideal for magicians who want a strong, self-working effect with minimal handling. It suits performers who prefer direct, impactful tricks over lengthy routines. The method is accessible to beginners but also offers depth for experienced magicians looking to refine their approach to card magic.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is not technically demanding. It requires understanding the method and practicing the presentation to ensure smooth execution. The difficulty lies in the psychological aspects rather than complex moves. With rehearsal, most magicians can perform it convincingly.

What magicians say

Dee Faulkner describes Reverse Engineering as "really impressive stuff" and notes that it is "really clean, really lovely." They highlight that the trick has no "knuckle-busting sleight of hand" and emphasizes its directness. The method is praised for being simple yet deceptive, making it a strong addition to any magician's repertoire.

What people are saying about Reverse Engineering

Dee Faulkner says...

The reverse engineering trick is really impressive stuff—it's a simple concept, but when you see it in action, it's completely convincing. Asi Wind takes his thinking to the next level to make it impossible to reverse engineer.

Review videos