Rock Paper Scissors by Craig Petty

Created by: Craig Petty

Rock Paper Scissors is a close-up magic effect where the magician engages a spectator in the classic game of Rock Paper Scissors. The magician appears to predict the spectator's choice every time, winning multiple rounds in a row through a clever method that doesn't require sleight of hand or complicated moves. This is perfect for walk-around magic, street performance, or casual settings where you need an instant, interactive effect that plays big with minimal setup. The method is psychological rather than technical, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels.

Key features

Uses psychological principles rather than sleight of hand
No special props needed - works with bare hands
Instant reset and repeatable
Highly interactive and engaging for spectators
Suitable for close-up and impromptu situations

Pros

Easy to learn and perform
No setup required
Works with any spectator
Creates strong moments of surprise

Cons

Relies on psychological force rather than absolute control
May not work as effectively with very young children
Limited to the Rock Paper Scissors game format

Effect

The Rock Paper Scissors trick looks like a fair game between the magician and a spectator. The magician plays the classic hand game and wins every time. The spectator chooses rock, paper, or scissors freely. The magician's choice always beats the spectator's choice. The outcome seems impossible, creating a surprising and fun moment.

Full details

This is a mentalism effect using the Rock Paper Scissors game. The method does not use sleight of hand. It relies on a psychological principle. The magician can know the spectator's choice before making their own. This allows the magician to always select the winning option. The trick can be performed anywhere with no setup. It uses no gimmicks or extra items. The method is direct and happens in real time.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who perform walk-around or close-up magic should consider this trick. It works well for street magicians and those who perform impromptu. Mentalism performers will find it fits their style. It is good for magicians who want a quick, interactive effect. It is suitable for all audience types, including children and adults. Beginners can learn it because it requires no advanced skills.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Rock Paper Scissors trick is not difficult to perform. The method is easy to learn. It does not require practice of physical moves. The main challenge is the presentation and timing. The magician must deliver the trick naturally to make it convincing. There is no memory work or complex steps. A magician can learn it in a short time and perform it immediately.

What magicians say

Craig Petty discusses the Rock Paper Scissors method in his Q&A. He explains it as a technique magicians can use. He includes it in a list of practical performance tips. The method is presented as a reliable piece for a magician's repertoire. It is grouped with other professional advice on handling audiences and structuring acts.

What people are saying about Rock Paper Scissors

Craig Petty says...

The Rock Paper Scissors method provides a clever technique for creating magical moments in casual settings without complex moves. [...] It's perfect for walk-around situations where you need something quick and impactful.