Surge by Chris James and James Keatley

Created by: Chris James, James Keatley

Surge is a visually stunning close-up magic trick that transforms ordinary credit cards into magical props. During the performance, spectators witness a credit card chip that appears to stretch, grow, and move in impossible ways right before their eyes. The effect unfolds in two distinct phases: first, the chip visibly stretches across the card's surface, then it appears to grow larger or change position, creating a jaw-dropping visual surprise. This trick is part of the Merger Pack, which includes both Surge and Transfer effects, making it a versatile system for credit card magic. Buyers receive high-quality, examinable gimmicks including specially designed cards, chip stickers, and bonus items like mini credit cards for social media tricks. The package comes with extensive tutorial videos (approximately 75 minutes total) covering everything from basic handling to advanced variations, making it suitable for magicians of all skill levels who want to add modern, impromptu-style magic to their repertoire.

Where to buy

	Alakazam Magic	SURGE by Ouzi LX Raschilla video DOWNLOAD	£6.93	🇬🇧 Shop
	Alakazam Magic	Surge by Anthony Vasquez video DOWNLOAD	£12.20	🇬🇧 Shop

Key features

Two-phase visual effect with stretching and growing chip illusion
Includes examinable gimmicks and specially designed credit cards
Comes with extensive tutorial videos (approximately 75 minutes)
Part of the Merger Pack bundle with Transfer effect
Designed for everyday carry (EDC) and impromptu performances
Suitable for close-up, street, and casual magic settings
Includes bonus items like mini cards and chip stickers
Can be integrated with real credit cards using included stickers

Pros

Highly visual and surprising effects that wow audiences
Practical for everyday carry and impromptu performances
High-quality materials and examinable props
Comprehensive tutorials suitable for all skill levels
Versatile for various performance settings
Organic feel that works with borrowed objects
Creative routines beyond standard card or coin tricks

Cons

Some moves require practice despite beginner-friendly marketing
Initial confusion about bundled nature of tricks
Price point may be high for some ($78-$83)
Not ideal for walkaround or parlor performances
Lacks custom-branded cards (though stickers mitigate this)

Effect

The Surge trick makes a chip on a credit card appear to stretch and grow larger. This visual change happens directly in front of the spectator. The effect is clear and surprising. It often uses a phone's camera zoom to enhance the illusion, making the chip seem to expand on the screen.

Full details

Surge is part of the Merger Pack, which includes the Transfer trick and bonus items. The pack provides special gimmicked cards and examinable cards. You receive tutorial videos by Pigcake. These videos teach the main routine and other methods. Some methods use sleight of hand. Other methods require no sleight of hand. The pack includes extra items like mini credit cards and chip stickers. These extras let you perform the trick with a real credit card.

Who should consider the trick

Surge is good for magicians who want visual magic with ordinary objects. It is suited for close-up and street magic. It works well in casual situations. The trick is for performers who like impromptu style magic. It is not designed for walkaround or stage shows. Magicians looking for something different from card or coin tricks may enjoy Surge.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty of Surge varies. Some methods are beginner-friendly and use simple card slides. Other methods involve more practice. Fiddlin' Jonny notes that some moves, like a Shake Change, require practice. The tutorials provide clear steps for all skill levels. The basic visual effect can be achieved with minimal skill.

What magicians say

Reviewers praise Surge for its visual impact and practicality. David from Magic Orthodoxy says the trick has a "fun, magical feel" and stands out from typical routines. He recommends starting with the Surge tutorials for the best learning experience. ChampionMagic calls the effect "jaw-dropping" and notes its suitability for any audience. ChrisEdwardsMagic highlights the pack's role as an everyday carry item for organic magic. Fiddlin' Jonny states, "These are the sort of effects I’m more likely to show friends—organic, unforced, and ready when the moment arises." He appreciates the lack of exaggerated marketing and the trick's real-world utility.

What people are saying about Surge

ChampionMagic says...

'Surge' by Chris James wows with a credit card chip that stretches and grows, offering two jaw-dropping visual surprises. The video applauds these tricks for their high-quality materials, ease of use, and adaptability for any performance setting.

ChrisEdwardsMagic says...

The routines facilitated by the Merger Pack are described as being visual and direct, leaning into the modern preference for magic that happens in the hands with borrowed objects.

David from Magic Orthodoxy says...

Surge wows audiences with a chip that moves and stretches on a credit card in two clear phases. David loves the tricks for their fun, magical feel, standing out from typical card or coin routines.

Fiddlin' Johnny says...

'Surge' (Chris James), which makes a chip appear to grow giant—even via a phone's zoom function. [...] These are the sort of effects I'm more likely to show friends—organic, unforced, and ready when the moment arises.