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Universal Forcing by Rich Relish

Created by: Rich Relish

Universal Forcing is a versatile mentalism tool disguised as a deck of color swatches for graphic designers. Spectators see a deck filled with vibrant, multi-colored cards, each appearing unique. The trick leverages the psychological power of color to create deep, emotional connections with the audience. One half of the deck is a marked stack with alphabetically arranged colors, while the other half features identical 'Almost Modern' names and codes despite appearing different. This dual functionality allows for a wide range of routines, from simple force-based reveals to complex mind-reading effects. Perfect for close-up, parlor, or stage performances, the deck includes crib cards and flashcard app suggestions to aid memorization of the 20 color names. The design ensures instant resets, making it ideal for walk-around performances.

Key features

  • Disguised as a graphic designer's tool for plausibility

  • Dual-function deck: marked stack and force cards

  • No memorization required for some routines

  • Includes crib cards and learning aids

  • Versatile for close-up, parlor, and stage mentalism

Pros

  • Highly versatile with multiple routines possible

  • Psychological presentation enhances audience connection

  • Instant reset for walk-around performances

  • Includes learning aids for memorization

Cons

  • Requires memorization of 20 color names for full utility

  • May feel overwhelming due to the deck's dual functionality

Effect

Universal Forcing is a mentalism technique that allows a performer to influence a spectator's choice of color or word without any apparent force or memorization. The effect appears as if the spectator freely selects any option, yet the performer can instantly reveal their exact choice. This creates a strong impression of mind reading or psychological influence.

Full Details

Universal Forcing is integrated into Rich Relish's EasyTones deck, a utility tool disguised as a graphic designer's color reference. The deck consists of two distinct halves:

  • Marked Stack – One half contains cards with unique long color names arranged alphabetically, allowing for easy identification.
  • Force Bank – The other half features cards that appear visually different but share identical names and codes, enabling deceptive uniformity.

    • The method allows for multiple presentation styles, including predictions, psychological influence, and direct mind reading. The deck also includes crib cards and flashcard techniques to assist with memorization.

    Who Should Consider the Trick

    This method is ideal for:

    • Mentalists looking for a versatile tool beyond traditional card tricks.
    • Performers who want a psychological presentation style rather than overtly "psychic" effects.
    • Magicians who enjoy utility decks with multiple applications (close-up, parlor, or stage).

    Difficulty

    The technique requires memorization of 20 color names, but the alphabetical arrangement and crib cards make learning manageable. The force itself is straightforward, relying on psychological principles rather than complex sleight of hand. Performers familiar with book tests or stacked decks will find the method intuitive.

    What Magicians Say

    • Rich Relish emphasizes the psychological power of color, stating, "People relate to colors emotionally, making this more impactful than revealing a playing card."
    • Craig Petty contributed routines to expand the deck's potential, demonstrating its flexibility in performance.
    • Peter Nardi describes it as "a utility tool, not a one-trick pony," highlighting its long-term value in a mentalist's repertoire.

    Universal Forcing within EasyTones offers a fresh approach to mentalism, blending psychology, deception, and audience engagement.

    What people are saying about Universal Forcing

    AlakazamMagicUK says...

    EasyTones utilizes the psychological power of color to enhance mentalism routines. The deck is cleverly disguised as a graphic designer's tool, featuring a marked stack and a second half with unique names and codes.

    Tutorial videos