SleightfulValion by Joel
Created by: Joel
Key features
Multiple methods that cross-eliminate each other, enhancing the trick's deceptive quality
Free choice by the spectator, making the effect seem impossible
Versatile performance options for close-up or walk-around settings
Minimal setup and easy reset, making it practical for frequent performances
Pros
Highly deceptive with methods that cancel each other out
Spectator's free choice enhances the trick's impossibility
Easy to perform with minimal setup and reset
Adaptable to various performance settings
Cons
Requires understanding of equivocation principles for optimal performance
May need practice to smoothly handle the business cards or billets
Effect
Valion is a mentalism effect where the spectator freely chooses one of three business cards or billets and places it into their pocket. The remaining two are held in each hand. When revealed, the card in the left hand says "Left Hand," the one in the right hand says "Right Hand," and the one in the pocket says "Pocket." The effect is clean, direct, and leaves no room for suspicion, as the choices appear entirely free.
Full Details
Valion is an updated version of the classic Free Will effect, designed by Joel Givens. It improves upon the original by incorporating multiple deceptive methods that cancel each other out, making the trick more baffling. The routine requires minimal setup and can be performed with ordinary-looking business cards or slips of paper. The method is self-contained, meaning no additional gimmicks or switches are needed during performance.
Who Should Consider the Trick
Valion is ideal for mentalists and close-up performers who want a strong, self-working effect with a psychological twist. It suits those who prefer clean, examinable props and routines that play well in social or professional settings. Because it relies on subtle principles rather than sleight of hand, it is accessible to magicians of all skill levels.
Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform
Valion is not technically demanding. The method relies on psychological forces and clever structuring rather than complex moves. A basic understanding of misdirection and presentation will enhance the effect, but no advanced sleight of hand is required. The trick resets instantly, making it practical for repeated performances.
What Magicians Say
Scott K. Ratner, a magician with nearly 50 years of experience, praises Valion as a superior version of the Free Will effect. He highlights its deceptive brilliance, stating, "The multiple methods effectively cross-eliminate each other." He also appreciates that the spectator's free choice in the first phase makes the trick even more convincing.
AlakazamMagicUK describes Valion as a "wonderful routine" with methods that "cancel each other out," making it highly deceptive. They note that Joel Givens' original booklets contain additional clever effects, making Valion a valuable addition to any performer's repertoire.
Valion is a well-regarded trick among mentalism enthusiasts for its simplicity, strong impact, and foolproof methodology.
What people are saying about Valion
AlakazamMagicUK says...
The idea is that there are three business cards or billets or whatever you want and they mix them up and place one of them into their pocket [...] the one in their left hand says left hand, the one in the right hand says right hand and the one in the pocket says pocket.
Scott K. Ratner says...
Valion is considered a superior version of the Free Will effect, appreciating its deceptive brilliance and multiple methods that effectively cross-eliminate each other.
Review videos
Stranded with a Stranger: Scott K Ratner
AlakazamMagicUK mentioned this magic trick in this video.