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Vocabulum by Chris Wardle

Created by: Chris Wardle

Vocabulum is a mentalism packet trick inspired by Scrabble, where a spectator selects a word card and a number, and the magician reveals the exact word. This trick is suitable for close-up or stage performances, offering a unique blend of gameplay and magic. The package includes a plastic wallet, Scrabble word cards, prediction cards, and written instructions. It's designed to be affordable, portable, and versatile, with a focus on organic, interactive magic that stands out from traditional effects.

Key features

  • Scrabble-inspired gameplay with a surprising word prediction

  • Affordable and portable, fitting flat in a pocket

  • Versatile for both close-up and stage performances

  • Near-instantaneous reset and high repeatability

  • Engaging premise with a universally familiar theme

Pros

  • Affordable for the quality and impact

  • Portable and versatile

  • Engaging premise that's universally familiar

  • Quick, game-based routine that stands out

Cons

  • The reveal isn't fully examinable, requiring careful handling

  • Requires a table for optimal performance

Effect

Vocabulum is a mentalism trick inspired by Scrabble. A spectator picks a word card from a shuffled packet and chooses a number between 1 and 12. The magician then reveals the exact word the spectator selected, matching it to a set of pre-arranged Scrabble tiles. The effect feels fair and impossible, with no forced choices.

Full Details

The trick includes a plastic wallet for storage, Scrabble word cards, prediction cards, and written instructions. The word cards may chip, but the creator plans to fix this in the final version. The prediction cards are made of thicker, durable cardboard. The instructions are concise but require a couple of reads to fully understand.

Vocabulum is affordable, portable, and versatile. It works for close-up or stage performances. The reset is quick, taking only 2–3 seconds. The trick is nearly angle-proof, though the reveal requires slight care to avoid exposure.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Vocabulum is ideal for mentalists and magicians who want a quick, interactive routine. It suits performers who enjoy game-based effects and want something different from traditional card or coin tricks. The trick is easy to learn and perform, making it a good choice for beginners and experienced magicians alike.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

Vocabulum is simple to perform. The only challenge is remembering a basic binary instruction (odd/even grouping), which becomes easy with practice. The trick requires minimal setup and resets quickly. The reveal needs careful handling to prevent exposure, but the method is straightforward.

What Magicians Say

Sebastian Toca rates Vocabulum 8.75 out of 10, calling it a "compact mentalism gem." He praises its originality, affordability, and practicality. The trick is engaging because Scrabble is a familiar game, making the effect relatable.

Toca notes that the reveal is not fully examinable, so performers must handle it carefully. The trick also works best with a table. Despite these minor drawbacks, he considers Vocabulum a strong addition to any mentalist’s toolkit.

For the price, Vocabulum is a worthwhile purchase for magicians who want a quick, interactive, and deceptive routine.

What people are saying about Vocabulum

sebastiantoca9208 says...

Vocabulum is a fresh mentalism packet trick by Chris Wardle, blending Scrabble-inspired gameplay with a surprising word prediction. The creator highlights its affordability, practicality, and deceptive simplicity, making it a strong addition to any mentalist’s toolkit.

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