A powerful marked deck can provide you with the ability to create powerful effects, and even make minds think. But it’s important to err cautiously and not be afraid to be caught.
If the backs of your cards are visible and they aren’t fully covered with inner sleeves, then you might be caught by deck checks.
Reader Decks
The reader decks have an algorithm that enables you to quickly and efficiently read the backs. It is possible to perform a variety of tasks such as getting the card that a spectator has requested. For a dramatic finale, you could tell the person that you knew what they’d receive before they even saw it. This kind of deck is becoming more well-known. Boris Wild has a great routine for this deck in his book Transparency which you can purchase it as a 40 page PDF directly from Boris Wild.
What makes this deck particularly appealing is that it’s designed like a normal Bicycle and won’t attract any extra attention from spectators. The deck also comes with two videos online that show the reader system and give suggestions for routines. Another great option is the GT Speedreader from Garrett Thomas that is specifically designed for magicians working on a daily basis.
Coded Decks
Some decks have an encoded mark, which makes it more difficult for people who are not readers than other decks. One of the most popular examples is code:deck. It’s an ordinary playing card deck featuring a modern and stylish design with a brief snippet of code for each card. The codes range from generally used staples to newer alternatives and even some wacky curiosities!
Although some magicians may be concerned that using a coded deck will increase the likelihood that they will be spotted by their fans, this is no more important than any gimmick or sleight of hand technique. A coded deck, when used with good audience management and presentation, can be used to perform stunning card tricks. The spectators will have a difficult in recognizing them.
It is important to keep in mind that it is best to play a deck with cards that have large markings. If the marks on the cards are small or cryptic then the viewers may be struck and ask to examine the cards closer.
Pioneers Playing Card
Theodore DeLand, the 1913 creator of the Dollar Deck by the card magician Theodore DeLand, was not the only pioneer of marked playing cards but also the first to introduce the edge marking system that continues to be used today. This marking system allows users to determine the type of card based on its initial letter. It helps you to locate the right card within an assortment.
Ellusionist has teased the PIONEERS deck in recent times on social media and created quite a buzz. The deck, which is beautifully designed, is completely custom. From the deck seal, to the perfect pip.
Leyline of Void and Blast Zone are two powerful cards found in the sideboard. These allow you to deal with the most popular decks in the format. For instance, Boros Pia has surged to 5.9 percentage of the winner’s metagame in the last month and is able to combine a quick clock with solid removal and draw.
Cartelago Playing Cards
Some cheaters mark their cards with invisible marks that allow them to identify the suit or value before flipping the card over. The markings can be concealed in a number of ways by bending the cards or applying invisible ink to the edges. Add crimps or bumps to the back of the cards.
They are used to assist cheats gain an advantage in games of chance, and in illusions. The cards are used to give players an advantage in gambling games. In a lot of places there is a possibility of cheating and unlawful.
Created by Franco Pascali, these cards are printed by the United States Playing Card Company on recycled Bicycle stock. The deck is accompanied by two-sided backers and a gaffed heart-shaped 8. Each deck has a secret system that can only be viewed and used by a few people.
DMC Elites
The DMC Elites is an ideal option if you’re seeking a card with markings that can be read easily from a distance. Markings are visible to magicians but are not visible to spectators. This makes them more efficient than coded decks, which require you to look at or squint at the cards to read them.
The Elites come with an optical marking system of high-quality that can be read in less than a second from up to 6 feet distance. They’re printed on legendary Bee stock – the world’s favourite – and come with standard faces that are able to stand up to hours of professional use.
Each deck comes with a lingua-neutral instructions card explaining the marking system. The deck also includes two customized DMC Jokers that feature a built-in card to reveal. Furthermore, a PDF booklet called Passports to Elites V5 introduces concepts of the deck and provides five effective effects that make the most of it.
White Lions Playing Cards
This deck’s simplicity is breathtaking. It’s a fantastic option to add to the White Lions collection. It’s the culmination of several years worth of ideas and has a wealth of secrets built into it, useful for magicians. It has a unique marking system that reads cards with just a glance. Although it will take some practice to become accustomed to reading the markings, it’s more straightforward than you expect.
The USPCC prints the markings on premium material that is then cut by hand. This allows for easy weaving during shuffles and allows decks to work with the majority of David Blaine’s tricks. Ondrej says in his instructional video he’ll teach the basics of handling and tips to assist you in presenting the deck without distraction. He shows you, for example, how to conceal the peek and play “Impossible Divination”. These are subtle handling touches which will make the deck feel less obviously marked in the event of playing.