Predict-Tac-Toe by Richard Osterlind presented by Simone Turkington

Predict-Tac-Toe is a classic prediction effect with a simple game everyone is familiar with. Using what seems like an ordinary game of Tic-Tac-Toe you can predict the future, show a very strong coincidence, or even control the mind of your opponent. Originally created by Richard Osterlind, and now presented by Simone Turkington, this is Predic-Tac-Toe.

Here’s what happens:

You propose a simple game of Tic-Tac-Toe with one of your spectators. You make the first move, and after that your friendly opponent is free to make any move they want. After a spirited game you come to a draw. That’s when you allow them to open an envelope that has been sitting out in the open the entire time. Inside is a photograph with a prediction of the exact outcome of the game. They can keep the photograph and the game, because everything is examinable.