The Shell Game

The Shell Game is a classic street illusion where a small object, like a ball or pea, is hidden under one of three cups or shells. The performer swiftly shuffles the cups to confuse observers, challenging them to track the location of the hidden item. While it appears simple, it often involves sleight of hand techniques to secretly move or hide the object, making it difficult to follow and often resulting in the spectator being misled about the true location. The game relies on deception, quick movements, and perceptual trickery.