Master of Illusion does a great job of creatively using Nintendo's handheld. Certain tricks ask the performer to draw a face, whose eyes become animated and look in the direction of an audience member. Other times, the DS speaks the name of a card that's seemingly unknown to the system, magician, and audience. Or the performer may say commands into the DS for other surprises. The game also charts progress, unlocking new tricks and activities with more practice.

Specific tricks seem aimed at kids about 10 to 13 years-old. They'll mostly impress a younger sibling, but parents could be fooled by a few. The first time a magician sees a trick, each step is explained with a clear storyboard pane. Many tricks work by the performer secretly communicating with the DS. A subtle button push or the manner in which an item is drawn guide the handheld through the final reveal.

I hope that creative magicians will eventually figure out ways to perform without the handheld. I just wish the game offered that outright, analog goal. There's something more magical about a simple deck of cards, set of coins, cups, or other accessible props. But even with the DS requirement, Master of Illusion looks like a fun way to begin learning and performing tricks.