The Magic 9 ball is a popular toy and fortune-telling device that has been entertaining and providing guidance to people for decades. It is a mystical, round-shaped ball, typically black in color, with a window containing a white 8 ball inside. The ball is filled with a liquid substance that suspends a small 20-sided die with responses to different questions and situations. The concept behind the Magic 9 ball is simple yet fascinating. When a person has a question or seeks advice, they can hold the ball in their hands, concentrate on their query, and then shake it vigorously. After the shaking, the 20-sided die will float to the surface and a response will be revealed through the window.
After the shaking, the 20-sided die will float to the surface and a response will be revealed through the window. The responses provided by the Magic 9 ball can range from positive affirmations to more ambiguous or negative outcomes. The answers are often presented in the form of short phrases or sentences, such as "Yes," "No," "Outlook not so good," or "Ask again later.
Where Did the Idea for the Magic 8 Ball Come From?
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Select Citation Style Copy Citation Share Share Share to social media Written by Cydney GrannanCydney Grannan was an Editorial Intern at Encyclopædia Britannica. She received her B.A. in English from the University of Chicago in 2016.
Cydney Grannan Fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaEncyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica © kropic/FotoliaIn the U.S., fortune-telling novelty toys such as the sleepover classic Ouija Board and the tiny red Fortune Teller Fish were huge hits in the second half of the 20th century. One of the most-popular such items among kids and adults was the Magic 8 Ball. Other than its being a pivotal and dangerous ball in the billiard game of Eight Ball, however, it may seem a mystery as to why the Magic 8 Ball was the object chosen to be a clairvoyant party favorite.
The story behind the Magic 8 Ball is actually kind of random. The Magic 8 Ball was developed as a promotional product commissioned by Chicago’s Brunswick Billiards company. Brunswick was attracted to a short-lived Alabe Crafts product called the Crystal Ball, which wasn’t selling very well and had the same spherical exterior, dark blue liquid, and dice with responses to yes-or-no questions.
The Crystal Ball wasn’t Alabe Crafts’ first attempt at a fortune-telling toy that was composed of dice in a dark blue liquid. The original idea for the toy’s predecessor is credited to Alfred Carter, whose mother was a clairvoyant. (She claimed that she could communicate with ghosts, including that of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.) The first rendition of the fortune-telling toy was the Syco-Seer: The Miracle Home Fortune Teller, patented in 1944 by Carter and his brother-in-law, Abe Bookman, who helped Carter with production and distribution. Together, Bookman and Carter developed Alabe Crafts. (“Alabe” was a mash-up of “Alfred” and “Abe.”) In 1946 the product developed into the more compact and cost-effective Syco-Slate: The Pocket Fortune Teller. Both of these toys had two dice in the traditional murky liquid.
When it became apparent that the Syco-Slate wasn’t performing that well, Bookman briefly tried presenting the product with a new crystal ball exterior, but this didn’t increase sales much. Luckily, Brunswick Billiards came along in 1950 with a proposition that turned into a popular novelty toy for decades to come. The Magic 8 Ball contains a 20-sided die with 10 positive answers, 5 negative answers, and 5 vague responses such as “Concentrate and ask again” and “Reply hazy, try again.” The answers on the white die are raised so that they can be visible when the die is pressed against the glass.
The Magic 8 Ball is now owned by Mattel, Inc., and as of 2012 still sold more than a million units per year. Will the Magic 8 Ball remain a popular novelty toy in the years to come? Signs point to yes.
" The intention behind the Magic 9 ball is not to predict the future with certainty but rather to offer guidance, provoke thought, and provide a form of entertainment. Many people find comfort and amusement in using the Magic 9 ball as a tool for decision-making or seeking advice. It offers a sense of mystery and curiosity, allowing individuals to engage in a playful exploration of possibilities. It is often used for fun at parties, gatherings, or as a conversation starter. If you are looking for a Magic 9 ball near you, chances are you can find one at a local toy store or novelty shop. They are relatively easy to find, as they have remained popular over the years. Additionally, the Magic 9 ball has also been adapted into digital versions, accessible through smartphone apps or websites. In conclusion, the Magic 9 ball is a beloved toy and fortune-telling device that has captivated people with its mystery and ability to provide answers and guidance. Whether used for decision-making or simply for entertainment, it continues to be a source of fascination and enjoyment for many..
Reviews for "Where to Purchase a Magic 9 Ball Near Me"
- Sarah - 1 star
I was really disappointed with the Magic 9 ball near me. First of all, the customer service was awful. The staff seemed so disinterested and unfriendly, making the whole experience unpleasant. Additionally, the answers provided by the Magic 9 ball were inaccurate most of the time. I found myself questioning its predictions and it just didn't live up to the hype. Definitely not worth the money.
- John - 2 stars
I had high hopes for the Magic 9 ball near me, but it turned out to be a letdown. The design of the ball itself was cheap and flimsy, not what I expected for the price I paid. And while it did provide a few accurate answers, most of the time it gave vague and generic responses that could apply to any situation. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable fortune-telling tool.
- Emily - 1 star
The Magic 9 ball near me was a complete waste of money. The responses it gave were completely random and had no correlation to the questions asked. It was frustrating and misleading, and I felt like I was just throwing my money away. Save yourself the disappointment and find a more reliable method of seeking answers to your questions.