Calvins Puzzle 3x3 Double Cube II

Calvins Puzzle 3x3 Double Cube II

Calvins Puzzle 3x3 Double Cube II is two 3x3 cubes permanently joined into a single puzzle. The two cubes share a 1x2x3 block, a section that belongs to both of them at the same time. It's a shape mod from the Double Cube family by Calvin's Puzzle. This isn't a cube for speedsolving. It's a puzzle for anyone who already knows the regular 3x3 and wants a new problem to crack.

What makes it challenging

Every layer turn that passes through the shared block changes the state of both cubes at once. On top of that, the connection means some turns are blocked. Which moves you can make depends on the current position of the pieces. So you can't solve one cube and then the other without paying attention to the first. You have to plan the order and often find a roundabout way to make a move you'd do straight away on a regular 3x3.

In version II, the connection restricts movement more than in version I, which is why it's usually considered the harder one. Buyers often say the puzzle turned out to be harder than they expected. Once you work out your own method, though, later solves go more smoothly. Some people also mention that the cube needed a bit of adjustment to turn more comfortably.

Double Cube versions

Calvin's Puzzle makes several variants of this puzzle that differ in how the cubes are joined. Versions II and III are the ones most often compared. Version III (Fused) shares a 2x2x2 block, while version II shares a 1x2x3 block, so each one calls for a different solving approach.

Who is it for?

For people who can solve the 3x3 on their own and understand well how the pieces move. It will also appeal to collectors of shape mods and bandaged puzzles. If you only know algorithms from a tutorial, you may struggle at first, because standard sequences can't always be performed here. For a child's first cube, a regular 3x3 is a better choice.

Specifications

• Type: shape mod puzzle, two joined 3x3 cubes
• Manufacturer: Calvin's Puzzle
• Shared part: 1x2x3 block
• Weight: approx. 174 g
• Colour versions: Black (black body) and Stickerless Bright