Calvins Puzzle Evgeniy Button Cube (2-Holes, 1/4)

Calvins Puzzle Evgeniy Button Cube (2-Holes, 1/4)

Evgeniy Button Cube (2-Holes, 1/4) from Calvins Puzzle is a puzzle for those who have already mastered the classic 3x3 and are looking for something different. Underneath is a regular 3x3 mechanism with a wide middle layer. Round buttons stick out of every face, and they rotate too. The design comes from Evgeniy Grigoriev, known for many unusual puzzles. The Button Cube concept itself is older: it was invented by Tim Selkirk.

How the Button Cube works

Each face has two holes with buttons. A button can only be turned when all of its parts form a complete circle. When the cube is scrambled, you have to reassemble and solve the buttons together with the rest of the cube. Their position also determines which moves are possible at any given moment. You need to solve them just like the pieces of the cube itself, not just give them a twist at the end.

1/4 version vs 1/2 version

In this version each button is divided into four parts (quarters), which get spread around the cube as you turn the layers. In the 1/2 version a button consists of two halves. This can block some moves, so the cube behaves similarly to a bandaged puzzle. According to available descriptions, the 1/4 version has no such blockages and can be turned regardless of the button positions. On the other hand, more pieces get scrambled and there is more to solve. If you prefer a puzzle where you have to look for allowed moves, the 1/2 version is the better choice. If you want complete freedom of turning and an extra layer to solve, go for the 1/4.

Things to keep in mind

This is not a speedcubing cube, and there is no point in judging it by TPS or corner cutting. It is best turned calmly, aligning the buttons before each move. The small button parts can fall out during aggressive turning. Some users also report that the caps on the buttons come off and glue them back on. Keep this in mind, especially when buying the cube for a younger child.

Who is it for?

For collectors of unusual puzzles and cubers who want a challenge after the 3x3 and similar modifications. It is not suitable as a first cube: without knowing 3x3 solving methods, it will be hard to solve.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Calvins Puzzle
• Designer: Evgeniy Grigoriev
• Type: 3x3 with rotating buttons
• Buttons: 2 on each face, divided into 4 parts
• Size: approx. 60 mm
• Weight: approx. 140 g
• Body colour: black