Calvins Puzzle Standard World Map 3x3 Cube

Calvins Puzzle Standard World Map 3x3 Cube

Calvins Puzzle World Map 3x3 is a cube that shows a world map instead of six colors. Mechanically, it's a regular 3x3 without magnets. The difference is what you see on the faces: instead of matching colors, you recreate the layout of the continents and oceans. A bit of geography knowledge really comes in handy.

How to solve a world map cube

The method is the same as for a regular 3x3, but it's harder to find your way around. On a colored cube, you can see right away where each piece belongs. Here, you have to look for map fragments that fit together into a whole. The image spans the entire face, so it's not just about whether a piece is on the right face, but also whether its part of the map lines up with its neighbors. Even someone who knows the 3x3 well will solve this cube more slowly and with more concentration.

This cube is not meant for speedcubing. It has no magnets or tension adjustment, and opinions on how it turns are mixed: some people say it turns smoothly, others find it rather rough. Lubing it can improve the turning a little, but don't expect it to perform like a modern magnetic cube.

Standard version vs. Flag version

Calvins Puzzle also makes a second version of this cube, the World Map 3x3 Flag. On that one, each country is shown with its flag. The Standard version you see on this page has classic map graphics without flags. The mechanism and size of both versions are practically the same; only the print on the faces differs.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can already solve a 3x3 and wants something different from yet another faster model. It also makes a great gift for someone who enjoys puzzles and geography, or a decoration for a desk or a collection shelf. For your first cube to learn on, it's better to choose a classic colored 3x3, as it makes it easier to understand how algorithms work.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 cube with world map graphics
• Manufacturer: Calvins Puzzle
• Version: Standard (no flags)
• Size: approx. 57 mm
• Weight: approx. 60 g
• Magnets: none
• Variant: Stickerless Bright