Calvins Puzzle TomZ Constrained Cube 180

Calvins Puzzle TomZ Constrained Cube 180

At first glance, it looks like an ordinary 3x3 cube with slightly larger centers. After the first few moves, though, you'll notice that the TomZ Constrained Cube 180 from Calvins Puzzle works differently. Each of the six faces can only turn within a 180-degree range. You can turn a face a quarter or a half turn, but then it has to come back the same way. You can't spin it all the way around. This is a puzzle from the constrained cubes family, not a speedcubing cube.

How the restriction works

The puzzle was designed by Tom van der Zanden, the "TomZ" in the name. Face movement is limited by a mechanism hidden in the center, based on a gear mounted on the core. All pieces are in their usual places, so this isn't bandaging, yet some moves are still unavailable. The large centers are meant to show which way and how far a given face can still be turned. This way, you can see right away which moves are possible in the current position.

How to solve it

The goal is the same as on a classic 3x3: each face must be a single color. Knowing a standard method helps, because many algorithms can still be used once you add setup moves. The hard part is planning your moves. An algorithm that works fine on a regular cube can get stuck here because one of the faces has already reached the end of its range. According to user reviews, the 180 version is noticeably harder than a regular 3x3, but not as frustrating as the Constrained Cube 90, which is considered the hardest in the series. Some people also point out that certain faces turn rather stiffly. This is a cube for calm thinking, not for TPS.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can solve a 3x3 and is looking for a new challenge without learning a completely new puzzle. It's also a great first encounter with constrained cubes before moving on to the 90 or Ultimate version. If you're just starting out, it's better to get a regular 3x3 cube first.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 cube with restricted face turning (constrained cube)
• Manufacturer: Calvins Puzzle
• Design: Tom van der Zanden (TomZ)
• Restriction: all 6 faces turn within a 180° range
• Body color: black
• Dimensions (measured by the shop): approx. 6.3 x 6.16 x 6.1 cm