Calvins Puzzle TomZ Constrained Cube 90 & 333 Hybrid

Calvins Puzzle TomZ Constrained Cube 90 & 333 Hybrid

At first glance, it looks like an ordinary stickerless 3x3 cube. After a few moves, though, you notice that two faces won't turn further than 90 degrees. The TomZ Constrained Cube 90 & 333 Hybrid by Calvins Puzzle is part of the Constrained Cube series. In this puzzle, the rotation range of some faces is mechanically limited, while the rest work just like on a classic 3x3. It's not a speedcubing cube but a logic puzzle for people who can already solve a 3x3 and want to try something different.

How does the constraint work?

Each of the two constrained faces has only two positions, a quarter turn apart. You can turn it 90 degrees and back, but it won't make a 180-degree turn or two moves in the same direction. That's why most standard algorithms won't work without changes. You have to plan your moves so the constrained faces stay within their allowed range and do most of the work on the free layers. The centers are deliberately large, so it's easy to see which faces are locked.

Don't force a constrained face once it reaches the end of its range. The lock is part of the mechanism, and resistance means you need to change the order of your moves.

Construction

• Body from the Dayan Bermuda Cube
• Locking mechanism in the core taken from the mf8 Crazy 3x3
• Constraining centers designed by TomZ
• The series was created in collaboration between Dayan (Mr. Bao), TomZ and HK Now Store

Constrained Cube versions

The hybrid series comes in four variants: 90, 180 and 270 (each with two constrained faces) and mixed with three constrained faces. There are also full Constrained Cube versions in which all six faces are constrained. In the 90 & 333 Hybrid, only two faces are locked and four turn normally. This makes it an easier way into this type of puzzle than starting straight away with a cube constrained on every face.

Who is it for?

For cubers who understand how algorithms work on a 3x3 and enjoy solving by trial and error instead of repeating memorized sequences. It also makes a great addition to a collection of unusual puzzles. It won't work as a child's first cube. However, if your child can already solve a 3x3 confidently, it can be an interesting next challenge.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 puzzle with constrained face rotation, hybrid version
• Manufacturer: Calvins Puzzle
• Constraint: 2 faces with rotation limited to 90 degrees, the other 4 unrestricted
• Mechanism: Dayan Bermuda Cube body, core lock from the mf8 Crazy 3x3
• Material: ABS plastic
• Color scheme: stickerless bright