Calvins Puzzle TomZ Constrained Cube 90

Calvins Puzzle TomZ Constrained Cube 90

The TomZ Constrained Cube 90 from Calvins Puzzle looks like an ordinary 3x3 cube, and only after the first few moves do you see the catch. The faces are "constrained", meaning their range of rotation is limited: each face can only turn 90 degrees. The mechanism itself blocks any further movement, so the cube won't let you turn the faces freely the way a regular 3x3 does. This version is stickerless, in the bright colour scheme.

What makes it difficult

On a regular cube you can turn a face in either direction as many times as you like. Here each face has only two positions, so most of the algorithms you know from the 3x3 simply can't be performed. Some moves have to be rearranged or replaced with other sequences, and solving feels more like planning each step ahead than a fast solve from muscle memory. You have to work out the specific steps yourself, so position analysis matters here, not TPS.

The TomZ Constrained series also includes the 180, 270 and Ultimate versions, as well as Hybrid versions, in which only some of the layers are constrained. Buyers most often consider the 90 version the hardest in the whole series. One of them wrote that it took him several weeks to solve it. This version is usually tackled by people who have already solved other constrained cubes.

Who is it for?

For cubers who solve the 3x3 with ease and want to take on something that can't be solved with familiar algorithms. It's a great fit for fans of bandaged puzzles and other restricted-movement puzzles, as well as collectors of unusual mods. This is not a cube for beginners or for speedcubing. To start out, it's better to choose a regular 3x3 and then, if you like, a gentler version from the Constrained series.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Calvins Puzzle
• Series: TomZ Constrained Cube
• Type: 3x3 cube mod with limited face rotation
• Restriction: each face turns a maximum of 90 degrees
• Size: approx. 65.5 mm
• Weight: approx. 103 g (gross)
• Colour scheme: stickerless bright