Calvins Puzzle TomZ Constrained Cube Ultimate

Calvins Puzzle TomZ Constrained Cube Ultimate

At first glance, it looks like an ordinary 3x3 cube with a black body. The difference shows up on the very first turn. The TomZ Constrained Cube Ultimate by Calvins Puzzle is a constrained puzzle: a 3x3 cube whose faces can only turn through a limited angle. It was designed by Tom van der Zanden from the Netherlands. The Ultimate is the most varied version in the series, because each pair of faces has a different restriction.

How the restrictions work

The centers turn around a toothed piece mounted on the core. This piece stops a face once it goes past its allowed angle. The cube is not bandaged: every piece moves independently, and only the turning range of the faces is limited. On the Ultimate version, it works like this:

• two opposite faces turn only 90° in one direction and back,
• two other opposite faces turn 180° in one direction and back,
• one face turns freely,
• one face is completely locked.

In practice, algorithms from a standard 3x3 are of little use here. Most standard sequences need moves this cube won't let you make, so you have to find solutions within the allowed face positions.

How hard is the Constrained Cube Ultimate?

Opinions vary. Some sellers describe it as a very difficult puzzle. On the other hand, some users find it easier to solve at times than the Constrained Cube 180, because the locked face reduces the number of possible states. Either way, it's a different kind of challenge from a regular cube: what counts is planning your moves, not speed. The cube can be fairly stiff straight out of the box.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can solve a 3x3 and wants a puzzle that makes them think about moves in a different way. It's also a great pick for collectors of 3x3 mods and fans of the TomZ series. This is not a cube for speedcubing or for learning your first algorithms. If you're just starting out, a regular 3x3 is a better choice.

Specifications

• Type: constrained 3x3 cube (restricted face turns)
• Manufacturer: Calvins Puzzle
• Designer: Tom van der Zanden (TomZ)
• Restrictions: 2 faces at 90°, 2 faces at 180°, 1 face with full rotation, 1 face locked
• Body color: black
• Material: plastic