David pitcher's Andromeda Dodecahedron

David Pitcher's Andromeda Dodecahedron

Designed by David Pitcher, this puzzle builds on the idea behind his earlier Andromeda Cube. The Andromeda Cube is based on the geometry of the pentagonal icositetrahedron and has 24 axes of rotation. The Andromeda Dodecahedron is a dodecahedron built on the geometry of the pentagonal hexecontahedron, so it has 60 axes of rotation. It is a collector's puzzle from the jumbling puzzle family, not a speedcubing cube.

What makes it difficult

Every move on this puzzle is a jumbling move. A turn doesn't move pieces into fixed positions, as on a Megaminx. Instead, it changes the arrangement of the cuts and the entire geometry of the shape. After a few moves, the shapes and positions of the pieces are no longer symmetrical, and some turns become impossible.

This is the original bandaged version. Overlapping cuts can block further moves, so you have to plan every sequence carefully to avoid getting stuck. There are practically no ready-made algorithms to learn. You solve it through analysis, experimentation and your own sequences (commutators and conjugates).

Andromeda Dodecahedron vs. the Plus version

There is also an Andromeda Dodecahedron Unbandaged version, also sold as the Plus. It has additional cuts that reduce the bandaging. Thanks to them, the pieces next to the face centers can swap places with the corners. The Plus therefore allows more moves, but it is also harder. The version described here is the basic bandaged variant. Its movement restrictions are part of the challenge.

Who is it for?

For experienced puzzlers and collectors of unusual puzzles who can already solve shape mods and other jumbling puzzles. If you know the Andromeda Cube, you'll find a similar idea here in a much more complex form. For a first puzzle, a gift for a child or practicing your times, a classic Megaminx is a better choice.

Specifications

• Designer: David Pitcher
• Type: dodecahedron, jumbling puzzle (bandaged version)
• Geometry: pentagonal hexecontahedron, 60 axes of rotation
• Magnets: none
• Color variant: Primary