DianSheng Blade

DianSheng Blade

The DianSheng Blade is a 3x3 cube shape mod. Inside, it runs on a regular 3x3 mechanism, but the pieces have completely different shapes. When solved, the cube looks like a pointed, truncated cube with faces that resemble parallelograms. Two opposite corners are noticeably sharpened, which is where the name "Blade" comes from. You can choose between a version with black or white plastic.

How do you solve it?

The axes of rotation are not placed symmetrically to the shape, so the cube changes its form after every move. Once scrambled, it looks like a random shape with pieces sticking out. In terms of logic, it is still a classic 3x3: the same methods and algorithms apply. If you can solve a regular cube, you can solve the Blade too. The challenge lies elsewhere. The pieces come in different shapes and sizes, which makes them harder to tell apart, and after scrambling it is not immediately clear which piece is which.

Mechanism and turning

The internal design is simple, without magnets, and it works well for this type of modification. Even so, this is not a speedcube. Turning is decent, but corner cutting is practically non-existent. You need to align the layers carefully before every move, otherwise you will get lockups and catching. The sharp edges of the pieces also make catching more likely. Adjustment screws let you set the tension. If the cube is too loose, the layers can shift on their own, and if it is too tight, it turns more heavily, so it is worth finding a setting in between. The cube weighs approx. 110 g.

Who is it for?

For those who can already solve a 3x3 and are looking for a different challenge, and for shape mod collectors. Once solved, it also looks great on a shelf. This is not a cube for speedsolving: the Blade is not allowed in official competitions, and its mechanism is not suited for fast solving. If you are buying it for a child, keep in mind the two sharp corners.

The set includes:

1. the puzzle