DianSheng Dual Octahedron Ball Core

DianSheng Dual Octahedron Ball Core

DianSheng Dual Octahedron Ball Core is a magnetic puzzle with a shape close to an octahedron, built on a 3x3 cube mechanism. Inside, it uses the same type of mechanism as speed cubes. It has a full magnetic system with magnets in the pieces and Ball-Core, meaning magnets between the corners and the core. This makes it more than a decorative shape mod: the puzzle is also suitable for fast solving.

How it solves

Inside, it is a regular 3x3 with the same corners, edges and centers. Only the outer shape changes. If you can solve a classic cube, you can solve this puzzle with your own method. First, though, you need to get used to holding it at a different angle and recognizing the pieces in an unusual shape. At the start, that is basically the only challenge. After that, you solve it just like a regular cube.

The magnets in the pieces give a clear "click" as the layers line up. Ball-Core also stabilizes the cube during faster turning and helps the layers settle back into place. According to the manufacturer, the cube has generous corner cutting, so it forgives turns that are not perfectly aligned. The pieces rest on a continuous internal track, and the edges have torpedoes that protect against popping.

Technologies

• 64 magnets in a full magnetic system (magnets in the pieces and Ball-Core)
• Ball-Core: magnets between the corners and the core that stabilize the layers and help them settle back into place
• Continuous internal track: the feet of the corners and edges interlock into a full ring that supports every move
• "Turtle shell" pattern on the contact surfaces that reduces friction and holds lube
• Anti-pop torpedoes in the edges

Color versions

Two variants are available: Stickerless Bright with bright, colorful pieces and Transparent with see-through colored pieces. The mechanism is the same in both versions. They differ only in appearance, and the transparent version lets you see what is happening inside.

Who is it for?

For anyone who already solves the 3x3 and wants something different from yet another classic cube. The Dual Octahedron is also a good first shape mod, because you do not need to learn any new algorithms. It is a great fit for puzzle collectors, as well as for speedcubers who want a fast cube outside the WCA categories. If you cannot solve a 3x3 yet, start with a regular cube.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic puzzle, 3x3-based shape mod
• Manufacturer: DianSheng
• Size: approx. 85 mm
• Weight: approx. 69 g
• Magnets: 64 (magnets in the pieces + Ball-Core)
• Finish: matte (frosted), stickerless
• Variants: Stickerless Bright, Transparent