Diansheng Magic Cube of Mouse

DianSheng Magic Cube of Mouse

DianSheng Magic Cube of Mouse is a 2x2 shape mod (also known among cubers as the Fly Mouse) with a shape that looks nothing like a cube. Underneath, it has a regular 2x2 mechanism. The cuts, however, are angled, so after a few moves the puzzle loses its shape and turns into an irregular form. The pieces come in only two colors, and the whole puzzle is stickerless, meaning it is made of colored plastic without stickers.

How to solve it

The method is the same as for a 2x2 cube, so the algorithms you already know are all you need. The difficulty comes from the shape. The pieces differ in size and form, and two colors give you fewer hints than six, so it is easy to get the orientation wrong and place a piece that only looks correctly solved. At first, you will rely mainly on the shape and only then on the color. The puzzle is non-magnetic. It turns well straight out of the box, and the tension can be adjusted with screws.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can already solve a 2x2 and wants to try something different without learning a new method. The Mouse works well as a first shape mod and as an interesting addition to a collection, because it is fairly simple for such an unusual shape. It makes a great gift for a child or an adult who knows the basics of solving cubes. It is no use at competitions, as it is not approved by the WCA. This is a puzzle for fun and collecting, not for setting times.

Specifications

• Type: 2x2 shape mod (shape-shifting puzzle)
• Manufacturer: DianSheng
• Release year: 2017
• Dimensions: approx. 89 x 59 x 35 mm
• Weight: approx. 59 g
• Color scheme: stickerless, pieces in two colors
• Magnets: none
• Adjustment: tension adjustment screws
• Approved for official WCA competitions: no
• In the box: puzzle