DianSheng Twisted 2x2 Metalic

DianSheng Twisted 2x2 Metalic

DianSheng Twisted 2x2 Metalic is a shape-shifting 2x2 cube, also known as a shape mod. The mechanism and solving method are the same as on a classic 2x2 cube. The difference is the outer shape: after a few moves the puzzle no longer looks like a cube and starts to twist into irregular forms. This version has a shiny metallic finish and comes in four colors: Blue, Silver, Red and Purple.

What makes it challenging

If you can solve a regular 2x2, you can solve the Twisted 2x2 too, because the algorithms are the same. Recognizing the pieces is the hard part. In the metallic version the whole cube is a single color, so instead of following sticker colors you have to track the shapes of the pieces. At first this takes quite a while, even for people who solve a regular 2x2 fast. Along the way, practice teaches you to look at the cube in a different way.

Mechanism and turning

Inside there is a speedcubing mechanism rather than a simple toy mechanism, so the cube turns smoothly even when it is heavily scrambled out of shape. The manufacturer used concave contact surfaces between the pieces (anti-stick concave). They are designed to reduce friction and help the lube stay in the mechanism longer. Still, the Twisted 2x2 is above all a brain teaser and a collector's piece, not a cube for setting speed records.

Metalic, Classic or Transparent?

The Twisted 2x2 comes in several finishes that differ only in appearance. The Metalic version has a glossy, shimmering surface and looks great on a shelf. It feels more slippery when turning than regular matte plastic, and fingerprints are more visible on the glossy surface.

Who is it for?

For cubers who already know the regular 2x2 and want to try something different, and for collectors of shape-shifting puzzles. It also makes a great gift for a child who can already solve a classic cube. For a very first cube, a standard 2x2 with colored sides is a better choice.

Specifications

• Type: shape-shifting 2x2 cube (shape mod)
• Manufacturer: DianSheng
• Size: 55 mm
• Weight: approx. 51 g
• Finish: metallic, glossy
• Colors: Blue, Silver, Red, Purple