DianSheng two-layer SQ1

DianSheng two-layer SQ1: a Square-1 without the middle layer

At first glance, the DianSheng two-layer SQ1 looks like a classic Square-1, often simply called "Square" in the speedcubing community (from its shape). In fact, it only shares the name and the mechanism principle with the original. This is a two-layer modification (shape mod): the top and bottom layers with their wedge-shaped pieces remain, but the thin middle layer, which you hold during the slash (/) move on a regular SQ-1, is gone.

How it solves

Without the middle layer, the puzzle has no fixed part to keep everything steady in your hand while you turn the halves. As a result, turning is noticeably worse than on speedcubing Square-1 puzzles. During a slash, the halves can shift out of place, and you have to spend a moment aligning them before the move goes through at all. The top and bottom layers turn lightly, but this puzzle can't be used for timed solving. It has no magnets.

The solving method itself isn't complicated. Even so, most people who only know regular cubes will struggle with it on their first attempt, because the shape changes after just a few moves and can be quite confusing. If you can already solve a Square-1, you'll quickly notice that some steps are no longer needed, while the rest call for a slightly different way of thinking.

Who is it for?

Mainly for collectors of shape-shifting puzzles and for anyone who already owns a Square-1 and wants to try an unusual variation of it. It's an affordable addition to your collection and an interesting challenge for a few evenings. If you want to learn Square-1 or train for competitions, go for a full three-layer model instead.

Specifications

Type: two-layer Square-1 modification (shape mod)
Manufacturer: DianSheng
Size: approx. 63.5 mm
Magnets: none
Available versions: Black, Stickerless Bright, Stickerless Standard

In the box

1. the puzzle