FangShi Dreidel 3x3x3

FangShi Dreidel 3x3x3

At first glance, it looks like an ordinary 3x3 cube with a few extra cuts. But the FangShi Dreidel 3x3x3 is a shape mod from the LimCube line, FangShi's series of non-WCA puzzles. The Dreidel was the first model in this series. Besides the usual face turns, you can also rotate the corners together with the small pieces around them, along the curved cuts. With the right moves, the cube loses its cubic shape.

How the Dreidel mechanism works

A corner always turns by a multiple of 60°. After a 120° turn, the faces stay flat and the cube keeps its shape. Only the arrangement of the pieces changes. A 60° turn lines up the straight diagonal cuts with the 3x3 layers. Further face turns then start to separate and mix the small pieces. This is called jumbling. A well-scrambled Dreidel has little in common with a cube.

If you want to start more gently, you can turn the corners by 120° only. This version is noticeably easier, but it still requires a different way of thinking than a regular 3x3.

How it turns

Reviewers praise its precise build and smooth turning, especially given how complex the mechanism is. Catching and lockups mainly happen with incomplete moves or during corner turns and jumbling moves. Straight out of the box, the 3x3 part may squeak a little. This usually goes away after breaking the cube in or adding some lube. The Dreidel is not a speedsolving cube. It turns accurately and steadily, without being built for high TPS.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can comfortably solve a 3x3 and wants something completely different. Knowing 3x3 algorithms will help you solve the Dreidel, but with a full scramble that uses 60° turns, you will also have to work out for yourself how the small pieces behave. It also makes an interesting addition to any collection. For someone who is just learning to solve a 3x3, it will probably be too difficult to start with.

Specifications

• Type: shape-shifting puzzle (3x3x3 shape mod) with rotating corners
• Manufacturer: FangShi (LimCube series)
• Corner rotation: by multiples of 60°
• Size: 68 mm
• Weight: 184 g
• Body colour: black (Black)
• This cube is not allowed in WCA competitions