FanXin mini Penrose Keychain

FanXin mini Penrose Keychain

A Penrose puzzle in keychain form. The FanXin mini Penrose Keychain is a small shape mod puzzle. It runs on a 3x3 mechanism and has a hanging strap, so you can attach it to your keys or backpack. It uses only three colors, and some of the piece edges are rounded. This creates a repeating pattern on the faces that references the famous "impossible" Penrose triangle. This version comes in the stickerless bright color scheme, so there are no stickers. The colors are in the plastic itself.

How to solve the Penrose

The moves are the same as on a regular 3x3 cube, and the mechanism doesn't change, so knowing any 3x3 method is a good starting point. The difficulty comes from the color scheme. There are only three colors for six faces, so many pieces look almost identical. Color alone is not enough. You also need to look at where each piece has its rounded edges. Because the pieces are so similar, you get extra parity cases that don't occur on a standard 3x3. Some cubers say the Penrose is a good way to learn to understand edge orientation.

A keychain, not a speedcube

This is a puzzle to carry with you and a gadget for cube fans, not a speedsolving tool. It has no magnets, no tension adjustment and not the feel you would expect from a speedcube. At such a small size, you turn it mostly with your fingertips. That's enough for a quick solve while traveling or waiting in line, but long sessions are more comfortable on a full-size Penrose 3x3.

Who is it for?

For those who can already solve a 3x3 and want to try a shape mod in a small form. For collectors of keychains and unusual puzzles. It also makes a nice small gift for a cuber. If your child is only just learning to solve, it's better to start with a classic 3x3 cube. Without knowing the basics, the Penrose can be more frustrating than fun.

Specifications

• Type: keychain, 3x3 shape mod (Penrose)
• Manufacturer: FanXin
• Color scheme: three colors, stickerless bright
• Mechanism: 3x3, moves like a classic cube
• Attachment: strap for keys or a backpack