Ghost Cube 

Ghost Cube: shape-shifting puzzles solved by shape

After the first turn, a Ghost Cube stops looking like a cube and turns into a solid with uneven edges. It is a shape mod in which the layer cuts have been shifted and set at different angles. That is why no two pieces of the classic Ghost Cube have the same shape. Usually all the faces are a single color, so you solve it by shape rather than by color. The original was designed by Adam G. Cowan in 2008. In this category you will find classic 3x3 Ghost Cubes as well as variants in other sizes.

How do you solve a Ghost Cube?

Inside, it uses a regular mechanism, so knowing a 3x3 method helps a lot. The challenge lies elsewhere. You have to identify each piece by its dimensions. The centers also have to be set in the correct orientation, and while you solve, the puzzle's appearance gives you no hint about what is already in place. Before you pick up a Ghost Cube, it is a good idea to be comfortable solving a regular 3x3. It will also be easier if you have already tackled a simpler shape mod, e.g. a Mirror cube.

Ghost Cube variants in our range

• Ghost Cube 3x3: YJ Ghost Cube and Ninja 3x3 Ghost Cube. The Ninja is available in an M version with stickers and with a Star pattern. The classic 3x3 is the best place to start your adventure with this type of puzzle.
• Ghost Cube 2x2: the FangShi 2x2 Ghost Cube applies the same principle to a smaller puzzle with fewer pieces. The Lee 2x2 Fisher Ghost Cube and Lee 2x2 Windmill Ghost Cube combine Ghost-style cuts with Fisher and Windmill modifications.
• 2x3x3 cuboids: Lee 2x3x3 Ghost Cube and Lee Crazy 2x3x3 Ghost Cube, i.e. shape-shifting cuboids with two layers on one axis.
• Ghost Cube 4x4 and 5x5: Lee models built on the mechanism of standard 4x4 and 5x5 cubes. They have many more pieces, and solving them requires knowledge of big cube methods. They are intended for experienced solvers and collectors.

What to keep in mind when choosing

Lee puzzles are handmade. 3D-printed shells are glued onto a regular cube, and these give the puzzle its irregular shape. They are puzzles for relaxed solving and collecting rather than fast turning. It is best to turn them smoothly and without jerking, especially when they are heavily scrambled. The YJ and Ninja 3x3 Ghost Cubes are mass-produced, so they are an easier starting point if you just want to find out whether this type of puzzle suits you. No Ghost Cube is meant for setting speed records. The satisfaction here comes from figuring out which piece fits where.