MF8 Skewby 2x2 Octahedron

MF8 Skewby 2x2 Octahedron

MF8 Skewby 2x2 Octahedron is an octahedron-shaped puzzle in which MF8 has combined two well-known mechanisms: the 2x2 cube and the Skewb. The same shape turns in both systems. You can make a 2x2-style move, then a Skewb-style move, and the pieces mix with each other. This model belongs to the group of shape mods and unusual twisty puzzles. It is not meant for timed speedcubing.

How this hybrid works

On a regular 2x2 cube you turn layers, while on a Skewb you turn the puzzle around a corner. Here you get both types of moves at once. Both kinds of cuts go through the centre of the puzzle, so every turn moves half of it. That is why the puzzle gets heavily scrambled after just a few moves, and the shape itself looks completely different from the cube you know.

If you can already solve the 2x2 and the Skewb, you will find it easier to understand how the pieces move. However, you can't transfer a ready-made method one to one, because you need to work out how the two mechanisms affect each other. That is exactly where the difficulty comes from, not from a large number of pieces.

Build

The puzzle is made of ABS plastic and comes in a black variant. Speedcubing shops list the MF8 Skewby 2x2 Octahedron as a non-magnetic model. It also has no tension adjustment system known from speed cubes, so you get it with the factory setup. As with many unusual puzzles, lube will come in handy if the turning feels too dry straight out of the box.

Who is it for?

For a cuber who already knows the standard cubes and is looking for something different from yet another 3x3. It is also a great fit for someone who collects unusual puzzles and appreciates an unusual shape on the shelf. It is a good choice for anyone who enjoys figuring out a mechanism on their own. For a child's first puzzle with no experience, it is better to choose a classic 2x2 cube or a Skewb and come back to this model later.

Specifications

• Type: octahedron-shaped puzzle, 2x2 and Skewb hybrid
• Manufacturer: MF8
• Magnets: none
• Material: ABS
• Weight: approx. 175 g
• Colour: black (Black)