MF8 Son-Mum 3x3 (4x4 Inside)

MF8 Son-Mum 3x3 (4x4 Inside)

The MF8 Son-Mum 3x3 (4x4 Inside) is a mixup puzzle from the Son-Mum series. From the outside it looks like a classic 3x3 cube, but the middle part of each face holds a smaller, separately turning 4x4 structure. In practice, you are solving two cubes at once: the outer 3x3 and the inner 4x4. In some positions these two layers connect, so the cube can be scrambled in ways that are impossible on a regular 3x3.

How this cube works

In the first Son-Mum version, each center had a small 3x3 cube. Here the inside is a 4x4, which means a mechanism with an even number of layers. This part of the puzzle has no fixed centers, and while solving you may run into situations familiar from the 4x4, such as parity. As with most mixup cubes, the hardest moments are when pieces from the inner and outer parts move into the other structure. That is when you have to think of the cube as a whole, not as two separate puzzles.

A collector's cube, not a speed cube

The Son-Mum is not made for setting time records, and it makes no sense to judge it like a modern speedcubing cube. What matters here is not TPS or corner cutting, but the interesting design and the unusual solving. It is a typical example of the puzzles MF8 is known for: non-standard mechanisms, shape mods and mixup cubes for people who have already mastered the classic puzzles.

Who is it for?

This cube is a good choice for cubers who can comfortably solve the 3x3 and 4x4 and are looking for a new challenge, as well as for collectors of unusual puzzles. It is not suitable as a first cube. Without knowing methods for the 3x3 and 4x4, it is hard to handle.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: MF8
• Series: Son-Mum
• Type: mixup, 3x3 shape with an inner 4x4 structure
• Body color: black (Black)