Monster Go Standard 2x2x2

Monster Go Standard 2x2x2

Monster Go is a budget brand that GAN created with beginners in mind. The Monster Go Standard 2x2x2 is the first 2x2 cube in this series. It's a simple, non-magnetic 51 mm 2x2 cube made of frosted, coloured plastic in a stickerless version. It works well as your first 2x2 or as a warm-up before learning to solve the 3x3.

How it turns

A 2x2 cube has only 8 corners and about 3.6 million possible positions. That makes it much easier than a 3x3, so learning doesn't get discouraging as quickly. The Monster Go has no magnets, so the layers don't "snap" into place and you have to align the faces yourself. That's no problem at all for your first steps, but for faster turning a magnetic cube gives you more control.

According to user reviews, the mechanism resembles the older GAN 251. The feel is more crunchy than smooth, and less precise moves can cause slight lockups. That's normal for a cube in this price range. It still turns noticeably better than typical 2x2 cubes from toy shops.

Build and tension adjustment

• Stickerless: the colours are in the plastic, so there are no stickers that could peel off or wear away.
• Frosted surface: it isn't shiny and doesn't collect fingerprints like glossy plastic does.
• GES nuts: GAN's system for setting the tension. In this cube the nuts are fixed and can't be swapped like in more expensive GAN models.
• Safe plastic: according to the manufacturer, the material contains no phthalates or lead.

Who is it for?

The Monster Go 2x2 makes the most sense for a child (the manufacturer recommends it for ages 6+) or an adult who is just learning to solve and doesn't want to spend more right away. Parents get a decent cube from the GAN family without paying extra for features a beginner wouldn't use anyway. If you already know a method and are starting to time your solves, a magnetic 2x2 cube is a better choice. Magnets help keep the cube stable at high TPS, and such models also offer more adjustment options.

Specifications

• Type: 2x2x2 cube, non-magnetic
• Manufacturer: GAN (Monster Go brand)
• Dimensions: 51 x 51 x 51 mm
• Weight: approx. 56 g
• Colour scheme: stickerless bright
• Surface: frosted
• Adjustment: tension set with GES nuts (not swappable)
• Recommended age: 6+