MoYu Luban Magnetic Cube

MoYu Luban Magnetic Cube

MoYu Luban Magnetic Cube, also sold as Luban Lock or MeiLong Luban, is the size of a classic 3x3 cube, but it isn't a twisty puzzle. There are no layers to turn. Instead, you take the cube apart and have to put it back together into a cube shape. The pieces connect with magnets, and each colour is a single piece, so you can see right away where one block ends and the next begins.

How it works

The real challenge starts once the cube is taken apart. The pieces have different shapes and only fit together in specific orientations, so you need to think spatially and test one arrangement after another. Algorithms and speedcubing methods won't help you here. What counts is imagination and patience. Some people compare this puzzle to the classic Soma cube. Besides the cube, you can also build other shapes from the same pieces.

What the magnets do

In regular block puzzles, the pieces are held together only by friction and gravity, so an unfinished build falls apart easily. Here, the blocks attract each other with magnets. Assembled sections don't slide apart, so you can calmly turn the shape in your hands and try adding the next piece.

Who is it for?

For cubers who want a break from twisty puzzles and would like to try a different kind of challenge, and for collectors of unusual MoYu puzzles. It also makes a great gift for kids who love building blocks and spatial puzzles, since no algorithms are needed. Keep in mind that this is not a speedcube and it is not allowed in official WCA competitions.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic assembly puzzle (Luban Lock)
• Manufacturer: MoYu
• Size: 56 mm
• Weight: approx. 66.3 g
• Piece connection: magnetic
• Colour scheme: Stickerless Bright (each piece in a different colour)
• Release year: 2020
• Official WCA competitions: no