MoYu Meilong Puppet 2 3x3x3

MoYu Meilong Puppet 2 3x3x3

From one side, it looks like an ordinary 2x2 cube. But just a few moves are enough to reveal pieces you couldn't see before. MoYu Meilong Puppet 2 3x3x3 is a shape-shifting puzzle that combines a 2x2 cube with a 3x3 cube. Inside, it runs on a 3x3 mechanism, but some of the pieces are joined together (bandaged) and come in different sizes, and the core is offset. Once scrambled, the cube loses its cubic shape, and solving it means restoring both the colors and the original form.

What makes it challenging

The bandaged pieces block some moves, so not every layer can turn at any given moment. On top of that, there are hidden pieces that only show up while you're solving. Knowing how to solve a 3x3 helps you understand what's going on inside, but standard methods won't be enough, and you'll have to do a lot of thinking on your own. Many buyers admit that solving it took them longer than they expected.

Puppet 1 or Puppet 2?

MoYu has released two versions of the Puppet Cube. According to user reviews, the first one has more bandaged pieces and is considered harder. Puppet 2 is still challenging, but easier to get into. That's why it's better to start with Puppet 2 if this is your first puzzle of this kind.

How it turns

Reviewers praise Puppet 2 for its smooth turning and decent corner cutting for a cube in this category. The mechanism has adjustment screws, so you can set the tension to suit you. Some people report popping during aggressive turning, so it's best to turn it calmly and tighten the screws if the setup feels loose. The cube is not allowed in official WCA competitions. It's a puzzle for your collection and for figuring out on your own, not for chasing times.

Who is it for?

For people who can already solve a 3x3 and want something that can't be solved with memorized algorithms. Puppet 2 also works well as a first more serious shape-shifting puzzle or as another addition to a collection of unusual cubes. For a child's first cube, a classic 3x3 is a better choice.

Specifications

• Type: shape-shifting puzzle, bandaged 3x3 (a combination of 2x2 and 3x3)
• Manufacturer: MoYu (Meilong series)
• Size: 56.5 mm
• Weight: 66 g
• Adjustment: adjustment screws
• Color: Stickerless Bright
• Release year: 2020
• Allowed in WCA competitions: no