Z-Cube Poker

Poker 3x3: a cube with playing card colors

Poker is a classic 3x3 cube with a playing card theme. It has a standard 3x3 mechanism, but instead of matching face colors, you solve it by matching the pieces by card colors. The moves, algorithms and methods are the same as on a regular cube. The only difference is what you need to recognize on the pieces. If you have solved a regular cube a few times, you will quickly notice the difference: card symbols take longer to recognize than plastic colors, so you need to look more carefully at the corners and edges.

How it turns

The cube measures about 57 mm, the standard size for a 3x3, and weighs about 73 g, so it feels in your hand much like a typical 3x3. The tension is adjusted with screws: tighten them to make the cube more stable, or loosen them for lighter turning. This is not a speedcube, though. The mechanism is designed mainly for enjoyable solving of the theme, not for breaking records.

Who is it for?

For people who can already solve a regular 3x3 and are looking for something different. Recognizing symbols instead of colors is good practice in carefully observing the pieces. The cube also makes a great gift for someone who enjoys card games, or an interesting addition to a puzzle collection. To learn solving from scratch or to train for speed, it is better to choose a regular 3x3 magnetic cube. Poker is not allowed in official competitions.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 cube with a playing card theme
• Color version: Stickerless Bright
• Size: approx. 57 mm
• Weight: approx. 73 g
• Adjustment: tension adjustment screws
• Release year: 2015
• Allowed in official competitions: no
• In the box: puzzle