QiYi Coin Tetrahedron Pyraminx

QiYi Coin Tetrahedron Pyraminx

QiYi Coin Tetrahedron Pyraminx is a tetrahedral puzzle that looks like a classic Pyraminx from the outside but works differently. In the middle of each face there is a round disc (the "coin") that you can turn independently of the rest. On top of that, the puzzle also turns around its corners. The mechanism is similar to the Ivy Cube: the leaf-shaped pieces on the discs have to line up with the corners before a corner can be turned. The puzzle was designed by Kevin Uhrik and is manufactured by QiYi.

How it solves

To scramble the puzzle, you combine two types of moves: turns of the face discs and turns of the corners. The puzzle is fairly intuitive and doesn't require learning long algorithms. Many people who don't solve cubes figure it out on their own after a few attempts. In reviews, users praise the smooth turning right out of the box. You do need to keep an eye on the disc alignment, though: if the "leaves" aren't lined up with the corners, the corner won't turn. After a few minutes it becomes second nature.

Tension adjustment

Inside there are adjustment screws, so you can set the tension to your liking: looser for faster, freer turning, or tighter if you prefer a more solid-feeling mechanism.

Who is it for?

The Coin Tetrahedron works well as a break from the 3x3 and Pyraminx, or as a first step towards shape-mod puzzles. The simple solving method and the included instructions make it a good gift for a child or for someone who is just getting started with puzzles. It's not a competition puzzle. The Coin Tetrahedron is not allowed in official WCA competitions, so if you're training Pyraminx for competitions, choose the classic model.

Colour versions

• Black: black body with stickers.
• Stickerless Bright: coloured stickerless plastic that won't wear off over time.

Specifications

• Type: tetrahedral puzzle (Pyraminx mod), non-magnetic
• Manufacturer: QiYi
• Size: approx. 80 mm
• Weight: approx. 74 g
• Tension adjustment: adjustment screws
• Official WCA competitions: no
• Included: puzzle, solving instructions