SengSo Crazy 4x4 v2

SengSo Crazy 4x4 v2

From the outside it looks like a regular 4x4 cube, but there is a circular cut in the middle of each face. SengSo Crazy 4x4 v2 by ShengShou is a shape mod from the Crazy series. The ring in the centre of each face contains 12 pieces and does not turn together with the outer layer. After every face turn, some of its pieces stay in place, so the puzzle quickly stops looking like a classic 4x4.

What makes it difficult

You have several things to solve at once: a regular 4x4 cube and the circular parts in the middle of the faces, which move differently from the rest of the pieces. People who have solved this version compare this stage to solving a 2x2 cube hidden inside. Knowing a 4x4 method helps a lot, but it is not enough. You need to understand how the rings move relative to the layers and work out or learn a few extra sequences.

Crazy 4x4 v1, v2 or v3?

The versions in the series differ mainly in the number of pieces inside the circular cut:

• v1: 4 pieces in the circle, the gentlest introduction to the series,
• v2: 12 pieces, noticeably harder than v1,
• v3: 16 pieces and a different solving approach than v2.

People who have completed the whole series recommend solving v2 before moving on to v3. So v2 is the middle step: it demands much more than the first version, but it is not the hardest one yet.

Turning

This is not a speed cube, so there is no point judging it by TPS or corner cutting. The cube has no magnets, and according to user reviews it turns fairly heavily and a bit scratchily out of the box. It is better to turn it calmly and precisely. Lubing can improve the smoothness of the turns.

Who is it for?

For those who can confidently solve a 4x4 and want a puzzle where thinking things through matters more than speed. It is a great addition to a shape mod collection and a natural next step after Crazy 4x4 v1. For a first 4x4 cube, including one for a child, a classic model is a better choice.

Specifications

• Type: 4x4 shape mod from the Crazy series
• Manufacturer: ShengShou (SengSo)
• Manufacturer code: 7914A-3
• Circular cut: 12 pieces on each face
• Size: approx. 68 mm
• Weight: approx. 173 g
• Magnets: none
• Colour: stickerless bright