SengSo FTO

SengSo FTO (ShengShou Face-Turning Octahedron)

SengSo FTO is an octahedron puzzle from ShengShou (SengSo is the manufacturer's brand). FTO stands for Face-Turning Octahedron: the puzzle has eight triangular faces, and each of them can be turned. It is one of the more affordable FTO puzzles available. It makes a good first FTO if you want to try this puzzle before buying a more expensive model. This version comes in the stickerless bright colour scheme, so there are no stickers that could wear off or peel.

How an FTO differs from a regular cube

On a 3x3 cube you turn six faces set at right angles to each other. On an FTO you turn eight triangular faces, and the moves intersect at different angles. As a result, the pieces move in a way that takes some getting used to, even if you are good at solving the 3x3. You can't simply carry over algorithms from the cube. You need a separate method, which makes the FTO a great next step if you have already mastered the Pyraminx, Skewb or Megaminx and are looking for something new. FTO is not a WCA event.

Build and size

The edge of the octahedron is approx. 72 mm, and the puzzle weighs just under 100 g. It is light and fits comfortably in your hand, even during longer solving sessions. The plastic is coloured throughout (stickerless). With eight faces, the colours are easy to mix up, but here they are clearly visible, which is especially helpful when you are just starting to learn.

Who is it for?

This model makes sense for cubers who want to try the FTO without spending much, and for collectors expanding their collection with unusual shapes. If you want to solve the FTO for time and care about the best possible turning, you may want to consider a more advanced model after a while. The FTO is not really suitable as a child's first puzzle. It's better to start with a classic 3x3 or a Pyraminx.

Specifications

• Type: Face-Turning Octahedron (FTO), non-WCA puzzle
• Manufacturer: ShengShou (SengSo)
• Edge length: approx. 72 mm
• Weight: approx. 98 g
• Colour scheme: stickerless bright