ShengShou Mastermorphix

ShengShou Mastermorphix 3x3

ShengShou Mastermorphix is a 3x3 cube in a different shape (shape mod). It takes the form of a pyramid (tetrahedron) with slightly curved faces. ShengShou was one of the first manufacturers to bring the Mastermorphix to market, and this model still holds up well against newer designs from other factories. This is the stickerless version: the colors come from colored plastic, so there are no stickers to wear off or peel.

How do you solve a Mastermorphix?

The mechanism inside is a regular 3x3 cube, and the faces have only 4 colors. Even so, solving it is harder than it looks, because apart from the colors you also have to keep track of the shape of the pieces. The centers must be oriented correctly, and they are easy to mix up because they look alike. This creates situations you never see on a regular cube. If you can solve a 3x3, you can handle the Mastermorphix, but you will first need to adjust your thinking and add a few extra algorithms.

Turning and adjustment

According to user reviews, the ShengShou Mastermorphix turns smoothly, and the matte (frosted) finish gives a good grip. Straight out of the box, however, the puzzle can be dry and a little stiff. Usually it is enough to adjust the tension and add a few drops of lube to make it turn noticeably smoother. Tension is set with adjustment screws. In shape mods, where the pieces have irregular shapes, this adjustment comes in handy: if the setting is too loose, catching on the edges is more likely. Don't treat it as a record-breaking cube. It's a puzzle to solve for fun and out of curiosity.

Who is it for?

For someone who can already solve a 3x3 and wants to try something new without learning a completely different puzzle. It's also a great addition to a collection of shape-shifting puzzles. The Mastermorphix is not a WCA event, so you can't take it to official competitions. For a child who is just starting out, a classic 3x3 cube is a better first choice.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: ShengShou
• Type: Mastermorphix, a pyramid-shaped 3x3 (shape mod)
• Size: approx. 69 mm
• Weight: approx. 79 g
• Color scheme: stickerless standard (4 colors)
• Finish: matte (frosted)
• Adjustment: adjustment screws
• Official WCA competitions: no
• In the box: puzzle