Swift Block 3x3 355S X Pikachu

Swift Block 3x3 355S X Pikachu

Swift Block 3x3 355S X Pikachu is a collector's edition of the 355S magnetic cube from the series GAN created together with the Pokémon brand. Swift Block is GAN's budget brand, and its goal is to bring solutions known from more expensive speedcubing puzzles to affordable models. This version has the mechanism of the standard 355S, a stickerless bright colour scheme, a matte (frosted) surface and a Pikachu graphic on the center.

How it turns

The 355S is a spring-based magnetic 3x3 cube, without MagLev. The magnets help the layers snap into place, so the cube leaves fewer misaligned turns and is easier to control than a cube without magnets. This matters especially at the beginning, when your turns aren't precise yet. The corner cutting is good enough for learning F2L and your first attempts at faster solving. Straight out of the box, the cube can be fairly loud. Reviewers point out that with a good lube the turning becomes noticeably smoother and the sound gets quieter.

It's still a budget cube. If you already solve at the level of flagship models, you won't find Ball-Core, MagLev or extensive customization here.

Magnets and adjustment

• 48 magnets, visible in capsules on the edges. Visually, this design is a nod to older GAN cubes.
• Spring adjustment: 5 compression levels that you set by hand, no extra tools needed. You can set the cube looser for speed or tighter for stability.
• 55 mm size, slightly smaller than the typical 56-57 mm. The cube fits well in smaller hands and works well for one-handed solving.

Pikachu 355S vs. other GAN Pokémon cubes

The GAN x Pokémon series also includes more expensive cubes, for example the GAN356 M E in a Pikachu version, or the GAN12 and GAN V100 with other characters. These are completely different designs. The Swift Block 355S X Pikachu is the simplest and most affordable option in the series: magnets and springs, without advanced systems.

Who is it for?

For a child or an adult who is starting out with cubing and likes Pokémon, and also as a gift. As a first magnetic cube, it will work much better than a regular cube without magnets. Collectors of the GAN x Pokémon series will like it too. If you plan to train speedcubing seriously, sooner or later you'll move on to a mid-range or high-end model.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 3x3 cube, stickerless bright
• Manufacturer: GAN (Swift Block brand), officially licensed Pokémon edition
• Based on: Swift Block 355S
• Size: 55 mm
• Weight: approx. 85 g
• Magnets: 48 magnets
• Turning system: springs (no MagLev)
• Adjustment: 5 compression levels, set by hand
• Finish: matte (frosted), Pikachu graphic on the center