VeryPuzzle D9

VeryPuzzle D9 (9th Megaminx Ball)

VeryPuzzle D9, also known as the 9th Megaminx Ball, is a puzzle for collectors and anyone who enjoys unusual twisty puzzles. It is shaped like a ball and works like a twelve-sided megaminx with noticeably deeper cuts. It was designed by Leslie Le and is manufactured by VeryPuzzle. Thanks to the deep cuts, the D9 works exactly like a Curvy Starminx, just in spherical form. In our shop it is available in black plastic.

How it differs from a regular Megaminx Ball

On a classic Megaminx Ball, turning a face moves only the pieces right around it. On the D9 the cuts reach further, so a single move also takes parts of the neighbouring faces with it. There are many more pieces (122, according to available descriptions), and you will need to adapt your megaminx algorithms to the new piece types. The ball shape also makes orientation harder, as there are no edges marking out the faces. Some people first solve the flat version of this mechanism, the Curvy Starminx, and only then move on to the ball.

Turning and use

Buyers rate the turning as smooth for such a complex design. However, reviews point out that popping can happen if you turn imprecisely or too fast. It is best to turn calmly and align the faces carefully. This puzzle is not suitable for speedsolving and is not meant for beginners. It is more about long, relaxed solving sessions and looking great on your shelf.

DIY kit

The manufacturer sells the D9 as a DIY kit. You assemble the puzzle yourself from the parts and apply the stickers yourself, following the instructions. The set includes the puzzle pieces with a few spare parts, a set of stickers in 12 colours, a printed assembly guide and a display stand. Assembling the puzzle is an extra challenge that takes patience.

Who is it for?

For those who have already mastered the megaminx and other dodecahedral puzzles and are looking for something harder, as well as for collectors of VeryPuzzle puzzles. As a first puzzle for a child, a regular megaminx is a better choice.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: VeryPuzzle
• Name: 9th Megaminx Ball (D9)
• Type: spherical megaminx with deep cuts (equivalent of the Curvy Starminx)
• Shape: ball
• Plastic colour: black
• Colour scheme: stickers in 12 colours
• Sold by the manufacturer as: DIY kit for self-assembly