WitEden 3x3x6 II Cuboid Cube

WitEden 3x3x6 II Cuboid Cube

WitEden 3x3x6 II is a 3x3x6 cuboid that changes shape as you solve it. It is not simply an elongated 3x3 cube. The rotation axis on the long sides is offset from the centre (center-shifted), so the puzzle works like a 3x3x7 with one 3x3 layer cut off. All pieces are cubes with equal length, width and height. When solved, the puzzle has a square base and is twice as tall as it is wide.

Version II vs. version I

WitEden makes two 3x3x6 cuboids of the same size that work differently. Version I is symmetrical and does not change shape. If you already know other 3x3xN cuboids, you will handle it without major surprises. Version II has a shifted centre, so turning the long faces distorts the shape, and while solving you also have to keep track of the geometry. If you want a shape-shifting cuboid, choose version II.

How it solves

The 3x3 layers turn normally, while the long faces turn only 180 degrees, as on other 3x3xN cuboids. The tricky part is the shifted axis. After a long-face turn, some pieces stick out beyond the outline, so you need to plan your moves to restore the cuboid shape at the end. Experience with a 3x3x7 or other shape-shifting cuboids comes in handy.

According to customer reviews, the mechanism turns properly, but it is not very smooth out of the box. A centre piece may also occasionally pop out. Lubing noticeably improves the turning. This is a puzzle for relaxed solving and collecting, not for setting fast times.

Who is it for?

For those who solve the 3x3 and want to try cuboids, or who already have a few 3x3xN models and are looking for something more challenging. For WitEden collectors, it is a natural choice alongside version I. If you are just learning your first cube, it will probably be too difficult.

Specifications

• Type: shape-shifting 3x3x6 cuboid (center-shifted)
• Manufacturer: WitEden
• Mechanism: like a 3x3x7 without one 3x3 layer
• Dimensions: approx. 58 × 58 × 116 mm
• Weight: approx. 212 g (without packaging)
• Body colour: black, with stickers