WitEden 3x3x9 I

WitEden 3x3x9 I

At first glance, this cuboid looks like an ordinary cube: it is a cube shape with sides of approx. 57 mm. The difference lies in just one axis. WitEden 3x3x9 I has nine thin layers on that axis instead of three, while the other two axes keep the classic 3x3 layout. So you get a 3x3x9 puzzle that fits in your hand just like a standard 3x3 cube.

How to solve a 3x3x9 cuboid

The nine thin layers turn normally, by 90 degrees. The side faces, each showing 3x9 pieces, turn only by 180 degrees, as on other 3x3xN cuboids. Usually you first reduce the puzzle to a state where it can be solved like a 3x3. Then you place the remaining thin layers using short, repeatable sequences. Parity can occur, but it is easy to fix without long algorithms. If you can solve a 3x3, you won't need to learn much new. You just have to understand how the restricted turns of the side faces work.

Mechanism and feel

This is not a speedcube, and it's best not to treat it like one. The cube has no magnets. For a puzzle with this many layers, it turns smoothly, but corner cutting is limited. The thin layers are harder to grip and turn individually, so it's a puzzle for relaxed solving rather than high TPS. According to user reviews, turning misaligned layers can cause catching and sometimes popping, most often on the outer thin layers. Align the cube carefully before every move and don't force the turns.

Version I or II?

WitEden makes the 3x3x9 in two variants. Version I has solid centers. In version II, the centers on the 3x3 faces are split into three parts, so solving it takes a few extra steps. Version I is an easier way to start with this puzzle. Version II is an extra challenge for those who already know the regular 3x3x9 cuboid.

Who is it for?

For people who know the 3x3 well and want to try something different from yet another NxNxN cube, as well as for cuboid collectors. For a child who is just learning to solve, it's better to start with a regular 3x3 cube. This cuboid requires patience and gentle turning.

Specifications

• Type: cube-shaped 3x3x9 cuboid
• Manufacturer: WitEden
• Size: approx. 57 mm
• Weight: approx. 122 g
• Magnets: none
• Centers: solid (version I)
• Color: stickerless bright