WitEden Cubic 3x3x9 v2

WitEden Cubic 3x3x9 v2

This puzzle has nine layers along one axis and only three along the other two. WitEden Cubic 3x3x9 v2 is a shape-shifting cuboid. Turn a side face by 90 degrees and the cube loses its rectangular shape. After a few moves you are left with a form where it is hard to tell at first glance what fits where. In the Cubic series, WitEden has released three 3x3x9 variants: I, II and I v2. This product is the v2 version, a newer edition of variant I.

How it turns

This is not a speedcube, and it is not worth judging it as one. For such a tall puzzle the turning is decent, but it falls well short of the smoothness of a modern 3x3. Straight out of the box, the layers may feel stiff, especially when you need to realign them after the shape has changed. A short break-in period, slightly loosening the tension and some lube are usually enough. While solving, focus on keeping the layers aligned rather than forcing the turns.

What makes it challenging

The beginning takes the most thinking. The thin layers group in threes, and you first need to assemble them into larger blocks before the cube starts to resemble something familiar. This start is less obvious than on a classic, proportional cuboid. You need to know how to solve a 3x3, and experience with 3x3xN cuboids and shape mods helps a lot. Solving it is more of a puzzle for calm thinking than a race against the clock.

Version I v2 or II?

In the 3x3x9 II, the centre pieces are divided into three parts. According to user reviews, this version does not change shape, and its difficulty comes from bandaging. Version I v2 keeps the shape-shifting, so it is the choice for those who want to wrestle with a shape that falls apart.

Who is it for?

For a cuber who already knows the 3x3 and a few unusual puzzles and now wants something that makes you figure things out. Thanks to its height, the cube also looks great in a collection. For a child's first cube, it is better to choose a classic 3x3 and reach for cuboids like this one later.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3x9 cuboid, shape-shifting
• Manufacturer: WitEden
• Series: Cubic, version I v2
• Dimensions: approx. 59 x 59 x 67 mm
• Body colour: black