WitEden Octahedral Mixup IV

WitEden Octahedral Mixup IV

WitEden Octahedral Mixup IV is a shape mod puzzle. It is based on the 3x3 Mixup mechanism but has a shape close to an octahedron. From the outside, it looks like two pyramids joined at their bases. Unlike the "pure" octahedra in this series, Type I and II, version IV deliberately departs from a regular solid in a few places. This makes it harder to see at a glance where the individual pieces end. It is available in black.

How a Mixup works

On a classic 3x3 cube, the middle layer turns in 90-degree steps. On a Mixup, you can stop it halfway, at 45 degrees. You can then turn the side layers, and the edges and centers swap places. As a result, pieces that always stay in their positions on a regular cube start moving around here. On top of that, there are parity cases that don't exist on a standard 3x3. The octahedral shape makes things even harder: once scrambled, the puzzle loses its form, so while solving you have to keep track of not only the colors but also the geometry.

How it turns

This is not a speedcubing puzzle, and there's no point judging it by TPS or corner cutting. Mixup mechanisms usually require precise layer alignment before every move. With imprecise turning, catching and lockups are normal in this type of puzzle. It's better to turn calmly and deliberately than to force it.

Which Octahedral Mixup version?

WitEden has released a whole series of octahedral Mixups: Type I, I Plus, II, II with a 30-degree turn, III, IV, and a version designed by Mike Armbrust (also called II Plus). They all use the Mixup idea but differ in shape and in how the pieces are divided. Type IV stands out with its irregular octahedron, so it's a great addition to the collection of anyone who already owns one of the regular variants.

Who is it for?

For shape mod collectors and anyone who solves the 3x3 with ease and is starting to get bored with classic octahedra. It's not really suitable as a first puzzle or for a child who is just learning the cube. A regular 3x3 Mixup or a standard 3x3 cube will be a better choice there.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: WitEden
• Type: shape mod, octahedral 3x3 Mixup (45-degree middle layer turn)
• Dimensions: approx. 63 x 61.6 x 61 mm
• Color: black