WitEden & Oskar 3x3x3 Mixup Cube

WitEden & Oskar 3x3x3 Mixup Cube

At first glance, it looks like an ordinary 3x3 cube with slightly larger outer layers. The difference shows up the first time you turn a middle layer. WitEden & Oskar 3x3x3 Mixup Cube is a shape mod designed by Oskar van Deventer, the creator of many well-known puzzles, and mass-produced by WitEden. Here the middle layers can turn by 45°, not just by 90°, which lets centers and edges swap places.

How the Mixup works

On a classic 3x3 cube, the centers always stay in place and the edges only move between edge positions. On the Mixup Cube, this separation disappears: after a 45° move, a center can end up in an edge position and vice versa. After a few such moves, the cube loses its cubic shape and turns into a rather surprising form. Solving it is harder than solving a regular 3x3 because there are new cases, including edge parity. Knowing a 3x3 method helps a lot, but you won't be able to solve the Mixup without some extra learning.

How it turns

This is a puzzle, not a speed cube. The mechanism is clicky, there is practically no corner cutting, and lockups happen easily if the layers aren't aligned precisely. Sometimes the opposite face moves when you turn one face. Users also report that the center and edge caps occasionally fall off. They can usually be pressed back in. Lubing noticeably improves how the cube turns. It's best to take the Mixup slowly, turning accurately and without rushing.

Who is it for?

For those who can already solve a 3x3 and are looking for a new challenge, and for puzzle collectors, especially fans of Oskar van Deventer's designs. We don't recommend it as a first cube or for anyone who wants smooth, fast turning. For that, a regular 3x3 magnetic cube will work much better.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3x3 puzzle, shape mod (Mixup)
• Manufacturer: WitEden
• Design: Oskar van Deventer
• Moves: standard 90° turns and 45° middle-layer turns
• Size: approx. 66 mm
• Weight: approx. 160 g
• Body color: black