YJ 1x3x3 Floppy V2

YJ 1x3x3 Floppy V2 (Super Floppy)

YJ 1x3x3 Floppy V2 is the second version of the 1x3x3 puzzle from YongJun. Although the name only says "Floppy V2", it is actually a Super Floppy, a variant that can change shape. A regular 1x3x3 floppy looks like a single layer of a 3x3 cube and is fairly quick to solve. In the Super Floppy, the pieces can be arranged in many different ways, so once scrambled, the puzzle is no longer a flat square and solving it takes more thinking.

How is it different from a regular floppy?

There are extra pieces between the centers and the edges that a classic 1x3x3 doesn't have. They let the puzzle change shape and make solving it completely different from a standard floppy. On top of that, the inner pieces are two-coloured. Restoring the square shape and the outer colours isn't the end: to solve the puzzle 100%, you also need to orient the inside correctly.

How it turns

Users describe the turning as fluid and smooth. They also point out a few things worth knowing before you buy. Imprecise moves can cause slight catching, and the springs are fairly loud. The biggest issue is aggressive turning, especially turning two edges at once, as the centers can pop out. They can usually be put back in, and with calmer turning the problem rarely occurs. Tension is adjusted with the adjustment screws.

Who is it for?

For anyone who has already solved a regular floppy or a 3x3 and wants an inexpensive, pocket-sized puzzle that makes you think. It also works well as a "fidget" toy to turn during a break from solving. This is not a speedcubing puzzle: the 1x3x3 is not an event in official WCA competitions. It makes a good gift for a younger child, as long as they turn it without using force.

Specifications

• Type: 1x3x3 Super Floppy puzzle (shape-shifting)
• Manufacturer: YJ (YongJun)
• Dimensions: approx. 56 x 56 x 19 mm
• Weight: approx. 36 g (without packaging)
• Adjustment: adjustment screws
• Colour version: Stickerless Bright
• Two-coloured inner pieces
• Release year: 2019
• Allowed in official competitions: no
• In the box: puzzle