YJ 2x2 Fortune Cat

YJ 2x2 Fortune Cat

YJ 2x2 Fortune Cat is a 2x2 puzzle shaped like a lucky cat. In Japanese, this figurine is called Maneki Neko, meaning "beckoning cat". The cat raises its paw as if waving, and according to tradition it brings good fortune to its owner. The cube is made of yellow plastic and is stickerless. When solved, it forms the complete figurine, and you recognize each piece by the part of the cat it carries.

How to solve it

This is a shape mod, a cube with a modified shape. The mechanism works just like a regular 2x2. Once scrambled, the cat loses its shape, and solving it means fitting all the parts back together. Anyone who can solve a 2x2 cube can handle it with the same method. You do need to get used to looking at the shape, and at which part of the cat is on each piece, instead of at the colors of the faces.

The mechanism is fairly simple, and this is not a speedcubing cube. Users report that turning feels rather heavy, and some units may pop, especially during fast, aggressive turning. Calm, precise moves work better here than trying to break records.

Size

The cat is about 8.7 cm wide and noticeably larger than a standard 2x2 cube. In person it usually looks bigger than the photos suggest. It sits nicely in your hands, and on a shelf or desk it looks like a proper figurine.

Who is it for?

For collectors of unusual puzzles, cat lovers, and anyone who already knows how to solve a 2x2 and wants to try it in a different form. The Fortune Cat also makes a great gift for someone who enjoys puzzles and nice things on their desk. For a first cube to learn solving or for timed practice, a classic magnetic 2x2 cube is a better choice.

Specifications

• Type: 2x2 shape mod puzzle, lucky cat figurine
• Manufacturer: YJ
• Color: yellow (Yellow), stickerless
• Dimensions: approx. 8.7 x 8.1 x 7.2 cm (width x depth x height)
• Weight: approx. 100 g
• Solving method: same as a standard 2x2 cube