YuXin Basketball 2x2

YuXin Basketball 2x2

YuXin Basketball 2x2 is a 2x2 cube shaped like a basketball. It has an orange, spherical surface with black lines, just like a real ball. Inside, it uses a standard 2x2 mechanism, but there are no coloured faces. After scrambling, you need to restore the ball pattern, so the puzzle is only solved when all the black lines connect again.

How to solve a 2x2 ball

The mechanism is a classic 2x2, so the same algorithms work as on a regular cube. The difference is in recognising the pieces. Instead of sticker colours, you look at the line fragments on each corner and match them to the neighbouring ones. Because of this, even someone who solves a standard 2x2 quickly will need more time at first to judge whether a piece is correctly placed and oriented.

The cube has no magnets. It is not a model for breaking records or training TPS, but a shape mod puzzle for your collection and for solving just for fun. If you want to improve your 2x2 times, choose a magnetic speedcubing cube.

Who is it for?

This cube is a great choice for people who can already solve a 2x2 and want to try something different, as well as for collectors of YuXin shape mods. It also makes a good gift for a child who loves basketball. If it is their first cube, it is worth showing them a regular 2x2 first, because learning a method is harder without colours. The 64 mm size makes the ball sit comfortably in your hand.

In the same series, YuXin has also released other 2x2 balls, including baseball, volleyball and football versions. They share the same mechanism and differ only in appearance.

Tip

Do not pry or force the corners to twist. On 2x2 cubes this can break a piece. If a piece pops out, you can usually put it back in by hand.

Specifications

• Type: 2x2 cube, ball-shaped shape mod (basketball)
• Manufacturer: YuXin
• Diameter: approx. 64 mm
• Weight: approx. 68 g (without packaging)
• Magnets: none
• Appearance: orange surface with black lines
• EAN code: 6952516806918