Yuxin Mouse 2x2x2

Yuxin Mouse 2x2x2

Yuxin Mouse 2x2x2 is a mouse-shaped puzzle from YuXin. Inside, it runs on a standard 2x2 mechanism. The only difference is the outer shell, which is shaped like the animal. Cubers call this kind of puzzle a shape mod. It's mainly a collector's curiosity and something to display on your shelf, not a cube for breaking records.

How to solve it

The moves are the same as on a 2x2 cube, so the same methods and algorithms work. Once you scramble the figure, it no longer looks like a mouse. To solve it, you restore its shape: the ears, snout and body all have to go back to their places. If you can solve a 2x2, you can handle this one without learning anything new. The difference is that you look at the shape of the individual pieces instead of the colors of the faces.

The turning feels similar to standard YuXin 2x2 cubes. Reviewers mention smooth turning and decent corner cutting. Keep in mind, though, that the figure is much bigger and heavier than a regular 2x2, and its irregular shape doesn't allow for a high TPS. It's best solved at a relaxed pace.

YuXin animal series

The mouse is part of a larger series of 2x2 figures from YuXin. The series also includes a tiger, panda, rabbit, dragon, snake and penguin, among others. They all share the same idea: a 2x2 mechanism in an animal-shaped shell. They differ in shape, size and weight.

Who is it for?

For collectors of unusual puzzles and for cubers who can already solve a 2x2 and want to try something different. It also makes a great gift for a child who likes cubes. However, it won't replace a first cube for learning, as a regular 2x2 is better for that. This puzzle is not allowed in official competitions.

Specifications

• Type: mouse-shaped 2x2x2 puzzle (shape mod)
• Manufacturer: YuXin
• Weight: approx. 176 g
• Dimensions: approx. 13.2 x 8 x 12.2 cm
• Adjustment: adjustment screws
• Release year: 2017
• WCA competition legal: no
• In the box: puzzle