YuXin Petal Megaminx

YuXin Petal Megaminx

YuXin Petal Megaminx is shaped like a dodecahedron, but it doesn't solve like a classic megaminx. Each face has curved, petal-shaped cuts, and you turn it around an edge rather than turning a whole face. It's an edge-turning puzzle that changes shape as you scramble it (shape-shifting) and allows jumbling. The manufacturer also calls it the Petal Dodecahedron.

How this puzzle works

In the basic mode, an edge turns 180 degrees and returns to its place. The petals then move only along their fixed paths. Solving it this way is similar to the Curvy Copter and other edge-turning puzzles. If you make a move that doesn't complete a full turn into position, the puzzle jumbles. Pieces end up in unusual places, the puzzle loses its regular shape and solving becomes much harder. This is the mode that gives the most fun to people who already know the basic puzzles.

Turning and build quality

The puzzle is stickerless in a bright colour scheme and has no magnets. According to product descriptions and user reviews, it turns smoothly right out of the box. It isn't meant for setting fast times, though. Here it's all about figuring things out, not TPS. One remark comes up repeatedly in reviews: after jumbling, you can see that the petals are hollow underneath. This doesn't affect turning, but not everyone likes the look. The puzzle measures approx. 105 mm, so it's noticeably larger than a standard megaminx and looks great on a collection shelf.

Who is it for?

The Petal Megaminx is a great pick for puzzle collectors and for anyone who has already solved a megaminx, Skewb or Pyraminx and is looking for something with different mechanics. It isn't a WCA event, so don't buy it as a megaminx for competitions. For complete beginners, a classic megaminx is a better start. The Petal is worth getting as your next step.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: YuXin
• Type: edge-turning dodecahedron, shape-shifting, jumbling possible
• Category: non-WCA
• Dimensions: approx. 105 x 105 x 90 mm
• Weight: approx. 171 g
• Magnets: none
• Colour version: stickerless bright
• Manufacturer code: YX1723