YuXin Star Burst Megaminx

YuXin Star Burst Megaminx

In the Interstellar series, YuXin took a regular megaminx mechanism and built it into unusual shapes. Inside the YuXin Star Burst Megaminx is a standard 3x3 megaminx: each face consists of 1 center, 5 edges and 5 corners. The shape is what's different. The puzzle is a truncated stellated dodecahedron. The centers stick out, while the corners and edges are recessed. In practice, the Star Burst is a truncated version of the Star Navi from the same series.

Where the challenge lies

The puzzle has 12 colors arranged as on a regular dodecahedron, but each color appears on five centers. The pieces look completely different from those on a classic megaminx, so first you need to learn which piece goes where. The solving method itself stays the same. If you can solve a megaminx, you'll manage this one too once you get used to the color layout. For you, it will be more of an interesting change than a big challenge.

How it turns

The Star Burst has no magnets. Users report that it's a bit stiff straight out of the box, but after a few solves it starts turning noticeably better. Corner cutting is limited. A layer has to be well aligned before you can make the next move, so this puzzle isn't suited to fast solving with fingertricks. In return, popping isn't a problem. This is a puzzle for relaxed solving and for your collection, not for timed solves. Because of its modified shape, it is also not allowed in WCA competitions.

Star Burst, Star Navi or Star Path?

All models in the Interstellar series share the same megaminx mechanism and differ in shape and color layout. The Star Navi, Star Path and Space Swift have the shape of a full stellated dodecahedron, with the colors on the arms of the star. The Star Burst is truncated, which makes it more compact, and the colors are on the centers. If you want the smallest and handiest model in the series, this is the one to choose.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can already solve a megaminx and is looking for a shape mod that makes you think a little. It's also a great pick for puzzle collectors. If you're just starting out with the megaminx, it's better to begin with a classic model and reach for the Star Burst later.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 megaminx, shape mod (Interstellar series)
• Manufacturer: YuXin
• Shape: truncated stellated dodecahedron
• Mechanism: standard megaminx, no magnets
• Size: approx. 90 mm
• Weight: approx. 143 g
• Color scheme: stickerless bright