Z-Cube 3D Maze Cube (69mm)

Z-cube 3D Maze Cube (69mm)

Z-cube 3D Maze Cube combines two puzzles in one. On the outside, it's a 3x3 cube that turns just like a regular one. But its pieces have maze paths carved into them, and a metal ball rolls along those paths. Your goal is to guide the ball from the start square to the finish square, building the route using nothing but layer turns. The cube measures 69 mm, so it's noticeably bigger than a typical speedcubing cube, which is about 56 mm.

How to play

The ball can only travel along grooves that connect across neighbouring pieces. Every layer turn either opens a new passage or closes the current route, leaving the ball at a dead end. So turning at random won't get you far. You need to plan several moves ahead and predict where each section of the path will end up after a turn. What counts here is spatial imagination, patience and gently tilting the cube so the ball rolls into the right spot.

Knowing 3x3 solving methods helps a little, since it's easier to predict where a given piece will go. However, you don't need it to complete the maze. This is not a speedsolving cube. This puzzle is all about thinking, not TPS or corner cutting, so there's no point comparing it with magnetic 3x3 cubes.

Colour options

The cube is available in two stickerless versions: Stickerless Bright in lighter, more vivid colours and Stickerless Standard in a classic colour scheme. The mechanism and the maze are identical in both versions; only the plastic colours differ.

Who is it for?

For anyone who enjoys logic and spatial puzzles and wants something different from yet another 3x3 cube. It's also a great addition to a collection of unusual puzzles and a nice gift for someone who loves figuring things out. The large size and simple rule (get the ball to the finish) make it easy to get started without knowing any speedcubing jargon.

Watch out for the name: the Z Maze Cube by Z-cube is a different product. It's a regular 3x3 with a printed maze pattern and has no ball or grooves.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Z-cube
• Type: 3x3 puzzle with an internal maze and a metal ball
• Size: 69 mm
• Weight: approx. 70 g
• Finish: stickerless
• Versions: Stickerless Bright, Stickerless Standard