Z-Cube 3x3x3 Bandaged A

Z-Cube 3x3x3 Bandaged A

From the outside it looks like a regular 3x3 cube, but in one corner the pieces are joined together into a single 2x2x2 block. Z-Cube 3x3x3 Bandaged A is a bandaged cube: some of the pieces are permanently connected, so not every layer can be turned. This cube quickly shows how much of the 3x3 solve you really understand and how much you only remember as memorized moves.

What the 2x2x2 block blocks

The corner block touches three faces and passes through the middle layers, so none of those can be turned. Only the three faces on the opposite side turn freely. If you place the block at the back, bottom left, you solve using only R, U and F moves.

How to solve it

The 2x2x2 block is always solved, so you are left with the rest of the cube. F2L is intuitive, but you need to understand how pairs fit into the slots, because some familiar insertion methods won't work. The last layer causes the most trouble. Many standard OLL and PLL algorithms use L, D or M moves, and you can't do those here. So you need to find variants based only on R, U and F, or come up with your own. According to users, even popular permutations such as the A-perm can be tricky. If you know CFOP and enjoy experimenting, you will usually get the hang of it quickly.

Mechanism and finish

According to users, there is a regular 3x3 mechanism inside, and the tension is adjustable. Reviews praise the smooth turning without lockups and the solid build quality. The cube is stickerless in bright colors. The plastic has a matte (frosted) texture, which some people may find less elegant than a glossy finish.

Version A compared with B and C

Z-Cube has released three bandaged 3x3 cubes: A, B and C. Each has a different arrangement of connected pieces. Version A has just one 2x2x2 block, so a lot of regular 3x3 knowledge is still useful. Version C has three 2x2x1 blocks, which restrict the possible moves much more.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can solve a classic 3x3 cube and wants to try something different from yet another speed model. Bandaged A is not a cube for breaking time records. It is a puzzle that makes you think. For a child's first cube, a regular 3x3 is a better choice.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3x3 bandaged cube (one 2x2x2 block in the corner)
• Manufacturer: Z-Cube
• Turnable faces: three (e.g. R, U, F)
• Size: 55 mm
• Weight: approx. 85 g
• Color version: Stickerless Bright
• Finish: matte (frosted)