Mirror 2x2x2 Cube Tutorial
The Mirror 2x2x2 Cube is a unique twisty puzzle where all the pieces are the same colour, but vary in size, making it a shape-shifting puzzle. The challenge is to bring the cube back to its original cubic form, where all sides are aligned. Solving the Mirror 2x2x2 Cube is similar to solving a regular 2x2x2 cube but requires an understanding of how to manage the different sizes of pieces.
Introduction
- Mirror Cube Basics: Unlike regular 2x2x2 cubes that use colours to determine piece placement, the Mirror 2x2x2 uses size. When scrambled, it distorts into various shapes, and the goal is to return it to a perfect cube shape.
- Pieces and Orientation: The largest piece represents the “fixed” corner, and the other pieces vary in size, descending to the smallest.
Step-by-Step Solution for the Mirror 2x2x2 Cube
Step 1: Understanding the Notation
The notations for the Mirror 2x2x2 Cube are the same as for a regular 2x2x2 cube:
- R (Right), L (Left), U (Up), D (Down), F (Front), B (Back)
- Clockwise (no symbol): Turn the face clockwise.
- Counterclockwise ( ‘ ): Turn the face counterclockwise.
- Double Turn (2): Turn the face 180 degrees.
Step 2: Solving the First Layer
- Identify the Largest Piece:
- This is your reference piece or “fixed” corner piece. It does not change, and all other pieces will be aligned relative to this piece.
- Find and Position the First Layer Corners:
- Locate the three corners that match the size and relative shape needed to form the first layer with the largest piece.
- Use the following algorithm to position each piece:
- Algorithm for Positioning Corners:
- R U R’ U’ – Repeat until the piece is correctly positioned and oriented.
- Algorithm for Positioning Corners:
- Check the Orientation:
- All four pieces in the first layer should align to form a flat side of the cube.
Step 3: Solving the Last Layer
- Orient the Last Layer Corners:
- Turn the cube upside down so that the solved layer is now on the bottom.
- Use the orientation algorithms to position the remaining pieces.
- Possible Cases:
- Case 1: One piece is correctly positioned, and three are misoriented.
- Algorithm: R U R’ U R U2 R’
- Case 2: All pieces are misoriented.
- Algorithm: U R U’ L’ U R’ U’ L
- Case 1: One piece is correctly positioned, and three are misoriented.
- Permute the Last Layer Corners:
- Once all pieces are oriented correctly, permute them to form a perfect cube.
- Algorithm for Permuting Corners:
- T Permutation: R U R’ U’ R’ F R2 U’ R’ U’ R U R’ F’
Step 4: Solving the Cube into Shape
- After using the algorithms, the cube should take its original cubic shape, with each layer properly aligned.
- If any pieces are still out of alignment, perform the U R U’ L’ U R’ U’ L algorithm until all pieces are properly aligned.
Additional Notes for Solving the Mirror 2x2x2 Cube:
- Understanding Shape Shifting:
- Unlike the regular 2x2x2 cube, this puzzle shape-shifts when scrambled. Focus on returning it to a cubic form by using the size differences as clues.
- Piece Recognition:
- Since there is no color distinction, practice recognizing pieces based on their size and orientation. Remember that the largest piece is always your reference.
- Orientation Algorithms:
- Familiarize yourself with common orientation algorithms, as they will help you align the cube efficiently.
- Be Patient:
- Solving the Mirror 2x2x2 Cube may initially feel more challenging due to its unique properties, but the core steps are identical to the standard 2x2x2 cube. Practice will help you recognize patterns and solve faster.
Conclusion :
By following these steps and understanding the piece sizes and their placement, you can solve the Mirror 2x2x2 Cube. Focus on the orientation and permutation of the last layer while using size as your guide, and you will successfully return the puzzle to its original cubic form.