The YuXin Mouse 2x2 is a shape mod, that is, a puzzle based on the mechanics of a 2x2 cube whose shell has been modified to take on the silhouette of a mouse. The YuXin brand has developed a wide line of shape mods in a small, accessible format, aimed both at rounding out collections and at practising 2x2 solving in a visual context different from the traditional six-colour cube.

Its internal working is that of a standard 2x2: two layers per each of the three axes, eight corner pieces and the same turns as always. The difference is that the outer pieces are not regular cubes, so during the solve the shape constantly changes and only returns to its original silhouette when you have finished ordering all the corners. This adds an attractive visual layer to the process, though the solving algorithm remains the same as the one you would learn on a classic 2x2. Anyone who can solve a 2x2 can solve this puzzle.

Its reduced size fits well in a pocket, in a backpack or on a desk as a decorative piece. It tends to appeal to those who have already got into cubes and are looking for different variants to expand their collection, as well as to people who want to have a curious puzzle at hand without committing to a complex puzzle. The actual difficulty level is equivalent to that of a conventional 2x2, so it also works as a gateway for anyone who has not yet solved any cube.

Being a shape mod, piece orientation matters: to finish the puzzle it is not enough to place each corner in position, they must also point in the right direction so that the shell rebuilds the mouse shape. It is often given as a small gift or added to a collection of themed figures alongside other animals from the same YuXin line.

• Shape mod based on the mechanics of a standard 2x2 cube
• Solved with the same algorithms as a classic 2x2
• YuXin brand, part of its small shape mods line
• Compact format designed to carry around and collect
• Completed when pieces are placed and oriented

• Shape mod based on the mechanics of a standard 2x2 cube
• Solved with the same algorithms as a classic 2x2
• Exterior design with mouse silhouette
• YuXin brand, small shape mods line
• Completed when pieces are placed and oriented