This Ivy Cube is the metallic version of the one from SengSo, the brand under which ShengShou sells part of its range. The Ivy Cube is a shape mod (a puzzle that modifies the shape of another) based on the skewb, with curved leaf-shaped pieces; here, the exterior also has a metallic coating that reflects the light.

• BrandSengSo (ShengShou)
• TypeShape mod (skewb variant)
• MagnetsNo
• FinishMetallic, with grip dimples

How it works

As on a skewb, the turning axes pass through the corners and each move rotates a corner together with part of the neighbouring faces. The curved cuts leave few pieces and few possible states, so it is usually solved intuitively, with no long sequences to memorise.

Design

The exterior is plated with a metallic finish, while the interior is ordinary plastic so that it turns smoothly. ShengShou added dimples to the surface of the pieces on its Ivy Cube to improve grip, and a mechanism with a slight click that helps you feel when a corner is aligned. It has no magnets.

What level it suits

It suits anyone starting out with shape puzzles and collectors looking for an Ivy Cube with an eye-catching finish. Metallic surfaces show fingerprints more than matte plastic, so it is best cleaned with a dry cloth.