The MeiLong Mastermorphix is MoYu's take within the MFJS line on this classic 3x3 shape mod. It has a tetrahedral shape and, although internally it uses the mechanism of a standard 3x3, the external geometry turns it into a visually very different puzzle and a challenge of another kind.

What a Mastermorphix is

The Mastermorphix is a shape shifter: during the solve it changes shape whenever you make turns combining layers from different axes. Only when the puzzle is fully solved does it return to its original tetrahedral shape. This adds a layer of difficulty over the classic 3x3, because it's not enough to place the colours: you also have to bring back the correct shape.

3x3 mechanics inside

Since it's based on the 3x3 mechanism, the solve follows the same logic: there are corners, edges and centres. The difference is that the pieces are carved to form a tetrahedron in the starting position, so their visual role changes. The corners of the tetrahedron are the centres of the inner cube; the four faces are combinations of pieces from the original cube.

Tech spec

• Measurements: 65 x 100 x 65 mm (tetrahedron dimensions).
• Weight: 85 g, very light.
• Reference: MF8871.
• Level: advanced.
• Recommended age: from 6 years, though the actual difficulty is higher than that age suggests.

Who it's for

The Mastermorphix is aimed at cubers with previous 3x3 experience who want to take on a shape shifter. Even sharing the mechanism with the classic 3x3, the mental process is different: you have to recognise pieces in irregular shapes and plan the turns knowing that every move alters the silhouette of the puzzle.

As a first shape shifter, it's a good choice: the 3x3 mechanism is familiar and there's a clear link between what you already know and what you need to learn. As a collection puzzle, its tetrahedral shape stands out on any shelf and provides an interesting visual contrast to the usual rectangular cubes. It's not a speedcubing puzzle: it's a challenge to spend time on and discover how the solve behaves when shape is also part of the problem.

• Tetrahedral-shaped Mastermorphix based on 3x3
• Shape shifter: changes shape during the solve
• 3x3 internal mechanics, with corners, edges and centres
• Measurements 65 x 100 x 65 mm, very light at 85 g
• Advanced level: challenge of visual recognition and planning
• Ideal as a first shape shifter or a collection piece