Since 1974, the invention of the Rubik’s cube by Erno Rubik, many people have come up with variations to the classic 3×3 Rubik’s Cube model. Among them are the megaminx, pyraminx, shape mods, snake puzzles and many other exciting ones. You can select puzzles according to your preferences or at the level you want to play at. The place to find all of these at one place is cubelelo.
Out of the vast range of the puzzles available, one such exciting puzzle is the mirror cube. Mirror cube is a stickerless cube with smaller tiles of different sizes. This is an upgrade to the beginners as there are no vibrant colours but just shiny reflective surfaces looking back at you.
Some of the coolest patterns have been stated below, try them out!
The cube has six faces which can be rotated singularly towards the side or either directions. Codes for each side is U, D, L, R, F, and B and can be spun in three ways: U denotes turning the upper face clockwise, Ui refers to counter-clockwise movement of the uppermost face, and U2 refers to half of a turning the upper face either direction.
The D denotes the bottommost layer. This notation is not really for use if you are a beginner. However, as you advance, this is a recurring notation. In the OLL and PLL algorithm, this notation will serve to be important, so look out for that. The L layer refers to the left layer. It is the least commonly used notation. However, it is important even with its few occurrences. Subsequently, R is the denotation for the Right layer. This is one of the most commonly used notations. Practice it a few times, so that it is handy. Similarly, F refers to the front layer. In all the basic and advanced algorithms, F happens to play a pivotal role. Try to remember it. The notation B could confuse you regarding its meaning. It is important to remember, B refers to the back layer. It can be confused with the bottom layer, so watch out for that.
1. Checkerboard Pattern
Checkerboard pattern is an interesting way to go about the mirror cube. The notation for the same is given below.
L2 R2 B2 F2 U2 D2
If at any point, you get stuck, do not worry, just retrace these steps til you achieve the final goal. As the name suggests, the checkerboard pattern represents the checkerboard in a 3-dimensional structure. Refer to the picture below to compare your final outcome.
2. Six Holes Pattern
Checkerboard pattern is an interesting way to go about the mirror cube. The notation for the same is given below.
L2 R2 B2 F2 U2 D2
If at any point, you get stuck, do not worry, just retrace these steps til you achieve the final goal. As the name suggests, the checkerboard pattern represents the checkerboard in a 3-dimensional structure. Refer to the picture below to compare your final outcome.
3. Cube in Cube Pattern
As the name suggests, the cube in cube pattern is such a 3-dimensional figure which has a cube sitting in another cube. With the asymmetrical pieces of the mirror cube, it makes it possible for a cube in a cube sort of figure to be formed. The algorithm is simple. Follow the algorithm to get the cube in cube pattern.
F L F Ui R U F2 L2 Ui Li B Di Bi L2 U
The desired outcome is given in the picture, compare it with your cube to know if you got it right!
4. Four Spots Pattern
The next interesting pattern is the four spots pattern. It is also called the donut pattern. This is a simple looking algorithm ,but do not let it mislead you. The mirror cube has many possible patterns that it can create, owing to its asymmetrical pieces. However, the four spots pattern is the most aesthetic looking pattern. You can use it as a pretty paper weight or use it as a distraction to take a break from long hours of work.
The algorithm for the donut pattern is as follows –
F2 B2 U Di R2 L2 U Di
5. The Cross Pattern
The cross pattern refers to the Christman’s cross pattern. It is a very cool algorithm to use. The final outcome leaves you with a really fun structure that you will enjoy building.
The algorithm for the same is –
U F Bi L2 U2 L2 Fi B U2 L2 U
F L F Ui R U F2 L2 Ui Li B Di Bi L2 U
The desired outcome is given in the picture, compare it with your cube to know if you got it right!
After looking at these amazing and super innovative patterns of the classic 3×3 cube, Erno Rubik must be proud that his idea has been taken to such new heights. Mirror cubes act as the perfect combination of fun and brain teasing puzzles. Whenever you experience any mental block, go ahead, try some cool patterns from the above list. Or create your own!
“Happy Cubing”
