Original Rubik's Cube

I have had several non-original Rubik's Cube over the years. Decided to buy an "original" Rubik's Cube as a Christmas treat. Wish I didn't waste my money. The quality is horrid. The stickers are peeling off after 2 days of careful use, and the whole thing is starting to feel loose. Total rip-off for the price.

I first got a Rubik's cube when they came out in the early 80's and absolutely loved it. I used the first one so much that I had to buy a replacement within a couple of years. The action for these cubes was fantastic. 'Clicky' 'tight' but so easy and smooth to turn. Even though I could eventually solve the puzzle in a couple of minutes, I've never tired of it.

I was really pleased when they started to produce the cube again and was keen to buy a new one. I bought a new cube and was dismayed to find that the action and build quality was terrible. I actually dug out my remaining original cube to try and see what the difference could be and saw that the original design had little areas where the inner surfaces had open pockets or gaps. I think this was what helped to reduce the drag when turning the faces.

I ended up exchanging several e-mails with the main 'Rubik's Cube' website and after trying to say that their product was as good as the original, they eventually admitted that their new cube was different. They said that they had stopped leaving these little gaps/pockets due to the risk of small children sticking their fingers in and thereafter being hurt. I personally think that this is utter nonsense.

Anyway, I ended up checking out cubes on ebay and managed to get an original 80's cube in mint condition for under ten pounds. When it arrived, it really was like being introduced to an old friend. 'Tight' 'Clicky' but smooth as silk. A total contrast to the terrible ones that are being sold as the official cube.

I've actually just ordered another 'Rubik's Cube' from another site which says that they get their cubes from a factory in Hungary which is still under the control of the inventor Mr. Erno Rubik. I am very hopeful that it will be as good as his original cube was.

Andrew Lyon

For me, this was one of the best toys ever invented. The concept is very simple, but the combinations run into the zillions, which means that you can't solve it by chance.

However, one can have fun working out how to solve it, then once you've done that, impress your mates by applying the same principles over and over again. There isn't that much to remember once you know how.

The main problem is in the mechanism and the stickers. These things don't last forever, and can start falling about once they've been played with quite a lot. Also, I have experienced the paint fading on some of the stickers. So it could be much more durable than it is.

However, this is definitely one of my all time favourite toys.