Rubik’s Revolution Review

Reviewed by Colin Hewitt

The Rubik’s Cube was THE toy of the 1980s. It seemed as though everybody had one, and if you didn’t have one, you’d certainly recognise it and knew someone who did.

The original cube consisted of multi-coloured tiles with an internal mechanism that allowed each tile to turn independently. Once the pattern was muddled up, to complete the puzzle, each side of the cube must be re-positioned to contain one colour and one colour only. It really was that simply – or so it would appear.

When launched, it was claimed that there were over three billion combinations. Some mathematical geniuses have argued that there are many more. I’m not a mathematical genius; however, I feel as though, throughout the ’80s and ’90’s I discovered several billion combinations personally! I found the thing impossible. When I wasn’t inclined to throw the pesky thing out the nearest window, I was sorely tempted to peel off the coloured stickers, re-attach them in the correct order, and claim a somewhat shallow and cheated victory.

So, how would I fare with what I thought was a new 21st-century version of the Rubik’s Cube; the Rubik’s Revolution?

I soon realised that this wasn’t a high-tech makeover of the original puzzle. Instead, this was something entirely different, and I must admit, I found it a far more pleasant experience.

For a starter, no moving parts, so no sprains or repetitive strain injuries to the wrists. This one is based on a mixture of sound and multi-coloured lights. It’s a six-in-one mixture of solo and multi-user games, so there are no excuses for getting bored or frustrated.

Once unpackaged and switched on, the robotic voice urges the user to:

“Press Blue to Play Light Speed” – (Solo game) Simply ‘catch’ the light as it moves from one coloured side to another at increasing speed.

“Press Yellow to Play Light Speed Trainer” – (Solo game) Similar to Light speed, but slower – ideal for training.

“Press Red to Play Multi-Player Madness” – (Multi-User up to 6 players) Similar to Light speed but up to six users can take it in turn to play.

“Press Green to Play Pattern Panic” – (Solo game but could easily be played as Multi-User) Follow the set pattern as it increases in number and speed.

“Press Orange to Play Sounds Out” – (Solo game) A highly irritating game. Imagine six children playing loud, screeching musical instruments directly at you. You need to silence them in order of volume. This mode will not be switched on very often in my house!

“Press White to Play Full Charge” – (Solo game) Catch all six lights within a specific time frame.

The game is packaged in a plastic blister-pack and requires 3 x AAA batteries; however, for a pleasant change – they’re included! So no disappointments when the gift is opened.

I’d liken it more to the ‘Simon’ style sound and vision games than the original Rubik’s Cube, and it’s far less challenging – but it was genuinely great fun.

This is a delightful and addictive set of games for all the family, from six to adults.

This would make a lovely birthday, Christmas or a ‘just because you can’ gift for children of all ages, and something the entire family can play whenever they get together.

Rating: 5 out of 5

RRP: £24.99

This product can be purchased from a selection of retailers such as Amazon here, Smyths here and Toy Street here.