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Wizard
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HugoSlaviaMrCasinoGames
April 30th, 2018 at 3:11:05 PM permalink
High on my hobbies list is "cubing." This means solving any puzzle of the Rubik's Cube variety. It is a misnomer, because it includes puzzles in the shape of non-cubes, like tetrahedrons, dodecahedrons, and various box shapes. At first I was content to just do cube shapes. I had puzzles from the 2x2x2 up to the 13x13x13.

However, when I was in Barcelona there was a game/puzzle store near my hotel that had a whole host of puzzles in other shapes. Good quality and reasonably priced too. So, I loaded up. I noticed lots of other such shops in Paris. Never once have I seen a store with a respectable variety in this country, which I think says something.

As you know, I've started a new project called the Wizard of Odds Academy, which will be mainly on how to analyze casino games. However, it will also includes other math-geek kind of topics. One of them will be how to solve as many such kind of these puzzles as I can.

I've started out with the Holy Grail -- the Rubik's Cube. Once you can do that, the same methods can be used to solve or mostly solve so many other puzzles.

These videos were not easy to make. There are hours of outtakes. I experimented with different cameras, rooms, camera angles, and certainly methods of explaining it. It is not easy because I go on muscle memory so I had to struggle to go slow and say the moves as I did them. As you'll see, sometimes I said the wrong move, but the notations are hopefully all correct.

Enough with the introduction. Here is part one of my three-part series on solving the Rubik's Cube. I already did the other two parts and am in the process of uploading them, which takes hours. Enjoy!


Direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KI1aVc41Hwc

The question for the poll is what do you think of these first three videos?
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
EvenBob
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April 30th, 2018 at 3:27:05 PM permalink
You and I have different definitions
of the word 'joy'. Running over a
Rubik's Cube for humiliating me,
that's real joy.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
Wizard
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April 30th, 2018 at 4:02:57 PM permalink
Quote: EvenBob

You and I have different definitions
of the word 'joy'. Running over a
Rubik's Cube for humiliating me,
that's real joy.



I must say, that is one your most humorous posts ever.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
gordonm888
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April 30th, 2018 at 4:20:52 PM permalink
I actually liked the first video of this. I could not find links to the 2nd and 3rd videos.

This is a far better subject than Excel modeling of probabilities. The Rubic's Cube is colorful, three dimensional and it moves (rotates.) Also, I personally do not know how to solve a Rubics cube, so I had more interest in this topic..

Doing the narration as a free stream of chatter is VERY challenging. You do an above-average job, but it is still a bit distracting at times. Consider taping your video as you have done this one, and then write your narration (whatever you said) out as a script without all the Umms, etc., and make an audio recording of yourself reading the script -and then lay that audio track onto the video as a replacement for the spontaneous chatter.

I know you will be revulsed by this suggestion but: next time get your wife to show you how to apply makeup to your hands ( a simple base of the appropriate color would work) so that we don't have to look at all the blemishes and veins in your hands for 30 minutes. No make-up on your fingers, naturally -just on the back and sides of your hands.
So many better men, a few of them friends, are dead. And a thousand thousand slimy things live on, and so do I.
EvenBob
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April 30th, 2018 at 5:08:08 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

I must say, that is one your most humorous posts ever.



That's irony for you. I was serious.
The last cube I had, I beat it to
death with a ball peen hammer,
that's how I won. When you hit
them they break apart good. Real
good.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
Wizard
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April 30th, 2018 at 5:35:16 PM permalink
Quote: gordonm888

I actually liked the first video of this. I could not find links to the 2nd and 3rd videos.



Here is part 2. Part 3 will be up in about six hours. I'll comment on the rest of your comments separately.


Direct link: https://youtu.be/TVmh7YIElfI
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
gamerfreak
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April 30th, 2018 at 5:39:21 PM permalink
Can you recommend a high quality cube?

I hear the actual Rubiks brand is garbage.
Wizard
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April 30th, 2018 at 5:43:08 PM permalink
Quote: gordonm888

Doing the narration as a free stream of chatter is VERY challenging. You do an above-average job, but it is still a bit distracting at times. Consider taping your video as you have done this one, and then write your narration (whatever you said) out as a script without all the Umms, etc., and make an audio recording of yourself reading the script -and then lay that audio track onto the video as a replacement for the spontaneous chatter.



Yes, it is challenging. A script would be almost impossible with a Rubik's Cube video because you have to address the cube in its current state. Part 2 is actually somewhat scripted. Nothing was put in writing but I carefully broke down the situations you will encounter in that part of the solve. Hopefully you'll find it a slight improvement. If you think this one was bad, you should see all the outtakes. For what little it's worth, I do plan to redo these videos down the road. Practice makes perfect. I'm still learning here.

Quote:

I know you will be revulsed by this suggestion but: next time get your wife to show you how to apply makeup to your hands ( a simple base of the appropriate color would work) so that we don't have to look at all the blemishes and veins in your hands for 30 minutes. No make-up on your fingers, naturally -just on the back and sides of your hands.



I had no idea my hands were so ugly. You should see them in the winter. My eczema is so bad my hands and feet actually bleed from the skin cracking. So, I should try to make as many cubing videos as I can before it gets cold again. But make up now? I'd like to think I'm not that vain. As to the hands being vascular, that should be a good thing, showing I have a healthy body weight.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
miplet
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April 30th, 2018 at 6:36:38 PM permalink
I finally got around to learning how to solve the the Rubik's cube about 2 months ago.
“Man Babes” #AxelFabulous
UP84
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April 30th, 2018 at 6:37:03 PM permalink
Quote: gamerfreak

Can you recommend a high quality cube?

I hear the actual Rubiks brand is garbage.



The 3x3 Rubik's is still very good, even today. I prefer it over the V-cube in 3x3. The Rubik's 4x4 is garbage. Definitely go with a V-Cube, or a ShengShou there.
Wizard
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April 30th, 2018 at 8:32:30 PM permalink
Part 3 is up!


Direct link: https://youtu.be/szZYHPWchdQ
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
Wizard
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April 30th, 2018 at 8:51:07 PM permalink
Quote: gamerfreak

Can you recommend a high quality cube?

I hear the actual Rubiks brand is garbage.



The first brand I like is the Z Cube. I have never had any trouble with the stickers peeling off and it turns very smoothly. Very nice feel to the cube. It isn't just the Rubik's Cube but all their puzzles are very well made. Definitely good for the Ghost Cube, where there is just one color.

However, above all, I like the QiYi brand. These are sticker-less. That is the type I used in the videos I just made, mostly because I wanted something with clear colors for the audience.

Yes, agreed, the Rubik's Cube brand is below average, in comparison. I'd give them a C-. I don't think they've made any improvements since the early 80's, while their competitors have.

I'm sure there are other good brands out there but I get all my puzzles on Amazon and they seem to carry only certain brands.

Good question. I'm happy to see other cubers here.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
Wizard
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May 2nd, 2018 at 6:10:06 PM permalink
I noticed some minor flaws in part 3 so redid it. Here is the new video.


Direct: https://youtu.be/aNCXjK9n1Js
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
gamerfreak
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May 2nd, 2018 at 6:26:58 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

It isn't just the Rubik's Cube but all their puzzles are very well made. Definitely good for the Ghost Cube, where there is just one color.

Good question. I'm happy to see other cubers here.


I just purchased a sticker-less model. When it arrives I’ll follow your vids and let you know how it goes.

What are puzzles are you into?

I have a few of the Hanayama cast metal puzzles and they are super nice.

Wizard
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May 2nd, 2018 at 8:47:05 PM permalink
Quote: gamerfreak

I just purchased a sticker-less model. When it arrives I’ll follow your vids and let you know how it goes.

What are puzzles are you into?

I have a few of the Hanayama cast metal puzzles and they are super nice.



Yes, please do. You will be the first to give substantive comments on the content. I think the most specific comment I've received so far is my hands are ugly and need make up. I'm still recovering from that one.

As to other puzzles, I'm certainly into the cubing type for now but I also like the Revomaze and the types that are made of steel where you have to separate pieces as well as link them again. I can't say any of the ones in your image look familiar.

Lately I've been working on the small (2x2) Pyraminx and think I've reached that "I get it" moment. It is surprisingly difficult for such a small simple puzzle. Unlike the larger ones, the tips don't turn by themselves.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
EdCollins
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May 2nd, 2018 at 9:10:11 PM permalink
I'm a big fan of Rubik's Cube. I first learned how to solve it in the late '70s. No one else in my family learned how to solve it, nor did any of my friends. (It's not that hard... so I guess that doesn't say much for my family and friends, LOL.)

Since then I've forgotten how to solve it several times, and had to re-learn each time! (I often forget one or two of the final sequences to put the last few pieces in place, without messing everything else up.)

In the summer of 2016 I finally re-learned via a different method. Up until then I learned via a very old booklet called, How To Solve That Crazy Mixed Up Cube Puzzle by Don Frederick. The new method I learned was a bit faster and slightly easier to memorize. All that summer I'd solve the cube at least once every day. I figured if I solved it once each day, I'd never "forget" how to solve it again! And that was true. However... guess what. At some point I stopped solving it daily and now I'm not sure if I remember those last two sequences!

For many years I owned a half dozen or so booklets/pamphlets on how to solve it, by various authors. (I was collecting them for awhile, buying each one I could find.) Most all of these were from the 70s. Alas, I sold them on eBay many years ago, as a lot, only keeping the one by Frederick.

I currently own 15 different 3x3 cubes, as the photo shows. (The two small cubes attached to the keychain actually work but they are very hard to turn!) One cube is an original cube, from the '70s. Another one, from the early 80s, is a Deluxe Cube as it was advertised. It is sticker-less. All of the others are mostly recent, from different manufactures. And yes, if you want a very fast, smooth-turning cube, there are better choices than an official one.

I never was "very fast" - I'm not a speed cuber. At best, my average times were just under two minutes with a low of about 90 seconds to a high of about 2 1/2 minutes. And I'd most likely have to practice for a long while to come near that time now.

Mike, I didn't watch your videos yet, mostly because I already know how to solve it. But I will watch them later, and I do appreciate you taking the time to put them together.

Happy Cubing to all.

Wizard
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May 3rd, 2018 at 3:26:48 AM permalink
Thank you for your cubing testimony. Glad to see another cubing aficionado on the forum.

I would have learned in 80 or 81, just as the cube was becoming a big fad. I'm quite sure I was the fastest in my high school of 2,000 kids but there was never a formal competition. I just knew the other cubers and knew I was faster! Back then my average time was around 70-80 seconds. I don't recall the name of the book I learned the solve from, but I believe it was the first to be a big seller. I could also do the Rubik's Revenge back then as well as solve the Rubik's Cube with my feet.

As you know, several years ago the hobby saw a second wind. That inspired me to get back into it. At the time it was enough to just be able to solve the 3x3 and time was no longer an issue. I could see YouTube videos of kids solving it well under ten seconds and I knew I would never get anywhere close to their league.

Then one day I had to pick up my son at a friend's house and he wasn't ready yet so I was invited in. On a table was a whole bunch of cubing puzzles, owned by the brother of my son's friend. I challenged him to a race and he finished before I was done with the bottom layer. While it put me to shame, his enthusiasm for the hobby was contagious. It wasn't just the 3x3 but he had a bunch of other ones too that I had never even touched before.

So, I started off by getting the bigger nxn puzzles, all the way up to 13x13. There are some parity algorithms you need to memorize on the 4x4 and just an edge flipping algorithm on the 5x5, which is just a modification of one on the 4x4, and then you can do any size.

Close to my hotel in Barcelona in March was a game/toy store that had quite a few shelves of cubing puzzles. I had never seen so many. So I bought a few and found later they turned very nicely and intrigued me. So I went back twice more, each time getting more. I knew you just don't see stores like this in the US. At least not in Vegas -- that's for sure. Since then, I've solved all the Barcelona puzzles and bought more on Amazon. I have multiple versions of many of them, just to try different brands or a cube I needed was part of a set that included ones I already had.

In closing, I'd recommend trying some other puzzles in the cubing family. I found both the Fisher Cube and Axis Cube fun. I will be doing videos on those next. They are basically 3x3 Rubik's cubes but the pieces are different shapes, which is hard to wrap your mind around at first. Plus the orientation of some centers matter, like on a picture cube, so you have to know how to deal with that (quite easy).

Keep on cubing!
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
gordonm888
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May 3rd, 2018 at 7:40:37 AM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Yes, please do. You will be the first to give substantive comments on the content. I think the most specific comment I've received so far is my hands are ugly and need make up. I'm still recovering from that one.



I gave that comment, and I am becoming a bit exasperated at how you react to my comments.

I know a woman who is a "hand model" -she is paid for magazine advertisements that show hands. She has beautiful hands. AND, she uses make-up on her hands when they are photographed. George Clooney and Brad Pitt use make-up. Every actor in the visual performance arts (theater and film) uses make-up. But, somehow, this is astonishing to you -as if you were born yesterday and know nothing about the world. And are insulted when confronted with knowledge.

People study film production for four years at Universities like UCLA - because there is a large amount of "craft" and knowledge that goes into producing good quality film. But you seemingly don't want to know any of that craft. You do ask for comments, which should be a pathway to learning - but then you show disdain for the knowledgeable comments that you receive.

You are too smart and too good of a person to go down the path of becoming the "Ed Wood of You-Tube" - casting yourself and your friends in films made in a single take with no script and very low production values and with ignorant disdain bordering on hostility towards the arts of cinematography, sound editing, film editing, make-up, set-design, etc. If you can't learn to accept advice then you shouldn't try a brand new field such as video production.
So many better men, a few of them friends, are dead. And a thousand thousand slimy things live on, and so do I.
gamerfreak
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May 3rd, 2018 at 8:03:40 AM permalink
Quote: gordonm888

You are too smart and too good of a person to go down the path of becoming the "Ed Wood of You-Tube" - casting yourself and your friends in films made in a single take with no script and very low production values and with ignorant disdain bordering on hostility towards the arts of cinematography, sound editing, film editing, make-up, set-design, etc. If you can't learn to accept advice then you shouldn't try a brand new field such as video production.


Sorry, but some of your criticisms are ridiculous.

These cube videos are absolutely fine.

I agree that some of the first 'academy' videos and casino game videos could use some extra production value...

But makeup and a $1k microphone for youtube tutorials? Come on....
Romes
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May 3rd, 2018 at 8:05:08 AM permalink
100% genuinely clicked on the thread because I thought it said "The Joys of Clubbing" as in going out to dance clubs/etc. I was pretty interested in the Wizard's take on that!

Cubing is fun too, just in a different way =).
Playing it correctly means you've already won.
miplet
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May 3rd, 2018 at 8:33:06 AM permalink
Back in Middle School ( 1992-1993 ) I got a Smart Alex. I was able to solve that in on my own. Not sure what happened to it, but one day I found a really worn out one at a thrift store.
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TigerWu
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May 3rd, 2018 at 9:47:31 AM permalink
I bought a Rubik's cube years ago and sat down at the kitchen table for 2 hours and memorized the instructions it came with. Once you learn the handful of algorithms, it's pretty easy to solve and can be done in just a couple of minutes. Even if you take your time it can be done in like five minutes. A lot of people don't realize how easy it is and if you randomly solve a cube at a party or something it blows everyone's minds. Those people that remove all the stickers and switch them around, or completely take it apart and put it back together are actually doing it the hard way.

I was also surprised at how relatively easy it is to solve a 4x4 cube, too. Basically there's an additional set of algorithms to align the pieces so it resembles a 3x3 cube, and then you just solve using the same 3x3 algorithms.

Speedcubing is a whole other animal, though. Those guys are insane.
Wizard
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May 3rd, 2018 at 11:02:11 AM permalink
Quote: gordonm888

I gave that comment, and I am becoming a bit exasperated at how you react to my comments.

I know a woman who is a "hand model" -she is paid for magazine advertisements that show hands. She has beautiful hands. AND, she uses make-up on her hands when they are photographed. George Clooney and Brad Pitt use make-up. Every actor in the visual performance arts (theater and film) uses make-up. But, somehow, this is astonishing to you -as if you were born yesterday and know nothing about the world. And are insulted when confronted with knowledge.

People study film production for four years at Universities like UCLA - because there is a large amount of "craft" and knowledge that goes into producing good quality film. But you seemingly don't want to know any of that craft. You do ask for comments, which should be a pathway to learning - but then you show disdain for the knowledgeable comments that you receive.

You are too smart and too good of a person to go down the path of becoming the "Ed Wood of You-Tube" - casting yourself and your friends in films made in a single take with no script and very low production values and with ignorant disdain bordering on hostility towards the arts of cinematography, sound editing, film editing, make-up, set-design, etc. If you can't learn to accept advice then you shouldn't try a brand new field such as video production.



Let me start by saying that, yes, I do solicit comments all the time and happy to get them. You certainly have caught many math errors of mine, for which I am very thankful.

Next, if I were a hand model, yes, I would want my hands looking as good as possible. I've done a lot of documentaries on gambling and they almost always put make up on me. I was happy to get it because I wanted the finished product to look good.

However, let's be realistic about what these cubing videos are. These are going after a super small audience that is likely 99% male and just want a clean explanation on how to solve a puzzle. Your comments would be well taken if I were doing a high-production video that would be seen by tens of thousands. Please compare my cubing videos to some others out there and I think you might find it is already above average.

Finally, about my higher production value gambling videos, I will always admit those could be better. I also was not the cinematographer in those. I have never studied it nor directing. I'm just an amateur. Also, the owner of the Wizard sites ultimately pays for the videos and I think he is more interested in a low cost than a high production value.
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gordonm888
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May 3rd, 2018 at 12:34:08 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Let me start by saying that, yes, I do solicit comments all the time and happy to get them. You certainly have caught many math errors of mine, for which I am very thankful.

Next, if I were a hand model, yes, I would want my hands looking as good as possible. I've done a lot of documentaries on gambling and they almost always put make up on me. I was happy to get it because I wanted the finished product to look good.

However, let's be realistic about what these cubing videos are. These are going after a super small audience that is likely 99% male and just want a clean explanation on how to solve a puzzle. Your comments would be well taken if I were doing a high-production video that would be seen by tens of thousands. Please compare my cubing videos to some others out there and I think you might find it is already above average.

Finally, about my higher production value gambling videos, I will always admit those could be better. I also was not the cinematographer in those. I have never studied it nor directing. I'm just an amateur. Also, the owner of the Wizard sites ultimately pays for the videos and I think he is more interested in a low cost than a high production value.



Okay, got it. I had already praised the Rubic's cube videos as being much better. Honestly, my other comments were offered simply to be helpful.

One thing to consider is getting a marketing intern from a nearby college (either a current student or a recent graduate) for a semester. Interns work for free and marketing majors are all taught how to make videos and usually are desperate for some experience they can put on their resume. They could help with graphics, film editing, camera work and all kinds of odd jobs, and they might surprise you with an occasional great idea. All sorts of businesses and public sector entities offer internships like this - its the modern version of free labor.
So many better men, a few of them friends, are dead. And a thousand thousand slimy things live on, and so do I.
miplet
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May 6th, 2018 at 8:54:10 AM permalink
Your Mirror cube video was great. If When I get one I’ll be sure to watch it again.
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Wizard
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May 6th, 2018 at 10:13:57 AM permalink
Quote: miplet

Your Mirror cube video was great. If When I get one I’ll be sure to watch it again.



Thanks! I didn't even mention it yet. However, given your thumbs up, here it is!


Direct link: https://youtu.be/LqCEEkeASEI
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
beachbumbabs
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May 6th, 2018 at 2:56:44 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Quote: miplet

Your Mirror cube video was great. If When I get one I’ll be sure to watch it again.



Thanks! I didn't even mention it yet. However, given your thumbs up, here it is!


Direct link: https://youtu.be/LqCEEkeASEI



You're definitely improving. This was the most watchable/listenable so far.
If the House lost every hand, they wouldn't deal the game.
Wizard
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May 6th, 2018 at 3:05:14 PM permalink
Quote: beachbumbabs

You're definitely improving. This was the most watchable/listenable so far.



Thank you! At this point my goal is to simply improve. Once I get through about 20 puzzles, I'll start over at the beginning and remake them one at a time. Making these things is not as easy as it looks. I do appreciate the suggestions I get, but I wish all understood these will never be on the same level as a Ken Burns series.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
beachbumbabs
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May 6th, 2018 at 3:12:20 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Thank you! At this point my goal is to simply improve. Once I get through about 20 puzzles, I'll start over at the beginning and remake them one at a time. Making these things is not as easy as it looks. I do appreciate the suggestions I get, but I wish all understood these will never be on the same level as a Ken Burns series.



If I may, I would like to suggest you look at MrPuzzle on youtube (perhaps you're already aware of him). He's a German who has over half a million subscribers, his videos are a simple one-shot of his hands, the puzzle he's solving, and narration, and you can't look away. Nothing fancy, just very well done. He was a linked video from your mirror cube solve.
If the House lost every hand, they wouldn't deal the game.
Wizard
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May 7th, 2018 at 2:18:27 PM permalink
Quote: beachbumbabs

If I may, I would like to suggest you look at MrPuzzle on youtube (perhaps you're already aware of him). He's a German who has over half a million subscribers, his videos are a simple one-shot of his hands, the puzzle he's solving, and narration, and you can't look away. Nothing fancy, just very well done. He was a linked video from your mirror cube solve.



Yes, you most certainly may. I agree that his Impossible Dove Tail Box video is very good. I'm impressed how far he can go without a cut. I think his camera is directly above the table. My cubing videos have a great deal of outtakes because I made a wrong turn and had to start over or had a temporary loss of words. I know I keep saying this, but with anything you have to make incremental improvements. I'm not going to put together a Ken Burns documentary my first go. His video gives me some food for thought and a goal to strive for. The number of views he gets gives me hope that these puzzle videos may someday pay off.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
Wizard
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May 7th, 2018 at 2:21:26 PM permalink
Here is my next video on the Axis Cube. I'm not crazy about this one, to be honest. The camera was zoomed in too close and my hands are too shaky.


Direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyPqsqkmaTE&feature=youtu.be.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
EdCollins
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May 8th, 2018 at 10:56:06 PM permalink
This past weekend, the world record for a single solve was broken, again by Feliks Zemdegs. The new world record is now 4.221 seconds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NevGDFBfQGw

The breakdown of how he solved it can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PncLCHWICog
GWAE
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May 9th, 2018 at 2:15:27 AM permalink
Quote: EdCollins

This past weekend, the world record for a single solve was broken, again by Feliks Zemdegs. The new world record is now 4.221 seconds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NevGDFBfQGw

The breakdown of how he solved it can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PncLCHWICog



That is f$%#ing ridiculous. Not just the record but that breakdown. Now that I finally solved mine with help I am going to see if I understand it enough to do it without but I dont think I do.
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EdCollins
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May 9th, 2018 at 6:00:05 AM permalink
Quote: GWAE

That is f$%#ing ridiculous. Not just the record but that breakdown. Now that I finally solved mine with help I am going to see if I understand it enough to do it without but I dont think I do.

I think it's more than f$%#ing ridiculous. It's absolutely insane. He, and others like him, are not just on another level. They are in an entire different dimension.

In the early '80s I think the fastest solve was around 22 seconds. If these guys who regularly solve it in less than five seconds were to go back in time, and solve it in five seconds then, they would be considered gods. :)

There's another video where Zemdegs himself talks about his (then) world record solve of five point something. He mentioned that when he picks up the cube to look at it before the solve (which you are allowed to do), he's already solved about half of it in his head.

But what I find even MORE impressive than this, is to be able to look at 41 randomly scrambled cubes, put on a blindfold, and never take that blindfold off again, while solving all of the cubes, one after another.

https://www.cambridgebrainsciences.com/more/articles/the-man-who-can-solve-41-rubiks-cubes-while-blindfolded-has-advice-for-doing-amazing-things-with-your-brain
Wizard
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May 9th, 2018 at 10:34:04 AM permalink
That is very amazing. Not to diminish his accomplishment, but today elite cubers know the exact most efficient sequence of moves for over 100 possible configurations of the last layer. I have a book that shows them all.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
Wizard
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May 9th, 2018 at 10:37:47 AM permalink
Quote: EdCollins

But what I find even MORE impressive than this, is to be able to look at 41 randomly scrambled cubes, put on a blindfold, and never take that blindfold off again, while solving all of the cubes, one after another.



You need to be a savant to do things like that. While we're baffled how he can do that, he is probably baffled why we can't.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
beachbumbabs
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May 9th, 2018 at 6:15:40 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

You need to be a savant to do things like that. While we're baffled how he can do that, he is probably baffled why we can't.



I sort of disagree re: "can't".

I think there's often a progression of learning. You're touching on it throughout the thread.

Someone has to start with an insight. A new perspective. A new approach.

Work out cube. Find commonalities in solution steps. Centers, edges, corners. Map out algorithms to solve each.

"Gee, I'm just solving the same problem over and over again. I want a new challenge. How about I do one blindfolded. "

Demonstrates it can be done. Visualization using colors-positions. 3d chess-like plan ahead 20 moves.

How about more than 1. Work up to it. He was solving the white side first in more than 2/3 of them, maybe all. Memorizing the position of the white center on each cube how it lay on the desk, seems like, and pairing it with the mental solve he visualized. Just watching your videos taught me some of what to look for.

Anyway. Training. Expanding horizons. Likely years of hobby/obsession. So experience. Hard work.

We come along, see it at this point and say, savant. But now more people will challenge themselves this way, now that the insight has been demonstrated.

Same with developing algorithms in cubing. 30 secs when Rubik came out was savant. But then solving by 6s. Solving by 4s. Whatever insights have advanced the speed by reimagining the method. Now under 5. Savant. Probably only limited now by mechanical impediment: people can see the entire sequence to solve in under a second in their heads, but has to be translated.

So. If we applied ourselves, using the insight that it CAN be done, there is no more can't. Yoda was trying to teach this. You only have to know it can be done.
If the House lost every hand, they wouldn't deal the game.
Wizard
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May 9th, 2018 at 9:00:47 PM permalink
Quote: beachbumbabs

I sort of disagree re: "can't".



I think we're going to have to agree to disagree. I've known savants in other areas and there is just no way to explain their talent other than being born with it. Music, memorization, chess, poker, languages, computers -- you name it. Some people are simply born gifted in certain ways. You may argue it was a learned skill but I will disagree vehemently.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
gamerfreak
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May 9th, 2018 at 9:16:27 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

I think we're going to have to agree to disagree. I've known savants in other areas and there is just no way to explain their talent other than being born with it. Music, memorization, chess, poker, languages, computers -- you name it. Some people are simply born gifted in certain ways. You may argue it was a learned skill but I will disagree vehemently.


I have a friend who has a son that is so severely autistic that he has no language skills.

But put him on a drum set, with any random band, playing any random song, and he can jam out like crazy - you’d have no idea it wasn’t the band’s regular drummer playing.
Wizard
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May 9th, 2018 at 10:47:23 PM permalink
Quote: gamerfreak

But put him on a drum set, with any random band, playing any random song, and he can jam out like crazy - you’d have no idea it wasn’t the band’s regular drummer playing.



I believe it. I've seen the same thing on television, but with the piano. People can repeat anything they hear on the piano and remember it the rest of their lives. You just can't learn that skill -- you're born with it or you're not. As for me, I've been working on the Moonlight Sonata for about 10 years now and still only half way there.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
rainman
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May 9th, 2018 at 11:03:22 PM permalink
I agree with wizard some people are far superior in areas than
others and no amount of practice will change that,
sure they can get better but they will never be or compete with the best.

Kim peek comes to mind.
gamerfreak
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May 10th, 2018 at 6:46:45 AM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Yes, please do. You will be the first to give substantive comments on the content. I think the most specific comment I've received so far is my hands are ugly and need make up. I'm still recovering from that one.


I got my QiYi cube and it's great. It seems really well made and the motion is very tactile and fluid.

I've spent about 30 mins so far with the cube and your first video, and I am still struggling a bit with the first "white cross" step.

I know you mentioned this part is more common sense than a step by step algorithm, but I am probably better at algorithms than common sense. The initial part where you explained some basic mechanics of the cube was most helpful part. I'm struggling to figure out how to move pieces without messing up the parts I already have correct (I guess that's the puzzle). I think more explanation on the mechanics and methods of moving a piece from Point A to Point B, rather than the few specific examples on your starting pattern, would be very helpful.

I'm not trying to disparage the video, those are just my first impressions watching it with a cube in front of me.

Quote: Wizard

That is very amazing. Not to diminish his accomplishment, but today elite cubers know the exact most efficient sequence of moves for over 100 possible configurations of the last layer. I have a book that shows them all.


I imagine certain starting patterns have less moves to solve than others. How is this reconciled for competitions and word records?
Wizard
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May 10th, 2018 at 6:55:38 AM permalink
Quote: gamerfreak

I know you mentioned this part is more common sense than a step by step algorithm, but I am probably better at algorithms than common sense. The initial part where you explained some basic mechanics of the cube was most helpful part. I'm struggling to figure out how to move pieces without messing up the parts I already have correct (I guess that's the puzzle). I think more explanation on the mechanics and methods of moving a piece from Point A to Point B, rather than the few specific examples on your starting pattern, would be very helpful.



Thanks. Again, it is good to get some specific comments on the content. I've tried to explain to my daughter how to do the white cross and she still just doesn't get it.

Quote:

I imagine certain starting patterns have less moves to solve than others. How is this reconciled for competitions and word records?



Two elite cubers are unlikely to take the same path to the end so I think it is largely randomized what top pattern you get. I would imagine there is some method of randomizing the scramble at these competitions.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
gamerfreak
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May 10th, 2018 at 12:26:53 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Thanks. Again, it is good to get some specific comments on the content. I've tried to explain to my daughter how to do the white cross and she still just doesn't get it.


Update! I picked the cube back up and was somehow able to get the white cross done in 5 minutes this time. Moving on to part 2.
Wizard
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May 10th, 2018 at 12:41:21 PM permalink
Quote: gamerfreak

Update! I picked the cube back up and was somehow able to get the white cross done in 5 minutes this time. Moving on to part 2.



Congratulations! If you think I explained the White Cross badly, just wait until you try to follow my step 2 explanation. It is much harder to explain. However, you'll see I do indicate algorithms for what I hope is every situation you may encounter.

In other news, I just posted a new video on the 2x2 Rubik's Cube solve.


Direct: https://youtu.be/6mG7aAku404
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
beachbumbabs
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May 10th, 2018 at 1:00:00 PM permalink
I think a 1x1 Rubic's cube might be more my speed. Lol
If the House lost every hand, they wouldn't deal the game.
Wizard
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May 10th, 2018 at 1:30:30 PM permalink
Quote: beachbumbabs

I think a 1x1 Rubic's cube might be more my speed. Lol




This 1x1 solve has almost 11 million views.


Direct: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyjGhtba_zs
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
gamerfreak
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May 10th, 2018 at 2:05:27 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Congratulations! If you think I explained the White Cross badly, just wait until you try to follow my step 2 explanation. It is much harder to explain. However, you'll see I do indicate algorithms for what I hope is every situation you may encounter.


Update #2 I got the white face solved! Admittedly I did a little more research and found this page super useful:
https://ruwix.com/the-rubiks-cube/how-to-solve-the-rubiks-cube-beginners-method/step-2-first-layer-corners/

I got the first face done using the simplified (but not optimal) two algorithm method.

The first algorithm L D L' R' D' R to get a improperly oriented corner cube from the top face to the bottom face. The second algorithm R' D' R D repeated one, three, or five times depending on which way the white square is facing.

I think it would be MUCH easier to explain the simple 1 or 2 algorithm method via video. Maybe you could do a shortened PT2.5 with this non-optimal, but easy to remember method.
GWAE
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May 10th, 2018 at 2:17:24 PM permalink
Quote: gamerfreak

Update #2 I got the white face solved! Admittedly I did a little more research and found this page super useful:
https://ruwix.com/the-rubiks-cube/how-to-solve-the-rubiks-cube-beginners-method/step-2-first-layer-corners/

I got the first face done using the simplified (but not optimal) two algorithm method.

The first algorithm L D L' R' D' R to get a improperly oriented corner cube from the top face to the bottom face. The second algorithm R' D' R D repeated one, three, or five times depending on which way the white square is facing.

I think it would be MUCH easier to explain the simple 1 or 2 algorithm method via video. Maybe you could do a shortened PT2.5 with this non-optimal, but easy to remember method.



Gamer, I post a link the other day of a kid that did a tutorial. Watch that and you will have it solved in 2 hours like I did.
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gamerfreak
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May 10th, 2018 at 2:19:14 PM permalink
Quote: GWAE

Gamer, I post a link the other day of a kid that did a tutorial. Watch that and you will have it solved in 2 hours like I did.


I'm a terrible visual learner which is why I think I have issues with video tutorials. I like to follow written instructions.

I'm about an hour or so into actual cubing, and I think I will be able to get it pretty soon.
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