Cubi 18 is a welcoming yet wonderfully clever introduction to Frédéric Boucher’s acclaimed Cubi series. Crafted by Pelikan in warm Limba with rich American Walnut accents, this compact puzzle (65 × 65 × 63 mm) offers an elegant challenge that’s approachable for newcomers while still satisfying for seasoned puzzlers.
Inside the box await four uniquely offset cubic pieces, two of which form striking staircase‑like shapes that wrap around corners. The interior of the box includes subtle fixed obstructions, meaning the pieces can’t simply be dropped in—they must be navigated with thoughtful rotations and careful sequencing.
At first, many puzzlers try to build a cube outside the box, only to discover how awkward the shapes are to hold together. The real breakthrough comes from exploring how each piece behaves during insertion. One piece is symmetrical no matter how it enters, while another can be reversed—an insight that unlocks the entire solve. Once the first two pieces are placed correctly, the remaining steps unfold into a delightful, logical sequence.
With its clean design, intuitive learning curve, and memorable “Aha!” moment, this edition of Cubi is an ideal puzzle to share with friends or to enjoy as a satisfying warm‑up before tackling the more difficult entries in the series.