Shashibo magnetic puzzle system with 100 shapes

At first glance, Shashibo looks like a cube, but behind its compact form lies a construction principle that can be transformed into over 100 shapes. Fold, twist, reconnect – every movement leads to a different geometry.

What starts as a single object quickly develops into an exploratory play system that becomes more complex with each additional unit. Shashibo is aimed at children and adults alike. There is no set goal, no instructions that have to be followed. The game is created through trial and error. This is precisely what makes this magnetic puzzle system so appealing.

Fun in Motion Toys develops Shashibo as a magnetic puzzle system

Fun in Motion Toys is behind the product. The company describes Shashibo not only as a toy, but as a system. It is based on 36 strong magnets that are built into the cube. They ensure that shapes are not only created for a short time, but remain stable. The story behind it begins with a geometric shape that was movable but unstable. It was only by adding high-quality magnets that it became a resilient construction body. This allows the individual elements to be connected in such a way that a wide variety of structures can be created from a cube. Fun in Motion Toys deliberately focuses on quality. The magnets are the most cost-intensive component – they enable precise connections and produce the characteristic clicking sound that occurs when they snap into place.

36 magnets and compatible geometries

The system is based on triangles. Different triangular elements appear repeatedly in the structure. This creates interfaces that allow multiple units to be compatible with each other. What is new is complete compatibility across multiple geometries. Different shapes can be combined because they share common geometric patterns. Once you begin to recognise these patterns, you will discover connection points almost automatically. Even with just one unit, numerous variations are possible. With two, the possibilities are almost limitless. With four, stable structures can be built. There are constructions made of 24 identical units that merge into a large, hollow cube. Some collectors go even further and combine dozens or even hundreds of elements. Collecting and connecting thus becomes a principle. Each additional unit expands the system.

Screen-free game as digital detox

Shashibo is explicitly positioned as a screen-free game. In an age of permanent displays, the product focuses on haptics and movement. Hands turn, fold, press. The snapping of the magnets produces an acoustic feedback that is perceived as particularly satisfying. The puzzle is intended as a digital detox. It activates both the brain and the hands. Children and adults are encouraged to think ‘outside the box’ – a play on words that can be taken quite literally here. The age recommendation is 8 and up. This is primarily a safety rating. In practice, younger children also play with it, provided they have the motor skills. At the same time, the product is expressly not just a children's toy. Many adults use it as a creative outlet.

Recommendation: at least 2 units for endless possibilities

If you are new to Shashibo, we recommend combining at least two units. The reason is simple:

• Two cubes create significantly more shapes
• A finished shape can serve as a reference
• Comparisons between geometries become easier
• Complex builds can be implemented more stably

Price, quality and creative mission of Fun in Motion Toys

With a price of around £20, Shashibo is in the mid-range segment. A significant proportion of the price is accounted for by the high-quality magnets. Fun in Motion Toys emphasises that it is precisely this quality that is crucial for stability and durability. The company's mission goes beyond the individual product. The aim is to make people ‘happier and healthier’ – through creative thinking, movement and analogue interaction. Shashibo is not only intended to entertain, but also to stimulate cognitive processes. The Shashibo Magnetic Puzzle System with 100 shapes is therefore an example of a toy that combines geometry, magnetism and exploration. It challenges without overwhelming, offers structure without restriction and remains open to ever new combinations. A cube that doesn't want to remain a cube – and that's exactly where its appeal lies.