Learning the Roux method for the Rubik’s Cube can feel like a breath of fresh air if you’ve been stuck on CFOP. Instead of focusing on layers, Roux is all about building blocks. It’s a highly efficient, low move-count method that’s a favorite among one-handed solvers and those who enjoy a more intuitive approach.Ready to dive in? Here’s the complete breakdown of the Roux method, step by step.
Step 1: The First Block (FB)
The very first thing you do in the Roux method is build a solid 1x2x3 block. This block goes on one side of the cube, typically the left face (L face), and includes a corner, a center, and two edges. It’s a small, neat structure that becomes your foundation.
This step is completely intuitive. You’re not following an algorithm; you’re looking at the cube and finding the pieces that belong together. Your goal is to get the corner, its two adjacent edges, and the center all correctly oriented and positioned.
Think of it like building a small LEGO structure. You find a corner piece, then find an edge that connects to it, and build from there. The beauty of this step is that you can use any moves you want, as long as you’re not messing up your progress.
Step 2: The Second Block (SB)
With your first block in place, you now build a second, identical 1x2x3 block on the opposite side of the cube—the right face (R face).
The key here is to build this block without messing up the first one. You’ll primarily use moves on the top layer (U), the right layer (R), and the back layer (B). But the real game-changer is the middle slice (M).
The M-slice is the layer between the left and right sides. In Roux, you’re free to spin this middle layer as much as you need to. Using M-moves is a fantastic way to insert pieces for your second block without ever touching your completed first block. It feels a bit like magic at first, and it’s what makes the method so efficient.
By the end of this step, you’ll have two complete 1x2x3 blocks on the left and right sides of your cube. Everything in the middle will be a mess, but that’s what the next steps are for.
Step 3: CMLL (Corners of the Last Layer)
Now it’s time to tackle the four corners on the top face of the cube. This step, known as CMLL, stands for “Corners of the Last Layer.”
The goal is to solve all four of these corners at once—both their orientation and their position. This is where you’ll start learning a set of algorithms. There are a total of 42 possible CMLL cases.
Don’t panic! You don’t need to know all 42 to get started. Many cubers use a two-step approach: first, you orient all the top corners so the top color (usually yellow) is facing up. Then, you use a separate set of algorithms to put them in their correct positions.
Mastering CMLL is a process, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Once these four corners are solved, the cube starts looking much, much closer to being finished.
Step 4: LSE (Last Six Edges)
This is the final stretch. LSE, or “Last Six Edges,” is what makes the Roux method so unique. You will use only M and U moves to solve the rest of the cube.
At this point, you have two completed blocks and four solved corners. The six edges that remain are in the middle slice and on the top face.
The LSE step is often broken into three parts:
- Edge Orientation: You first orient all six remaining edges so they can be solved with just M and U moves.
- Edge Permutation (UL/UR): You permute the two edges that are on the top layer to their correct positions.
- M-Slice Permutation: Finally, you solve the last four edges that are in the middle slice.
This final step is an elegant dance of M and U moves. It’s a beautiful demonstration of how powerful and minimalist the Roux method can be. With just these two simple move types, you take a scrambled-looking puzzle to a fully solved state.
Roux vs. CFOP: What’s the Difference?
If you’re coming from CFOP, Roux will feel very different. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Focus: CFOP focuses on layers (Cross, F2L, OLL, PLL). Roux focuses on building blocks.
- Move Count: Roux generally has a lower move count than CFOP, especially for proficient solvers.
- Rotations: Roux requires far fewer cube rotations (y and x rotations). This makes it faster and more ergonomic, which is why it’s popular for one-handed solving.
- Algorithms: While CFOP requires more than 100 algorithms for a complete solve (OLL+PLL), Roux’s most algorithmic step, CMLL, has only 42.
Learning the Roux method is a fun challenge that can transform the way you approach cubing. It’s less about memorization and more about creative block building. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite method.