Pikas**t method Information about the method Proposer(s): Justin Harder Proposed: 2013 Alt Names: sans asterisks Variants: L5E, ELL No. Steps: 4 No. Algs: 9-42 Avg Moves: Est. 50 Purpose(s): Speedsolving

Pikas**t (alternatively spelled sans asterisks) is a 3x3 speedsolving method proposed by Justin Harder on 24 June 2013 as a variant of the Petrus Method. Drawing influence from the Petrus and Roux methods, this method relies heavily on blockbuilding at the beginning of the solve and EO recognition at the end.





The Steps

An example of pieces that can be solved in the C+OP step

Build a 2x2x3 block anywhere on the cube. It is advised to consult the Petrus method for assistance. This step is intuitive and requires no algorithms. After formation, this block is traditionally positioned on the lower left side of the cube with respect to the F face, but can be placed where convenient for the next step. Solve C+OP (Corner Plus One Pair) to complete one full layer of corners with one non-LL edge solved as well. The two corners should be solved adjacent to the block to complete one layer of corners. The solved edge can be anywhere as long as it is attached to one of the aforementioned corners. Because of the "missing cross piece", other pair insertion techniques are applicable. Corners of the Last Layer (CLL) . Originally referred to as "Solve Remaining Corner", This step can be solved using 3x3 CLL, CMLL, COLL, and OLLCP. Last Six Edges (LSE) . Though originally called "Solve the Remaining 6 edge" as to differentiate it from Roux LSE, this step is traditionally solved as a pseudo-Roux-LSE as follows:

4a. Perform set-up moves to position the edges in a traditional LSE configuration

4b. Roux-style LSE

4c. AUF and undo the set-up moves.

Simplifications

1. 2x2x3:

Construct CFOP-style as a cross with two pairs, but without a fourth cross piece. This is generally frowned upon due to the nonuse of blockbuilding.

2. C+OP:

The solved edge is advised to be the FR edge, formed with the DFR corner as a CFOP-style pair.

It is acceptable from this point to solve with first layer on left, if the 2x2x3 block is positioned in the lower left side of the cube.

It is also acceptable to solve a row of pieces (e.g. DFR-DR-DBR) to complete C+OP .

. Winter Variation and other techniques may be used to influence OCLL for the CLL step.

step. Solving additional edges in this step or the next is advisable to influence the LSE step.

3. CLL:

Influencing EO is highly advisable for preparation of the LSE step.

4. LSE:

"Hacking" LSE, or LSE hax, is performed using alternate approaches to solving LSE that may include the use of commutators, ELL (and EPLL consequently), 5-cycles, and L5E.

Pros

Pikas**t allows for freer manipulations of the cube as compared to other more structured methods, particularly in the C+OP and CLL steps.

Cons

As can be expected with any pseudo- steps in a speedsolving method, recognising for LSE can be difficult, notably the EO supstep in 4a.

Also, movecount can be considerably higher than other speedsolving methods for solvers unaccustomed to the style of Pikas**t.

See also



