Originally posted by: Amused
Yes, I understand that there are predefined moves. But most cubers move from move to move and reassess the cube after each move. This requires one to actually visualize all of that from start to finish. Not an easy task.
Nope, not an easy task at all - but once you're familiar with the sequence, there's no thinking; just rote movement. You're right, MOST cubers re-evaluate after each move (or each few moves). Those players likely also play chess (if they play) in a sequence of one or two moves as opposed to a thought process of four or more moves ahead.
The only real hurdle is in changing your mindset to accomplish your long term goal. It's not as difficult as it initially looks, just takes practice looking at it differently is all. Not that it's any easy task
*If you google for more video on impressive cube manipulation you'll see that all of the action starts out slow (while the cuber is choosing two sides) then the action speeds up considerably once the two sides being assembled define the third and shazaam. But that's not impressive. What's impressive is quickly visualizing the first through third sides and then just going with it (and of course, only posting the videos that turned out right!).
Friends and I disassembled our cubes and sanded the contact corners with fine grit sand paper and then used a light weight machine oil to reduce surface friction. Made for faster cube movements and also allowed for less precise channel alignment during complex manuevers.
The move sequences are likely posted on someone's website. You used to be able to send away for the move sequences (pre-internet) not only for completion but for pattern design and for custom racks (configuring the cube for differing levels of starting complexity). The "Starting Complexity" issue was something we particularly noted. Some cubers are more familiar with certain configurations than others. You can 'place' your cube on the table with what appears to most to be a raw cube (completely out of sequence) but in fact it may be a raw configuration that you're ready to roll with without needing visual prep time.
Hmm, might have to get me a new Rubix and get back in the game.