Nova
Nova Method – Speedsolving Wiki Description
Overview
The Nova Method is a hybrid speedsolving method that combines elements of CFOP, ZZ, Mehta, and Roux to create a highly efficient and lookahead-friendly approach. It emphasizes early edge orientation (EO), block-building, and flexible last-layer solving, resulting in a method that is both ergonomic and move-efficient while reducing reliance on rotations.
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Method Breakdown
Step 1: First Block + EO (FBE) – 8-12 moves
Solve a 1×2×3 block in the DL area (similar to Roux and Mehta).
Simultaneously orient all E-slice edges to preserve rotationless solving (like ZZ).
This step is intuitive but requires block-building skills.
Step 2: Partial Second Block (PSB) – 6-10 moves
Solve the DR edge + a corner-edge pair, usually in FR.
Ensures an aligned last-layer edge setup, preventing difficult cases later.
Inspired by Mehta’s and Roux’s second block approach.
Step 3: Last Two Edges (LTE) – 4-6 moves
Solve the remaining DF & DB edges while maintaining EO.
This completes full F2L + EO, setting up a predictable last layer.
Uses efficient edge-insertion tricks or intuitive solutions.
Step 4: Last Layer (LL) – 10-18 moves
Depending on the solver’s preference, two main approaches exist:
Option 1: ZBLL (One-Look LL) – 10-13 moves
Solve the last layer in one step using 493 algorithms.
The most efficient option but requires high algorithm knowledge.
Option 2: Two-Look LL (Simplified) – 13-18 moves
OLL (57 Algs) → Orients the last-layer corners and edges.
PLL (21 Algs) → Permutes all last-layer pieces.
A more accessible approach with 78 algorithms total.
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Move Count
First Block + EO (FBE): 8-12 moves
Partial Second Block (PSB): 6-10 moves
Last Two Edges (LTE): 4-6 moves
Last Layer (ZBLL): 10-13 moves
Total (ZBLL approach): 38-45 moves
Total (Two-Look LL approach): 42-50 moves
Nova is more efficient than CFOP and comparable to Roux and ZZ in move count. With ZBLL, it can be even more efficient than Roux in some cases.
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Total algs FBE=0 PSB=0 LTE=0 LL=78 or 493 Total algs=78 or 493 based on LL
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Pros & Cons
✅ Pros (Advantages)
✔ Rotationless after Step 1 → Early EO allows solving with R, U, L, and M moves only. ✔ Lower move count than CFOP → More efficient than CFOP and comparable to Roux & ZZ. ✔ Good Lookahead → Block-building means fewer pieces to track compared to CFOP’s 4-slot F2L. ✔ Flexible LL options → ZBLL for one-look or simplified 2-look LL for lower algorithm count. ✔ No M-Slice Dependence → Unlike Roux, it does not require fast M moves to be efficient.
❌ Cons (Disadvantages)
✖ Requires block-building skills → Not as straightforward as CFOP’s "cross + slot" approach. ✖ Edge Orientation must be maintained → Like ZZ, mistakes in EO can cause bad cases later. ✖ Not as TPS-heavy as CFOP → Top CFOP solvers rely on high TPS, while Nova prioritizes efficiency. ✖ ZBLL Dependency for Max Efficiency → One-look LL requires 493 algorithms.
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Who Should Use Nova?
✅ CFOP solvers looking for more efficiency without drastically changing solving style. ✅ ZZ or Mehta solvers who want a block-building approach while keeping EO advantages. ✅ Roux solvers who struggle with M-slice turning and want a more ergonomic alternative. ✅ Speedcubers interested in a method with both efficiency and strong lookahead potential.
Who Should NOT Use Nova?
❌ Beginners → Requires block-building intuition and EO awareness. ❌ CFOP solvers who rely purely on TPS instead of move efficiency. ❌ Cubers who dislike large algorithm sets (ZBLL requires 493 algs for one-look LL).
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Final Thoughts
The Nova Method is a balanced and efficient alternative to traditional speedsolving methods, combining the best aspects of CFOP, ZZ, Mehta, and Roux. It offers a lower move count than CFOP, maintains rotationless solving like ZZ, and uses block-building concepts from Roux & Mehta. While it requires some adaptation, it has the potential to be a top-tier speedsolving method for those willing to learn it.
