Roux Method Speedcubing Guide - Intuitive Block Building
The **Roux Method** was introduced by Gilles Roux in 2003. It represents a different philosophy compared to layer-based methods. Instead of solving a cross and working upwards, Roux relies on **block building**, CMLL corner algorithms, and solving the last six edges (LSE) using only the middle (M) slice and upper (U) face.
Roux is highly favored for speedcubing because it requires an average of only 48 moves, which is lower than CFOP. Furthermore, since M slice turns are executed without rotating the whole cube, Roux solves are rotation-less, making it popular for speed and lookahead.
Roux Method Steps
Step 1: First 1x2x3 Block (Left Side)
Build a 1x2x3 block on the left side of the cube. Typically, you solve a left-bottom edge, and match two corner-edge pairs, placing them around it. This is done intuitively.
Step 2: Second 1x2x3 Block (Right Side)
Build a matching 1x2x3 block on the right side of the cube, using only U and R moves. This leaves the middle (M) slice and the top layer free to move.
Step 3: CMLL (Corners of Last Layer)
Solve the 4 top corners. Since the middle slice is empty, you can use algorithms that orient and permute corners simultaneously without breaking the two blocks. There are 42 CMLL cases.
Step 4: LSE (Last Six Edges)
Complete the remaining 6 edges (4 top edges + 2 bottom middle edges) using M and U moves. This phase orientates edges, places the left/right bottom edges, and completes the middle layer.