Mechanical puzzles have been around for well over two and a half thousand years, and many traditional formats have remained for a good length of time. Today, with more accurate design and manufacture, including the use of computers to design and model some of the more intriguing puzzles, there is a very wide range of puzzle types, which range from mildly intriguing to downright devastating.
Many of these puzzles are made from quality materials, such as wood or metal, which helps for a number of reasons. Firstly, the metal or wood is relatively inflexible, which means that the puzzle can’t be forced, which would be the case if it were made of plastic. Secondly, being strong, if the puzzle is forced, or simply used a great deal, it is unlikely to break or snap. Thirdly, many of these puzzles are very tactile, with beautiful wooden shapes or cold smooth metal objects that weigh a fair bit. The fourth reason is that these puzzles also look very beautiful, and many are used as decorations or ornaments on desks whilst they are not being worked on. Often they are used as conversation pieces, and everyone likes to have a go at a puzzle. Read more
