So, I’ve had a number of requests to do the crazy 4x4x4. Here, I demonstrate all the versions, and then start in on the crazy 4x4x4 III. I explain how this is approached differently from a normal 4x4x4 due to the fact that despite the apparent complexity of the puzzle, there are 3 associations that exist between pieces that limit the scramble and assist the solve.
1. Each set of three adjacent center pieces move together making them function as a 2x2x2,
2. Each set of two edge pieces that face each other move together making them function as one edge piece.
3. Can you guess the final association between pieces?
Here we use 2x2x2 strategy for the inner centers, and then edge orientation algorithms to get the edge pieces in the top and bottom:
R U Ri U R 2R Ri for the right,
Li Ui L Ui Li 2U L for the left
In part 2 we finish the center reduction!