Loop the Loop

Description

How it works: This puzzle has three different configurations for three progressively more difficult challenges.  In its base form, it consists of a board with two loops, one oriented vertically, and the other horizontal and around the stem of the vertical loop plus a string with both ends connected to a medallion.  In the “ON” configuration, the string is around the board between the two loops or around the stem of either of the loops.  The goal is to completely remove the string/medallion from the board/loop structure.  Once removed, the challenge becomes returning the string to its ON configuration.

In its next harder configuration (shown as Harder, above), an additional piece is added with its rounded end through the vertical loop, and its square end inserted into the hole labelled “Harder” and located behind the stem of the horizontal loop.  The object is the same – remove the string completely from the structure, but there is now a slightly more complicated solution.  Returning the string to the structure is also a little more challenging.

In the hardest configuration, the third piece is installed in the “Hardest” hole in the base with its rounded end extending through the vertical loop.  With the same goal as before, the player will find this configuration a little more challenging and involving two steps to completely free the string from the structure.  A reversal of these steps will return the string to the ON configuration.

Story behind the puzzle: This is a classic puzzle available in a variety of forms.  My contribution was to make it reconfigurable for a range of challenge levels to appeal to beginners and beyond.