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Top 5 Transformers Generations Figures not made yet

Date: Saturday, May 16th 2015 7:23am CDT
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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4. Elita One

While it took almost 30 years for an actual toy of G1 arcee, we are still missing an actual toy of Elita 1, Cybertron's first lady. What is sad about this character is that at least arcee had a bunch of original molds in the past, even though none of them were of her G1 self. Elita 1 however, only got the leftovers, with a series of redecos and really ugly looking toys. There is very little legacy for this character in toy form and I really hope that changes soon with the release of a decent toy for this important fembot.

3. Transformers Sky Lynx

There is very little wrong with Sky Lynx' G1 toy. It is interesting, fun, original and quite show accurate. That doesn't change the fact that he never ever got any kind of update aside from the random shout out here and there. I, and many, believe that he is the most important G1 character left who hasn't gotten an updated toy. It's a good thing he at least got an Encore release which let fans finally get this cool G1 toy, which is something I can't say about ...

2. The rest of the Dinobots

The classics line gave us Grimlock and... no one else. The next Dinobot released in the year spanning classics line was ... Grimlock...again. Dont get me wrong, Generations Grimlock is actually a great update to the character and one of the best FOC toys, with a great scale for a classics collection and a fun gimmick. But that doesn't make up that we are still missing updates to the other G1 dinos. Let me explain in a few easy pics.

G1 Dinobots

Set of G1 Dinobot toys

Updated G1 Dinobots

Set of updated G1 Dinobot toys

1. Transformers Beast Wars Blackarachnia (Black Widow) and Transformers Beast Wars Terrorsaur (Terrorsaurer)

These two picks are near unanimous and for good reason since I personally cannot think of any other toys/characters which simply need to be updated for today. Blackarachnia is simply a non issue, she is just a redeco of Tarantulus which looks nothing like her animation model. The mold simply does not suit her sleek physique which is one of the main aspects of the character's design (and behaviour). She is the ultimate fembot and there just has to be a toy representing her original appearance.

At the same time, we have Terrorsaur. While I like his original toy (it is my very first Beast Wars toy), the scale just doesn't work. He was practically Megatron's second in command in season one of the Beast Wars show but the toy would make you think he's tiny, like Rattrap. And while I don't mind the simple transformation, it does result in having his hard stationary wings just sit there in robot mode, overshadowing any sleek physique his toy may have been trying to replicate. The Rattrap's original toy was simple too but actually in scale and quite accurate at the time, and even he got an update. In the end, I couldn't decide between these two Beast Wars characters which one was more in need of an update by both me and the community, so why not both.

Honourable mentions: Take your pick from this awesome thread. But for a quick answer here and now: Titan class Omega Supreme and Leader Class Sixshot. Odd how both Skylynx and Omega Supreme didn’t get new generations molds yet, and they both happen to be the two original Tomy designed toys in the Transformers franchise. Generations Overlord gets mentioned a lot too and for good reason, but I would rather they rerelease the G1 toy first and then go and update him.

Top 5 Best Guest Celebrity voice actors in Transformers History

Date: Saturday, May 2nd 2015 7:41am CDT
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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Transformers News: Top 5 Celebrity voice actors in Transformers

4. Weird Al Yankovic as Wreck-Gar in Transformers Animated

Can there be a more perfect casting (yes, because this is number 4) than pairing up weird Al with this Transformers nutcase. Actually the Wreck-Gar character has had some great talent voice him, like Eric Idle. However, Weird Al tops that performance in part due to the improved speech pattern he gets to play with. He definitely helped Wreck Gar be as odd, hyper, passionate and as weird as he was supposed to be, while giving him a sweet and sympathetic side that helps from the shtick getting too annoying.

3. Orson Wells as Unicron in The Transformers Movie

This is the most solemn voice you could ever hear. It evokes power and certitude in anything it whispers and it is both the voice of the most powerful threat in Transformers history as well as the voice of the greatest filmmaker that ever lived, Orson Welles (if anyone doesn't know, at age 25 he directed "Citizen Kane" which is believed by film critics to be the best film of all time). You can't help but believe everything uttered by that voice and the fact that it speaks of tearing worlds apart can't make you see anything but doom. It was used sparingly but to amazing effect.

2. Tony Todd as Dreadwing in Transformers Prime

When I first heard Dreadwing speak, I took a step back. It was both deep and steely, it could bring a chill down your spine. And of course, it had to be by one of the scariest guys ever, Tony Todd, the Candy Man himself. His deep voice also worked with adding to the characters sense of honour, pride and determination since you knew that he meant every word he spoke. And the best part is that it doesn't take anything away from the character by being invassive or distracting. It just works. This is exactly what this no nonsense character would sound like and no one could have done a better job. But number one is kind of special...

1. Leanard Nimoy as Galvatron (not sentinel Prime) in The Transformers Movie

Was this too predictable? Firstly, the use of a different voice for Galvatron was very well done. It emphasised that this was a new version of the character with a new unhinged personality (think Doctor Who), and what we were comfortable with before had just flown out the window. Galvatron was more ruthless than Megatron ever was, and far more psychotic, to the point of even doublecrossing Unicron (WHO DOES THAT!?!?!). Leanard Nimoy conveys this transition perfectly, giving a great balance of power and insanity. This works so well in setting the tone of the film, and of the character, and it's also Leanard freaken Nimoy. Way to start the new age of G1 with a bang!

Honourable mentions: My number 5 was a hard choice between my pick and George Takei as Alpha Trion. I was so amused and surprised when I heard George Takei's unmistakable voice on the show, but that's kinda the problem. His voice was so obvious that I couldn't see Alpha Trion talking to Optimus, I just heard George Takei, hence why this guest voice wasn't the one chosen. Also, the previously mentioned Eric Idle.

Top 5 Transformers figures who look most like non transforming action figures

Date: Saturday, April 18th 2015 10:20am CDT
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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Views: 86,635

Every two weeks, Seibertron.com brings you a Top 5 list related to all things Transformers written by me, your fellow editor. These are my opinions (just like movie or game reviews hosted by sites are still just the opinion of one person) so what matters most is what you guys think of the topic or list, and I hope to see your own lists or comments on omissions and ranking. Let's have fun! All previous lists can be found here.

Top 5 Transformers Toys who look most like non transforming action figures

Ever since the G1 Action Masters, there has been this idea of having non transforming versions of Transformers sold as action figures. There have since been other products that feature non transforming Transformers aside from action figures like the Titan Hero figures, keychains, Happy Meal Toys and so on. However, countering this, there have been a few Transformers toys, throughout the brand's history that looked just like these non transforming action figures but that could actually transform. This is usually due to very smart designs and lack of extraneous kibble (a dead giveaway that a robot can change into another form), so for all intents and purposes, list could have also been called "Top 5 most kibble free Robot Modes", so count this list as two lists in one.

5. Transformers Universe - Classics 2.0 Onslaught

This onslaught is one of the very few Transformers that really sells the fact that these toys transform to robots (oh and are at war!). Usually, transformers have more humanoid features which helps give them some sort of personality. Thus even though they are "robots in disguise", the robot element is more of a biological definition as opposed to being the main aesthetic of the robot mode. However, Onslaught's robot mode has all the aesthetics usually given to the conceptions of robots outside the Transformers brand. He is very blocky with smooth surfaces and a face devoid of expression. He looks like the second to last boss in a game where you only face mechs the whole time (like Enslaved, Vanquish or Binary Domain) right before you confront the guy pulling the strings. These attributes distract from the fact that he can actually transform, even though a bunch of alt mode details are present, which is an amazing feat in design.

4. Transformers G1 1985 Omega Supreme

What I said about Onslaught truly looking like a robot is even more realized here. This guy looks like the perfect idea of a kid's (non transforming) robot toy, like the robot from Johnson and Friends. It's simple, there is no way one could even guess what this toy transforms into even if one was told that it had another form. A futuristic space ship maybe? Nope, this giant robot actually turns into a rocket launchpad base surrounded by a train track for a tank to roll across it. I don't know about you, but I cannot in any way guess that from this awesome 80s toy robot here. It of course, helps that this was one of the few Transformers toys to not be based on any Takara transforming toy, and thus has a very different aesthetic that one wouldn't attribute to the brand. He also doesn't technically transform since all his parts are made to be dismantled and rebuilt from one mode to the next.

3. Transformers Animated Lockdown

Although you see a few car parts, this tall lanky figure does not give any impression that he is more than a poseable action figure (with sculpted car parts). While this can be said about most Transformers Animated figures, I feel this one takes the cake. The stylistic chest and the other cartoon-like features, like his neck and face, along with his complete lack of any extraneous kibble really brings that idea home. He looks more like an action figure of a Sith lord from the Clone Wars show (Savage Opress type).

2. Transformers Universe - Classics 2.0 Cyclonus

Speaking of lacking any extraneous kibble, I bring you Universe Cyclonus who looks like a well articulated action figure based on his design in the Transformers Movie. The absolute lack of kibble, due in part to telescoping parts, and cybertronian nature does not hint that he can completely convert into a nice sleek cybertronian jet. Someone who doesn't know the character would not think twice that this was more than a simple and badass looking action figure.

1. Transformers Prime: Cyberverse Megatron

This is not the best toy on this list, but, he is the one that looks the least like an actual transforming toy. There is absolutely no kibble anywhere and his arms and legs don't have any seams and don't appear to be anything other than arms and legs. He looks just like one of those small non transforming Happy Meal Toys but with slightly better articulation. And of course, you guessed it, he actually transforms. I won't go bragging about how great the alt mode is but it does exist. And aside from rearranging the limbs, his chest does undergo a significant Transformation. I even find this toy better than the Voyager class version just because the marginal improvement on that toy's alt mode seen from he top does not make up for all the extra back kibble it gets. But we will talk more of that particular toy later

Back to this cyberverse toy, while it may not have a great alt mode, you could never guess it actually transforms, hence why it is number one on my list.

Honourable mentions: I wrote about the G1 Action Masters series in the intro which were infamous for being the first non transforming toys of the Transformers brand. BUT, did you know that there were some not released in the US that actually did transform? That particular line was called Action Master Elite and I am using the the four Transformers that make it's entirety as my honourable mentions. After all, who could have ever guessed that these non transforming toys actually did somewhat transform.
I would also like to mention Animated Oilslick.

Transformers Animated Oil Slick Gallery

Top 5 best G1 Transformers Toy updates

Date: Saturday, April 4th 2015 8:40am CDT
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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The reason he is at the back end of this list is because this doesn’t feel like the final version of this character. This toy is more of a reinterpretation of the character and not the actual comic book or G1 cartoon version come to life. He even got an update to his name. For what is probably copyright reasons, he became Sergeant Kup in this release. But none the less, Kup is one of the character’s who most needed an update. For such a legendary character, as he was one of the main characters of the 86 film, the only other toy he got since G1 was a Botcon 09 toy which didn’t work at all for the character (my opinion). But 2011 finally gave us a phenomenal update. I love the head sculpt, the alt mode is great even though it is an earth based truck instead of a Cybertronian picKUP. He still looks the part of the scrappy old timer and the color is also spot on. Then chest section is pretty great as well, recalling the cybertronian elements of the G1 toy and the transformation itself is neat, especially the feet. What really seals the deal is the long musket which stores under the truck mode disguised as a very convincing exhaust pipe.

4. Transformers Masterpiece Optimus Prime (MP-10) (Convoy)

I don’t know what to write that could give this update any justice. The figure in robot mode really looks like the G1 cartoon model just jumped off the screen, unlike the G1 toy. The G1 toy was not too bad though, hence why this isn’t number 1 on this list. Actually, the G1 toy was pretty smart since it found an effective way of combining an easy transformation which resulted in a robot which had a wide chest and a thin abdominal area, which has defined Optimus Prime ever since. This update makes that change in contour completely flawless with a smart transformation that was fine tuned from the earlier Masterpiece release of Optimus. They still didn’t fix the obvious groin area exposed in truck mode, an issue that even the G1 toy didn’t have. I do want to say that the cab is the highlight of this update. I don’t find the trailer to be much of an improvement over the G1 version, and Hasbro’s dull grey didn’t help. I was told it could be fixed with Reprolabels, and while that may be perfectly true, having to spend more money for a finished version of a product will not get you the number 1 spot (especially when your original toy was one of the best of the bunch). But number 4 is no sweat for this awesome toy.

And to give a sense of the difference in size:

3. Transformers Masterpiece Wheeljack

Oh man, what an update! They even got the spelling of sponsor “Alitalia” right this time (there are reprolabels to fix the correction though). The G1 toy, like the datsuns and other G1 cars, didn’t even have legs that could separate, so an update didn’t need much to make us happy. As a matter of fact, people were happy with simply a redeco of RTS Tracks. But this figure really knocks it out of the parc by not only being accurate but also my pick for the best new mold to come out of Hasbro/Takara in 2014. Not in a while had I marveled this much at a transformer, and on a pure toy level, he is an absolutely perfect example of a robot in disguise. He feels hefty, has flawless kibble free modes which are also both accurate to their own specific source (a cartoon model and an officially licensed car model).What I really loved about Wheeljack is how robot parts just spring out of him and are nowhere noticeable in his car mode, like his wings, which were far more evident in the original toy’s undercarriage and prone to loss. I just love how his feet are formed and look like distinct robot legs rather than a piece of his car. Unlike the Datsuns, these car pieces look more like feet than repurposed car parts, which was obviously not the case with the original G1 figure.

2. Transformers Generations Springer

Springer was not the best G1 triple changer. None of the three modes were convincing. His helicopter mode had his robot arms and hands sticking out with the excuse of it being Cybertronian in design (uurgh), the car mode was average and the robot mode was not great with odd proportions and terrible arms. He needed an update, that’s for sure, and had a bunch (starting with Energon’s Bulkhead, then Timelines, Universe and Generations GDO). But every single time, he either only turned into a car or helicopter. True triple changers are rarer than we think in the world of transformers toys, so getting an actual update of Springer as a triple changer in the Generations line was an event all on its own. It was even more wondrous to realize that this toy was an accomplishment. Unlike the G1 toy, both alt modes are very distinctive from one another. They have different dimensions and silhouettes, only sharing the color pallet. Also unlike the G1 toy, the robot mode is tall and sleek, with great proportions and one of the most poseable transformers toys at that price range. Even his sword that turns into the propeller is updated well, with a neat new transformation, and his gun has been given a serious overhaul. This would be the best update of all if it weren’t for the following number 1 pick...

1. Transformers Generations Warpath Gallery

As far as updates go, I can’t think of any other toy that needed it this much and got this good a result from it. It’s like owning a small masterpiece at the fraction of the cost. We went from a minibot with no legs, which looked locked in mid transformation into a deluxe class which oozes perfection. Unlike the G1 toy, the tank fully transforms into a robot with superb articulation, zero kibble and striking show accuracy for a non masterpiece toy. They did change his tank into an H tank, but I will take that if it means he gets legs in robot mode. It’s also worth noting that for an H tank, he doesn’t look like a robot crawling on all fours like Armada Megatron and Animated Shockwave (two toys that were NOT part of the best Tanks list). All around, I couldn’t think of a better update for a toy that so badly needed one. And for those who find the deluxe class too big for this toy, then just stick him in your masterpiece collection, he’ll fit right in.

Honourable mention: Generations Cosmos, Energon Galvatron, Masterpiece Grimlock, MP Soundwave, MP Lambor, Generations Scourge, Universe Cyclonus and the Classics seekers.

Top 5 Best Homages and Callbacks in Transformers Toys

Date: Saturday, March 21st 2015 6:04pm CDT
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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Views: 82,970

Every two weeks, Seibertron.com brings you a Top 5 list related to all things Transformers written by me, your fellow editor. These are my opinions (just like movie or game reviews hosted by sites are still just the opinion of one person) so what matters most is what you guys think of the topic or list, and I hope to see your own lists or comments on omissions and ranking. Let's have fun! All previous lists can be found here.

Top 5 Best Homages and Callbacks in Transformers Toys

One of the best parts of being a hardcore Transformers fan is to notice the homages and callbacks designers leave on a figure, they are always a treat. The main rules for selection in this list is that they were not updates to older toys part of the Transformers brand (let’s keep that for another Top 5 list) nor other versions of an older Transformers characters being reinterpreted for the latest new fictional universe (ie: Energon Optimus as an homage to G1 Optimus). The main thing here is that these are retail released figures featuring homages we did not see coming.

5. Transformers Generations Crosscut homaging Diacone No. 6 Honda City R

The whole figure is an homage in this case. Technically this is the first Crosscut figure ever released at retail and unlike other generations figures, it is not an update on a Transformers character from either the original G1 toys or the G1 cartoon. Instead this figure is an homage to the original pre-Transformers Diaclone version of the "Honda City R" mold (the one in silver in the image below) that was not licensed to Hasbro. Hasbro ended up using the "Honda City Turbo" model that would become Skids (the blue one on the very same picture). This robot toy also had a less human-like headsculpt than Skids and featured a mouthplate. This figure definitely gets a nod for going beyond the normal scope of an homage to reflect the origins of the Transformers brand (yes I know there was a reissue of the Honda City R introducing Crosscut to the Transformers Brand but a) it was not a retail release and b) I am looking at the bigger picture in terms of what this toy is homaging).

4. Transformers Cybertron Hot Shot (Excellion) homaging Transformers G1 1986 Hot Rod (Hot Rodimus)

The image below explains it all. What blows my mind is how I always assumed the main homage were the wing tips in the back to homage the Hot Rod animation model, but the true homage is actually the legs. They are directly lifted from the Hot Rod toy. I love how the Hot Shot toy shows how simple transformations akin to the G1 era could still give a great robot mode. The reason I chose Hot Shot over Excellion is because the Hot Rod homage goes just a bit too overboard on that toy while Hot Shot keeps some subtlety while retaining his own identity as a toy.

3. Transformers Energon Omega Supreme homaging Action Master Elite Omega Spreem.

This is the part in a rock concert when the singer goes "this is for the most hadcore fans" because this homage is astounding simply for how far out it is and for how only a select group of hardcore fans would get it. Look at the two pictures below and check how similar the head is with the visor, the breathing tubes below it as well as the design of the upper chest. Now, the one at the left is the small transformer which turns into the head of Energon Omega Supreme (it is far more obvious when you see him from the back). For those who do not know, this Omega Supreme was the second Transformers toy with that name released in North America and he was a reinterpretation of the original G1 Omega Supreme for a new show. However, there was another Omega Supreme toy released in the G1 era as part of the Action Master line. This line offered small non transforming versions of famous Transformers characters and were meant to be more like action figures then transformers. However, there were some that actually could transform slightly, but they were never sold in the US, just Europe (in terms of the west). One of them was a version of Omega Supreme that for a "some reason" was called Omega Spreem. That is who the small yellow toy on the right is. So, when the designers made the new Energon Omega Supreme, they inspired themselves from the design of the small action master G1 version for the small robot that made it's head. So, like I said, it's an amazing attention to detail that shows how passionate some of these designers are, and yet most do not know this (until now hopefully). The fact that it is so minute makes it both a great homage but not something I feel comfortable placing as number one. Also, for many, the less we remember about the action master line, the better.

2. Transformers Energon Megatron homaging Transformers G1 1986 Galvatron

Similar to the Hot Shot homage discussed earlier, Megatron exibits a bunch of characteristics from a G1 toy, this time Galvatron. This works perfectly since Galvatron is Megatron reborn and this new form of Megatron is seeping with hints at the toy he will eventually be. I am not referring tothe fiction but to the intertwined lore surrounding the characters and toys. Firstly, you have the fact that he is white, which calls back to the fact that the original Galvatron toy was made white instead of his show accurate purple. The toy is further referrenced through the barrel chest. Sculpted details keep the homage going with the designs found on the legs, the abdominal area, the crowned head and so much more. One look at the picture below and you will see this is the G1 Galvatron toy reborn.

1. Transformers Reveal The Shield Lugnuthomaging Animated Lugnut

And here is the winner that disrupts the whole pattern and throws subtlety out the door. But it's worth it to mention such an odd and wonderful figure that is an homage as much as the others, albeit far more in your face. Unlike the entire classics line which consists of updating older toys and characters with modern engineering and an updated look, this was a figure taking cues from an extremely stylized animated model, of just a few years prior, and reimagining the look into a more realistic Flying Fortress. It is bringing this character into the Transfomrers Brand proper, as if based on a G1 character that never was (which is diferent from what they did with Lockdown who was reinterpreted as a movie character for the ROTF line). That is made more obvious by his wavemates in the Reveal the Shield line which was were all updated versions of G1 characters in a line meant to represent a continuation to the classics and universe line (of note, he was the only original voyager mold of that line). The fact that he can’t fit into anyone’s collection properly (please tell me with which characters you display him with, I am really curious) and that he is a total reversal of the usual process of toys and animated models (which take cues from older toys and models, usually G1), just comes to show how amazing an homage and figure this is. I still can’t believe it exists, and the fact that it also happens to be one of the best realized plane transformers to ever come out is just icing on the cake. So in short, this figure is not an update on an older toy, and is not a reinterpretation of an older character for a new media line. This guy is truly an homage (to animated Lugnut in this case), and an incredibly odd and amazing one at that.

Honourable mentions: Deep breath.... "Target Exclusive Predacon Rising Cyberverse Beast Hunter Optimus Prime" *exhale* which is a great homage to G1 Thunderclash.
And Cybertron Downshift is a great homage to Wheeljack, and I am surprised they didn't just call him that.

Top 5 Best Female Transformer characters (Fembots)

Date: Saturday, March 7th 2015 8:11am CST
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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Views: 96,602

Every two weeks, Seibertron.com brings you a Top 5 list related to all things Transformers written by me, your fellow editor. These are my opinions (just like movie or game reviews hosted by sites are still just the opinion of one person) so what matters most is what you guys think of the topic or list, and I hope to see your own lists or comments on omissions and ranking. Let's have fun! All previous lists can be found here.

Top 5 Best Female Transformer characters (Fembots)

Ever since the introduction of female Transformers with an air of mystery in the G1 episode "The Search for Alpha Trion", fans have wondered what it means for Transforming robots to have a different sex. Or is it gender because they don't reproduce? In that case, then why different genders? and on and on. Regardless, these female robots, aka fembots, have garnered a lot of love throughout the years, maybe in part to their mystery, for how much diversity they add to the show or for how rare it is to see one in a show (and even rarer to see in toy form). I think they are kickass and add a lot to the brand which is, more often than not, purposefully male centric. Here are my picks for the top 5 fembots of all time!

5. Beast Machines Botanica

I must admit that the originality of her concept and design is a big reason for her inclusion on this list. She is to this day the only plant transformer ever depicted in fiction (let me know in the comments if that still holds true). However, it doesn't stop there. She displays a very motherly affection (to her planet in this case) which makes her very passionate about her cause and stake in the war against Megatron. Thus, the motherly qualities associated to her gender are used in the actual writing instead of her gender being used just to add diversity to the cast or designs. There is also a lot of world building owed to that character since her hatred for Megatron hints that this villain's reach extends beyond the cast of characters we followed.

Also, I love her accent and the way she says Megatron is pretty great (and kinda sexy).

4. G1 Elita One

While we see little of her, she is essentially the one in charge of continuing Optimus Prime's mission on their home planet, this is huge! And we see through the famous G1 episode "The Search for Alpha Trion" that she is aware of the great responsibility bestowed upon her and runs a pretty tight ship. While number 3 on this list is a far more popular character, Elita One will always be Cybertron's first lady to me.

3. G1 Arcee

G1's number 1 fembot for sure. The design is great and she adds nice diversity to the main season 3 cast, showing how much of a different direction the writers are taking with the season. However, when watching back, she doesn't seem to have a lot to do, unlike Kup, Rodimus, Ultra Magnus and Wreck Gar (of all autobots), who keep hogging the spotlight. My main beef is pretty much that the main reason she stands out in the cartoon is due to her gender and design and I would have preferred a bit more, hence her not being #1 on this list. However, and I cannot stress this enough, her inclusion in G1 cannon and the Transformers brand itself is a testament to the brand's potential diversity and her aesthetics serve as a prototypical example to how kids of any gender would want some Transformers toys.

2. Transformers Prime Arcee

I find it really awesome how the Autobot's most daring and ruthless warrior is also their smallest and slimmest member. That totally sets gender roles upside down. She is very fun earlier on, before the influx in autobots, where she acts like the Clint Eastwood of the show, not calling in for backup and doing things her way. Of course, there is a great emotional aspect to the character in the way she wants to avoid loss at all cost, which explains her hardass attitude. This is set up very well in the early episodes and it stops her from being a caricature to instead make her probably the deepest character on the show.

1. Beast Wars/Beast Machines Blackarachnia

Blackarachnia is undoubtedly the best fembot in all Transformers fiction history. The reason behind this is because, to me, she has the greatest arc of all Beast Wars characters throughout the 5 seasons she appears in. Her different gender is not just a visual cue but comes up in how she acts, how she thinks. Her great sense of self preservation does not allow her to see the world simply in black and white and she must always be in control of the situation no matter her predicament. Her design is sleek and sexy and she uses it to get her way as she plays mind games on unknowing maximals and predacons who are usually a lot more powerful than her physically. She also brings to the table an emotional depth where she hides behind a stone cold attitude in order to survive in this war. However, she does have a softer side which can be revealed under the right conditions. Watching her development from her introduction in Beast Wars as a stone cold villain, up until her reveal as a passionate hero who will stop at nothing to be reunited with her lover, is something I would have never expected to see in a cartoon about alien robots fighting each other. And yet the writers make it work using her different gender to augment the storytelling and emotional aspect of the show.

Her legacy lives on as two North American based Transformers show have used a similar female spider design as part of their decepticon line up since then (TF Animated's Blackarachnia and Prime's Airachnid).

Honourable mentions: G1 Chromia, Beast Wars Airazor, Animated Black Arachnia, Animated Arcee.

Top 5 Best Tank Transformers Toys

Date: Saturday, February 21st 2015 5:06pm CST
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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Views: 123,914

Every two weeks, Seibertron.com brings you a Top 5 list related to all things Transformers written by me, your fellow editor. These are my opinions (just like movie or game reviews hosted by sites are still just the opinion of one person) so what matters most is what you guys think of the topic or list, and I hope to see your own lists or comments on omissions and ranking. Let's have fun! All previous lists can be found here. (This article was edited December 3rd, 2015)

Top 5 Tank Transformers Toys

2015’s Generations Leader Megatron, is one of the most anticipated figures of the year (but not THE most anticipated, that title goes to Devastator). While he does sport his G1 deco, Hasbro has opted to have him turn into a tank because he couldn’t be distributed stateside if he were to turn into anything remotely resembling a realistic gun. This law regarding toy guns has made tanks an accessible alt mode for Hasbro to use when conveying raw power and devastation. As people are getting their hands on the latest tank Transformer, I thought it would be fun to look back on the best examples of tank Transformers over the years, starting with...

5. Transformers Generations Combiner Wars Megatron

Yup, we are actually starting the list with the reason I first thought of the topic. While I do not find this toy worth it's leader price due to how he lacks heft, complexity and electronics, he does make a pretty awesome tank. It has everything you want really including a rotating turret, a telescoping canon (which ingeniously can be fired if telescoped or not) and working treads. This is the first time we have had working treads in this Millenium. While the aren't a continuous track, the designers make a really strong effort to line up all the components perfectly for it to appear as such and it works beautifully. The Transformation is surprisingly easy but still perfectly fine. The Tank looks like a tank and Megatron looks as much himself as possible with the given alt mode. It reminds me of the Cybertron Leaders which were also simple enough yet full of nice detail and fun to transform. I have yet to choose which deco is better though between the G1 and Armada version. The alt mode makes even more sense with the later, as do the minicon ports. In the end, my only nitpick with this guy is the price. You used to get a lot more toy for that much money (look to the honourable mentions to see how much a deluxe could give you back in the day).

4. Transformers (2007) Leader Brawl

When it comes to giant realistic looking tanks, there is no better than Leader Brawl. This guy could easily be surrounded by a bunch of toy army men and fit right in. He even comes with lights and sound, which up the play factor. He is an amazing tank on his own, and the fact that he is also a transformer is just downright amazing, and only hinted at by the hole where his buried head can be seen. However, it’s also where he starts losing a few points. Him being a movie toy means that there are lots of alt mode parts which are not integrated into the bot mode and these panels end up folding onto one another resulting in legs which are just way too horizontally long (didn’t know that could happen). Those leg panels are also spring loaded, which make his transformation from bot back to tank more annoying than it should be. But what a tank mode it is, and it well deserves a place on this list. Plus, add to that the fact that unlike the previously mentioned leader, this guy has the mass, the complexity and electronics which make this a perfect example of the golden age for Transformer Leader figures.

3. Beast Machines Tankor 1999

Tankor is one of the most overlooked TFs out there. He isn’t show accurate in the slightest, and that’s why no one cares about him now, but he is an incredible transforming toy! He is a beast of a machine in both modes and has an involved yet very intuitive transformation. I love his gimmicks too like his saw blades that can be revealed in tank mode as well as the most complex light piping gimmick ever done. Unlike the show model, this toy actually has two separate heads, one for robot mode and one for tank mode (which I like better, it feels less lazy as a transforming toy) and both heads share an interconnected light piping gimmick which makes it appear as though he is scanning the environment just as he would on the show. Also, his huge size also makes him work as a much worthy opponent to the other non accurate Beast Machines figures out there. In a fit of irony, his size makes him seem more suited to lead an army made up of the more show accurate Tankor that was released in a much smaller scale (also pictured below).

2. Transformers Generations Warpath

This top 5 list so far had great tank modes, but the toys were also flawed either in their overly difficult transformation or the lack of show accuracy. But now, with Deluxe Generations Warpath, we step into the realm of perfection. Firstly, this guy just oozes Deluxe Class perfection. The robot mode is superb with great articulation, 0 kibble, a striking show accuracy for a non masterpiece toy and an all around phenomenal update over the lacking G1 toy (he will probably be in more top 5 lists). I also love the slight automorph effect in Warpath when you push back the cannon to reveal his head. Simple but genius. The transformation into a tank is fun and intuitive AND though he does turn into an H tank, since this is about tanks after all, he does not look like a robot crawling on all fours. This is a mistake that happens quite a bit, with the like of Armada Megatron and Animated Shockwave, but it isn’t repeated here. This is an awesome looking H tank that shows no robot kibble even when lifting it upside down and fits tightly together. It even has c-clip ports to add a bunch more weapons to it.

1. Transformers Revenge of the Fallen Bludgeon

What can beat perfection? The answer is perfection ... with style. Warpath has a show model and predictability to the toy. Phenomenal, sure, but you wouldn’t need to see the toy to have a pretty good idea of what he’d look like if I described him as a “show accurate deluxe figure with an H Mode tank”. But Bludgeon here, is something else. Someone actually did describe him to me once and I could not imagine clearly what I was being told, especially the bit about “using tank pieces and threads as samurai armour”. That just sounded too cool to be true, and yet it was. And it just boggles my mind that this is a movie toy. It’s more of a classics update to a pretender toy ala Thunderwing, but actually made in the proper voyager class and incorporating both the pretender shell (the samurai alt mode) and the inner robot’s alt mode (a tank). At the same time, however, I totally get how it does work as a movie toy since the movie toys are all about having two very distinct modes whose parts don’t make up the other. It usually results in a bunch of kibble and huge backpacks but it works really well here because all the tank kibble is indeed used as the samurai armour. And his backpack is used as weapon storage for his swords through sweet automorphed scabbard section. Oh and his bigger sword was stored away in the tank’s cannon! All this mix of homages and designs gives this toy a load of style points that just adds to the this toy which has two great looking modes which are a joy to switch between thanks to the fun, impressive and satisfying transformation.

Honourable mentions: DOTM Voyager Shockwave, Generations Straxus, Crossover Hulk, and most importantly, the Armada Megatron mold. And they say Armada didn't have any good toys.

But my BIG honourable mention would go to a toy that does so much so darn well but just falls short:Transformers Universe - Classics 2.0 Galvatron

People hate this guy and I understand why; he is small for an update on the fearsome Galvatron (I wrote about that last time), and very complex and difficult for such a small toy, and the transformation will often have pieces coming off. While I see all that, I also see a phenomenal deluxe figure which scales perfectly with the other Universe and Generations Deluxe figures (like Universe Cyclonus and Generations Scourge), and has an awesome amount of value for the price point. It’s amazing how they were able to cram so much into this small toy and quite refreshing to see such complexity brought to the deluxe class. He even has a third mode which was abandoned. But the best part is how they turned Galvatron into a tank and yet still gave him an amazing robot mode with an incredible sculpt. That headsculpt is perfect, the torso is just right and I love how the tank’s barrel is a perfect proxy for his turret cannon. This guy really looks the part of G1 Galvatron, that has to count for something. And he also happens to turn into a really good looking tank that fits tightly together. I really find this toy to be its own little miracle of engineering with two gorgeous looking modes but that doesn’t mean I don’t wish we get a bigger one someday.

Top 5 Transformers Toys That Need An Upscale

Date: Saturday, February 7th 2015 8:33am CST
Categories: Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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And this is just to put things in perspective

4. Transformers Prime Hardshell

On the show, Hardshell is big enough to give Optimus a decent challenge, at least in his first appearance. The toy they made for him is actually beautifully sculpted and has a satisfying transformation and is quite show accurate to boot, except for his size. This toy is a Commander (aka Scout) Class figure and in this size, he would pose as much challenge to Optimus as would some ants. This toy could have easily been bigger (deluxe or voyager) without needing any changes to the mold. The worst part is that Hasbro actually did upscale legion class figures at the tail end of the toyline, but they didn't upscale this one!

3. Generations Shockwave

Generations Shockwave gets the third spot simply because I really hope this is not Hasbro's idea of a "classics" Shockwave. Firstly, this toy is more in relation to his appearance in the Transformers WFC/FOC video games and doesn't necessarily fit with the other CHUG figures that are not part of that game (unlike Grimlock, Soundwave and Blaster, all voyagers too). Secondly, he looks puny. There have been amazing Shockwave figures in the past, such as his analogues in the Energon and Prime line. Both those toys were the right voyager size and, funny enough, actually work much better on a Classics shelf than Generations Shockwave. Even Cloud Shockwave uses a Voyager mold from the Generations line. Here's hoping that we will see another "Generations Shockwave" and that this time, it will be a voyager.

Transformers Fall of Cybertron Shockwave Gallery

2. Universe Dinobot

Dinobot is one of the select Beast Wars characters to have gotten a new toy since Beast Wars ended. However, like Cheetor, it was not much of an improvement. The sculpt may have been better but he still has a problem with exposed robot kibble that looks really weird. And with the release of a Voyager sized Rhinox since then, he looks really out of scale. He should be towering over the other maximals but ends up being only a head taller than Rattrap. I am really hoping he eventually gets released in a show accurate size and hopefully with a better mold.

1. Universe Galvatron

This is a no brainer for a much needed upscaled release. This toy was even supposed to be a voyager (and have a third mode), hence his surprising detail and complexity for a deluxe class. It's also only Galvatron we are talking about, the leader of the Decepticons and biggest psycho in the galaxy. He deserves a nice big imposing figure showcasing his might!

Honourable mentions: Along with hard shell, upscaling Cyberverse Airachnid would have done some good since we desperately needed something better than the deluxe they gave us. Also, Generations Tankor should have been a voyager. It was so great for Hasbro to show us that Beast Machines was not forgotten, though it seems like they forgot that Tankor towered over everyone on the show, in reference to him once having been the gentle giant Rhinox. Instead we got a figure as small as his wavemate, Rattrap.

Top 5 Best Transformers Beards

Date: Saturday, January 24th 2015 11:38am CST
Categories: Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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4. Unicron
Unicron's beard is more subtle than others since it seems carved into his face instead of being a form of appendage. However, it is still there and adds to his image of a remnant from a distant past. And it's Unicron, so that makes it easily the biggest robo beard of all Transformers fiction (or is Marvel Comics' Primus' beard bigger? Comment in the forums!)

3. Thundertron

This toy came out of nowhere. Thunderton was never in the Prime show and is not a reimagining of any other character in the long history of the Transformers brand. He also isn't an autobot or a decepticon which makes his release as part of the Prime Robots in Disguise line one of the oddest inclusions of all time. But man am I happy he exists. My puzzlement over his inclusion in the line and his origin (since Alex Irvine, the writer of the only piece of fiction this character appears in, did not create him) is totally discarded by my awe of his beard. This is BY FAAAAAR the longest and most detailed beard on any Transformers Toy ever. Hence why it is so sad that the way the toy is made, a good portion of his beard is hidden by a high collar/chest.

2. Transformers Age of Extinction Hound

The movie design of Hound's beard was one of the best things in age of extinction. It was made up of bullet shells, shrapnel and scrap metal, and you could see it flow in all it's glory. While the toy's beard was done on a smaller scale, not all details could make it in there. However, the fact that it was made of a soft PVC plastic meant you could run your fingers through it. Playable beards are a win in my book.

1. Alpha Trion

Of course this is number one, would anyone have it any other way? Not only is he one of the first (if not the first) robo beard we ever witnessed in Transformers history, but this beard is glorious and has its own evolution. Shows featuring flashbacks use Alpha Trion's facial hair to help the audience locate themselves in time and know what happens before what, which is a pretty big deal when the war you are watching spans millennia. His aging beard also means that Transformers age physically, which is a pretty cool notion all on its own.

Honourable mentions: I guess maybe Sentinel Prime from DOTM, maybe? That Spock line still makes my stomach churn whenever I think of it being used in that movie and context, and I am not even a trekkie (born in 88). To lighten things up, here's another beard that needs some mentioning.

2Fast 2Blurrious - Treasures of the 2007 Movie Toy Line

Date: Wednesday, July 13th 2011 5:19pm CDT
Categories: Movie Related News, Toy News, Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: Blurrz

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With the Dark Of The Moon toy line in full swing and many new Transformers collectors asking questions such as "Which movie characters should I buy?", I think it’s fitting that I take a look back at the toy line that started it all.

In May 2007, the first toys to accompany Michael Bay’s first live-action film were released. The movie aesthetic was not to the liking of veteran fans, but that certainly did not dismay the new wave of collectors from causing the great Transformers drought that year. While many of the characters featured in the 2007 film have superior figures from the Revenge of the Fallen or Dark Of The Moon lines, much credit is not given to many of the hidden gems released in 2007 and 2008. Yet despite the popularity of the 2007 Movie toy line, many new movie collectors have seemed to link "ROTF Leader Optimus Prime > 2007 Leader Prime" with "ROTF> 2007", and the latter, I assure you is not something I’ll agree with it.

It’s more than just 2007 being Skidsless and Mudflapless, it’s the fact that the 2007 toy line was able to take that CGI on screen and turn that into plastic form. It set the foundation for ROTF and DOTM to build on. The revenue produced from the toy line is one of the reasons why we’ve had 3 toy lines per annum for the past few years. But no, to me, the 2007 toy line is more than just a revenue or precursor success, there are actually some fine figures in the line that many collectors have overlooked and should have in their collection. Let’s begin, shall we?

Arcee (Deluxe)

The femme fatale was a shoe-in to be in the 2007 film, but was replaced by Ironhide in early production. Thank goodness, I had enough problem getting the fembot in the drought and it would not have helped if she was an on-screen character! Out of all the movie-verse bikes, this is the best figure. Scale, a category that I don’t care about, can be thrown out of the window. Many complained about her inability to stand straight, but she is no ROTF Sideswipe, and unlike the bike fembots of the ROTF line, at least she has feet. She has the body dimensions that is categorical of females of any sentient species, and that is also a part that the ROTF fembots lack. Think the face lacks feminity? Well the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree when looking at her ROTF brethren.

All the power to those who have the ROTF bike sisters in their collection, because I understand those who wish to have what’s on the silver screen transplanted on to their shelves for ‘movie-accuracy’. But this is the superior Arcee. Already have a movie-verse Arcee? Call it another name then! There’s enough fembot names to go around; Lancer, Greenlight, Flareup, and Flamewar are examples. Whether it’s pink (original, battle damaged), black (Takara retail exclusive), or generation one themed (Wonderfest ’08 convention exclusive), I think this is a mold that every movie fan can appreciate.

Dropkick (Deluxe)

Well this guy totally isn’t in here because his biography is freaking hilarious, as he is the first movie-verse Transformer to be portrayed as emo(tional). No, his figure is rather enjoyable. The mold might not be very high in regards to collectors following the popular trends, but I’m not one to conform. Dropkick has a tad bit of kibble in the backpack area, and suffers from the dreaded ‘chicken legs’. It is more of the little things that make Dropkick one of my favorites of the 2007 line. In vehicle mode, the flatbed cover can be removed to reveal the back of the truck, which has ample space for you to fit in a scout figure. (Hardtop sniping while riding on Dropkick is legit). While having a Decepticon logo on your vehicle is hardly a robot in disguise, Dropkick seems to have put some thought into it. Ingenious to have the symbol tattooed on the top of your hood and roof – Mr. Antisocial went to Decepticon school and realized that there aren’t too many Autobots that can fly in the Bayverse.

The robot mode is an aspect that I like from my Transformers, a sturdy, well-engineered figure that isn’t going to fall down after being placed. There’s just a lot to Dropkick in robot mode that I like, parts that fold in and out, weaponry, and just that feel that you’re holding a Transformer, not an action figure. His main weapon is rather clumsy, but that is more or less forgotten by the two double-barrel guns he has under his forearms. A quality figure that is a great addition to your Decepticon ranks, or Autobot ranks with his 2007 repaint, Salvage, who is also a piece that I’d highly suggest. The figure was also released in the ROTF toy line under the name of Blowpipe (Really Hasbro?), for those into blue Transformers. But who’d buy that Tupac for a near identical version of Sideways?

Cliffjumper (Deluxe)

Why not Bumblebee, you ask? Toy wise, there are much better Movie Bumblebees released after the 2007 toy line, and discussion about the other two movie lines are for another day. And If I get my way, editorial discussion on Bumblebee will be avoided entirely. But despite there being other Bumblebee figures out there, the 2007 Camaro Concept figure is actually a masterpiece in its own right. It also happens to be the only Movie Deluxe Cliffjumper we have up to now. For those wondering what’s up with the teal on Cliffjumper, Salvage, and Black Arcee, that would be the Allspark Battles sub-line of the 2007 line. Cool name. Terrible execution, as many repaints were slaughtered with copious, unadulterated, and ridiculous amounts of teal. (Check out Target Exclusives - All Spark-Enhanced Bumblebee, Brawl, Barricade and Jazz for good laughs). Luckily for Cliffjumper, his vehicle mode was left untouched from the teal, and what we get is a beautiful Red Camaro Concept. What I generally like from vehicle modes of Transformers I collect, especially the movie-verse, is for them to be spot on. And at the time, the Camaro Concept had one of the best looking vehicle modes, losing out to that sleek Corvette Stingray when ROTF rolled in.

Robot mode has alot of articulation for a movie figure, and while it may feel like a caveman compared to the future incarnations of Bee, it is still a stand up figure. The Gun/Blade that Cliffjumper wields almost makes Mechtech look like it’s ancestor. The gaudy teal of the Allspark Battles looks far from tacky on Cliffjumper, instead highlighting some of his aesthetics and adding a bit more flare to his colour scheme. The only beef (New York cut, Medium Rare please) I have with the figure is his shoulder pads, which have fallen off as many times as I’ve said eh. Bottom line, it's the movie-verse. There are explosions, big guns, and Decepticons flying everywhere as plot-armor Autobots blow them into pieces. And this is Cliffjumper. The bot who has got enough weaponry to make explosions and blow up plot-armor Decepticons to bits. Get him!

Longarm (Deluxe)

The vehicle modes of Autobots seem to be losing their flair in recent years. It`s a lost art for many under Optimus Prime`s command, as their vehicle mode’s function appears only to look sleek, stylish and appeal to the newer wave of Transformers fans. For Movie Longarm, it’s different. Yes, he’s in this line because he’s the tow truck that Mikaela drove in the movie. But it’s his design, his working tow, and robot mode of the figure that makes this a brute, blue-collar working Autobot. Yeah, he’s a bit chunky, and he probably walks slow, but who said all walking robots of destruction need to be agile?

If Transformers played Hockey or Football, Longarm would be the grinder or hard hitter of the team. His face looks like he’s wearing a helmet, and the way his chest is stylized makes it look like he’s wearing armor. In a Transformers universe catering to Michael Bay’s explosions, Longarm’s got the gun to rule all guns. Eye light piping is magical, and the transparent back lights on the tow are well placed. Many Classics-verse fans delving into the movie-verse toys for good ‘homages’ would have likely picked up Longarm’s ROTF repaint, Hoist. But from a personal standpoint, a two-pack with G1 deco Mixmaster is not worth the trouble as Longarm is the better use of the mold.

Evac (Voyager)

What I like the best of Evac, and his mold predecessor Blackout, are that they are great representations of their respective movie-verse forces. Blackout the Decepticon, who like most Decepticons, looks mysterious, has a dark color scheme, and takes the form of a militaristic vehicle. Evac the Autobot, who like most Autobots, has a chivalrous, flamboyant bright color scheme, has a nonchalant Autobot symbol screaming "come at me bro", and has the face of something that would protect mankind, not destroy it. This is more about Evac being a gem, mainly because Blackout is a popular character that everyone likely owns already in the original, Premium, or Grindor versions. Plus there’s always that little little, completely unlikely smidgen of hope that Hasbro will make a Leader Class Pave Low Heli.

Don’t get me wrong. 2007 Evac is no DOTM Skyhammer(because Skyhammer is very good), and it’s also no ROTF Evac (because that mold is avoid avoid avoid) but this is still one mean Helicopter. The Allspark Battles teal is very heavy on the Voyager class figure, but that is contrasted by the figure’s vibrant orange. What was once Scorponok included with Blackout, is a lifeboat for Evac. And unlike Scorponok, the lifeboat can be wielded by Evac as a blaster. Evac shows that despite whatever mold you start off with, a vibrant paint job and different head sculpt can turn your evil helicopter full of death into a lifesaving, search and rescue vehicle. Movie-collectors, help your Autobots out, they are especially low in air force.

Stockade (Deluxe)

Stockade gave me a lot of trouble because he was competing with 2007 Landmine for a spot in this editorial. Both figures have great alternate modes, and both figures have robot modes that are somewhat ruined by the gaudy teal. Luckily for Stockade, I feel that his ROTF repaint Gears is inferior to the original, and unluckily for Landmine, try ROTF Armorhide instead. I have said many times that vehicle modes of figures in the movie-verse need to be spot on. Stockade is phenomenal. Painted grill, painted wheels, clear windows everywhere, headlights, backlights, an actual sunroof, and painted door handles. Girl, it looks real. His Decepticon symbol is painted in normal purple, and not silver like the majority of movie-verse Transformers.

Robot mode does not offer as much as the vehicle mode in terms of looks. Stockade has the foot soldier demeanour. Short, stocky and built. He’s got this extending arm gimmick, like Barricade and Bonecrusher, but it’s pretty lame. The teal is a bit too much for a Decepticon transforming from a Black SUV, but blame it on the dark, got you off the mark, blame it on the a a a a a allspark. The photo below makes him look like kibble city, don’t worry, it’s not that bad.

Final Battle Jazz (Deluxe)

It’s a figure of your favourite character before he gets ripped in half by Megatron. Not as grimm as the mold’s fate. Don’t get me wrong, the Human Alliance Jazz with Lennox figure is fantastic and if you haven’t already, get it. *Gets back the scale that I threw out the window in regards to Arcee.* I just don’t think Jazz was that large in the movie (not going to actually check), so the Deluxe size is where it’s at. The reason this dude is on this list is not because Jazz is unpopular, but I feel that this variant is obscure. For this version to come out only for it to be snubbed a handful of times with Premium, ROTF Smokescreen and DOTM, is just not right.

Not much to see in vehicle mode, as it’s nearly the same. Robot mode on the other hand is pretty cool. You’ve got detailed battle damage on his head and legs. It’s like energon is gushing out of those areas. Really slick paint apps, and it’s a shame that future "Battle-Damaged" figures ended up failing in comparison to FB Jazz. The best part of the toy, is the weapon. The trans-crapper sword that all the other versions have is a joke to this ‘Crescent Cannon’. Heck, buy this toy just for the weapon, and then put it on Premium Jazz. That’s what all the cool kids are doing.

Brawl (Leader)

It’s rather odd for me to put a Leader Class figure on a ‘Hidden Treasures’ list, but Leader Brawl seems to be forgotten under the pile of other Leaders released in ROTF and DOTM. For those new collectors out there, Brawl is a figure that you really can’t miss. The 2007 Leader Graduating Class includes Optimus, who was done better in ROTF, and Megatron, who’s probably the worst Leader figure of all three movie-lines. If you want this character in your collection, it’s Leader or bust. The Deluxe class was a travesty and pales in comparison to this behemoth. Sure the figure is not at the Masterpiece level, since there’s no working treads, but it has a lot of articulation for a Transformer with a tank mode.

When Transformed, it’s not all there either. The figure’s not as crisp as 2007 Leader Prime, but it’s still not as chunky as 2007 Leader Megatron. There’s a lot going on in the weaponry department, and what’s underrated about the figure is that it takes the CGI to heart. Sure, kibble is there, but it’s not like it wasn’t there in the movie either. This beauty is a steal right now on the secondary market, and is certainly worth it in either his original colors, or his ‘Deep Desert’ version if you dig them Tusken Raiders or Jawas.

Incinerator (Voyager)

Who? Incinerator’s rather obscure and completely forgotten in some cases by the ongoing movie fanbase. He’s got a full-time membership to the 'no hands club' along with Voyager Starscream, but don’t let that mere flaw deter the credibility of this Decepticon. If I can recall correctly, he is the first big Osprey helicopter since Beast Machines. The vehicle mode just feels compact, solid and it almost seems like he can fly! (He won’t. No matter how much Energon you drink, he actually won’t!)

The teal is awful on this figure, but I can't complain, I'm a Blurr fan after all! The fin hands are actually pretty cool if you think that he's wielding them. Robot mode is stocky, and I really dig how his chest is formed. He's got clown feet, but he won't fall over because of the back stand that he is. The figure just look so funky, and yet one look at the spinning blades of death reminds you that this is a ruthless killing machine made out of a mountain of metal. The Takara domestic black version of this figure contrasts the Hasbro's grey, and both are great additions to your Decepticon arsenal.

With that, you have my bias opinion on the 2007 line figures that did not get as much limelight compared to other toys of more popular characters. Some honorary mentions here, and I’ll start off with Rescue Ratchet, as he has the best colors of all the Voyager Hummer repaints. Try to complete your movie-verse seekers in the Voyager Class size with 2007 G1 Starscream, 2007 Thundercracker, and ROTF Skywarp. The DOTM Deluxe idea is just way too small for movie seekers.

Agree to disagree with me? Who are your favorites of the 2007 line, and do you feel any figures have been overlooked by the popular eye? Leave your opinions by commenting below!

~Blurrz

2Fast 2Blurrious is an editorial series written by Seibertron.com staff member Blurrz, and is not responsible for the amount of money you will spend on Transformers in the next few hours. Nor is it responsible for your partner's shopping spree with your card because it's his/her turn after you spent an absurd amount of money on 'kid's toys'.

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