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Top 5 Transformers Toys whose Takara version was Better than Hasbro's

Date: Saturday, April 7th 2018 11:11pm CDT
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

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Views: 58,974

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 whose Takara version was better than Hasbro's

Last time, we checked the times when the Hasbro was better than the Takara version. Now, we will do the flip side, where we check the times Takara outdid Hasbro. Many fans often expect that to be the case, but with us now being in a new age of brand unification where the same toy gets released in both markets, it is a good time to look back at the times when it was really worth getting the Takara version over Hasbro's. I am well aware there are a lot of examples that can apply out there so I welcome people to let me know which toys they feel the Takara version is really worth seeking out. Also, they had to all be good toys rather than simply mediocre toys with a good paint job.


5. Transformers Legends Gelshark (Sky-Byte) vs Generations Sky-Byte

This is an extremely underrated toy which came and went with few caring. And that is a shame. Not only was this the representative of the Robots in Disguise 2001 / Car Robots line in the thrilling 30, he was also one hell of an update. He was still a shell former like his previous Beast Wars mold roots but unlike his original toy, the shell was very compact and made for elegant wings in robot mode which did not take any attention away from the robot mode. Also, and I can never stress this enough, Takara outdid themselves on the engineering of the chest. The original toy was a shark who transformed into a robot who had a shark-like face on his chest that was a different colour on each side (giving a hint to his states of mind). Of course, the real shark head was still somewhere on the toy (part of his massive shell) so the chest was more of a reference that he was a shark and not supposed to be the shark head. This update however had the shark head actually be the chest as well. No fake parts this time, reducing the shell considerably and making the robot far more sleek. There was even a nice panel flip on the shark's nose to give the chest new robot mode detail and to further look like the original cartoon model. As you recall, the whole theme of that chest is that it had a different colour on each side, showing how he was this unstable killer. So now that Hasbro has this opportunity of having the actual shark head be the chest how do they colour it? Just all light blue. Not even one of the shades that should be there. You might think that it is for it to work better as a shark head in shark mode, but no, that shade of blue isn't found anywhere else. Takara however jumped on the opportunity of this update to give him the split colour deco on his shark head so that when it transforms into robot mode, it gets the signature look. These same colours are also made to match the shark's body which make for a better looking shark mode. Takara has often outdone Hasbro in the deco area, just look at the entire Beast Wars Returns (Beast Machines in Japan) line. However, with Gelshark the improved deco goes a long way, longer than any other improved deco, turning a toy many dismissed into, what I consider, a must have. I am a huge fan of when the deco honours the wit of the engineering and this guy does that in spades.












4. Transformers Binaltech Override vs Alternators Windcharger

Right off the bat, I think the name is better in the Takara release. Windcharger was a minibot while Override was a sleek sports car. If the Binaltech line was about giving new classic version of G1 characters, Overdrive would suit it much better since they are all the same size and any hope of semblance of scale with Windcharger would be lost (if that even matters). More than that, just look at the head. The toy issued by both companies has a visor and that is totally Overdrive's deal more so than Windcharger (and you DO NOT want to see what a Windcharger head on this guy would look like).

I mean between this



and this



Which one would this guy be representing?



The name isn't even the biggest deal with the release, far from it. Hasbro's was made of molded plastic while Takara had a nice die cast body which was painted red. This was the case for all Binaltech (Takara) versions of the of Alternators line. You really felt you had your money's worth with these guys (when you forgot how you disliked transforming them). But that is not all, oh no, that is not all. What makes this release far ore noteworthy than the rest of the line though is the weapon. You see, licensing agreements are handled by each company separately in their home country. Honda Japan was totally cool with Overdrive having a nice long barreled gun but Honda America didnt like their brand associated to violent toys and Hasbro had to literally circumcise neuter the gun and turn it into a non violent scanner. Yay.


3. Transformers Henkei Megatron vs Classics Megatron

Another big difference between Takara/Japan and Hasbro/USA are the laws they have to deal with. Japan is not as severe when it comes to toy guns (G1 Megatron came from them afterall) but the states is a different matter. For Megatron to be a gun again, they had to give him a Super Soaker deco. Takara, on the other hand, gave him an appropriate deco for a character who finally had a semblance of his original alt mode back. He had two appropriate decos actually, one being silver (United) and the other having more orange highlights (Henkei) which I think works even better.




2. Transformers Unite Warriors Devastator vs Generations Combiner Wars Devastator


In most cases, the reason to get the Takara version over the Hasbro one (or vice versa) is if you prefer the differences in deco. With Devastator's case, the deco was a side note. Sure, there were a few differences here and there (with the Unite Warriors version being a bit more accurate to the cartoon) but the real deal here is that your Constructicons had improved articulation in their individual robot modes. They all had functional elbows for one and some had better knees, and they all had individual weapons. There are pegs and specific sculpting details found on the alt modes which are for the sole purpose of holding/storing the robot's weapon in that mode and what is saddening about the Hasbro version is that those details and holes are still there but you don't get the weapons. Along with the extra joints, this just adds to what Takara has confirmed that Hasbro's Devastator is a result of taking a Takara design and build and removing parts from it. There isn't just that, the combined robot has a new head which had an optional visor and ratchets on his shoulders. It's not so much that the Takara version is better than Hasbro but instead that it is THE toy Hasbro had signed on for initially. This is the Devastator we should all have had, while the deco would have been the main difference. Instead you get the actual Titan Devastator toy from Takara and a shadow of it from Hasbro.














1. Transformers Galaxy Force Cybertron Starscream vs Cybertron Starscream(s)

Yup, while a Starscream toy was the best time Hasbro had the upper hand over Takara, this character pops up again when we flip the conversation around. This case is practically a travesty all around and while at its core it's about the deco there is more to it. Looking at the mold alone, which is an excellent toy, Takara had him in perfect show accurate deco while the release of this Voyager Starscream toy by Hasbro was in a near random red colour. It was to the point where a fellow board member was talking about him to me and referring to him as Thrust since he truly believed that it was a redeco of Starscream into Thrust. Sadly, no it's not, that red thing is Starscream. Also, if you wanted him in the states, you could only get him in a two pack with Vector Prime who you probably already had, goody! So we established why the Takara release is the better one, but the reason behind the "failed attempt" for Hasbro to give fans this toy was because Hasbro was pushing another Starscream toy: Supreme Starscream, a toy which is all kinds of suck. It's just a giant Starscream which isn't even its own mold (even the craptacular Supreme Cheetor has that over him). It's just an upscaled version of the voyager, slightly retooled for the gimmicks. So all the fine details you would see on the voyager end up looking like broad strokes on the supreme class version. And while Starscream did become that big in the series, it wasn't for very long and much after this toy was released. There is a great air of disgust over this toy and a big part of it is the sacrifice of Hasbro never releasing a cartoon accurate version of the best Starscream figure of the Unicron Triogy, Cybertron Voyager Starscream, which is exactly what Takara provided.








Honourable mentions: There is a bunch of G1 stuff that was far superior when released in Japan by Takara than by Hasbro. However, I did not find it as fair since they were technically rereleases of the earlier toys from the Microchange and Diaclone lines and not specifically reworkings of a Hasbro version. Soundwave is a great example of a toy who's Japan release is awesome since it had firing missiles (something that was taken away from may Hasbro releases) as well as Headphones and a mic. However, this was all holdovers from the original release of the toy in the Microchange line which Hasbro changed for the Transformers. So it's more of a case of the Original pre Transformers version being better and not necessarily the Takara version of the Transformers toy. A very fine line, I admit, but I felt it would work better as an other list than to muddy this one.

Speaking of G1, Powermaster Prime was far superior in Japan, but since he wasn't the same character and release, I didn't really find it fair. The recent Legends line output from Takara has several deluxes coming with an extra Target Master while the Hasbro versions don't so they do offer you more, but at the same time you are paying an extra 10$ for that Target Master even before you add the import fees (plus you don't get the Hasbro weapons). So I don't know if paying more to get more counts as a fair comparison, they aren't even the same price points. However, this all deserves mentioning, and that's why you find them here.

Top 5 Transformers Toys where Hasbro version better than Takara's

Date: Friday, March 23rd 2018 10:55pm CDT
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

Discuss This Topic · Permanent Link
Views: 57,850

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 where Hasbro version better than Takara's

With the new trend for Takara and Hasbro to release the very same toys, I am looking back on the times in the past when the toys were quite different from one another. The reason the unified designs have alarmed several fans is because Takara has been known to have better paint applications and offer a better looking toy. Well, to show that it is not always the case and that Hasbro can definitely deliver on some good looking toys, I have written this list showing five instances where the Hasbro version was the one to get. Come back in two weeks for a list looking at the flip side!

5. Transformers Generations Wheeljack vs United Wheeljack

This is everyone's go to whipping boy and he certainly deserves to be here. For some reason, Takara decided from the mid 2000s to 2010 that their decos would be shinier than Hasbro's. While that worked wonders on some (I LOVE the use of chrome on the seekers for instance), it kind of played against them when fans wanted show accurate colours (like the Animated line). Their version of Generations Wheeljack is that backfire. Sure, more paint apps and a nice shine is great but it should compliment the mold and not take anything away. By going all sparkly the show accurate green became a more of the shiny pine green you would expect to see on toothpaste or breath mint packages. The toy is still fine but it just doesn't look like the Wheeljack we know anymore. You would expect Takara to be the more screen accurate deco and for such a beloved original character, it just doesn't resemble him as we'd expect, definitely not compared to Hasbro's version.




4. Transformers Generations Skrapnel
and Bombshell vs Transformers Adventures Shrapnel and Bombshell

This one is easy to explain. Yes, from a glance Takara might seem better due to more paint apps, especially on Shrapnel's antennas and Bombshell's legs. But then you look at the torso and notice a giant white sticker on there. It's for a mobile app in Japan. Hasbro did this as well on some toys, but only the ones related to the Robots in Disguise show/app, not toys that are supposed to be updates of toys of old like the insecticons. Sure, you could take that sticker off, but then you see the horror: to have the sticker applied, Takara had to remold the chest to give a circular indentation to hold the sticker. So yes, either you keep that sticker there or you are reminded that it is supposed to be there, every time you look at them.








3. Transformers Prime: Robots In Disguise Wheeljack vs Arms Micron Wheeljack

You know, if Takara had not given us the beauty that is Masterpiece Wheeljack, I would have thought they had it in for this guy. How else would you explain how they keep messing up this character's releases. First it was a sparkly minty fresh deco that didn't reference anything and strayed from show accuracy, and now its no paint at all. That's right, the company who we pair with the hope of better paint apps had a whole line where their toys had way less paint apps than Hasbro. Waaaaay less. It's not to say there was no colour. Instead of paint, the toys came with stickers, like old times (yay?). That means that the toys looked as good as your dexterity permitted. The stickers themselves didn't work as well as the paint apps anyway because it was very obvious what was paint and what was a sticker and the stickers had a metallic finish that clashed with the remaining paint apps and the coloured plastic. They looked far more like little kid toys that way. But that was the whole line, so why does Wheeljack get the blunt of it again? Well, the Takara's counterpart came with a little model kit that you would detach from sprues and connect to make a little transformer targetmaster companion. That too needed stickers (and they were very very small). And for vehicle mode interaction, they remolded Wheeljack's vehicle mode to have a bunch of protruding 5 mm holes across what would have been sexy smoother areas. So it looked like your wheeljack had been shot up a bunch.

Who are you and what did you do to Takara?



And let's say you don't want to put the stickers, well...





Here is the Hasbro version with no stickers needed








2. Transformers Voyager Animated Bulkhead vs Takara Animated Ironhide (Bulkhead)

While more paint apps are usually appreciated, it has to make some sense. Takara's voyager Bulkhead (who they call Ironhide) is covered in paint but looks NOTHING like he does in the show. Takara's fuller and shiny paint jobs were hit and miss on this line (Armorhide looks great, for instance) but none had it as bad as Bulkhead/Ironhide. He looks like an egyptian scarab.






1. Hasbro Transformers Masterpiece Starscream Gallery vs Takara Transformers Masterpiece MP-03 Starscream

This is such an easy number 1 pick and I doubt anyone would argue. Let me paint a picture of the situation all those years ago. Fans had finally gotten a Masterpiece Optimus Prime, who was incredible for the time. He was the most show accurate transformable Optimus back then and really looked like he just jumped off the screen. Then you had Ultra Magnus who was just a white prime repaint. He didn't hurt anybody since it was just a redeco of an incredible mold and it did reference a big part of the toy lore, where the Ultra Magnus toy is at the core a white Prime inside an armoured body. And then you had the second original Masterpiece mold and it was to be used for Starscream, one of the most iconic characters of the brand ever. And it looked like this:



Really, that is what Starscream looks like? What show did you watch?! I can give merit to wanting to make the most accurate jet made mode ever, where at least you could call the alt mode a masterpeice, but the colour scheme references nothing. It sure doesn't even resemble the actual colour of the jet it's based on (which ironically, is more in line with the grey traditionally seen on Starscream). So what is this?! Anyways, I will make it short. The mold was released by Hasbro, who gave it deco far closer to his look in the cartoon and the figure sold like hotcakes at Walmart (who had him exclusively). He sold so well that Walmart stocked up big time on the following seeker redeco (only to eventually sell it at a deep discount since they didn't realize that Starscream is a far more popular character).






Honourable mentons: MP Soundwave and MP 10 Optimus Prime

These are very subjective and not as obvious as the other above, and would never make this list, but still important to mention for you to see that Hasbro does have some solid offerings sometimes, even for the Masterpiece line. For Soundwave, what was really great about the Hasbro version wasn't the deco (he didn't have the show accurate eyes) but instead the fact that he came with all his cassettes (issued at the time) and they weren't sold separately, which was the case with Takara. It was a phenomenal deal when it came out. As for Optimus, while I prefer how Takara paints the inside of the trailer, I much prefer his sky blue eyes and the red on the chest of the Hasbro version. It was Hasbro who was more cartoon accurate, but then again, the Hasbro Roller was blue and not grey so it's a mishmash really and a toss up as to which version is preferred by people.

Top 5 Best Giant Transformers Toys

Date: Saturday, March 10th 2018 8:49am CST
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

Discuss This Topic · Permanent Link
Views: 89,855

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 Giant Transformers Toys

Remember that scene in the Transformers movie where Unicron transformed? The whole time you just saw a big planet that destroyed other planets ala Death star. But then it Transformed and our notions of the limit to Transformers flew out the window. This was the instance where we all gazed at the wonder of this brand and saw that it was boundless. Since then, there have been many giant Transformers in the fiction and better yet, we eventually got their toys.

And this is what this list is all about. This is about those awe inspiring towering Transformers from the fiction and their wonderful toys. A quick note, this post was started January 2015. But with Hasbro announcing a yearly Titan class toy, I figured I should wait. Turns out nothing really changed from my initial thoughts of over 3 years ago.

5. Transformers G1 1987 Scorponok (Megazarak)

One of the largest G1 Decepticon toy ever, he pulls off his three modes pretty well despite how simple he is and has loads of fun play features. His robot mode is huge and menacing, his scorpion mode looks very much like a giant mechanical scorpion, with moving legs and ratcheted pincers, and his base mode looks as good as any other base mode of the era with fun ramps for your cars to climb and exit from.










4. Transformers Armada Unicron

It is still crazy to think that we actually got a Unicron toy in the end. Not getting G1 Arcee was nonsensical since it was all about business and not getting any female transformer toys. But we all knew that a Unicron toy was unfeasible on a whole other level. And yet we got one, a HUGE one, and he was quite accurate (though not perfect) with a bunch of action features, a nice beard, and an actual planet mode that had pincers and a mouth. My personal favourite aspect is how they were able to give the planet rings and have them transform into his wings. He is also the most complex toy of his (supreme) size class.








Transformers Generations Unicron (25th Anniversary) (Universal Dominator Unicron) Gallery


Transformers Generations Combiner Wars Ultra Magnus Gallery


3. Transformers Energon Omega Supreme

I just love everything about this toy. It is an excellent homage to Omega Supreme while also being a totally new take. The transformation is simple, as is the case for many of these bigger bots, and yet feel dynamic. It brings back the element of parts-forming the original had but tones it down. The alt modes which serve double duty as weapon platforms can also fuse together to get you a really long armoured train which looks kinda crazy but in a fun way. Plus you have a headmaster unit which can interact with the two combining alt modes and its modeled after the Omega Supreme G1 Action Master. So this is homaging all interpretations of the past (at the time). While headmasters have come back in a big way since, it was a real treat to see a bot like this back in the day. This mold has also been very successful in different decos with Omega Sentinel and War for Cybertron Omega Supreme (which is still the de facto G1 Omega Supreme for CHUG enthusiasts).














Transformers Energon Omega Supreme Gallery


Transformers Energon Omega Sentinel Gallery


Transformers Platinum Edition Year of the Snake Omega Supreme Gallery




2. Transformers Cybertron Primus

Can you believe it, there is actually a Primus toy out there for any Transformers fan to own! And he doesnt disappoint. He is the best planet former out there with really cool details in that mode (including the city of Iacon and Kaon) and it is pretty incredible to get such a traditional looking robot mode from a spherical alt mode, with much less kibble than Unicron. The transformation is neat and uses the key gimmick well, you really feel you are unlocking the secrets to Cybertron with the Omega Lock. And as a true defender of the Cybertronian race, he is loaded with cannons and missile launchers (definitely puts Titans Return Fortress Maximus to shame in that department). And I cannot get over just how cool the robot detail is with the designers going out of their way to show you that he is made of Cybertron's inner workings. On the shoulders, for instance you can see beams, tubes and vents along with Cybertronian writing. The headsculpt is one of the best conveying hints to both Optimus Prime (with the antenna) and Rodimus (with the V shape crest), which ties into the very first appearance of Primus having callbacks to Rodimus. This toy is one for the ages.












1. Transformers G1 1987 Fortress Maximus

I didn't think a G1 toys would be number one on this list. You would think that after all these years, Hasbro and Takara could outdo themselves with a nice new city transformer but Fort Max is still the undisputed champion of that category. Unlike the other G1 city formers, he is truly massive and also looks like an actual city, or at least the small downtown section of one (he actually reminds me of a level from Zone of the Enders: 2nd Runner). Just put him next to Metroplex or Trypticon and they just pale in comparison. Plus, this city transformers into a battle station, filled with an insane amount of weaponry and hidden guns, making him really a fortress. He also comes with smaller bots and fiddly bits which make him as much a playset as a figure. And not just any figure, but a headmaster. And not just any headmaster but a double headmaster. Which means the head of the big city robot transforms into a robot who's head also transforms into a smaller figure. And since an Encore version exists, a complete FortMax is now more a possibility to have than ever before. Also, to those who like to go one step beyond, feel free to substitute this number 1 pick with Grand Maximus.




















Honourable mentions: Quite a few actually. Even though there are fewer giant Transformers than any other size class, the few that get approved are usually very good. As you can see, none of the Metroplexes are there and that is simply because I do not find that any of them have had a decent alt mode thus far that doesn't just look like them in some odd pose. Tidal Wave is pretty awesome but rather small compared to other bots that are supposed to be giant and while I like Trypticon fine, there was nothing truly mind blowing about him. His base mode has always been, at best, as good as Scorponok's to me. Yet that is his main alt mode, while Scorponok has a whole robot mode and beast mode as well.


Transformers Titans Return Trypticon Gallery

Top 5 Best Optimus Prime Super Mode Transformers Toys

Date: Saturday, February 24th 2018 6:47am CST
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

Discuss This Topic · Permanent Link
Views: 56,306

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 Optimus Prime Super Mode Toys

No adversary is too great for Optimus Prime / Convoy. When everything seems bleak or when the challenge seems to tough, you can always count on him rising up to the occasion, often times in a super mode. These temporary evolved forms have been part of the franchise since the very beginning and are a mainstay of Japanese pop culture. It is always fun to see just how glorious that super mode will look like and the best part of this fiction being used to sell toys is that we do get the toys of these super modes. We even have super modes that don't even have fiction attributed to them like our first pick...

5. Transformers Dark of the Moon Ultimate Optimus Prime

This is overkill in the best way possible. I love how the trailer adds those wings flaring all about. This really looks like the very last thing you will see before being blown to bits. My only problem with this toy is how the combined form is rather immobile and how the armor is very tricky to bring back to trailer mode. Still, its super cool to see Optimus integrate with his trailer in such a symbiotic way.












4. Transformers Robots In Disguise Omega Prime (God Fire Convoy)

This is a combination of Robots in Disguise (2001) Ultra Magnus and Optimus Prime (known as God Magnus and Fire Convoy in Japan). The only issue with this toy is stability. Aside from that, awesome! The chrome just shines and that unique head sculpt is killer. I will admit that he is not simple to combine but the result is well worth it and it definitely makes up for how lackluster the Ultra Magnus component is in robot mode.


Transformers Robots In Disguise Ultra Magnus (God Magnus) Gallery






3. Transformers Cybertron Optimus Prime (Galaxy Convoy) Super Mode

I love how solid the connection of the added pieces are. The rearranging of the legs is very clever and the literal backpack is just so much fun. I love how you can have two ways to arrange the weapons as either shoulder cannons or underarm mini-guns. And he just looks so good. Of course, if you wish, this can extend to the other configurations using this mold though I much prefer the Sonic Wing mode (with Wing Saber) over the Savage Claw mode (with Leobreaker).






2. Transformers Super God Masterforce Powermaster Optimus Prime w/ Apex Armor (God Ginrai)

Thanks to reissues, both the Japan and US versions are as affordable and attainable so I am making this a general entry for this true staple of later G1 toys. For many, this was even their first Optimus and what a great way to go about it. What is truly fun about this set is the added level of just how much you want to add to Prime in both his modes. For vehicle mode, when linking his trailer you can mount his guns like you want, arming him to the teeth. You could the add and his canon. In robot mode, you do get a very small transforming Prime and his small stature just adds to the impact of how big you can make him. Not only can he become Power Master Optimus but you can also bring in his friend Godbomber for the power up to end all power ups. He just looks magnificent. While the articulation isn't there, going from a small cab into his Power Master form is a feat the newer Generations Powermaster Optimus does not do, technically removing the notion of being a super mode for Optimus. But that doesn't matter, we have the original (which stands better). And lest we forget the Fire Guts Ginrai re deco which references his ultimate super mode in the show.


Transformers Super God Masterforce Powermaster Optimus Prime w/ Apex Armor (God Ginrai) Gallery


Transformers G1 1988 Hi-Q (Ginrai) Gallery


Transformers G1 1988 Hi-Q (Ginrai) Gallery


Transformers Super God Masterforce Powermaster Optimus Prime w/ Apex Armor (God Ginrai) Gallery


Transformers Super God Masterforce Fire Guts God Ginrai Gallery


1. Transformers Energon Wing Saber Optimus Prime Super Mode

Yup an Energon Autobot toy gets to be number 1 on a list, doesn't happen every day. But this is because this combination is the only thing that makes up for how lackluster both of these toys are on their own. Wingsaber (an awesome looking Star Saber homage!) doesnt even have any head articulation since it splits in half for the combined form! But what a combined for it is. It has solid latching on points and greatly improves on both articulation, which lacked for Wingsaber, and proportions, which lacked greatly for Optimus. Plus, you can actually switch the boots for the gauntlets to have two totally different looking super modes and both are as fun and bring out a different deco element while always remaining very red and blue which is so fitting to this awesome Optimus Prime Super mode. This brings back the idea of the deluxe and mega Autobots who can act as both pants and shirts for a super robot, but with better results than anything else in this line. Wingsaber was so expensive that it was actually cheaper to hunt down the Takara version but I found it well worth it in the end simply because the combination was so much better than a sum of its parts.














Honourable mentions: I wouldn't have picked any of these in a top 5 but in case you were wondering what else was out there, well you had the Arms Micron Unicron super mode toy that worked with First Edition Optimus Prime from the Prime toy line. You also had the Powerlinx Prime which used the drones that came with Energon Prime in a Voltron fashion, and you also had the multiple Armada Prime configurations, along with the Movie Jetfire combination, just to name a few. Oh and of course, Ultra Prime from Combiner Wars.

Top 5 Best Ultra Magnus Transformers Toys

Date: Friday, February 9th 2018 10:44pm CST
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

Discuss This Topic · Permanent Link
Views: 59,392

Every two weeks, Seibertron.com brings you a Top 5 list related to all things Transformers written by me, your fellow editor. This week, I am joined by Cobotron. These are our opinions 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 Ultra Magnus Transformers Toys

From day one, Ultra Magnus toys were always closely related to Optimus Prime toys, with his first toy being a redeco with a different trailer which turned into a powersuit giving him a totally different look from Prime. Toy designs and ideas evolved from this giving a wide variety to Ultra Magnus toys where some are Prime redecos, others more extensive retools and others being fully original. We will explore the rich history of this autobot's toys by looking at the best ones to have come out so far.

5. Transformers Generation One Ultra Magnus

This is the grand pappy of all Ultra Magnus toys and probably the most important Ultra Magnus toy out there. Unlike even the Masterpiece toy, this toy includes an extra level of playability by having the trailer become the armour for the transforming cab. This gave everyone the option to form their own stories and ideas about this character. Is he a white optimus with armour? Or is the that simply the transformation process for his one and only form being that big armoured fellow? It was and still is ultimately up to you to choose. This legitimizes every future attempt at having Ultra Magnus be simultaneously a redeco/retool of Optimus Prime as well as his own mold. - william-james88







4. Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Ultra Magnus / Transformers Adventures Ultra Magnus

Speaking of being an offshoot of Optimus, this is by far the best version of that (well, maybe tied with the commander class version which is a gorgeous G1 homage and a perfect retool). So much love went into this retool, making him look just two smokestacks away from his show model, and making him own this mold even more so than Optimus. It almost feels like this is who the mold was made for all along especially when comparing to the show models.The added shoulder cannons work great and let you position them as you wish, giving you extra fire power in a sweet G1 homage (while the earlier PRID Magnus only gave you one shoulder cannon, why?!). You even get a nice hammer and a pair of wings, just for added playability. While simply having Ultra Magnus be a redeco/retool of Prime always felt a bit lazy, this is one instance shows us how that can sometimes work, and work wonders. - william-james88








3. Transformers Animated Ultra Magnus

This is THE titular leader class Ultra Magnus toy. This is the best Ultra Magnus toy from the golden age of Transformers toys where it seemed no expenses were spared. This toy is beefy, the plastic is solid, the transformation is complex yet intuitive, he has a bunch of pop out weapon gimmicks, none of which are intrusive, along with electronics. This toy happens to also be a perfect rendition of the cartoon model which was a fresh new take on the character where he, and not Optimus, was the leader of the Autobots. You can feel that magnitude in your hands as you play with this toy or when you see him on your shelf. All of the top three toys on this list are amazing and the only reason why this toy is not higher is simply because his alt mode is a little underwhelming, especially in the back area, and his hip ratchets are quite restrictive. - william-james88










2. Transformers Masterpiece MP 22 Ultra Magnus

Like all Masterpiece figures, 22 is a work of art. On heft alone this figure is awe inspiring. While I was always a fan of the idea that Ultra Magnus was a smaller bot in a suit of armor, I can't deny that the feat of engineering it took to get the character to be all-in-one is amazing. For me, the fact that I made it through his intense transformation without instructions was a huge relief. I can't say that for every Masterpiece.That meant I could enjoy this highly detailed representation of one of my favorite characters without the burden or fear of being bogged down by the process. It's involved, but it's intuitive. Which equals fun.
While I would have prefered a little more painted/tampoed detail and color, he is till an amazing design. In robot mode he retains all the design elements I loved about the original, but is presented (obviously) in a much more contemporary package. 22 has great articulation for the hoops he has to jump through to transform. He has that "mighty leader" posture no matter how you pose him. And he is a huge and intimidating presence on your shelf.
The carrier mode is perfection. Everything you would want it to be. It's hard to believe it's NOT a white MP-10 pulling that trailer, and of course it can fit any of the Autobot cars. The Fun-O-Meter shoots straight through the roof when you have the ability to roll out an entire team on some perilous adventure all contained in the mighty Magnus in MP scope and scale! - Cobotron






1. Transformers Generations Combiner Wars / Legends Leader Ultra Magnus

An overly involved puzzle of a transformation is one kind of fun, but it can get in the way of another kind of fun. When I'm imagining my way through an intense adventure situation on my coffee table, I can't be bothered with overly difficult transformations. I lose steam. The adventure losses momentum. And that's why Combiner Wars Leader Ultra Magnus beats his Masterpiece counterpart out of 1st place. Playability!
While his transformation is really kind of a truncated version of the MP's, it's simplified enough to be fast and efficient. With enough twists and turns to be fun and you get really close to the MP version, but for a fraction of the cost of the MP.
Another merit is his aesthetic design. He sports a fresh modern updated design in both modes that pulls from some great sources, but maintains his iconic stature. I was absolutely thrilled with the inclusion of the hammer. For me, with this figure,it declares that that is Magnus's weapon now and it's here to stay. And with Minimus Ambus we still get the smaller bot in a suit of armor mythos we expect from the character.
In a world of wonky scale his size class puts his robot mode right in the sweet spot among Voyagers and Deluxes. He's got good articulation where he needs it, and is a joy to pose.
Would I have prefered that his carrier mode could tote Deluxe class cars? Sure, but I'll take what I can get. He can hold a fare amount of Legends class figures and he looks good doing it.
When I walk into my collection and get that Magnus hankering, he is now the one I reach for first. He is fun to transform, fun to play with, and looks great. In the race for best Ultra Magnus figure, he is a hard bot to beat. - Cobotron












Honourable Mention:

Transformers Subscription Service Ultra Mammoth Gallery

Now I know William James likes to keep the lists to main line releases, and I agree. It's the broadest stroke and allows the lists and the conversation to reach the largest audience. But I would be remiss if, on a list of possibly my 2nd favorite heroic Autobot character of all time, we didn't include one of my most favorite versions. I talked it over with Will, and he said he'd let it slide. This one time.
I'm honestly not a huge fan of a lot of the TFCC toys, but I think Ultra Mammoth is one of the smartest repaints they ever did. Before I ever saw the Beast Wars cartoon, I assumed that Beast Wars was just a new iteration on a classic theme, and that the Transformers had rescanned their alt modes to fit some new scenario. I like where the cartoon took us, but I still revert to my original interpretation for fun and play sometimes. When I saw Ultra Mammoth I think I fell over. I had to add him to my Beast Wars collection. The mold fits the character really well. Those tuskes as a new take on Magnus's iconic shoulder pylons is just brilliant. And instead of just painting this Prime white, they went the extra mile and designed his color scheme to emulate Magnus's complete form. He's the appropriate size, and an appropriately powerful beast to use as this large and in charge character for the Beast Wars world. -Cobotron


Transformers Subscription Service Ultra Mammoth Gallery


Transformers Subscription Service Ultra Mammoth Gallery

Top 5 Most Confusing Vestigial Parts in Transformers Toys

Date: Friday, January 26th 2018 11:09pm CST
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

Discuss This Topic · Permanent Link
Views: 37,490

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 Most Confusing Vestigial Parts/Features in Transformers Toys

These are all parts on Transformers that initially confused me when I got them. They serve no purpose as per the instructions and yet have a functional aspect to them, or appear to. I had fun writing this list and I hope you have fun reading it! Make sure to share other unused parts on Transformers that confused you.

5. Optimus Minor's Four Arms

What was up with that? No seriously, his arms splitting into two is not featured on any art, or
the instructions and has nothing to do with the transformation. We know that one of the most expensive parts of producing toys is doing the molds and yet this odd feature that is never used meant that we needed to have more molds so that each arm (and hand ) could split into two. It's just ridiculous from a product making standpoint, regardless of how fans feel about it.




4. Seats in G1 Dinobots

I am well aware that these flaps in the G1 dinobots are a leftover of the functionality of having pilots ride in these dino mechs in the Diaclone line. But in the Transformers line where the robots are sentient and autonomous, these seats serve no purpose and were sure to confuse kids back in the day. Even though no Transformers came with plot figures, it made perfect sense to see seats in the transforming cars and jets. But not on Dinosaurs.




3. Tank Legs on Universe Galvatron

Anyone transforming Universe Galvatron without looking at the instructions will come across a rather stupefying moment when they pull out these extra legs from the tanks that serve no purpose anywhere. These pieces were actually part of a dropped third mode where you could have a four legged tank (where the other two legs would simply be the robot feet reused).







2. Spark Cockpits in Transmetal 2 Ultra Figures

This one confused me to no end as a child. I got Transmetal 2 Megatron at a comunity yard sale in a church's basement when I was much younger and remember being overjoyed. I also remember by puzzlement at seeing that small seat constantly swiveling inside an orange orb. This wasn't on the show and most toys since season two were quite show accurate so what was going on here? Well, I learnt years later that this was another dropped feature where Megatron and Optimal Optimus had detailed cockpits to house small figures which were anthropomorphic versions of their sparks. It really seems Hasbro is much opposed to any type of piloting so that never saw the light of day... in the west. The Takara version of Cryotek (which has "USA Edition" written on the box, leading to lots of confusion) does have a small figure riding in that sphere and it is made to look like Beast Wars Megatron in his original form (before he took on a beast alt mode).


Transformers Beast Wars Metals Megatron (Dragon Megatron) Gallery




1. Extra Wheel on G1 Perceptor's Back

This is my number one because it is a real shame and unlike everything else on this list, does not need to be dropped. It could easily have been used and to wondrous effect. Notice how G1 perceptor has wheels in his "mobile laboratory mode" (what is commonly referred to as his "tank" mode) ? Well one of them, the one on his back, does not reach the ground. Instead it just stays up in the air. But if you were to just bring down the giant scope/lens/cannon/long cylinder to be parallel to the floor, the wheel would touch and you would end up with a really good looking tank mode that rolls super well. This was one of the 4 modes the original Micrchange toy had and or some nonsense reason (it cant be to tone down violence, they brought the transforming gun over), Hasbro chose to ignore the awesome tank mode and instead give us instructions for the mobile laboratory, which makes no use of that wheel and just looks odd. It was easily the most useless of the 4 modes that were advertised in the toy's original Micrchange release so why did they not drop that mode in favour of the tank? If that would have been the case G1 Perceptor could have easily been the best official G1 triple changer. Instead that tank mode is technically a "fan mode" in Transformers lore and that's pretty nuts. But at least the toy can still pull off the real tank mode and we can all still have fun with it. I only wish it was official and featured in the instructions.


Transformers G1 1985 Perceptor Gallery

Top 5 Best Transformers Triplechanger Toys

Date: Saturday, January 13th 2018 1:00pm CST
Categories: Site Articles, Editorials, Top Lists
Posted by: william-james88

Discuss This Topic · Permanent Link
Views: 63,288

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 Transformers Triplechanger Toys

Now a toy that changes from one form to the next is pretty awesome, as you can all attest to. But what about a toy that can change into 3 different forms? Transformers Triplechangers have been around since the G1 era and still thrive today. They are extremely tricky toys to pull off and thus there are very few amazing ones out there. Below are the ones that I feel pulled it off best across different eras and though they all have flaws, they are still pretty remarkable when you think of all the designing and engineering involved. Now all I required for something to be considered a triple changer to me were 3 distinct modes with 3 distinct play patterns.


5. Energon Shockblast

As you can tell from my #5 pick, I am looking at all robots that have three different modes, not just the classically labelled triple changers. Also, it's by looking beyond those that I realized Energon Shockblast does have three distinct forms and they work pretty well. Firstly, it is a gorgeous homage to G1 Shockwave and a much better placeholder in a Classics collection than the Generations figure we eventually got. His heft and size are perfect to represent this imposing robot. His tank mode works fine with a giant cannon that is very indicative of the character. It's also a rather sleek vehicle which hints as having as much speed and maneuverability as power. However, the real standout is the satellite mode. This is a very detailed and intricate third mode that will take anyone by surprise. The tank just splits into a myriad of ends with unfolding panels that give a beautiful sci fi look. The robot mode is very solid while also being sleek and with little kibble so you wouldn't think that he has so much hidden in him and that is why him having two other distinct forms is really surprising and gets him on this list.








4. Titans Return Astrotrain

Titans Return is the reason this list which was started back in 2014 took so long. Just as I was going to publish it, in comes a line which will include several triple changers per wave. So I waited for that one triple changer which really stood out. And it never came. Nothing was earth shattering or groundbreaking, especially when it came to the leaders with base modes which were also labelled as triplechangers. The voyagers had pros and cons all across which al made them about as good from one to the next. The ones with the best robot modes had poor alt modes (Alpha Trion) while there were some toys I found really great once you ignore their plane modes (Optimus and Braodside) which totally defeats the purpose of a triple changer. The one triple changer from all of Titans Return that I did think had redeeming qualities in all three modes was Astrotrain. I love the fluidity of the Transformation which tied back to the Stormbringer design. It is super cool to see older concepts brought to life and finally given a chance (come on Transtech Depthcharge!). Definitely a step up from previous attempts at this transformation scheme. I just find it a very elegant design which gives you an excellent G1 inspired robot mode whos deco rocked no matter which version you got. Plus, while heavily criticized, I think it was pretty cool to see an armoured train concept brought to life in the Transformers brand.








3. G1 Scorponok

Kids must have had a blast with Scorponok in the 80s as he is as fun a toy now, even with everything else that has come out since. Firstly, as a scorpion, his feet move as you roll him across the floor and the pincers have strong ratchets that lets you pick up any pesky autobot. Secondly,he is extremely imposing with his gigantic stature. He was actually the largest Decepticon toy in the G1 era and you can't conceptualize his girth until you see him in front of you, especially in robot mode. He's bigger than Trypticon, and that guy would go up against Metroplex, the CITY! Finally, speaking of cities, he also has a third playset/base mode that is pulled off surprisingly well, better than many of the Return of Convoy toys which also had a base mode as a third mode (especially this guy here). There are ramps for your little cars to roll off of or onto and the middle ramps even has a pushing mechanism so that your car can be pushed off the ramp. Also, the fact that he is a headmaster give you an extra little robot to interact with the base and it's many little interactive areas (like an elevator).




2. G1 Astrotrain and G1 Blitzwing


These are the best G1 triple changers due to the very accomplished alt modes which do not clash with one another. Let's start with Astrotrain. The train is my personal favourite since it looks like an oldschool steam engine and pulls the look off elegantly, if you ignore the boosters in the back. Also, this toy's genius may not be as evident now as it was then but there are two remarkable aspects about this toy that may be forgotten. Firstly, it is the very first Transformer toy to have ball joints (for his arms), and thus extra articulation. Secondly, this toy is from 1985, just three years after the first operational flights of the space shuttle, so it was a very up to date alt mode at the time and a pretty accomplished one despite the more angular middlesection.
Blitzwing on the other hand has so much win since his two alt modes actually look more realized than Astrotrain's. They don't look odd and each of them don't seem to transform into something else aside of a robot. This is the only toy of the character where there is nothing off about the jet mode, unlike the Animated or Generations version. I especially love the simple and elegant folding mechanism that hides away the thread design for the tank. I really couldn't pick between these two and the fact that I find those alt mode combinations more accomplished than their classic updates really means something. They are both great examples of the potential for triple changers and have been so for 30 years.











1. Generations Springer and Sandstorm

What can be said that hasn't been said before. The Springer toy has been voted the best Transformers toy since the brand began back in 1984, and for good reason. All three modes work. The car is beefy while the helicopter is sleek and best of all, nothing obstructs or brings unnecessary kibble to the robot mode which is one of the sleekest designs ever found for a robot. This is undoubtedly the best articulated robot mode on this list, and he is a joy to pose. His robot mode is the best of the three since both alt modes have some flaws. However, it is the fact that all three modes are distinct while finally accomplishing a faithful interpretation of the character, especially the on spot look of Nick Roache's design, with a kickass robot mode that makes this the very best Triple Changer of all time. The Sandstorm figure takes a few more liberties from the character's roots but it all works just as well. While I am not the biggest fan of those giant wheels and how they add kibble to the robot mode, it does give him some nice bulk and I love how they both look like wheels on one side and VTOL propellers on the other. He tabs in even tighter than Springer! In short, these are both fantastic examples of a triple changer and it is a mold everyone should experience.







Honourable mentions: G1 Broadside, ha! Just messing. There is another toy I wanted to talk about but I don't know if he's a triple changer, so I will only mention him here:

Energon Tidal Wave (Shock Wave)
The reason he is an honourable metion and not on the list is because I didn't see Tidal Wave as a triple changer but instead a robot made up of smaller non transforming toys, like Magmatron or ROTF Devastator. However I realized that unlike those toys, these smaller vehicles do not combine to form a robot, they combine to form the robot's alt mode, which is a whole different ball game (of awesome). This makes this an amazing, intricate and unique Transformer with three distinct forms. Let's go through this. Firstly, there are three very different vehicles, and each of them have their own fun gimmick. The aircraft carrier is actually in scale with the actual airplane it comes with and features an elevator for the plane (which also transforms into a little robot). There is also a shuttle (well supposedly it is a troop landing craft) which has one of the cutest gimmicks ever. You open it up and you get an open area with benches for little robots (minicons) to sit. You then have a cosmic battleship with activated turrets once a minicon is plugged, triggering the action feature. These three ships then combine together to form a big warship, that strikes me more as a bigger version of the lego spaceships from the 80s (SPACESHIPS!). And then, this warship (SPACESHIPS!) formed from three seemingly non transforming vehicles actually transforms into a giant robot. It is really impressive, and totally surreal in a way, how you transform the alt mode as if it was one vehicle and not something made up of smaller vehicles. This means that you do not have to disconnect the separate vehicles to form the robot. Everything is in place for you to transform him from one mode to the next, with the combined warship mode serving as an intermediary between the robot mode and the three separate ships. So he is a triple altmode triple transformer (what would Thew call that?)