Hot New Week Scamble!

 

It's Monday and you know what that means! It's a new week here on Planet Zone! Speaking of a new week... where the hell did the weekend go? Friday morning I went to Target for the new Pokémon game for the Mrs. While there I found Kingdom Slammer and Pipes. The Toei Spider-Man Hot Wheel was also there. Been looking for that one. Still no Studio Series Soundwave. That's now autofilling itself out.

Saturday was spent mostly in bed until the afternoon when the Mrs and I went to Five Below. There I found a neat Stranger Things field guide and grabbed a Siege Firedrive to give Studio Series Hot Rod. The Mrs pointed out neat plush Mario and Luigi bag clips that I also picked up. A bottle of Ramune was also bought as I've been craving it lately. We then took my mother grocery shopping before ordering food and watching this weeks Mandelorian and 1000 lbs Sisters.

Sunday was mostly spent playing Demon Slayer on my PS4 while the Mrs played that new Pokémon game. For dinner Mom came over and the Mrs made low sodium tacos! I helped set up Mom's new Chromebook we had gotten her for Christmas (she apparently hadn't herself yet). 

The weekend's over though and time to enjoy my Monday before heading into work tonight. Did you all enjoy the new episode of Transform Squadron? I'd been planning to do it since December. Things happened though keeping recording it delayed a little. I planned on January, just it ended up being a little late. I've got a fun week in mind for you all. Thanks to each and every one of you for continuing to support Zone Base. Don't forget to share with your friends!

The Transformers Iceberg (according to me)

 

I often find myself referring to the Transformers Iceberg and all the various parts within it that I find fascinating. Due to the nature of Transformers as a brand and how it was created, there's various layers of the Iceberg. A lot of it is under the surface. It's almost more appropriate to call it a sunken island with a tree sticking out of the water more so than an iceberg... but that's the terminology for this sort of thing. 

I'm not expert or authority on anything. However I thought it'd be fun to sit here and lay out how I see the iceberg. Below is the layers and how it all works in my mind. Mind you the layers blend together and something can be in more than one. Microman is both formative and associated, as is GIJOE for example. Because things can get so complicated the layers are in broad strokes. Because basically, it's confusing and like i said, I'm not the authority. My word isn't law. So take this as you will and I hope you all enjoy.

The Transformers Iceberg

Level 1: Official Product

This should be pretty self explanatory. Official Transformers branded Transformers stuff.

• Officially released toys
• Officially released fiction (comics/cartoons/multi media)
• Officially licensed merchandise/multi media (official conventions/fan clubs included)

Level 2: Formative

Transformers was made from other toy lines originally with a brand new story before original product was developed. So certain things are in the iceberg due to that. It does get complicated as those other toy lines were also branching off something prior and other toy lines have made made from them.

• Lines that lead up to creation
• Steps in creating fiction/world building/character creation including abandoned ideas
• Marketing and executive roles

Level 3: Associated/Trivial

There's been cross overs and oddball appearances. For example, Cobra Commander was in an episode of Transformers (Only Human). So that's an official association by fiction. But what about that time Beast Wars toys were on Fresh Prince? Well, that's an association, but it's pretty trivial.

• Lines/Properties related to Transformers by association
• Former/Later uses of related toys/art/fiction
• Appearances in other multi media
• Referenced in multi media
• Characters appearing in related lines/fiction (ie Microman Batman)

Level 4: Unlicensed/Unofficial

There's Transformers stuff that's unlicensed, which means it's not official. However, it's still part of the Transformers world. This isn't meant to disparage anything by any means. It's a broad definition to describe a pretty vast area that can get pretty murky at times. After all, This site is in this layer.

• Bootleg/Knock-Off toys/merchandise
• Unlicensed 3rd Party toys/merchandise
• Fan created media (fiction/zines/multi media/etc)

Fortress of Necros

 

Nekurosu No Yousai was a very neat keshi line by Lotte sold in the late 80's and early 90's. Translated into English, the name of the line is technically Necros Fortress, but often called Neclos Fortress. Neclos is printed on the lines cards as l and r are often confused in translation. Necros/Neclos being the main villain character. Each figure would come in a box with a card and piece of chocolate. Readers know this is the exact kind of thing I go crazy for.

The line was a fantasy based with cool monsters and warriors intended to be used in a rpg game. The cards would be used for the figures stats as well as items and spells. There was a total of 320 figures released in 8 parts. The figures were in multiple colors and would often come in color change or metallic plastic depending on the release. Some with plastic jewels. I can see a fun evening spent with these. If you noticed that they resemble Monsters in my Pocket, you're not alone. It's only natural for keshi lines to look alike, especially ones based on monsters. Necros Fortress and Monsters in my Pocket do share a lot of the same monsters. Both even have video games. NES for one, PC Engine the other. A crossover would have been perfect.

Unfortunately, Necros Fortress figures are not easy to get. The line was exclusive to Japan in a per-internet time. Candy toys are no problem now, but the older ones can be a challenge. I don't have any myself but can still enjoy them through various pictures on the internet. They have great sculpts and I like the variety of monsters. I love the art. It's exactly the style and era that's a steady favorite of mine. I'm pretty jealous of those who got to experience them first hand. I could see myself in a local convenience store buying these up.

Transform Squadron 28: Oh Yeah

 

LISTEN NOW

This month Rob remembered he had a podcast and reintroduces it after a year off. Not long afterward he talks about when Transformers were first coming out, Tonka stopping Mighty Orbots toys, and Gobots that almost was. All that and… that’s it this month on Transform Squadron.

Bios: Sky-Byte

 

"Flash of metal fins. Sharkticons tear foes to shreds. Die quick, Autobots."

Sky-Byte is a Predacon by design, but, like his Quintesson creators, works with the Decepticons from time to time when it's profitable to do so. He leads the new-generation Sharkticons into battle, ruthlessly shredding all cars and robots on his way. He sees himself as a sophisticated warrior poet, the self-proclaimed "greatest shark around," composing haiku about the robots in disguise he's about to deactivate. Exposure to forestonite has given Sky-Byte a devastating new ability; he can unleash a "Tsunami Blaster" freeze attack from his chest, paralyzing his foes. Combined with an already impressive arsenal, air speed, and his Sharkticon hordes, he's a menace to everything in the air, land and sea. Were he more competent and less given to overblown theatrics that leave him vulnerable, he'd be one of the Autobots' greatest threats.

Dolphin Burst

 

Today we're ending our weekly look at the Burst series from Beast Saga with Dolphin Burst. I've also seen him called Dorufan and Dorfan. Dolphin is one of those Beast Saga characters who doesn't seemingly have a Battle Beasts/Beastformers predecessor. New characters are always good! Dolphin's colors aren't very different from his standard figure, but I do prefer the translucent plastic. The blue armor looks like water and the simple colors look more dynamic. Dolphin is carrying a sword and shield combo like most Beast Saga toys do. Being a nautical based character, he of course has a pirate style scimitar. His shield though is a unique combination of geometrical shapes that looks pretty neat. I can see him using them on an Atlantis inspired city.

Have a Magic New Week

 

It's Monday and you know what that means! It's a new week here on Planet Zone! This past weekend was pretty good. It was the Mrs's birthday and I took her out shopping to celebrate it. While out I picked up a Pop Warduke I'd been hoping to find. We also stopped by Rocket Fizz, a candy store, and while there I grabbed a giant bag of Pez. All unwrapped, all too perfect. Not to mention some other wonderful candy was bought.

I also grabbed the new Battle Cat from He-Man and the Masters of the Universe as well as the Core Class Snake Eyes. Still no luck on Studio Series Soundwave which might just be my white whale. I also got a pack of pens for work, I know you're excited about that. In the upcoming weeks my department at work will be moving into a new office space and I'm excited. Brand new cubicle!

I've got a fun week in mind. I know Zone Base isn't some big site, but the fact that you all continue to support it is really flattering. Thank you so much for reading my nonsense! Please don't forget to share with your friends! Y'all sure it's not Halloween yet? No... well... 

Rodimus Prime (Kingdom)

 

Rodimus Prime is one of my favorite Transformers characters. Like Galvatron, after his introduction everything changed for the better. His latest figure is a large Commander Class figure that the Mrs gave me for Christmas. She knows how much I like him and this is one impressive gift. Like the Kingdom version of Galvatron, this Rodimus Prime works as both a Generations and Studio Series version of the toy. It's also a very pleasantly chunky robot toy that I had a lot of fun with. As you'd expect, Rodimus turns into his trademark Winnebago of Doom. What you probably didn't expect was the front 'cab' portion separates into the car Rodimus changed into as Hot Rod. As a kid, this is what I wanted the original to do. In a way, it makes him more like an Optimus Prime toy when the cab separates from the trailer.

The 'trailer' portion of the alt mode converts into a battle platform similar to the original toy. Now, however, the cannon is detachable and has treads for movement. It can be used as a portable weapon as well. There's plenty of connection ports in the battle deck for various Weaponizers and other add on fun. Rodimus comes with plenty of those energy action effect thingies, they make good blast effects for the cannon. Rodimus himself is contained within the car. This leads to my only dislike about the toy. I hated transforming it. He's a pretty tall robot that unfolds out of that car in not the most graceful manner. The end results are great, but the trip from A to B was a nightmare.

Transformation aside, in robot mode Rodimus is very sharp looking and well articulated. He has some great accessories including his Photon Eliminator rifle, Sword of Primus, and a Matrix of Autobot Leadership that stores nicely in his chest. There's even one of those energy effects thingies just for it! There already has been a Masterpiece Rodimus toy, but I am WAY more impressed with this figure than that one. There's even removable smoke for the smoke stacks! This is one of those toys that feel proud to own, like it could be a showcase piece. I've been really happy with Transformers toys in general over the past few years and this definitely is a solid example as to why.

Do you have a Monster in your Pocket?

 

As an adult, the need for Monsters in my Pocket is bigger than ever. Fortunately there is plenty of monster toys in the absence of the original, but what a great little series the original was. I'm a little envious of these stickers featured in the South African commercial. Stickers make everything better and I'd love to have some of these on my Trapper Keeper. I was listening to some paranormal podcasts while working (as usual) and realized how I got my introduction to Spring Heeled Jack thanks to this cool little line. It's not often that a little monster toy line can be educational.

Aliens (M.A.R.S. Heroes)

 

I'd been sitting on the fence over these weird little figures for several years now. Not sure exactly how long, but a quick Google search tells me they were first released in 2006. It was probably around 2016 when I first took note of them, about 10 years after they were first released. I'm familiar with the M.A.R.S. Converters line of inexpensive robot toys and occasionally see this 'Heroes' sub line at odd discount stores. There's Troopers, Megabots, some odd vehicles, and what we're looking at today, the Aliens. Mainly sold at discount stores in multi packs or the odd single figure, I always see them at Ross around Christmas. Which is where I finally pulled the trigger on this set. Stopping by our local store with the Mrs a few weeks ago led me to look for Zoids (they randomly show up there) and didn't want to leave empty handed. 

I've been seeing others in Microman groups talk pretty big about these little weirdos and have been pretty tempted to grab a set. I'm so glad I did as these are some great little Microman/Micronaut -esque figures. Considering I paid about 5$ (after Christmas clearance) for the multi pack of three, they were a steal. I'm often blown away by the quality of some discount toy lines (Final Faction, The Corps) and despite the age of the molds, they were pretty decent quality. The packaging encourages mixing the various parts to come up with your own custom figures. Obviously I didn't do that in the picture aside from the shoulder mounted weapons. 

While they look to be the same toy mold castes in different colors, the blue arms have big claws, while the green body has a different head dome. In some great bright translucent colors with ample metallic paint and different weapons. Two green pistols, a slightly larger orange gun, and a blue melee weapon that's not showing up well in the picture. Also the before mentioned shoulder weapons. Thanks to all the various connection points being ball joints, there is quite a bit of articulation. I haven't gotten the other M.A.R.S. Heroes, but am pretty tempted now. It was a fun Saturday night spent eating sushi and playing with my new off brand Alien Invaders. If you happen upon a set, they're well worth picking up. I strongly recommend some spicy tuna rolls and paranormal TV to go along with them. 

Micro Sized (Transformers Edition)

 

The World's Smallest Micro Action Figures line is a pool I've dipped my toes in a little bit since it's inception. At Christmas, the Mrs put a ton in with my presents and I may have gotten hooked. Today I'm going to talk about the Transformers ones. There is two scales, Micro Action Figures and Miniature. Micro is individually sold, while Miniature comes in blind boxes. I'm just the mini Optimus shy of having a complete set. Both sizes come with "packaging" that they can be removed from and put back in. Micro's have some articulation and come with removable display stands and accessories depending on the figure. He-Man as a ton, Bumblebee has none. Mini so far has no articulation and display stands glued on.

So far the Transformers series is Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and Starscream. You all know I'm favoring Bumblebee right out of the gate, but Starscream may have the most impressive sculpt. Starscream though has the least impressive paint with Optimus leading in that department. I do wish they had weapons like others, I guess Starscream technically does. I'm probably not doing them any justice in the pictures, but they're REALLY cool.

When I say these guys are tiny, I mean it. They're 1.25" tall with three points of articulation (arms, head), the mini's are roughly half that. If only they'd have leg articulation then they'd make great Diaclone or Zoids pilots. They look to use the same sculpts as the Dollar Tree Transformer minis. If so, I hope more will be coming using the other characters at some point. There's other series as well. GIJOE, Masters of the Universe, Power Rangers, MEGO Monsters, and so on. They pair well with NANO Metal Figs, Micro Machines, and other tiny sized toys. Clearly these little guys are right up my alley and I can see them occupying Micromaster bases. I do plan on this being an ongoing series focusing on tiny toys. Don't worry, they won't take up much room.

30 years of Kirby

 

This year marks Kirby's 30th anniversary. Which both seems weird and rewarding. Weird because where did the time go? Rewarding because Kirby is in mostly really good games and deserves recognition. I still remember buying the original for my Gameboy not long after it's release. Back then I'd often bring a game manual with me to school to read and this new cutesy character got me teased. The joke was on them, I knew just how good this game was. As time marched on, the games kept coming and kept generally being really good. I'm sure some folks still take issue with such a cute little guy without bothering to see why people love him so much. But really, who cares? Real ones know.

Eledram Burst

 

This week in our ongoing exploration into Burst Beast Saga figures is Eledram (I have seen him also called Eledrum) Burst. Who as you can see is an elephant. Eledram is the Beast Saga update of Sledgehammer Elephant/Elephan and he came out pretty great. No doubt about it, he's a tank. Broad shoulders and big frame with cannons on his shoulders. I like the little goggles pulled up on his forehead. You can tell Eledram pulls them down when charging into battle. For a change, the update's weapon is an update of the originals lance. All of the elephants in this family tree carry a version of that, though Eldram also has a shield like most Beast Saga figures. His dark green armor really stands out against the white elephant parts and just looks great in that translucent plastic. This is a really good figure.

Assault on New Week

 

It's the beginning of a new week here on Planet Zone and honestly I'm a little sleepy. It was a good weekend full of winter weather. A quick run for a few things Saturday didn't result in a Soundwave, that thing is going to be the bane of my existence. I did pick up a Micro Action Red Ranger, core GIJOE Storm Shadow, and He-Man from the newer MOTU Netflix series. 

Watching the Unsolved Mysteries channel and playing Game Gear lead to some hilarity. It snowed all Sunday, which was spent playing with toys and watching paranormal TV. I stayed up way too late watching Ultraman and slept late today. I've got a fun week in mind that I hope you all enjoy. I may be a little sleepy, but still thankful for you all supporting the site. Don't forget to share with your friends!

Galvatron (Kingdom)

 

When it comes to Transformers, the movie and it's post years are a particularly favored era for me. The space opera, far out designs, and darker tone improves what was already a solid formula. Galvatron is a much more interesting villain than the earlier version of Megatron. Like Rodimus Prime with Optimus, he influenced the writers when it came to making Megatron more interesting. It seems like that to me anyway. This Kingdom version is something of an anomaly. It's the Generations version of Galvatron and the Studio Series 86 toy as well. Like Cyclonus and Ultra Magnus, it's clearly intended to fill both roles.

Galvatron will be re-released in Legacy sans the signature War for Cybertron battle damage deco as well. I'm ok with or without it, but you may have your preferences. I'm not sure if I'll get that Legacy version, but am really tempted on the Pulse exclusive version. I just like Galvatron, and I'm pretty fond of this toy as well. I'll admit though, to date my favorite version has been the Energon version. It's a mix of classic and update that's also really cool. This however, is a strong contender for that spot. 

The toy is 100% classic Galvatron. Robot mode to laser cannon, everything looks and feels right. A nice little extra touch is replacing his classic rifle with one that looks like the ship Unicron gave him in the movie. Another extra is the Autobot Matrix of Leadership dangling from a chain to be worn around his neck like in the movie. The gun and Matrix can be utilized in cannon mode and add a little extra to an already cool toy. I like both modes, but don't like transforming it. It's not hard or anything, I just don't enjoy the transformation. I'm not sure of there's an official laser gun mode, but sure one can be pulled off. The original wasn't that amazing to begin with. 

Galvatron is one of those great characters that doesn't always get the best toys. Usually the better ones have an all new design as the original is pretty hard to pull off. His cartoon appearance took some liberties with the toy design that went on to define the character. This is a good version. It looks great in both modes and is a solid toy as well. Plenty of articulation, the cannon is sturdy, and everything serves a purpose. This is another Christmas gift from the Mrs and it's a great one. He's big, evil looking, and imposing. All hail Galvatron!

In the Haunted House

 

I can't think of a better way for us to have fun on our spooky week than walking through a haunted house. What? Oh, no, don't worry. They'll be plenty more spooky stuff coming throughout the year. Every day is Halloween on Planet Zone after all. This specific haunted house in in a theme park called Suntopia World and is pretty unique. While it isn't full of jump scares, it is fairly uncomfortable. If someone or something was out to get you, they'd be able to hide among the props as you walk around.It'd be the perfect place for something really scary to happen.

GAT-X103 Buster Gundam (G Frame)

 

I haven't built a Gundam model in a while and the bug to do so again hit me pretty hard recently. My wife sensed this and bought me a few for Christmas leading us to today's post. I used to build them quite a bit along side Zoids, it's super relaxing to do with the TV on in the background. Gundam is one of those things I don't know a super lot about, but really appreciate as a whole. Going into this G Frame kit, I had assumed it was like other models and got my nippers out only to discover they weren't needed.

Each part is already separated ready to be placed on either the G Frame or display frame. The G Frame being the main reason for my interest in this one. It's a super articulated skeleton that the parts plug into creating a hyper possible figure. The Display Frame is a much more static skeleton for a basic display version of your Gundam. The Display Frame also converts into a stand to show off your figure. Neat huh?

The GAT-X103 Buster Gundam is mainly from the series Mobile Suit Gundam SEED. It's an artillery mobile suit developed by the Earth Alliance G Project. My interest is in those big guns, it looks cool. The Gundam has a backpack that holds them and fold out allowing for dual gun combat. The rifles can then be removed and combined for an extra long sniper rifle. If that wasn't enough, the shoulders also contain missile launchers.

The GAT-X103 Buster Gundam is one cool looking robot with some big ass guns. I'm also a fan of the green and red colors. The G Frame system was fun to play around with and I spent hours doing so with paranormal TV on in the background. It was a good time. I'm definitely going to pick up others in the future.

Empty Apartment

 

It's always creepy going into somebodies home after they're gone. There's an absence of the life that once lived there that's impossible to ignore. What if the home is said to be haunted? Cursed even? Well, then, that's another story. It's both lonely and scary at the same time. You're potentially in danger after all. Why would a person put themselves into that situation? What would they do to get out? Fortunately I haven't been in that situation. I can't make that judgement call. I don't know what it's like to have those thoughts racing through my mind. The host of today's spookiness though, does.

Killer Shark Burst

 

This week in our ongoing look at some 'Burst' versions of Beast Saga toys is Killer Shark. I probably don't have to explain why he'd be named that combined with the photo. Killer Shark is one excellent looking figure. He's the update to Sawtooth Shark/Badshark for the the Beast Saga era. It'd be great if there was an update of the Shocking Shark Transport Station to go along with him. Just look at that thing, it's awesome.

In this Burst version, Killer Shark could be an entirely different character. The black shark with dark blue armor is so vastly different from his normal deco. I almost expect this to be a 'nemesis' version. Regardless, he looks cool. The shark head with the fin armor is just too well executed. Speaking of his burst colors, the translucent plastic works really well here. The shield and lance weapon are a natural fit, though I'd love to have seen a trident or spear. What about a harpoon gun?

Replay : Dark Roads

 

I did say I was in a spooky mood, didn't I? One thing that I've always found scary is that random person when you're driving alone down a dark road. You don't have to believe in ghosts and it doesn't have to be paranormal. A person on the road at night while you're driving is uncomfortable. That brings us to this edition of Replay. A paranormal Youtuber I enjoy has a fun compilation of scary things found while driving alone on a dark road. It's a fun little countdown of a common frightening occurrence just right for the spooky mood I'm in. Considering you had to click read more to see the video, looks like you're in similar spirits.

Barricade (Authentics)

 

I've always been a fan of the lower end basic figures. There's a charm to the simplicity and sometimes the low price is just the right thing. Less can be more. As such, I was a fast fan of Authentics. I've always had a love for discount store toys and a version of Transformers intended for that market was a happy combination. Not every figure has been a Masterpiece, but there's a few stand outs in the little line. Barricade is one. The Mrs put it in my stocking Christmas morning and he's a fun little toy. Barricade is one of the smaller Authentics figures. I've been calling them the smaller ones this whole time, though I've seen web sites refer to them as either Alpha or Bravo. 

Barricade follows the precedent set by the Michael Bay movies of him being a Decepticon Police car. Originally the character was a Micromaster F-1 race car and then later the name was often reused sporadically. This version seems to be based on his TF5 and Earth Wars depictions. Not bad, I'm really fond of that look and it comes off well here. I also like Police car deco Transformers. You've probably noticed he's pretty basic in the paint department, but that's going to happen with a discount figure. It's mostly noticeable in car mode, the robot mode came out better in that aspect. 

For an inexpensive figure, Barricade has more articulation than I expected. Head, shoulders, elbows,legs, knees, and even feet move satisfyingly. A little less hollow and he could pass for a core class. The toy almost feels like it was designed for another line or project. More recent Authentics have been pretty good, but there's definitely a different vibe going on here. Being a discount figure I don't foresee more information into his development coming. I'll just be content to theorize he started out in a different direction. Barricade is a great little figure and pretty surprising considering everything. I really like him and am still surprised just how well he came out. I know Authentics aren't everyone's cup of tea, but I drink from my own cup. No backwash.

New Week - The Famicom

 

It's Monday and you know what that means? It's the start of a new week here on Planet Zone! I spent the weekend running around more than I'd like. However I did get some downtime and enjoyed some sushi while watching 1,000 lbs Sisters. Good food and bizarre TV. I failed to locate a Studio Series Soundwave. Those Bumblebee movie figures are impossible for me to ignore.

I did get a Cybertron Dead End and an Origins Buzz-Off. Not too shabby. Still looking for that Arrow ATV accessory set on the Final Faction front and some new Transformers that are just trickling out. I do plan on stocking up on more MOTU, especially new Eternia Minis. Not to mention some other GIJOE and Power Rangers figures. It never ends.

I've got a fun week in mind. I hope you all enjoy it. Thank you for continuing to support Zone Base and please share with your friends. It's hard to believe it's already Halloween time, but I guess it's January. I'm in a spooky mood as usual. It's as any a good time for something scary.

The smaller end of the dark side

 

I'm in a Dinobot mood today and wanted to look back at something I was quite fond of. Considering the name of the site, my fondness for smaller Transformers isn't a well kept secret. For a while, Mini-Cons were the standard bearer for tiny TF toys. As the Unicron Trilogy ended, they managed to stay around as part of the new Classics line prior to the movies. They then stayed around some more. They've basically not went anywhere and honestly newer Micromasters are similar to Mini-Cons. Which is just the way of things as most of us saw Mini-Cons as the new Micromasters. Except my mom, she thought they looked like bowling pins. Specifically.

One of the cooler aspects of Mini-Cons is that they were heavily repainted and nearly countless figures were produced. Super fun to collect and sometimes a challenge as well. One specific set of Mini-Cons was released during the Dark of the Moon toy line. That's them in the picture above. They're obviously themed after the G1 Dinobots and versions of them were used to represent G1 Dinobots in later releases. It can be confusing and easy to mix them up. Fortunately those later uses were in the TF4 2 packs that I absolutely loved. That does help me keep them separated mentally. 

The individual figures were Dualor (t-rex), Catilla (tiger), Rav (pteranodon), and Triceradon (triceratops). Despite being released as part of the TF3 toy line, they were not specifically part of it. Fictionally they fit in during Beast Wars according to Ask Vector Prime. It's not much, but it's something. Confusing, but remember, not all movie toys are specifically meant to be in movie characters. These figures were sold only at smaller stores (discount chains, pharmacies, etc.) and Big Bad Toy Store.

I specifically got them at Tuesday Morning. The Reveal the Shield Legend/Legion class figures never showed up at my local retail, but I did find them (mostly) later during this time frame at stores like Tuesday Morning and Ross. I was all to happy to snatch up these little bots while on the hunt for that Legend Megatron one Sunday. Never found Megatron, but I did get a set of these.

Slug/Slag (Cyberverse)

 

Not going to lie, this is one of the most impressive figures I've seen in a while. Slug is just oozing personality and damn near impossible not to like. This is the Cyberverse Deluxe version of Slug (formerly Slag) and a real stand out. I love Dinobots (still need to find Snarl) and was all too happy to see him underneath the tree on Christmas (thanks to the Mrs!). If Cyberverse isn't your thing, then you're probably unaware just how much they nail the classic characters with a touch of stylized flair. I'm normally a big fan of the warrior class. Warrior class is a more simple figure, but in that simplicity is an accidental throwback to older robot figures. Still, I've gotten some of the Deluxes (need to get Hot Rod and Bumblebee still) as they're quite nice. As of right now, I think Slug is the best one they've done.

Slug turns into his trademark triceratops and looks 100% like classic Slag in both forms. HOWEVER, in that stylized flair I talked about above is some extra charm. They've added spikes and a facial expression that makes him look as if he walked off the pages of a Generation 2 comic. If they ever repaint this mold, I really hope it's in green or red. It's one of those things I just can't un-see. 

As a figure on his own, Slug is pretty great. Make no mistakes, I'm outright gushing. I was completely blown away by how good this figure is. If I have anything that resembles a complaint about him, it's that I had a little trouble transforming him. The robot mode legs make up the rear section of the dinosaur and arranging them didn't go so smoothly. I haven't seen any other complaints about this, so that very well could just be me being clumsy. Outside of that, Slug is well articulated and decently so in dino mode as well. Instead of a sword, he's packing a hatchet and the gun you normally see him use. The two can be combined which makes for a great cannon for the triceratops. There's also one of those action effect blast thingies included to plug onto the guns barrels. I normally don't care much for those, but in this case I actually like it. This toy is so good it sold me on something I normally don't like!

Batman Crescent Night Story

 

I'd been recently playing 8 and 16 bit Batman games (some of my all time favorites) and somehow ended up in a YouTube rabbit hole. Which lead me to this, the Japanese intro and outro to their incarnation of the classic cartoon. I've always thought Japanese intros were better and this so much better than the one we got. Admittedly it's the music that's selling me. That's a great intro song... and outro as well. I've been trying to find it on Spotify to no avail. There's like a million different Batman songs. However, I did manage to find it on YouTube as copied from a record. Both Songs! That's a Bat Start!

Giant MechaGodzilla (Godzilla vs Kong)

 

I feel like I've been championing the Playmates Godzilla toys since they've been released. To be fair, I was initially critical like others. Some of those early photos weren't promising. I acknowledged the lines faults and have watched it improve as time went along. That's how toy lines work, the initial figures are usually a little rough and things get smoother out as the team finds it's groove. This is the Giant sized MechaGodzilla from their Godzilla vs Kong line. It was one of the Christmas gifts from the Mrs. and I'm quite fond of it.

While Kiryu is my favorite version of MechaGodzilla, this newer Monsterverse version sure is neat. I like how it looks like a robot skeleton. Kiryu is made from skeletal remains of the original Godzilla who's ghost is in there, while this Mechagodzilla is initially controlled by the skull of Ghidorah before being possessed by Ghidorah's consciousness. Mechagodzilla's can be pretty spooky. Good.

This is the giant version of Mechagodzilla. It stands 11" tall, while the standard one is 6". I wished I would have measured it from nose to tail, because that seems a little longer. Like most kaiju toys, he doesn't have a lot of articulation. Head, shoulders, legs, hands, feet, and some tail swivel. Most is pretty standard stuff for a sofubi or these sofubi inspired action figures. The hands though are pretty neat, they swivel at the wrists as well as open and close. This allows him to pick up a bus and throw it back down as well.

Bios: Razorclaw

 

"All good things succumb to those who wait."

Function: Predacon Commander

All business. Hates waste in any form... won't burn an extra drop of fuel unless he's certain the results will be worth the effort. Long stretches of inactivity often mistaken for laziness. Explodes into furious, ferocious action when it's time to strike. As a lion, can leap distances as long as a football field. Claws can rip through foot-thick steel. Has twin concussion blasters and sonic sword. Combines with fellow Predacons to form Predaking.

Morick Bat Burst

 

One of my favorite Battle Beasts/Beastformers is Blitzkrieg Bat/Devil Bat. Our weekly look at Beast Saga is Morick Bat Burst, the modern day update of that very bat. Admittedly the reason I picked him was because he fit the early year spooky vibe I always fall into and I'm not one bit ashamed of that. In his Burst colors, Morick Bat is translucent orange with dark red armor. These fiery colors make me think of Red Arremer or Satan from Ghouls 'N Ghosts. He's packing a sword and shield, by now you're probably recognizing these. The same handful of weapons molds are heavily used in the line. I don't mind it at all, though the original's axe would have been nice. Instead of Devil Bat's cybernetic eye patch, Morick Bat is sporting some cool goggles. The goggles are a lot cooler even though the eye patch is certainly part of that look. He's an update of sorts, but not the same character. Though in these colors, I can see him flying around breathing fire.

Marshmallow Brains and other Strangeness

 

Man, it's hard to believe it's already Halloween. Ok, that's redundant. Everyday is Halloween on Planet Zone! Now that we've all put away our trees and are starting the new year, it's time to get the spooky stuff back out! It won't be until August when the annual Halloween party starts here on the site. But as regular readers know, there's always something strange in this neighborhood.

A YouTuber I enjoy recently released a wonderful video with a spooky twist. Normally the channel features fun looks at odd items. Small toys, household item, stationary, and even food with weird twists get shown. Sometimes though, he looks at more scary items, which is what brings us to today. I watched this, loved it, and wanted to share it with all of you. Trick or Treat Zone Base readers. Every day is Halloween.

Dreams into Tenkai Knights

 

Not everything is a big hit. Unfortunately Tenkai Knights falls into that category. Tenkai Knights was a toy line and anime centering around a group of kids who'd cross through a portal to Planet Quarton. Going through this portal would change them from normal kids into the Tenkai Knights where they'd face Lord Villius and the Corrupted Army. The cartoon would shift from 2D animation to 3D when they Tenkai Knight action started. It was a fun show that admittedly used a lot of genre tropes. There was even a dark version of the main hero Bravenwolf. I watched it pretty regularly while it was on and fondly bought the toys. There was video games I kinda regret not checking out.

The toys were mini figures that transformed into building blocks and building block sets. You read that right, the mini figures transformed into building blocks. Just take off the armor and weapons and the basic figure underneath could fold up into a lego compatible block. The building block sets were a combination of vehicles and creatures for the mini figures to interact with and larger versions of the characters. I mainly focused on the mini figures. They were available individually carded, individually in blind bags, and in multi packs. The mini figures were generally inexpensive, so it was easy and fun to just randomly grab a few whenever. 

They made for a solid counterpart to Kre-O Transformers at the time. If robot mini figures are your thing, it was a good time. I am and it sure was. They seemed to sell well in at my stores, though after a year the line just kinda fizzled out. That's a shame. Like I said, it was a fun little line. I'd love to see a return one day or even something similar find it's way out. I'd be great to swing by the store for some cat food and grab a few while there again.

I'll turn this new week back into a human

 

It's the first Monday of the new year and you know what that means Zone Base readers. It's a new week here on Planet Zone! The first one of 2022! Dang! I hope you all had a good holiday weekend, I sure did. Between putting away Christmas decorations and some household chores, I found some time to relax and unwind. Played some video games, played with some toys, watched paranormal shows on Discovery Plus, and binged episodes of 1000 lb Sisters. Which might also qualify as a paranormal show.

Honestly, New Years isn't a big deal to the Mrs and myself. We generally just get something to eat and catch the countdown on TV come midnight. I had some great sushi from our local favorite Japanese restaurant. Not a bad way to ring in the new year if you ask me. Even wore my new Demon Slayer pants!

Over the holidays the toy backlog got a lot added to it. So you never know what toy based posts I'll do here. Something new, something I haven't opened yet, or something old I just wanted to talk about. Admittedly the posts can be a bit random here, but hey, I always say variety is the spice of life. You never know what I'll post about next, it might be a surprise! I've got a fun week in mind. Thanks for reading Zone Base and as always, please share with your friends!