Beast Man [Masters of the Universe]

@robfromzonebase Beast Man (Masters of The Universe/Core Class) #zonebase #mastersoftheuniverse #toys #mattel #evilwarriors ♬ Ceremony - Holy Wars

I really liked the new Masters of the Universe movie and, of the many things I enjoyed about it, Beast Man was definitely one of them. Like much of the film, he stayed very true to his classic incarnation. He wasn't quite the buffoon he often became in the old cartoon (okay... maybe just a little), but he definitely felt like the genuine threat he was in those original mini-comics.

Like I've said before, Beast Man was actually one of my very first MOTU toys, even before I got He-Man and Skeletor, so I've always been a little attached to the character.

Once again, we're looking at one of the new Core Class figures and, just like the others, it's surprisingly impressive.

For what's essentially the budget line, Beast Man has a really solid amount of articulation. It's obviously not on the level of a more premium figure, but it's far better than you'd expect at this price point.

Part of me wonders if Mattel is sharing CAD work with some of their other lines to help keep costs down because Beast Man genuinely looks like he should cost more than he does.

His sculpt and paint applications are excellent.

Honestly...

He looks so good that I still have a hard time accepting he's a Core Class figure.

This is the sort of quality I'd have expected from one of the old McFarlane Spawn figures back in the early 2000s, only with much nicer plastic.

Of course, Beast Man comes with his traditional whip. Oddly enough, I appreciate that accessory much more as an adult than I ever did as a kid. Part of that is because the original toy's whip wasn't exactly the greatest, but it's also because I've come to appreciate how well it fits the character.

After all, Beast Man's real power is his ability to telepathically control animals. The whip almost feels less like a weapon and more like a tool for someone who regularly wrangles wild beasts... probably not very kindly.

This is one of those figures that completely surprises you with just how good it is. If the rest of the Core Class line continues at this level, I think Mattel has a real winner on their hands.

He-Man [MOTU Core Class]

The new Masters of the Universe Core Class toys are pretty great, as I said when talking about that initial Skeletor figure a little while back. Now that the movie is here, the size class is hitting shelves hard with a really solid line of figures that I really enjoy.

I picked up the initial He-Man figure over Memorial Day weekend and can't put him down. It's a solid representation of Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man that looks pretty good. Like, it's a good representation of him that isn't a higher-priced Chronicles/Masterverse, or Mondo figure. This is literally the base model, and it's pretty nice. Decent paint, sculpting, and articulation.

Core Class is a lower-priced line, so He-Man only comes with his Power Sword as an accessory, but it's also nicely sculpted and can store on his back.

Like I said in the Skeletor post, I hope they include more than just the new movie characters in this line because it's perfect. I'd love to see original Masters of the Universe or New Adventures of He-Man characters done in this format.

As I'm writing this, the movie hasn't come out yet, but it will have by the time you read this. Hopefully opinions of the new film are as positive as these toys are.

I can't wait to get the Core Class Battle Cat to pair him with. These are so good that I'm not even thinking about Origins or Chronicles/Masterverse. I'd be more than happy to buy Mighty Masters and Core Class figures for my MOTU toy fix.

That's just me, not a flex... He-Man does enough of that on his own.

Skeletor (Alcala Face) [Masters of the Universe]

I’ve been looking forward to this new “kids core” size class in Masters of the Universe—which, interestingly enough, is just labeled as standard MOTU without any extra branding like Origins or Masterverse.

These figures are slightly smaller than Origins. They’re still around 5.5 inches tall, but physically less bulky. It’s hard to describe exactly—they just feel closer to a more typical action figure in terms of mass. A big part of that comes down to the price. At $9.99, Skeletor is a welcome break from the higher costs of Origins and Masterverse/Chronicles figures. Despite the lower price, he’s not lacking. You still get around 14 points of articulation. There are fewer paint applications, but honestly, I didn’t really notice. He’s a good-looking figure—but we’ll get to that in a bit.

As for accessories, Skeletor comes with just his Havoc Staff. That might be the standard going forward at this scale. His armor is removable, and he includes a soft goods cape, which may be taking the place of extra accessories. There’s also likely some shared mold use here to keep costs down, similar to how the original MOTU line operated. Skeletor has the classic “bad guy” hands and feet, while the rest of the body appears to use more standard parts.

From what I’ve seen so far, a lot of this line is focused on movie versions of the characters, but this particular Skeletor pulls from classic MOTU. Specifically, this is a Walmart exclusive featuring a head sculpt inspired by the artwork of Alfred Alcala from the original mini-comics.

I’ve always preferred that earlier, more demonic take on Skeletor over the later Keldor-based version, so this really hits for me. He’s done in his traditional colors, but this exclusive version adds gold-painted accents and a gold skull. The packaging follows suit with a black-and-gold presentation, which looks really sharp.

For what is essentially a budget figure, this is a very nice release. The cape is pretty basic—doesn’t bother me at all, but I can see it being a sticking point for some. Mileage may vary there.

Overall, my first experience with this new MOTU format is a positive one. I’ll still be picking up Origins and Masterverse/Chronicles figures, but I can definitely see this line—and Mighty Masters—becoming my main focus going forward. The price is right, and the toys are fun. Not to mention… they feel just right for a Wednesday post here on the Base.

I’d end this by saying something like “they have the power”… but seriously.

Galvatron [Legacy United/Core Class]

Say what you will about Energon, but the series had some really cool designs. I have vivid memories of Hasbro unveiling it at OTFCC 2003 to thunderous applause. I still like it to this day and feel like a look at the Transformers Legacy United Core Class Galvatron is in order! Galvatron, is not merely a repaint of the Core Class Energon Megatron, it's a repaint of him in (mostly) show accurate colors!

That's important as the original toy had it's differences while the Takara version was much closer (but not exact). Finally, 20 years later, we've got a (mostly) show accurate color toy. While I've covered much of the details about this toy in the Megatron post... I felt the urge to talk about something else as everything is the same here from that toy aside from the colors. The tank/sword weapon. What a weird combination, right? Of course the tank is meant to represent his former Armada body, the sword is an oddity. Instead of being a normal hand held weapon, it plugs into the tank. That's always been a bit strange. In the original toy, the sword would light up and a 'clang' noise would emit from the tank if pressed against something. That's a neat gimmick, sure, but most folks would rather a traditional sword for Megatron/Galvatron to hold. I can't say I'd be opposed to one either, but just took the whole thing in stride.

At the time, lot's of fans were finding work around for the toy so that it could hold the damn sword traditionally. From gluing handles, to using bread ties (I'm not kidding), to tethering it to his hand... folks were really focused on making it a hand held sword. I recall a garage kit version of the sword making the rounds. There was a Wonderfest Exclusive set to convert a Microman female body into Misha to match with Kicker. Maybe it came with it? The specifics of that are a little fuzzy but I remember a friend creating a harness with wire crystal clear. It was a strange, but fun time.

Geocron [Legacy United/Core Class]

It's time to look at another Armorizer, a favorite group of Transformers around here on Planet Zone. Armorizers are a fun combination of Rock Lords, Mutores, and The Rock People of Daira. Georcron's head sculpt in particular is based on one of those Daira residents in particular as was Calcitron. Armorizers have been a fun throw back to a time when transforming toys were certainly more imaginative. Also... I really like Rock Lords, so they've been a fun thing for me on a personal level.

Geocron might be the last Armorizer sadly (I haven't seen any more listed), so it's fitting that he uses the same mold as Bouldercrash, whom was one of the first. I really liked Bouldercrash, so the use is a welcome one. Unlike the other Armorizers, it's not specified what type of rock Georcron is composed of. It's pretty obvious by his colors and name that Geocron is a geode. That works pretty well as I'm taking that as a Jewel Lord reference, even if it's unintentional. It's also not clear if this is a male or female, so I've been referring to it as a him generically. Georcron is a mixture of browns with a metallic purple color showing through at parts. It's surprisingly nice looking as that purple really contrasts sharply against the brown.

Transformation to rock bike is easy, and his weapon mode can be formed from vehicle mode or during transformation as it's not much more than an extension of vehicle mode. I didn't take a picture of it here, but there's one in Bouldercrash's post. Speaking of weapon, Geocron has the same as Bouldercrash... a sort of rock sword thing. It's hard to describe without sounding silly, but it looks neat. I like to think it shoots an energy beam. Geocron looks great and by all counts is a pretty solid toy. If he is the last Armorizer, he's a good one to go out on. I've been really fond of the Armorizers and hate to see them go. It's nice to see that Infernac, a setting from Inhumanoids, get revisited and offer a new Transformers life form while at it. Ever since Rokkon and Stonedar I've been hooked on transforming rock toys and a new set was and still is exhilarating for me as a fan. Geocron, and all the Armorizers is awesome. It's a rock fact.

Megatron [Legacy/Core Class]

As the 40th anniversary of Transformers winds down, I feel as though it wouldn't be right to not take a moment and pour one out for Generation 2. Often wrote off as neon repaints of G1 toys, G2 actually had a lot of original molds and introduced innovations in engineering Transformers that would pave the way for toys for years to come. Our highly articulated figures of today got their start in G2. The tank Megatron was one of the first original molds in the line and a standout toy for years to come. The figure we're looking at today pays homage to that toy and it's bright colors. This Core Class Megatron figure is a repaint of the Kingdom Megatron Core Class figure.

In robot mode Megatron is pretty great. He's basic, sure, but pretty decent. I like Core Class quite a bit admittedly, but this is a solid figure for the size. He's nicely articulated and that G2 neon green and purple deco just works better on the sculpt than traditional Megatron colors. This just is a much nicer looking toy in eye searing neon. A nice touch that's carried over from the original release is his blaster. In addition to the trademark fusion cannon is a tiny replica of G1 Megatron's gun mode. Transformation to tank is easy, though like the Kingdom figure, leaves a little to be desired. You'll have to plug the blaster into the cannon for it to protrude further out. There is some aftermarket add on upgrades available that extends the cannon and creates a more desirable looking tank if you so choose. It's not the end of the world for me, but also impossible to ignore. I like this toy overall and find it a fun homage to an important piece of Transformers history. MEGATRON ATTACK!

Dinobot Sludge (Legacy Evolution/Core Class)

It's taken me longer than intended, but today we're looking at the final member of the Core Class Dinobots. Sludge comes in forming Volcanicus's lower torso and mirroring Rairyu in the eventual Dinoking version of this set. Sludge is a likable little fellow, though his dino mode kibble is impossible to ignore. There's two rear legs just hanging to the side of his robot mode legs. There is no getting around them and that might be a turn off for a few people. Honestly, the blocky old schoolness of this set that I've mentioned before keeps me from disliking it that much. In a stand alone figure, it'd be annoying. As a small chonky little robot whose part of a combiner team... I can't help but to instantly compare it to older toys and enjoy it for that. 

Part of a combiner team is accepting that there'll be some compromises and Sludge is a big compromise. Forming the lower torso of Volcanicus means some load bearing and this (little) big boy is built for that function. Transformation to brontosaurus is easy and just works. I have no complaints about that and found the entire process likable. As a brontosaurus, Sludge is absolutely adorable. Just a cute little dinosaur. Once again simple, but simple works.

Slugde forms the lower torso and waist of the combiner. The other parts form together fairly easily into a delightfully little version of Volcanicus. Volcanicus has a decent amount of articulation for a combiner and his smaller form makes for an easier time playing around. His fists strongly resemble those of older Micromaster combiners and of course there's the obvious Dinoking resemblance. I'm really happy with how he turned out. I really like Volcanicus despite the initial idea of the Dinobots as a combiner irked me. Thanks to misinformed folks in older days spreading a rumor that the original team could combine, the idea was a bit of a thorn in my side. However, ever since Volcanicu's introduction... I've liked him quite a bit. He's a cool combiner and I'm a sucker for the Dinobots.

Dinobot Slug (Legacy Evolution/Core Class)

Around 2009, someone at Hasbro discovered Slag wasn't a friendly term everywhere in the world and started using alternates with Slug being the most often used. At this point there's more Slag toys named something completely else than Slag... but it's still an elephant in the room in some corners of the Transformers world. I'll be calling him Slag, but the name on the box says Slug for those reasons. Slag is another member of this Core Class Dinobots set and a classic Dinobot as well. As a Core Class, he is pretty small. though apparently is one of the larger toys in the class. Slag, like Snarl, could almost pass for a regular toy as his combiner limb nature isn't completely evident. If not for his dino tail weapon containing Volcanicus's head, it'd be pretty easy to hide.

Well that and the assorted pegs visible in robot mode. Slag looks fairly accurate to his classic character here with obvious omissions for size and paint. He's a good looking figure. Transformation from robot to Triceratops is fairly easy. He's another one of those toys where everything looks like where it would go. The dino tail forms a 'blaster' in robot mode. It also is storage for Volcanicu's head and forms part of the combiners abdomen. Snarl forms the main torso of Volcanicus and mirrors Kakuryu in Dinoking... which is obviously another use of the mold set coming at some point. As a Triceratops, Slag has a fair amount of articulation considering his small size. All four legs can move and his mouth can open. Opening his mouth would of course expose the robot mode head... but that was the case on his original toy as well. This is a perfectly serviceable little figure of Slag. Like the other Dinobots in this set, I like him a lot. In fact, I like this set and am honestly enjoying it more than the full size Volcanicus from Power of the Primes. Not disparaging that version at all (I like it quite a bit), but the more compact design benefits the combiner overall. Everything is just sturdier. Not to mention, I really enjoy the blocky old school nature of this set of toys. We've got one more Dinobot to go until Volcanicus awakens! 

Dinobot Snarl (Legacy Evolution/Core Class)

Halfway to Halloween is the perfect time to take a look at a Snarl toy. Long time readers know about my Snarl Halloween costume, but in this case it's time we got back to our look at the Core Class Dinobots from Transformers Legacy Evolution. Like the other Core Class Dinobots, Snarl is small and a little blocky. Small, because he's a Core Class. The blockiness obviously also comes due to his smaller size and brings a level of old school charm. It's impossible not to compare this set to Dinoking, which possibly could be coming out later made from this set of molds. I hope it does, Dinoking is pretty great. Volcanicus, the combiner this set, is also pretty great and so is this set of figures. It's really hard to complain about a dinosaur combiner robot.

Snarl, of course, transforms into a stegosaurus. Dinosaur mode is pretty faithful, though I can see others take issue with his hind legs. Those are formed from Snarl's robot mode arms and the feet are at his elbows. This leads to his forearms effectively hanging out the back of the feet and impossible to ignore. In a larger toy, these would fold up. It doesn't bother me as the size and combining nature of the toy will lead to some compromises. I can see how it would turn off some though. Transformation is pretty easily and everything goes where you'd expect too by looking at it. You do have to remove the red portion of the dino back and manually attach it to the robots back. Theirs also a little maneuvering of this piece when converting Snarl to Volcanicus's right leg. So try not to loose it.

Snarl comes with a sword. The sword can be mounted to the top of the dinosaur or beneath. It goes without saying he can hold it in robot mode, but it also can be mounted on his back as that's the same part as the dino back. In robot mode Snarl is fairly faithful to his classic design. He's not as blocky as some of the other Dinobots and probably could have been a stand alone toy. I normally favor Snarl figures, but this one really is a good little toy. Just two more Dinobots to look at until Volcanicus!

Decepticon Mohawk (Studio Series/Core Class)

Mohawk was one of the very cool looking Decepticons from Transformers: The Last Knight whom sadly didn't get a whole lot of screen time. Thanks to Studio Series, he FINALLY gets a toy (it's been 7 years since the movie) in the Core Class scale. Mohawk is a wild looking dude with his mohawk, bugged out eyes and giant toothy mouth on a skeletal frame. Admittedly, the skeletal frame is pretty on brand for smaller movie Decepticons, but it really ads to the overall look here. In the movie he's also got things like cutlery and spray paint cans strapped to him. I don't outright see that here, but there's still various sharp points abundant and spots of green paint applied. Is that a vest? He's either a member of Alien Sex Fiend or a Bosozoku. Maybe both.

In true Michael Bay Transformers fashion, Mohawk turns into an very expensive motorcycle. Because nothing says disguise better than a vehicle you don't see often. Regardless, it's a cool looking bike that fits his design. Mohawk is fairly well articulated (his mouth moves y'all) and comes with a big knife. The knife is from his concept art and not used in the movie, but looks really cool. He can hold it or it can mount to his waist or on the motorcycle. Transformation is pretty easy and can be done quickly without a lot of cursing. I'm not sure if another toy could ride him like the Studio Series Junkions and don't really see how one would fit. Mohawk is a fun toy of a cool little menace. I was happy to see the little freak in my Easter Basket courtesy of the Mrs. The Transformers movies have some pretty creative designs sometimes and he's definitely one of them.

Tasmania Kid (Legacy: United/Core Class)

Legacy continues being the Generations series I want with this new version of Tasmania Kid, a character I honestly thought would be lost to time. A kid appeal character from Beast Wars II, Tasmania Kid is Takara's version of Beast Wars Snarl. Not a repaint or remold, the same toy with a new name for the market. I don't believe Snarl was released by Takara, so he could easily be considered the same guy with a different name if you choose. Like all other recent Transformers figures, Tasmania Kid is a pretty great update of the original design. The original toy featured a spring loaded transformation, something all the initial Beast Wars basic class (precursor to Core Class) figures had. Of course this wasn't universally loved by all, so this newer toy skipping the gimmick is probably welcome for a lot of people.

I personally wasn't bothered by it, but can see how it would turn off some. Despite the lack of spring loaded transformation, Tasmania Kid transforms VERY faithfully to his original toy. It's pretty impressive. It's like they took the original toy and improved it. Tasmania Kid transforms into his Tasmanian Devil beast mode fairly easily and satisfactorily. It's just a pleasant experience. He retains his Tasmanian Gun arm cannon, which is the tail from his beast mode. Unlike the original toy, there isn't a firing missile. Something I'm not sad about, though it does look a lot smaller now. Not just because it physically is, but seems puny. Not a bad thing, it's just that this is such an accurate update that the difference in seems out of place. It's fine on it's own.

It's probably easy to see that I'm happy with this toy. I'm obviously a big Beast Wars fan and love all these recent updates. It's really cool and a lot of fun for me as a fan. Especially after all the years where Beast Wars was seemingly put away and all but ignored. The orignal toy was always a cool little figure. While I doubt a Snarl version will be coming... though if that's Takara's version it would be sort of awesome. I would love to see a Bound Rouge as that was always a cool recolor. Or hey, maybe a leopard version... that would blow my mind.

Megatron (Legacy: United/Core Class)

The Unicron Trilogy was one of my favorite eras in the past 40 years of Transformers. That time frame was a fun time for me in my fandom. The stuff that came out and went on was just great. It's kinda a dividing line as a before and after the movies came and the big boom. I'm not begrudging the movies or the big boom, just fondly looking back at a fun time. Both the Armada and Energon designs of Megatron are some of my favorite versions of Megatron to this day. Thankfully recent Transformers releases have paid attention to Armada (we'll be getting to that a little later), but today let's look at this super cool update of the Energon version of Megatron in my much loved Core Class.

Toy engineering is a funny thing, the original Energon Megatron came out 20 years ago and was a fairly large and impressive Leader Class figure. 20 years later, this MUCH smaller toy is a pretty accurate recreation of that figure. I wouldn't say it's exact, but it's close. Megatron turns from robot to spacecraft/jet in a few simple steps. It's very similar to G1 Thunderwing's alt mode, which lead to several fans hankering for a Thunderwing repaint back in the day. The original toy (and it's smaller alternate version) got released in a variety of colors as versions of Megatron or Galvatron, but never Thunderwing. It's funny how the toy looks like G1 Galvatron in robot mode and G1 Thunderwing in vehicle mode. The Unicron Trilogy toys were full of homages while still coming up with new things.

The tank/sword weapon returns in a much simpler form. You can no longer separate the sword from the tank nor does the tank fire a missile or feature any lights or sounds. It's a really simple version of the original accessory. Folks would often find ways to have their Megatron hold the sword more traditionally back in the day. There was also garage kits of swords that Megatron could hold. It was neat seeing all the cool stuff people were coming up with. Still, it was always an odd choice for Megatron's Armada body to be his weapon in this upgraded body... and they held onto it for this new toy. Somebody at Hasbro or Takara is REALLY stuck on that. A neat newer feature is that the shoulder cannons can be removed and held as traditional blasters. The orignal guns were on joints that would allow for pivoting. These are much smaller and cannot, however can be plugged in either standing straight up, or forward. Neat! This is a cool little update of a fun design and a great little figure all around. I'm very happy with it, not just because of my personal fandom for the character... but it's just a neat toy. I'm hoping some of the other recolors of the original toy get released. That would be awesome.

Terrorcon Novakane (Studio Series/Core Class)

Rise of the Beasts introduced many characters into the live action movies giving Studio Series quite a bit of extra toys to choose from. Novakane is another of the similar to Frenzy styled robots used by Scourge during the movie. Novakane is a repaint and retool of Freezer, whom we looked at this past summer. I quite liked Freezer a lot, so of course Novakane would be favorable. Novakane has a somewhat 'battle damaged' head and a darker color scheme compared to Freezer.

While it's easy to compare Freezer and Novakane to Frenzy from the 2007 movie, the two are pretty similar to classic Rumble and Frenzy as a pair of trouble making twins. I like the Giger-esque styling of them and find them overall neat. Novakane, like Freezer, can turn into a rifle that can be help by other Transformers or a cannon mode that can attach to Leader Class Scourge. One day I'll own that toy and find out for myself )man those leader class ROTB figures are harder to find than the Loch Ness Monster). It's hard not to like such a funky little bot and I was happy to find it among the many Christmas gifts from the Mrs. 

Bumblebee (Studio Series/Core Class)

Prior to the Bumblebee movie and Rise of the Beasts, Dark of the Moon was my favorite of the live action Transformers films. This new Core Class Bumblebee is meant to represent BB from that film at the smaller, Core Class size. Another Christmas gift from the Mrs (she really spoils me), Bumblebee is a retool and repaint of the DOTM Laserbeak toy released a little while back. I have that figure, but haven't gotten around to opening it yet. So this is my first experience with it. While I've got plenty of Bumblebee figures, each one tends to be it's own thing (usually) and this little guy gives me a mix of Microman Masterforce and Legend/Legion/Speed versions of BB vibes. He's a  really neat little figure.

Being a movie Bumblebee, he of course transforms into a Camaro. Unless it's his solo movie... yeah. Transformation isn't hard, though there's not a lot of extra room for movement. I found myself having to maneuver things just right to get them into place. The car is solid once transformed though. It's been pointed out that there's some slots around the rear bumper that aren't used. This is likely either from unused accessories still being in the CAD model OR some of the CAD model from other toys being used while engineering this figure. I always find little carry overs from the design process interesting. Bumblebee has a small cannon that can either be hold or mounted on the roof of the car mode. It's a neat little weapon that resembles the weapon his forearm converts into in the movies. I mentioned the lack of extra room when transforming, that carries over to robot mode. BB has a fair range of articulation, but you'll have to mind the kibble as it can get in the way. It's not a deal breaker, but is impossible to ignore. It really makes me think older CAD models were downsized to make this figure as there's definitely some sticking points that may not have been there at a larger size. I like how his head sculpt features his battle mask down. With the amount of toys movie Bumblebee gets, the variety is nice. That and it looks cool. A much harder looking Bee. This is a fun little figure that's a neat little Core Class toy. The left over design elements are fun to ponder over and it's a cool little toy of a character I like a lot. Not going to complain about that.

Noah Diaz Exo-Suit (Studio Series/Core Class)

One of the more unique toys from Rise of the Beasts is this Core Class figure of Noah Diaz, one of the main human characters from the movie. Hoping not to spoil the movie for anyone who hasn't seen it yet, but this toy represents a scene when Noah wears an Exo-Suit for a battle scene (I'll leave out further details just in case). Like many others, I thought the suit looked cool and did an internal fist pump when the figure was announced and ecstatic to find out he was a Christmas gift from my wife. Core Class is becoming my favorite size class in modern Transformers and it's a good size range for a human figure. Unlike other Exo-Suit figures released in the past, however, this one's pretty unique. Unique as in... he's not really a Transformers is he? Of course the character isn't, but the toy doesn't exactly transform.

Technically the alt mode is a jet, however the jet can be fully removed from Noah and serve as it's own toy. Noah more or less wears it as a backpack. On his own, Noah is a fairly decent action figure with a respectable amount of articulation. He has a arm mounted sword molded into his right arm and a blaster that can be held or attached to the jet. 'Transformation' more or less is adjusting Noah under the jet and arranging some parts. Like i said above, the jet can also be removed as it's basically an accessory similar to an Action Master partner. I had made comparisons to Takara Sci Fi Land with prior Exo-Suits and will be doing so again here. It's hard not to notice the similarities between this toy and a modern Diaclone driver. He almost could pass for a 90's Microman, I've seen some attach the jet backpack to various Microman figures as well. That's neat! While I'm sure being human character and the lack of actual transformation would be a turn off for some... I think it's a neat toy. He's different, but in a cool way.

Bouldercrash (Legacy: United/Core Class)

When I first saw Bouldercrash listed , like others, I thought it was to be a new Generations version of Boulder. While homaging the line Boulder came from (Rock Lords), Bouldercrash is instead a brand new character from a new group of transforming rock toys- The Armorizers! As you are all aware, I was a fast fan of these guys and today we'll be looking at the other available Armorizer currently. Bouldercrash is a Core Class figure in the Transformers Legacy: United line that hails from the Infernac Universe as does Magneous (who we talked about earlier). My speculation that Infernac is a Hollow Earth type setting full of volcanoes seems to be true.That or this Infernac just might be the same Infernac from Inhumanoids as Bouldercrash is also a type of lava rock.

While Rock Lords are the most obvious referenced rock people toys of the Armorizers, of the two so far available, Bouldercrash feels more like one than Magneous. That's not a slam on Magneous (whom I love), but because of Bouldercrash's smaller size class. Rock Lords, like the Gobots they came from, were mostly smaller figures. Bouldercrash is a Core Class, a smaller Transformers size class, which is pretty close to the sizing of original Rock Lords. He could blend in with them pretty easily and pass as a modern day update that was obviously Takara Tomy designed instead of by Bandai (which he is).

Bouldercrash is pretty well articulated. He has the range of movent you's expect from the size class. No problems there! The cool mixture of reds and browns really look great with the extra brighter red details on the rock bits. His weapon is a sword/gun type weapon that's a carry over from alt mode. While Armorizers can be changed into rocks (with some imagination), their main alt modes are rocky vehicles. Bouldercrash turns into a stone trike style motorcycle. It's a unique vehicle mode that reminds me a little of the Stone Wing when the blade is flipped down. Speaking of that blade, Bouldercrash doesn't separate into parts for armor like Magneous does, but instead has a third weapon mode. The trike can be wielded as a sword type weapon. This mode is basically just the trike with said blade folded out that can be held by a larger toy (there's a handle on the back). It's not a particularly convincing weapon mode as at this point whomever is just hitting somebody with a motorcycle. I'd imagine that would hurt enough on it's own, but there's a big blade at the end for good measure. Additional weapon mode forms are usually a little silly and a bit of a stretch. I mean, look at this 'gun'.

Transformation from robot to vehicle (and back!) is pretty easy and everything tabs into place locking in securely. The windshield area of the motorcycle is the handle area of the weapon. You'll need to attach it while transforming which was my only difficulty during the process. I had a little trouble getting it on, but am sure it was myself doing it wrong. I'm still not sure what I was doing wrong, but I sure was doing it. The stone trike is pretty neat looking and pretty imaginative. I really like Boldercrash. To be fair, these fall squarely into the realm of stuff I like, but it IS a really neat toy. I'm sure more Armorizers are on the way and I really hope so. It's nice to have so many things come out the past few years that are exactly the kind of stuff I want. Armorizers make me excited in that ridiculous fan way that's hard to explain, hard to contain, and completely stupid to those who don't get it. It's a rock fact.

Dinobot Scarr (Legacy: Evolution/Core Class

Getting back to the Core Class Dinobots I started talking about a little while back with Grimlock is Scarr, whom we'll be looking at today. In the IDW comics, Scarr (spelled Skar there) is the Tactical Medic of the Dynobots. I'd like to think this set represents another version of the team as a combiner team. Scarr transforms into an Ankylosaurus and the left arm of Volcanicus. For many of us, there was an instant comparison to Gairyu when Scarr's images first got out. It's almost impossible not to make that comparison.

Like Grimlock before... there's no ignoring the fact that Skarr is a combiner component. I can look past it seeing the larger picture, but I know others can't. He's a smaller toy at a lower price who's one part of a bigger thing. There's going to be some compromises, the Real World is more than a long running TV show. Scarr is pretty neat though, he's this chonky little fellow that's hard to dislike. Scarr's gun is one of Volcanicus's fists. That's a fun way of using the combiner parts in the individual robot modes that's been done before. I personally couldn't stop comparing it to toys like the Micromaster Combiners or Landcross. I really liked those so the comparisons made it impossible for me to dislike. Your mileage may vary. It's worth noting that Monstructor and Dinoking had the same type of weapon/parts. Hrm. Scarr is a great addition to the Dinobots and one I could see being a member of the original gang. So far this set is pretty great and the similarities to older combiner teams is awesome. 

Arcee (Studio Series/Core Class)

In Rise of the Beasts, Arcee manages to merge her G1 and Energon designs into one neat little robot. So far she's gotten a  few figures, but we're going to look at her Core Class figure from Studio Series. Core Class is quickly becoming my current favorite size class. Not just because I like the smaller figures and cheaper prices... they're generally neat. I know I've been comparing the recent ROTB toys to other Transformers figures a lot, and that's something that's been fun for me.

These new figures of Arcee are like the Core Class Spike I spoke about not long ago. They feel more like Takara SF Land realized in modern Transformers. Specifically this time, Arcee makes me think of an individual Microman or Diaclone troopers general design. As a toy, Arcee reminds me of a 90's Microman. Like Spike, I'd love to see a Buzzworthy Bumblebee box set with the molds themed as so. They use the Micronauts font there after all.

Like other incarnations, Arcee transforms into a motorcycle. The Energon design is probably my favorite version of Arcee, so thanks to the similarities, I'm fond of this one going in. It's a mixed bag with this toy. I like the robot, like the motorcycle, don't like the transformation. Hard to put into words exactly why and it's possible that it could have just been my own clumsiness. Maybe you might have a better opinion of it. It's not a deal breaker, ultimately.

I do wish Arcee had two of her little rectangle guns like she does in the movie. They make me think of the various Uzis many a GIJOE came with. That's definitely a gun that's seemingly from a specific era. Arcee is a fun little figure from a fun movie. So far, I've liked every Core Class figure I've gotten my hands on. I'm not sure if that's a sign for anyone else, but it just adds to my appreciation of the size class. Can't complain about that.

Grimlock (Legacy Evolution/Core Class)

I really like the Dinobots, Core Class, and Volcanicus. What happenes when all three of those things are combined? You get a Core Class version of Volcanicus! Obviously this is something I'm interested in and happily found Grimlock before seeing Rise of the Beasts a little while back. There's no denying Grimlock's very blocky proportions. Make no mistake about it, this is a small combiner peice and some sacrifices were clearly made. Giving you a simple and blocky robot mode and one awkward dinosaur.. I'll admit my forgivness is heavily influenced by the smaller Pretender toy vibes I get from the toy. Not to mention, I'm used to giving combiner limbs a pass.

There's often some comprimisng done in the individual toy as part of the overall team. I know I'm not the only person to make the comparison, but there's a heavy Dinoforce vibe with this set and hopefully a remold results in an update of that team as well. Perhaps even a future Monstructor. That'd be great. I also can't help but to make mental comparisons to Pretender Grimlock as well. It's not an exact comparison, but there's some familiarity. The gun made from the tail bit contributes to that. Grimlock is a pretty decent little figure. On his own, maybe not so great, but as part of a neat looking combiner... yeah he's ok. Part of me wants to see him worked into a Pretender update as well.

Freezer (Studio Series/Core Class)

Freezer is a pleasant surprise in the Rise of the Beasts cast. Like others, I was initially happy with the return of another bot similar to Frenzy from 2007. However thanks to the onslaught of trailers, I learned that Freezer is more of a generic Terrorcon soldier. As of this writing, I haven't seen the movie yet (but will have by the time you've read it). So, I can't help but to compare these movie Terrorcons with the ones from Energon. Despite the confusing name reuse, I was really fond of those and and happy to see them return even if the Unicron Trilogy similarities are coincidence. 

Freezer is from the Studio Series expression of ROTB toys and is a Core Class. You've probably noticed his (speaking generally) funky insect like appearance. It makes me think of Frenzy from the 2007 movie (I loved him). I think having the visual connection between that first movie and this one is neat. The more traditional bots seemingly blend well with the Bay style robots pretty well. The look also gives me Xenomorph vibes and I love Aliens. This toy is causing a lot of mental comparisons and I like that. It's fun. Freezer is very articulated for a toy his size. His multiple arms and chicken legs can be put in multiple poses.

This is a benefit from a rather neat alt mode. Freezer can turn into a gun for larger robots to use, and a self standing cannon type weapon.That cannon can attach to Studio Series Scourge. I don't have a Scourge at the moment, but it can. That's freaking neat. Freezer isn't technically a Battle Master, but here I am hoping a Battle Master version is released. Freezer is super cool. He's a neat looking little guy that draws a million mental comparisons and a cool toy overall.