Starscream [Galaxy Version 07-One Wave 2]

I found a little time to assemble this Starscream kit amongst the hectic nature moving has me living currently. It's a very cool Blokees Transformers Galaxy Version kit that represents his appearance in the movie Transformers One.

As I mentioned while talking about the initial wave of Transformers One Galaxy Versions, I really like the combination of the Blokees style with the specific look of the Transformers One designs.

It's a nice combination of visual aesthetics that works very well together. Not to mention, Transformers One was pretty great and I'm all in for anything from it.

One thing I can say about Blokees is that they are always tinkering with their product. You'd think the Hero 10 scale, which seems to be their most popular size, would stay consistent in its builds, but that's not the case. They're always tinkering with it and there's constant change throughout the various series while still keeping them visually similar to each other.

I think the only visual difference I ever really notice is that kits from the early waves (and repaints of those molds) have that super obvious neck, while in the mid-to-later series they've made the necks look better. I haven't gotten a full case of Series 07, instead opting to pick up a blind box or two whenever I'm at Walmart.

One thing I've been noticing is another change to the standard body frame. This one has a ball-jointed waist as opposed to the standard waist from earlier releases, or the more jointed one from more recent series. I'm not sure which one I like better, though I may be leaning toward the more jointed version.

Another change I wasn't aware of involves the joints. They've been universal up until now, but there's now a smaller version meant for the upper arms and elbows. I wasn't aware of that. I just stuck them in out of habit and kept wondering why Starscream was off balance. After I put him away, I did a little looking and... you know those moments where you just stare at absolutely nothing while you realize something? I've got to remember to go back and swap his joints out now.

Starscream has a very sharp-looking design in Transformers One and that translates really well here, making him feel like a more deluxe kit. I'm particularly fond of the metallic silver they used. Initially, I thought I had lucked into one of the special versions from the series, but no, they just made him extra nice.

He's got lasers on the wings of what would be his jet mode if he transformed, along with his trademark Null Rays on his shoulders. Aside from those joints, you've also got to pay attention to his shoulder armor during assembly. It's easy to put it on backwards and not realize it. It's not a giant issue, but if you do, you'll hide some of the painted detail.

Of course he's got the standard closed and open hands and, for some reason, I really want to give him a sword. He's just so nice-looking that it feels like one would just... look great.

Basically, this is a really nice little kit that feels more premium than it is. I wonder if they're making other Seekers from it?

Grimlock (Robot Mode) [Shining Version 02–Shining 1985]

These Blokees Transformers Blind Boxes kits don’t transform—which isn’t a big deal—but it is kind of funny considering the brand is built around that very gimmick.

I bring that up here because often when Grimlock shows up in these kits, he’s usually in dino mode. This time, we’re getting his robot mode, and I’m pretty happy about that. I’ve always liked the Dinobots’ robot modes, and Grimlock’s has a great look to it.

This is the Shining Version 02 release, a reworking of the Galaxy Version 02 kit. That’s called synergy.

Unfortunately, as you can probably tell from my photos, the light-up feature didn’t work on mine. At this point I’ve got about a 50% success rate with these things. If it did work, his eyes and chest would look spectacular. One day I’m going to take one of those wild CVS Pharmacy coupons and buy a pile of the batteries these use and attempt a full-on rescue operation.

Or I’ll just use the coupon to finally pay something close to normal price for a Coke Zero.

You can switch Grimlock’s eye color between red and blue, which is a really cool feature.

Maybe one day I’ll get to see it.

The ball’s in your court, CVS.

Grimlock himself looks great. Normally I roll my eyes when people hear “non-transforming Transformers” and immediately say “Action Masters,” but in this case… yeah, he actually does resemble the 1990 Transformers Action Masters Grimlock quite a bit. This honestly feels like a modern upgrade of that idea.

The build process is about what you’d expect from a Galaxy Version kit, but there are some nice touches. His wings include articulated dino-mode kibble, which is a detail they easily could have skipped, but I’m glad they didn’t.

He comes with the usual open and closed hands, the Shining Version display base with symbol pegs, and—thankfully—an Energon Cube. At this point, just include those with everything. I don’t care what the toy is.

He’s also got Grimlock’s classic Energo Sword and double-barrel blaster. The blaster didn’t fit securely in my copy’s hand—no idea if that’s just mine or a wider issue—but it’s an easy fix. A tiny bit of toilet paper in the fist, push the weapon in, tear off the excess, and you’ve got a snug fit.

COVID’s over. You can be wasteful with toilet paper again. Go nuts.

I like this kit. Go figure—I tend to focus on things I like here. It’s a hobby. Spending your free time on things you don’t like seems pretty stupid.

Even with the ongoing light-up issues (which is really my only consistent complaint with Blokees) and the loose weapon, this is a really fun take on Grimlock. It looks great, builds nicely, and has a strong presence.

He’s no bozo, indeed.

Sideswipe [Shining Version 02–Shining 1985]

Sideswipe is one of the original Autobots who’s kind of the everyday guy. In the original cartoon, he’s always there as part of the team, even if he doesn’t get a ton of spotlight.

He’s got a jet pack and pile driver arms, and while the show doesn’t always lean into it, he’s a bit reckless and not afraid to fight dirty—something that comes through more in the comics.

Alongside his brother Sunstreaker, they make up a solid duo, with Sideswipe being the more easygoing of the two.

This Shining Version kit from Blokees Transformers Blind Boxes is a really nice take on him. Like other Shining Versions, it’s an upgraded take on the Galaxy Version release, adding light-up features and some improved paint details.

Here, his eyes light up—and they look great. The LED is actually strong enough that you get a bit of light bleeding through the chest as well, which is a neat, unintended bonus.

He comes with the usual extras: open and closed hands, his laser gun, rocket launcher, display stand with symbol pegs, and an Energon Cube.

The standout here, though, is the jet pack. It’s a solid representation of the one he uses in the show, and it includes two blast effects to simulate the boosters firing as he takes off. It adds a lot to the overall look and gives you some fun posing options.

I tried to pose him like he was launching into flight in my photos… but it mostly looks like he’s about to go for a jumping high five.

I’m not what you’d call an expert photographer.

Ratchet [Shining Version 01–Shining Roll Out]

Despite the mountain of Blokees Transformers Blind Boxes kits I own, I’d never picked up any Shining Version blind boxes… until recently. I grabbed a few at Toylanta from my friends at Polaris Bros, and Ratchet here was one of them.

Shining Version kits are essentially upgraded Galaxy Version releases with light-up features. This Ratchet is based on his Galaxy Version 01 kit, which I never actually owned—though I do have the Shattered Glass version. That led to a brief moment of confusion where I could’ve sworn I’d built this before. Of course, Ratchet shares a lot of parts with Ironhide, which I have covered, so that probably didn’t help either.

Rather than retread familiar ground, I want to focus more on what makes the Shining Version different.

Ratchet is largely based on his original cartoon appearance, which I prefer as a cartoon guy. That said, it’s a little hypocritical on my part—my attachment to Ratchet actually comes more from his role in the early comics. It's complicated.

The standout feature is, of course, the light-up elements. His eyes and chest both illuminate, and it looks fantastic. The real highlight is the chest, which is formed from the windshield of his ambulance mode and features a readout on the surface. When lit up, it looks incredible. I keep finding myself imagining a little animated screen in there.

The eyes look great too, but the chest is absolutely the star of the show.

He doesn’t include the snap-on “pew pew” effect parts that came with the original kit (and with Ironhide), but he does come with an Energon Cube—one I somehow forgot to include in my photos. It’s the same cube included with several other kits, and I’m actually pretty fond of that accessory, so I’m a little annoyed with myself for leaving it out.

Another thing I did intentionally leave out is the display stand. I’ve gotten so used to newer Galaxy Version kits not including stands that I almost forgot they used to be standard. The Shining Version stands are a bit larger than the older Galaxy ones, which is a nice touch, and they include plug-in Autobots and Decepticon symbols still.

Overall, this is a really fun variation on the standard Galaxy Version kit. The added light-up feature gives it just enough extra presence—and, that chest readout really makes it all special.

The Insecticons [Galaxy Version–06,08,09]

This is a post I’ve been wanting to write for a while. Longtime readers know about my affinity for insect-based robots, and that absolutely includes the Insecticons.

They’ve always been this creepy subgroup of the Decepticons that tend to follow their own path. Wherever they go, they consume everything around them, leaving nothing but wasteland behind. You’d think that wouldn’t be such a big deal—there are only three of them, at least in the cartoon—but that’s never really been the case. They can clone themselves, creating an entire swarm.

The Insecticons originally began as the Waruders in Diaclone. While I’ve got various G1 versions of the characters, I’ve never been lucky enough to own the original Waruders themselves. Thankfully, in 2005, E-Hobby released an exclusive recolor set in those Waruder colors. Within Transformers fiction, they were meant to represent the clones—so in a way, they finally brought the Waruders back into the fold. I jumped on that set immediately.

These days, Blokees Transformers Blind Boxes kits (and similar model lines) have become a big part of how I enjoy Transformers. Starting with Galaxy Version Series 06, they began releasing the Insecticons, and I knew I had to complete the trio. Each one even comes with a tiny insect-mode partner, which is absolutely my thing. I’ve always had a soft spot for partner figures, so this set was basically designed to hook me. 

Let’s take a look at each one.

Kickback – My personal favorite of the group. Between the wings and antenna, he’s just a great-looking design. As a grasshopper, it makes sense that his specialty is jumping long distances. He’s probably the Insecticon most people associate with the team. Released in Series 06 Parallel Universe, he comes with a tiny Shrapnel and his Electrothermic Blast Tube.

Shrapnel – The leader of the group. My older brother had one when we were kids, and I’ll never forget thinking his pincers looked like horns. They’re used for his electrical attacks, which always looked great on screen. He comes with a tiny Bombshell and his Grenade Launcher. Released in Series 08 One Shall Fall.

Bombshell – Arguably the most dangerous of the three. His Cerebro-Shells let him control other beings, launched from that dramatic rhinoceros beetle horn over his head. I’ve always had a thing for rhino beetles, so he’s hard not to like. He comes with a tiny Kickback and his Twin Ion Impulse Blaster. Released in Series 09 Darkest Hour.

Each figure comes in a blind box and is fairly easy to assemble. The included insect-mode partners are fun little builds too, and I really hope Blokees continues doing things like that.

As expected, they all include open and closed hands for posing. Kickback, being from an earlier wave, uses the older body style—slightly less articulation and a higher resting head. Shrapnel and Bombshell use the updated construction, which allows for more dynamic posing. It doesn’t make Kickback look bad by any means, but the difference is noticeable when you’ve got all three together.

Even so, there’s a strong sense of cohesion across the set, which is important for a team like this. My only real gripe is that Shrapnel’s Grenade Launcher is purple while the others weapons are gray. It’s not a big deal—likely just a result of mold tree layout—but I do wish it matched the others.

Overall, I’m really happy to have completed this trio. I’ve been picking up more Galaxy Version kits individually lately, so finally assembling the full Insecticon team felt like an accomplishment.

I don’t even like real bugs… but I go crazy for robot ones.

It’s weird. I know.

Unicron Head (Clear) [Galaxy Version]

The big bad of all Transformers, Unicron, got a Blokees model kit all his own in Galaxy Version 08: One Shall Fall. A special translucent version was also made available, which originally had to be acquired by scanning QR codes from nine different figures within the set. A little later, Blokees outright put the translucent version up for direct purchase on their site (I wonder if that pissed anyone off?), leading to today’s post.

As of now, I’ve only picked up Hot Rod from Galaxy Version 08, so either completing the set the normal way or scanning all the QR codes has eluded me thus far. When ordering some Defender Version cases with Christmas money, the translucent Unicron Head found its way into the cart (The Mrs added it, thankfully).

Like I’ve said before, I was there opening weekend in 1986 when Transformers: The Movie hit the big screen. Unicron was—and always has been—one of the most awesome things ever created in my mind. While I haven’t collected all of his merchandise, there are just some things I’ve got to have, and a version of this head is definitely one of them.

This translucent version, being more of a special edition, is a really neat representation of Unicron’s head floating through space. Its clear nature gives it a more ghostly appearance, which I absolutely love.

This was a pretty fun, quick build. I’m used to Galaxy Version kits using shared parts to make builds work, but here the only returning part was the display plate. I was expecting some kind of torso bit at the center of the head, like you often see with alt-mode kits such as the Dinobots, but that wasn’t the case.

Being translucent adds a little extra challenge, as some of the parts aren’t immediately obvious. The clear plastic makes things blend together visually. There’s a central core piece that everything builds up from, and one step I found endlessly entertaining was discovering that they gave Unicron a skull.

Before you attach his face parts, you construct his internal facial structure, which looks very similar to the robotic skulls you see when a Transformer suffers facial trauma. He even has eyeballs that fit into the sockets, adding a level of detail that would probably go unnoticed. Unicron’s mouth opens and closes, with the entire mechanism formed around this skull. I spent way too much time making him chomp his spooky skeleton teeth before finally attaching the face parts.

Speaking of the face parts, you’ll need to insert his normal eyes before attaching the face to the skull. Those tiny eye pieces are a little tricky if you’ve got big fingers like me. Due to how they connect, I didn’t try using tweezers, though in hindsight I wonder if they might have helped.

Once assembled, Unicron’s head can be displayed on the included stand with a support arm. It’s actually pretty large all things considered—not huge, but bigger than I expected going in. Also included is a tiny Autobot Shuttle, which you can pose flying past his head as it drifts near Cybertron. If they brought Daniel along, this whole situation probably gives him the willies.

This is a really neat little kit. Hopefully I’ll get more of Galaxy Version 08 soon, or maybe even an entire case, as I prefer to buy these that way. Ideally, I’d like to have both the clear and normal versions of Unicron. As it stands, this translucent version is already something special. It’s always nice owning a special edition of anything—but especially of him.

It really does feel awesome owning it.

Hot Rod [Galaxy Version 08– One Shall Fall]

It’s been a little while since I’ve covered a Galaxy Version Blokees kit here — honestly, a little too long, considering my pile of unassembled Blokees continues to grow — but it’s time to fix that with a look at Hot Rod from Galaxy Version 08 – One Shall Fall. As the name of this case suggests, there’s a heavy 1986 movie flavor to this set, and I am absolutely here for it.

You know, I like Blokees for several reasons. For example: I enjoy building robot models, I like blind boxes, and I obviously love Transformers — to name just a few. But another big reason is that they remind me a little of the Takara Transformers SCF figures from the early 2000s. Of course, those were PVC figurines and not AMK kits, but the blind boxes, themed series, and proportions give them a similar charm. I loved those and I love these. Honestly, I would've been totally content back then just buying SCF figures… and I’m kinda leaning that way these days with Blokees. They're clearly singing a song I want to hear.

I haven’t gotten any of the 08 kits yet, but while ordering the Devastator parts kit, I snuck in an 08 to tide me over until getting a full case. Lucky for me, inside the mystery box was the new Hot Rod figure — and boy, was I excited! Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime is among my favorites in Transformers, and a specifically 1986 representation of Hot Rod is going to get me excited in the way only a rabid fan can. Careful, I’ve got a box knife.

One particularly fun addition to this figure is Hot Rod’s fishing pole. When he first appears in the movie, Hot Rod is fishing with Daniel and catches a big one. It’s a cozy little scene that helps show their relationship. However, his “big one” in Blokees form is a tiny Sharkticon! I didn’t notice it immediately from promo pictures, but upon opening the box I was ecstatic to see the little creature dangling from the end of his line. Seriously, be careful — I’ll cut someone. The dragon commands it.

We can’t ignore the elephant in the room, because it’s an elephant. They’re huge. Who even let it in here anyway? Don’t they know I have a box knife and a dragon giving orders? It hungers. Obvious to fans of the 1986 movie is that Hot Rod has his traditional colors here and not the pink/fuchsia colors he appears in the film with. All his toys and his Season 3 appearances use the darker red/magenta we’re used to. There’s been very little merchandise in his show-accurate colors — most notably the Retro Series release from a while back. Luckily, most folks don’t really care either way, which is good because it allows us to carry on and not get bogged down in semantics.

One huge difference in the new kits in 08 is another round of improvements. The past few Galaxy Version series had adopted a newer construction style that provided a more stable build. As far as I can tell, starting with this series, they’ve improved the kits even more! Not only does Hot Rod have the stronger upper torso, but now the hips and thighs feature more articulation. There are thigh swivels, and the hips allow for greater torso movement. Hot Rod’s abdomen can even dip into the waist, allowing for more expressive and dynamic poses. I’m extremely impressed with this innovation — this is something that generally costs 5–6 bucks and features articulation usually reserved for more expensive toys. That’s neat!

Hot Rod comes with the aforementioned fishing pole as well as his saw blade attachment. He used it fighting off underwater creatures after he and Kup crash-landed in a body of water on Quintessa. The blade spins, and maybe he plans to use it on that Sharkticon at the end of his fishing line. The saw blade plugs into the forearm where one of the included hands would go. Of course, those hands are the typical closed fists and open palms normally included with Blokees kits.

Not included, however, is the display base — something I’ve been expecting to eventually disappear. At some point, the little Autobot/Decepticon symbols for the bases were discontinued, and now the base itself is gone completely. I’m not sure if that started in 08 or happened during 07, which I still haven’t gotten yet. I’m not terribly sad to see the base go, but I always thought its inclusion was neat. I’m assuming the new parts ate into the budget.

This is an awesome AMK kit of Hot Rod that’s full of character and expression. I continually can’t find anything I don’t like in Blokees products, and the ongoing improvements just keep making them better overall. Not to mention — dude, Hot Rod. I like him.

Glittering Shockwave [Defender Version 03-Heavy Metal War]

Purple is one of the colors associated with Halloween, so it's only logical that we take a look at Glittering Shockwave from Blokees Defender Version 03-Heavy Metal War today. It's neat that his classic design works as well in the Defender body type. Like Ironhide, Shockwave is a 'Glittering' version. Glittering is what they've been calling these neat translucent variations. I'd figure they'd call them Stealth... but look at Blokees doing their own thing. *Like this site*

Like all Defender Versions, Shockwave is well articulated once assembled. He's got his ray gun left hand and a little hose, matching his traditional look. It makes me think of Action master Shockwave and how fans used to use the hoses from GI JOE figures to give theirs one. Allegedly there was one in prototype stages that didn't get included in the released toy. It had the places to connect one. Fortunately Blokees included a hose with theirs. I'd hate to try and track down one tiny enough to fit this guy.

Shockwave's head is one piece and doesn't have the little neck part that also tints the robot's eyes. It's a unique sculpted part, so that makes sense. Though after assembling so many of these... something like that stands out. I really like the translucent plastic and how nice the colors look in it. The purples and grays really pop, damn, I wish Blokees would do Microman/Micronauts. I just know they'd do a great job.

Soundwave with Ravage (Special Galaxy Type) [Defender Version 03-Heavy Metal War]

Buying Blokees by the box tends to get you at least one special version. Defender Versions you get 12 in the box, at least 1 will be one of the various specials. *Neat!* In 03 Heavy Metal War, I got the Special Galaxy Type Soundwave. He's in a metallic paint and comes with Ravage. *Awesome!* Being Halloween time, it's the perfect time to focus on a Ravage toy and this is a good one to take a look at. The Defender Type design fits Soundwave's classic design pretty well.

His classic boxy design combined with the Defender cuteness looks really good. It's got the standard articulation you expect from a Defender... which is a pretty good bit. These little shits can really move. Nicely enough, he's got both his traditional shoulder Concussion Blaster and Rocket Launcher. No generic laser like several of the others have. These weapons were made from the original G1 toy's batteries and are a part of Soundwave's classic image. At this point I shouldn't be surprised in regards to Blokees attention to detail, but I would have been fine if he came with the regular laser. The extra mile taken is much appreciated, however. This is a nice little mini-figure after assembled. The Special Galaxy Type is painted in a metallic paint that just makes him feel more premium. It's super shiny.

Also as a special version, a tiny Ravage is included. Ravage is static and non-articulated, but his inclusion is just really freaking neat! Like, when you think of Soundwave, Ravage is almost always in that mental picture. I don't think I've ever had anything negative to say about a Blokees product, they're definitely in my favorite category when talking about the current state of Transformers. While I'm enamored by anything they do, I think at this point Defender Types may be my favorite thing they do. This little blind box model kit with it's extras feels more important than whatever high end unit is available is out at the moment. Just look at that Ravage!

SG-Sideswipe [Defender Version 01- Galaxy Shining]

When I first saw that the Transformers Shattered Glass version of Sideswipe would be represented as a Defender Version Blokees, I was sold on the spot. Admittedly I'm pretty much instantly sold on anything Blokees at this point, especially Defender Version Blokees, but this was a cool one for them to do. Long time readers may remember me talking about his colors and what makes it so cool.

So I won't go into super detail about that here as that's one of my longer posts and hey... feel free to check that out if you're interested. It's literally one of those times several things are referenced and branch off from. Kinda neat. Shattered Glass Sideswipe toys are usually made from Armada Wheeljack toys. Because they look A LOT like Sideswipe and that particular Wheeljack has a backstory that the name Sideswipe really fits.*sigh* Obviously this SG- Sideswipe is made from an upcoming standard Sideswipe Defender kit and gives me hopes that all the different recolors made from Sideswipe toys get represented.

Because they're cool.

Considering SG-Sideswipe is very similar to Armada Wheeljack's backstory, the more eagle eyes ones of you out there probably noticed the lack of chest would scratching out the Autobot symbol and new Decepticon symbol underneath it. That leads one to think this kit represents a pre-turn version of Sideswipe. Which is also pretty cool. I'm also appreciating the colors unmarred by the scar as not only is it a really nice color scheme, but I love G2 Drench's colors. If I had an extra one of these, I'd definitely make a project out of bringing a Defender version of him to life.

Of course these Defender kits assemble super fast and result in a very pose able mini figure. Sideswipe has the standard Defender laser, which kinda resembles classic Sideswipes laser gun. He also has the rocket launcher G1 Sideswipe has... and it really looks great. I've always been a fan of Diaclone shoulder rockets and they really translate to the Defender Version style very well. This is one of those times where a lot of things I like are combined into one thing I like. I really like that sort of thing.

Prowl [Defender Version 01- Galaxy Shining]

The neat thing about Defender Version Blokees is how they take a really well know looking bot and just make it look fresh thanks to their style. Prowl is one of the original 1984 cast whom originated as a Diaclone mold with other Autobots that share his base mold. It's like the Autobots version of the Seeker. As a Defender Version, what was already a good looking design is now level'd up thanks to the sizes signature look.

Somehow it's both adorable and beefy at the same time. I've always liked the Police deco on robot toys. The white and black tend to look great on the boxy bodies. Prowl, I guess, is the first Police Type Transformer. His characterization tends to fluctuate as time passes. He's normally a by the book type, but how big of an asshole he is depends on the writer. As usual, I usually focus on the original cartoon. The, he's just one of the Autobots and usually fighting the Decepticons alongside the gang. The standard generic Defender Version laser makes a good double for his Acid Pellet Gun, though he doesn't have the traditional shoulder missiles. I really like how the car door wings and his head with chevron looks as a Defender Version. The visual style makes them pop. These are pleasant little models kits that result in a well articulated mini figure. Prowl makes a good showing here, if only he had his Turbo Cycle.

SG Optimus Prime robot & vehicle [Defender Type 03- Heavy Metal War]

Shattered Glass is a fun Transformers mirror universe setting. Evil Autobots vs Good Decepticons with plenty of role reversals and neat paint decos inspired by other characters. It's fun. Personally, I've mainly enjoyed the concept and the look of the characters over the actual fiction used. That's not a slam, just a take. I like to view the alternate universe more as a Cybertronian version of the Upside Down. Several of the Autobots mare made to be a little scary... so it's fitting.

Defender Type series 03 features kits of SG Optimus Prime as a robot and vehicle and it's nice to have the matching set. They are repaints of the Optimus Prime robot and vehicle from Defender Type series 01. I've only talked about the vehicle kit here so far, so let's focus on the robot mode more. The vehicle is pretty much a match for the robot mode as you can see, but man I do love the way it looks with the Combat Deck Auto-Launcher attached. Gives me Blaster Master vibes.

I've got a few different versions of the Defender Type Optimus Prime mold and it's pretty spectacular. The unique look these Blokees kits have really make for one adorably hardcore looking robot. This Optimus is about to kick Megatron's ass and walk a oil puddle through it. Despite his small size, he's well articulated and has one beefy version of the trademark Ion Cannon. It looks out of Metal Slug and that pairs so well with the overall look of the figure.

Like I've said, I really like the look of Shattered Glass Transformers and the purple and black on Optimus is just great. Black versions of Optimus have always looked cool, but the purple is just so very much better. The black parts contrast with it in a way really pops. SG Autobots usually have busted windshields (because it's ShAtTeReD gLaSs), which both of the Optimus kits we're looking at have. It's a good contrast against the slick purple and black colors. It works with my Upside Down take on the universe as well. SG Optimus's voice is supposed to sound like Venger... but Vecna works too. Dang, just imagine if one of Vecna's visions were the SG equivalent of a Matrix Vision? That's be more than five faces of darkness.

Inferno robot and vehicle [Defender Version 02- The Overthrow]

It's hard not to like a firetruck. That's a big part of Inferno's appeal. He's a firetruck and that's awesome! Those vehicle parts do work out making for one cool looking robot. As a character, he's every bit as heroic as the alt mode suggests. First to rush out and try to save whomever needs recusing or defended. His bravery and heat resistant body armor makes him ideal to step right into a fire or firefight. He's pretty rationale and level headed... which is funny compared to his partner Red Alert. A bot who's known for his paranoia.

It's been a while since I've talked about Blokees Defender type kits. Maybe too long. During that time I've amassed a whole lot of them to talk about here and Inferno is leading the way. It's worth noting that unlike prior Blokees posts where I tried to cover a case at a time... it's going to be a whole lot more random on out. I've got a whole lot of kits to cover and variety has always been the flavor of the day here at Zone Base.

In Defender Type series 02, Inferno is represented by both robot and vehicle mode kits. Obviously these models don't Transform, but it's fun to have some of the alt modes represented. Vehicle mode Inferno isn't ride-able like Optimus Prime's, but still is pretty neat. It's a pleasant little firetruck with a raise-able ladder. Neatly enough, the extinguisher tip from the ladder can be removed and attached to Inferno's arm in place of a hand as he's often seen with.

The robot mode kit is well done as the Defender Type proportions really fit Inferno's design. It's hard to express how something so small (and cute) can look so stout and hardcore... but here it is. The way the firetrucks ladder runs down his back (head is in the ladders base) is replicated well and even though he's given the Defender types generic laser rifle, it looks close enough the original toys Extinguisher Rifle. I think the only thing that would make Inferno's kits better would be a Phoenix King chase version. That would be amazing.

Optimus Prime [Galaxy Version 05-One]

Being the main character of my main subject matter, I talk about a lot of different Optimus Prime toys. I don't even talk about all of them and there's still a lot of Optimus talk around here. Fortunately he gets some really cool toys. In Transformers One, we got another version of his origin that was pretty great with some pretty great toys as well. I've been praising these Blokees takes on the Transformers One characters and Optimus is no different. Peanut butter and jelly, Blokess and Transformers One. Some things just go great together. .

In addition to the parts that your standard Galaxy Version kit offers is that way cool take on his energy axe. It's always looked good, but was downright awesome the way they used it. Because of that, it stands out to me more here than the normal inclusion would. He's also got that cool generic rifle the various Trackers carry around. It's dumb, but for some reason I just like these generic guns. Of course there's the standard set of hands and display base to stand on. Don't forget that new Galaxy Version build that debuted in this series. It's so much sturdier and better. I can't express just how much better it is. So much. One thing I enjoy is his smoke stacks. Thanks to the way they attach, you can flip them around to simulate when he used them as a flamethrower.

It's just a coincidence, but a cool accident is still cool. I mainly liked that part as when I was a kid and playing with the original Optimus Prime toy, his smoke stacks often got turned around to be used as little gun turrets. Newer editions lack that ability, but my 1984 one could do it. Optimus has a standard Optimus color set, but it's a good color set. So of course it looks great here. Of note is the Matrix shining through his chest windows, which is a nice touch. I like it when there's something going on in those vehicle windows in robot mode. In the end, this is another Optimus... but not just another Optimus. It's a good Optimus. Nice things are nice.

Ironhide [Galaxy Version 05-One]

I've been mentioning how much the blending of Blokees and Transformers One visual styles remind me of Megaman X, and I think Ironhide just might be my best example. Just look at him, he literally looks like Megaman X. Equipped with Rising Fire, maybe. It's a good look. To be fair, I've been comparing Ironhide to Megaman ever since his old SCF toy. I'm not saying he always looks like him, but in some instances he does. That being said, we've got another fantastic Blokees kit from this series with the new sturdier builds.

You know, I really liked Transformers One, but these have really reawakened my fandom for it. TF One was such a good movie, it's good to bask in it some more. Blokees are quickly becoming one of my current favorite TF things to do and this series has been specifically fun. Good times. This is Ironhide in his miner body without a Cog, and it looks pretty great. I appreciate how the characters are getting toys of both forms as they spend most of the movie without Cogs and it's actually a pretty big plot point.

Of course being a Galaxy Version Blokees, Ironhide has the standard open and closed hands and a display base. He's also got that generic laser pistol that looks a lot like his G1 cartoon characters laser. While I'm used to most characters having personalized weapons, I do enjoy the generic guns from TF One. They're not bad looking and represent the uprising which included taking weapons from the look-alike Trackers. See, these Blokees are more than blind boxed models. They're a fun way to enjoy the world of Transformers.

D-16 [Galaxy Version 05-One]

This Blokee of D-16 represents him shortly after getting a Cog, getting his worldview shattered, and bordering on his eventually heel turn into the Megatron we all know. Kinda heavy for a blind boxed model kit, but hey... pretty awesome too. Once again, the Blokees style really fits Transformers One and D-16 looks great. The newer construction style I've been talking about with this series is present and I'm assuming is the new standard going forward.

I can't help but to bring it up so often as it really improves what was already a positive experience. It's always a good time assembling these little bots despite the fingertip pain. No matter how many smaller modular toys you assemble, it'll always hurt. Thankfully this new design negates a little of that pain now that the joints come pre-assembled. It's also super satisfying when the parts click into place. What was always fun now feels a little therapeutic. Put on a little lofi and enjoy yourself.

Once assembled you have a very well done D-16. These little kits don't transform, so there's always that one mouth breather who'll make an Action Master joke. As if Action Masters are a bad thing... and to be frank, these newer designed Blokees really feel like upgraded Action Masters. Many make that comparison with the ReAction Transformers figures, but these feel like they could be sold under the banner. Updated for the modern age with better articulation. All that's missing is an O-Ring, and modern articulation removes the need for those anyway. Galaxy Version is a cool name, but could you imagine if these were called Action Masters? I clearly have.

D-16 looks great, as I said. He's got his fusion cannon and that secondary gun his One design sports. Not Megatron yet, so the details aren't quite as hard. When he swaps out his Cog for Megatronus's though, the look get a little more severe. D-16 is still a good guy here, even if he's on the edge. A nice detail is the carved in Megatronus (he hasn't dubbed them Decepticons yet) symbol on his chest. That little bit of violence inflicted upon him by Sentinel Prime was a good bit of story telling in the movie and I like it's inclusion here. Of course he has the set of open/closed hands and display stand. Though I think D-16 is clearly in a closed first sort of mood at this point. I don't think I've ever had a negative experience with a Blokees and that's the case still with this guy. Great looking, fun build, and overall awesome. What's not to like about that?

Death Tracker [Galaxy Version 05-One]

One of the Blokees kits I was most looking forward to in this series was Death Tracker. Trackers are Sentinel Primes personal guard, with the Death Trackers as the members that work with Airachnid. The Trackers look a lot like the version of Vehicons from Transformers Prime, whom were a very popular bunch of generic soldiers in the Transformers fan community at the time. I honestly thought these generics in Transformers One were Vehicons until learning of their names. Death Trackers, as I said above, are Airachnid's group.

In the movie they're darker colored (to match her, I presume), As a Blokees, they're mostly a dark blue color. It's pretty sharp. Using the new base engineering, the Death Tracker is one solid figure once built. Everything snaps into place and feels pretty solid. The Tracker's wings are included and can be articulated a little for dramatic poses. Death Trackers have some red stripes markings on their shoulder pad... that I now realize was put on the wrong shoulder... whoops. It stands out nicely on the dark blue body and chromed face.  The kit comes with the standard set of hand options, forearm guns, and base as well as the laser rifle seen often in the movie. I like these generic guns, it makes sense... you know? Thankfully Death Tracker features plenty of articulation so that the gun can be used in cool poses. I hope the other color variations show up in future series as it's such a cool looking solder.

Wheeljack [Galaxy Version 05-One]

Wheeljack may have been one of the background characters in Transformers One, but like several of the greater Transformers cast of characters... he's there. That's a good thing as not only does it give us a large cast of with cool designs, but provides toy companies with all sorts of characters to make toys of! Blokees seem like the perfect choice for TF One characters as both styles meet in fabulous ways. Wheeljack is the first kit I assembled from my case and damn looks great!

I've always been a fan of Wheeljack and have always thought he looked cool, but this is a new level of appreciation. I mentioned in my B-127 post how these kits seem like characters out of Megaman X and Wheeljack has me mentally imagining it. Being the mad scientist of the Autobots, he'd would totally be the character that would tell you about all the great upgrades you've gotten between levels!

Wheeljack features that new sturdier design that's seemingly been introduced in this One series. If he had an 'O' ring, you could easily mistake him for a newer Action Master with improved articulation. He's got the two hands that are standard with most Blokees kits and the same laser B-127 has. It's a solid generic gun, so I don't mind. This version of Wheeljack is a miner and doesn't have a Transformation Cog yet, so he doesn't have the wings you normally associate with him. That's perfectly ok, because we're talking about storytelling and TF One told a great ... one. I really like how this kit came out, he just looks so good! The white and gray colors really pop as well. Dang, Blokees just makes good things.

B-127 [Galaxy Version 05-One]

It's time to look at another series of Blokees here on Zone Base. Specifically Galaxy Version 05- One, which by the name should clue you in that we're talking a series based on Transformers One. TF One was very popular among the Transformers fan base and so are Blokees. This is a match made in heaven! I was very thankful to find the case on Easter Morning as a gift from the Mrs. She had put each kit inside a large egg and hid them through the house! Not only was it fun finding the eggs, but it was a big surprise to see what was inside! We're going to begin out exploration of this new case with B-127, which of course is Bumbelee's name prior to his arrival to Earth in newer fictional settings. This kit features B (or Badassatron) without his Cog, which had a really strong resemblance to Megaman X the more I look at it. Maybe I'll get an extra and do a custom one day.

As cool as B-127 looks, he's also a good starting point for this series as he's as good example of the newer construction this series has. This series seems to be the start of a new design for the Galaxy Version that results in a sturdier finished product. As much as I've loved what came before, this feels like a much more solid figure after the kit had been built. Not to mention two specific points I've never enjoyed. In prior sets, the connector joints had to be assembled, while they've already come assembled here. It was never a gripe of mine, but man they'd kill my fingertips pushing them together. The other is the shoulder pads fit much better. I've popped off others very easily, while these snap on and stay put. I guess they've adjusted the connections. The upper body of the figures frame has some adjustments too. Now the ball joint for the heads is molded in and there's some additional peg holes in the body that the armor bits have additional pegs to insert into. I've never complained about the fit before, but it feels much more solid now. B-127 is like an action figure I bought already assembled from the factory as opposed to a small model kit.

Of course he has the standard open and closed hands you expect and a laser pistol to hold with them. The base is present, though the additional Autobot and Decepticon symbols are gone. Oh well. B-127 looks great. I've always liked yellow and black colors together. They really pop on the cool sculpting that's unmistakably Bumblebee before coming to Earth. While Bumblebee has always been a cute character, this figure is downright adorable. The signature Blokees visual just blends so well with the TF One aesthetic. This just might be a perfect meeting of the two styles. I mentioned Megaman X up above... but yeah, they feel a little out of that universe. B-127 is a completely pleasurable kit that I was happy to build and being the general admiration for Bumblebee around the site... the perfect starting point for another case of Blokees posts.

Glittering Ironhide [Galaxy Version Defender/01 Shining Version]

In addition to the neat cab mode Blokees Optimus Prime I got at Toylanta is Glittering Ironhide! Two good pulls from a surprise con find! Glittering Ironhide is a translucent version of the classic Ironhide that just looks great. These new Defender Blokees are smaller than the normal Galaxy Version.

The smaller size combined with the signature Blokees style makes for a great little figure that's not to like. Ironhide is pleasantly articulated and has a laser rifle. You'd think assembling something so small would be frustrating, but I actually got the kit put together easily and in a lot less time than a standard Galaxy Version. Ironhide also came with a Megatron coin, there looked to be some variety in coins in the manual. I'm not sure if it's completely random or assigned for each kit. Certainly a neat little extra regardless. I'm obviously a fan of the Blokees Transformers and really look forward to getting more Defender types soon. These little guys have a lot of charm and character... and somehow feel extremely badass.