Windcharger [Studio Series 86 / Deluxe Class]

It’s been a while since I’ve talked about traditional Transformers toys here, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t been buying them. Quite the opposite—if you read the Monday updates, you already know. It’s more that I like posts to fit the vibe here on Zone Base, and Windcharger definitely fits in.

I recently received his newest Transformers Studio Series release as part of my birthday presents from the Mrs, and it is excellent. As part of the Studio Series ‘86 line, he’s meant to represent his appearance in The Transformers: The Movie. That movie is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, and as someone who was there opening weekend, it’s getting a ton of love from me. Windcharger’s role in the movie was brief—he’s taken out during the brutal opening battle of Autobot City—but before that he was a regular in the first two seasons of the original cartoon. This toy is a great representation of that animated look.

Windcharger is something of an oddity in the original Transformers line. His toy came from Microman’s Microchange series, but that design actually started life even earlier as part of the Mysterians. The Mysterians were Knickerbocker Toy Company’s attempt at a transforming robot toy line in 1983 that never fully materialized. The company was purchased by Hasbro in 1984, and Windcharger—along with Brawn, Huffer, and Gears—was originally intended for that line. The molds eventually made their way into Microchange before becoming Transformers. Just in case you ever wondered what the “M” on the original Windcharger’s belt stood for.

In the cartoon, Windcharger was given a different face than his toy, and that’s the look this version proudly uses. With a lot of these Minicar updates showing up in vintage-style packaging with toy-accurate heads and decos, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a version of that original Mysterian-inspired look pop up on shelves down the line.

The toy itself is great. As I always say, it looks like he walked right off my TV screen. Windcharger comes with his blaster and an effect piece meant to represent his magnetic abilities. The effect can attach to his chest or the hood in vehicle mode, and both it and the blaster can store on his back in robot mode.

In robot mode, he’s very well articulated, and combined with the sculpted face, he’s surprisingly expressive. He almost feels alive. Transformation is straightforward, though there are a few tight joints and clearance spots—take your time with him. Car mode is a solid approximation of a Pontiac Trans Am, and the blaster stores neatly behind a rear wheel for a clean look.

Overall, this is the slickest Windcharger has ever looked in toy form—and that’s saying something, because he’s had some pretty great releases over the years.

Constructicon Long Haul [Studio Series 86/Commander Class]

Following Hook in the Transformers Studio Series Two Pack of Torso Terror is Long Haul, whom forms Devastators lower torso. Long Haul, being a dump truck is well suited for carrying the extra parts required for assembling Devastator. Not in the bed of his truck, nope, they actually combine to form a trailer! Long Haul can (wait for it) haul the extra parts! I'm a lot more impressed with this trailer than I am the battle deck/jet add on parts for Superion. Probably because I didn't expect it... and thanks to the wings, it reminds me a little of God Bomber in his trailer mode.

I've always liked the way Long Haul looked. He's this big chonky robot (it's a vibe) made from a good old dump truck. Maybe it's just growing up with Tonka trucks in the back yard... hey come to think about it, the ones we had was a crane and dump truck! This set was pre destined! *ahem* There's just something satisfyingly pleasant about him, you know? The Devastator set Hasbro put out in Combiner Wars a decade ago was pretty good, but there was some reinvention going on. Long Haul ended up being VERY LARGE in that set. Frankly, I liked it, but we're going for screen accuracy this time. Like the others, Long Haul is a nice mix of original design and cartoon appearance. A big difference in this design, however, is that Long Haul doesn't form Devastators thighs. Some of those extra parts in the trailer do that.

Long Haul has his pistol that has a removable barrel. I don't see any point in that as of this moment, but it sure does separate. He's pleasantly articulated and very expressive. It's really neat that his head can move around. Obviously most heads on toys do that, but articulation with his head on a panel is pretty neat. Transformation is pretty easy and aside from a few steps is mostly muscle memory from the original toy. Some Transformers you can just look at and your hands know what to do. The trailer doesn't connect traditionally. Instead you'll have to fit the connector pieces between the rear ends haves as they connect. Rolling him along with his trailer is pretty pleasant, there's a certain charm to it that I can't quite describe. It's kinda cute. Out of this two pack, I like Long Haul the best. Once I get the rest of the gang, I'll show off Devastator. For right now though, I'm enjoying the dump truck guy.

Constructicon Hook [Studio Series 86/Commander Class]

I've talked before about how sometimes Transformers naming systems can be too wordy or confusing, this is one of those times. Hook is a Voyager Class figure that comes from a 2 pack of Voyager Class figures sold as a Commander Class. The full name on this box is Transformers Studio Series Constructicon Hook/Constructicon Long Haul. Don't forget that Studio Series is under the Transformers Generations sub-line, so the entire name is Transformers Generations Transformers Studio Series Commander Class Constructicon Hook/Constructicon Long Haul.

It's a two-pack of Constructicons for the current Devastator set that comes with a bunch of extra combiner parts sold as a Commander Class. I spent almost a paragraph talking about how many titles the box has to get that out of the way, because it's a bit absurd. Hook is one of those two toys in the box. Hook is one of those Constructicons that's always in every group shot, but tends to blend into the crowd. He's a highly skilled craftsman and has one giant ego to match it, which fits into early Constructicon appearances where they were often working on a project. As a member of the team, he forms the upper torso of Devastator and turns into a crane.

Hence the name.

My brother is a professional crane operator, so I can appreciate this alt mode more now as an adult. One thing I really appreciate about these Studio Series 86 Constructicons is how much they're a combination of the original toys designs and the on screen models. The designers really did a good job making this set feel like an upgrade of that original Diaclone design while making them show accurate. This set is meant to match their looks from the 1986 movie, which itself was a higher quality version of how they appeared in the regular cartoon series.

As someone who always liked the cartoon better, I appreciate the concept behind Studio Series 86 a whole lot. Hook is well articulated. To allow for some of this articulation, the sort of cape his vehicle kibble forms over his shoulders features the ability to be moved out of the way. That's a nice meeting of screen accuracy and real world engineering. The original toy it wasn't a big deal, it had limited possibility naturally. Past updates would reinvent the wheel a little on the characters looks. This one of course must be faithful... so some improvisation was needed.

He's got his laser pistol. It's a good approximation of the one he originally came with and later used to mow down the Autobots while Instruments of Destruction played. In vehicle mode, it can connect the the crane arm for storage. Transformation to that vehicle mode is pretty easy. Once again he's essentially an updated version of the original, so some of those steps it took back in the day are the same today. Vehicle mode is nice, looks right, rolls along well. The little crane arm disconnects, so it can be removed for transformation to either hand off his back or in place properly.

Before anyone points it out, the robot hands are meant to remain folded out in vehicle mode to properly connect the front and back sections. I realized I did that part wrong now that I see my pictures. Years of modern toys make me fold them away on autopilot. Later this week we'll look at Hooks partner in the set Long Haul. Considering the two form Devastators torso when combined, I wish they would have named the box set something witty and torso related. Then again... I suppose that's harder than it sounds.

Soundwave [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

Prior to the Bumblebee movie, Dark of the Moon was my favorite of the Transformers live action movies. So various Studio Series releases of the characters from that film tend to catch my eye. The Mrs. probably didn't know that when she picked up this Soundwave for me as a Christmas gift last year. It was originally released in 2019 with a Target Exclusive reissue last year.

I had completely missed out on it's initial release and the universe just made it happen. Neat! Soundwave was pretty cool looking in all his movie appearances, but his DOTM look was really slick. He changes into a licensed Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, which is a really expensive car. According to Google, in 2011 (when the movie was released) it cost from $169,800 to $275,000. I hope nobody scratched it during filming. 

Yikes.

This is a very well done representation of Soundwave from DOTM, looking like he just walked off the screen and very sleek. He comes with a tiny Laserbeak whom can perch on his arm or top of the car. In robot mode, Soundwave is very articulated and can be put into all sorts of poses. Like all the Bay era film designs, there are a lot of sharp points and edges. These are present... but cast in a softer plastic for safety reasons. He is very well sculpted and there is a lot of detail. More than you'd expect for a standard retail figure. I guess Mercedes had requirements for their licensees.

Transformation is the standard car mode layout you can expect, but man it is a tight fit. There's hardly any wiggle room getting everything into place and that can be frustrating. You might notice in the pics mine doesn't look completely connected in car mode. That's because it isn't, I have no clue what black magic it takes to get everything to align properly, but I gave up after taking too long trying to get everything into place. His robot mode hips are between the forearms in car mode and that tight fit meant something was clearly off just a touch right there and I could not figure it out. Even with some gaps in the panels, that is one sleek looking vehicle. Thanks to various pictures online, I don't have to imagine just how sleeker it is without those hips causing a problem. Despite the frustration, I really enjoy this figure. Studio Series is supposed to be the higher quality representation of the on screen characters and it's shows here.

B-127 [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

It's a shame Transformers One didn't do as great in the theaters as it's been doing on streaming. Not only was it a great film, but it's got some great toys. I had been putting off getting the Studio Series B-127 for a little while now. Not because I didn't want to get one, but because there was always a lot of them at my stores. So I felt like I could take my time. That turned out to be a good idea as my local Target had him on sale for $12 (which is what a deluxe would have cost in 2012), which was the universe telling me to just buy the thing already. I'm glad I did, because not only was the price great, but the toy is pretty great too. That's the second time I've said something was great and great too. Sometimes you've just got to repeat yourself.

As you already know, this is the Studio Series version of B-127 from Transformers One. As a Studio Series figure, it's nicer than the Prime Changers one I talked about last year. Considering that was already a pretty good toy, nicer should say something. It's more detailed, more solid, more accessories, just better all the way around. Back in the day (and sometimes still today), you'd often see 'STD' and 'DX' on robot toys. It was there to clarify which one was the standard toy (STD) and which was the deluxe model (DX). Studio Series versions are pretty much the DX versions and I'm sure companies have thought twice about putting the term STD on a toy box. B-127 now has more accessories. Instead of just one hand blaster and knife hand attachment, there's two. He's also got a Tracker rifle, one of those generic guns I've been enjoying to talk about with the TF One Blokees. It's neat that he's got so many accessories, as most deluxe class Transformers only have one or two.

He transforms into his Cybertronian car pretty easily, though there is definitely some spots where everything has to be just right. There's just not much wiggle room for error. In car mode he looks as he should, like he did in the movie... which is the point of the figure and how it looks overall. I do like how the weapon storage in vehicle mode makes the car more heavy duty looking overall. It's small, but neat. I wonder who else they could make from this mold that would take advantage of that? I know that I make a lot of comparisons to Microman when talking about modern Transformers, but I feel like one is warranted here. This is another case of the family tree is very evident in the toys design.  I can honestly envision a Takara version using chromed colors (like they did with Transformers Animated) that would make the comparison even stronger. Out of the three B-127 toys I've talked about here, all have been winners. This one is definitely the most premium one of them so far... or should I say DX?

Double Punch [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

The Predacon army of scorpion bots in Rise of the Beasts was a lot of fun, so it's a pleasure to get another arachnid soldier in the form of Double Punch. Double Punch is a straight repaint of Scorponok that looks great. Swapping out the purple for a blood red and a different shade of chrome grey. I really like the colors as they give him a viscous look. He could almost be a new version of Gobots Scorp, something I keep in mind while mentally cataloging Double Punch as an honorary Monster Gobot.

Double Punch being a standard retail toy is pretty neat. The original Double Punch was exclusive to the UK, with the following two being BotCon exclusives. I wonder if this ones harder to come by? I don't think I've seen it in too many sightings posts. This one was a gift from the Mrs. in the pile of birthday presents she got me. So it's special for my own reasons. It's funny, I didn't notice the flame like detailing on Scorponok, but see it a mile away on Double Punch. I really like it as I really liked the scorpions from Rise of the Beasts in general. Just a cool group of gnarly bots. This is a good toy of one of them.

Bumblebee [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

We're all Bumblebee fans here on the base and love it when he gets a new toy... which is very often. Today's toy is from Transformers Studio Series 86 and meant to represent him as he appeared in the 1986 animated movie. I've been a fan of the Studio Series 86 toys as they're very screen accurate figures of the original cartoon cast. Bumblebee is a bit of an anomaly in this isn't Volkswagen licensed, so while his robot mode is show accurate. His vehicle mode is a close approximation. That's ok though as the car has the same proportions as the original Microman/G1 toy which was mean to resemble a penny racer. That's really neat!

As I said, BB is very show accurate in robot mode. He's also pretty short, which means he'll be close to scale with other Studio Series 86 and more recent Generations figures. There's plenty of articulation and includes the laser we've seen used in various episodes of the classic series. That laser can mount to the back of his car mode for storage. Kinda like a little gun rack. Transformation isn't what I thought it would be. Sure, the expected car bot steps were there... but there was some unexpected additional folding. Bumblebee compresses down quite a bit creating a surprisingly solid feeling compact little car. Like I said before, it's an approximation of his classic VW Bug this time. That's not too bad as it has the cues you'd expect... just not as round. I do like the penny racer proportions and can see where other Minibots made from this mold will probably come out pretty good. This is a great new Bumblebee figure. I can understand how the vehicle mode might turn off some, but I've really enjoyed him. Guess I just like a good penny racer.

Optimus Prime [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

Of all the Optimus Prime toys from Transformers One I've been talking about lately, this one has to be the nicest. Before getting it, I was convinced that the Prime Changer was the better toy. I'm fully admitting how wrong I was. As much as I liked that Prime Changer version, this is one impressive Optimus Prime. After 40 years of buying the guy, you'd think it'd be just another one. I honestly felt as though I had gotten a much more premium toy. All gushing aside, this is a Deluxe Class price point version of Optimus Prime as he appears in Transformers One. Being a Studio Series toy, he of course is much more screen accurate and is intended to represent Optimus Prime proper and not Orion Pax. As I was taking him out of the box, there was an audible 'oh wow' and a couple of those moments where you just hold something and approvingly shake your head. It's hard for me to say anything else, I'm very enamored by this toy.

Optimus is well articulated in robot mode. With all sorts of joints and ankle tilts, you could probably roll him into a ball. BALL MODE! One bit that impressed me was his crotch piece and there is no better way to say that without it sounding weird. There is an additional layer of it that moves with his upper thighs that adds to the visual appearance. Most toys just have a crotch and you can see the legs joined to it. Optimus has that little piece on top that adds to the illusion. That's neat. As for accessories, he's got quite a few. His trademark Energon Axe is here that can be plugged into either hand for that signature look. The axe can also be stored on his back and between legs in vehicle mode similar to the Prime Changer. Also similar is the smoke stacks that can be used as pistols. They're more detailed, so I don't think these are reused parts. Additionally Optimus has a removable Matrix of Autobot Leadership and dual blasters that mount on the front of his truck mode providing some extra firepower. The Matrix cannot be held, but looks extra nice through his chest window. The vehicle mode dual blasters store in Optimus's backpack in robot mode. I like to think of them as a jet pack.

Transformation is pretty similar to the Prime Changer with some extra work. Seeing as both are similar toys released at the same time, I wouldn't doubt that there's shared engineering. This being the nicer toy, there's a little more involvement in the pieces. This results in a more impressive looking truck. A common complaint I've seen is that his hands are exposed in vehicle mode. This is true, though if you have them positioned with the outer sides of them pointing out, they blend better. Those dual blasters I mentioned earlier can be plugged into the trucks grill providing a battle mode. It looks great and adds to Optimus's offense capabilities. I really appreciate the extra detailing in. Truck mode is very impressive looking and is just cool. This is a very neat Cybertronian variation of the classic Convoy design. I'm very pleased with this toy overall. Considering the Prime Changer is sitting next to it at local stores right now for a little less money, it's really the more premium of the two. Both are solid figures and great Optimus prime toys. This Studio Series version however, really sells the difference between the price classes. They did a great job.

Much thanks to Hasbro and Paramount Pictures for providing Zone Base with this review sample. It's an honer and a privilege. Thank you.

Megatron [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

Transformers One was a very special movie that no doubt has already found it's way deep into the hearts of many a Transformers fan. I was fortunate enough to be included in receiving a special promotional box from Hasbro and Paramount Pictures. Inside the box was several Transformers One figures including this early release of the Studio Series Megatron figure from the movie. I've never gotten one of these boxes before or a pre-release figure, so to say I'm honored would be an understatement. Not to mention, I'm fresh from the movie and full of pure euphoria. While he's D-16 through most of the movie, the bad guy we all know as Megatron is born by the end and that's who this figure represents.

I would give a spoiler warning for that last line, but it's literally the marketed premise of the movie. The Studio Series figures are intended to be a more screen accurate toy intended for a collector. In the case of this Megatron and his Optimus Prime counterpart (I'll get to him a little later), they outright feel like a premium offering. This is a nice toy. I really enjoy Cybertonian versions of Transformers characters, especially on someone like Megatron whose traditional design really benefits from a little extra flair. He looks great here, mostly resembling his traditional appearance.

There's a few weapons attachments for firepower. His signature Fusion Cannon is present as is another smaller gun that can mount on his left forearm similar to it's appearance in the movie. This weapon attaches to the tip of the Fusion Cannon in tank mode. There's also two smaller tank mode guns that store on his back that you could get creative with in robot mode. Megatron is decently articulated and features some long legs. They looked longer in pictures than in person to me, but there's no denying he didn't miss leg day. Out of the package the knees are locked into place with a connection point. Mine was really stiff to free from this. Be careful as to not break your figure.

Transformation was pretty easy, but did find maneuvering the legs just right a little tricky. That was due to my misunderstanding of how it they work. Once understood it just went into place. Aside from that everything just goes into place where it should. You do have to get everything just right. Take your time and be patient. Alt mode is a Cybertronian Tank like Megatron forms into in the movie. It's similar to an H-Tank and a pretty neat design. One thing about the Cybertronian designs from the movie I liked was the wheels and tank treads. Often guys like Megatron get 'hover' variations of vehicle ideas. Which I suppose works for a sci fi design... but what's the point of having aerial and ground units then? It's clear Cybertron has gravity, so a big guy like Megatron probably isn't leaving the ground very often. A little realism in fantasy isn't a bad thing in my mind. This is a great new Megatron figure that represents his appearance in a wonderful movie. It's hard for me as a long time fan to not be full of happiness right now and I hope you like you Megatron figure when you get one.

Much thanks to Hasbro and Paramount Pictures for providing Zone Base with this review sample. It's an honer and a privilege. Thank you.

Concept Art Sunstreaker (Studio Series/Deluxe Class)

I've got a soft spot in my heart for Sunstreaker. He's one of the original cast of Transformers whose Diaclone toy roots as No.1 Countach LP500S/Diakron DK-1 were the first numbered of the Car Robots series. These are the toy molds that make up a good number of the initial Transformers toy line. It's just neat that Suntreaker's original toy was the first of it's series. I've always liked his design and found it pretty striking and unfortunate that he's not updated as often as other classic characters. This newer figure of Sunstreaker is one of the really cool Concept Art based figures in Studio Series. While not appearing in the Bumblebee movie, there was designs for him in that initial opening scene that we all love.

I personally think Sunstreaker looks awesome in this toy and think it would pair really well with the Siege Sideswipe. It kinda feels like a lost Siege design more so than an unused movie design. Considering the Bumblebee movie and Siege were probably being worked on around the same time, that's probably not super coincidental. He comes with two blasters. They can be held or one can he stored on his back. The blasters can be combined which looks great in alt mode, though they can be placed on the car individually as well. The blasters are a double barrelled design that matches his Cybertronian look well. Sunstreaker is fairly articulated, but his large shoulder pads can get in the way. Fortunately they can be adjusted some.

Transformation to car mode was fairly easy for me. I understand there's a common mis-assembly on the hood pieces that I didn't notice on mine. Either I lucked out or just didn't notice. Alt mode is a Cybertronian car similar to Sunstreaker's Lamborghini Countach. It's a very neat car and I really appreciate the trademark yellow colors. There's a late 80's to mid 90's anime vibe to this design I can't quite put my finger on. I feel like I've seen artwork of him printed in black and white in a game manual or magazine somewhere. It's probably just me, but I like those vibes. Sunstreaker is a cool figure that I like quite a bit. These Concept Art Studio Series releases are really neat and the idea is a lot of fun.

Gamer Edition Sideswipe (Studio Series/Deluxe Class)

Sideswipe is one of those Transformers characters I always look forward to a new figure of. One of the classic cast whose toy molds often get reused for several different characters. Not only is a new toy of him exciting for another Sideswipe, but also potentially means more similar and cool toys on the way. I like Sideswipe and generally all the reworks, so it's generally a positive thing. This toy of Sideswipe is based on his appearance in the War for Cybertron video game. Another of the 'Gamer Edition' figures being recently released, Sideswipe is a screen accurate representation. I'm actually of a mixed mind when it comes to the Gamer Edition figures. I was a big fan of the 'Fall of Cybertron' figures when they were released and still think of them fondly. So an 'improvement' like this Sideswipe to the original is something I'm going to side eye a bit.

Thankfully they did a pretty good job with this figure and made what feels more like a premium offering. While being the same size class as that original toy, I can't help but to feel like this one is bigger. I think it's the implied bulkiness of his design more than actual mass. That's not a bad thing considering the continually shrinking of size Transformers has been going through over the past few years. Ironically, it was that original Fall of Cybertron line when the figures first noticeably got smaller and received a price hike. From 10-12 dollars for a deluxe. Man, if only that was the cost today. Like other Gamer Edition figures, Sideswipe is able to swap out his arm for a 'gun arm' like the weapons mostly appeared in the game. I'm still on the fence if I like this feature or not. Allegedly the weapon arm can be held like a traditional arm, but I didn't notice the possibility of this while playing with him. The unused arm can store on his back which is useful. I didn't notice if this was possible with others using this gimmick. It's definitely appreciated.

As a robot, Sideswipe has a decent level of articulation as is sure to please most in that department. Transformation isn't hard, though a little fiddly in some spots. There's parts that have to line up just right and it can be a trick to get them into position correctly. Tight transformations have been a recent complaint of mine are certainly an issue with Studio Series. I guess all that screen accuracy doesn't allow for much wiggle room. Vehicle mode is a Cybertronian car of some sort. It's neat looking and looks different from the Siege Sideswipe's Cybertronian car design. The weapon arm can attach to the roof of the car which looks sharp. Sideswipe is a very nice figure of a cool design. Like other Studio Series figures, he feels more premium than your standard fare Transformer. It's a nice toy. I anticipate/hope other characters will be made from this mold. While I generally like Sideswipe toys, this is a nice toy.

Predacon Scorponok (Studio Series/Deluxe Class)

I don't know if it's obvious, but I liked the Scorponok named soldiers from Rise of the Beasts. Considering this is the third toy of one I'm covering on this site, I feel like it might be noticeable. This time we'll be looking at the Studio Series edition of Scorponok, a toy that is a complete upgrade from the prior figures. Scorponok is screen accurate aside from deco, which is a black and purple color scheme more akin to a classic Insection. While that doesn't adhere to the screen accuracy idea of Studio Series... it looks great. It actually looks so good that I wish that these were the onscreen colors.  Scorponok looks extra villainous in this toy. While I enjoyed his Beast Alliance figures... this is clearly the better of his toys. It's just really impressive and I'm very happy with it.

Scorponok is a very freaky Monster Gobot looking robot whom turns into a weird scorpion inspired insectoid. I like to presume that Scorponok represents one of the many Predacons that worked with Scourge's Terrorcons in the movie. It's not really defined, so they all could be a drone type names Scorponok. Characterize them as you will, I liked the movie, but these guys were basically cannon fodder soldiers. They transform into a gnarly scorpion themed insectoid with monstrous pincers. Said pincers contain guns. The scorpion tail is articulated and can be used as a weapon in robot mode. There is a small port on the top of the beast mode back. I wonder of another accessory was planned and left out? Bot modes are fairly articulated and specifically cool looking.

Transformation from robot to beast mode is not very complex, but pretty neat. Scorponok essentially lays down and the set of legs on his robot back fold out. His upper robot legs fold inside the main body, while the lower legs unfold into more insect legs. What's interesting is his pincers. The robot arms fold up with the hands going into the shoulders. You then unfold the pincer arms our from the robots upper torso. I found this to be pretty creative and was pretty impressed with the ingenuity of it all. Neatly enough, Scoponok uses the same head in bot modes, but due to positioning, it manages to look different from itself in either configuration.  I've liked all the Scorponok toys from ROTB, but this is definitely the best. It was a great birthday gift from the Mrs and an absolute pleasure to play around with.

Concept Art Decepticon Rumble (Studio Series/Core Class)

I've been a pretty big fan of the Bumblebee movie since it's release, which isn't a secret on this site. Even for those who weren't a fan of that movie, almost everyone LOVED the opening sequence. It's literally what Transformers fans wanted ever since the live action movies were announced. The various designs from that sequence have found their way to toy form as individual Studio Series releases to much popularity. Following suit, toys based on the Concept Art for that scene have begun seeing the light of day in Studio Series starting with Rumble. We'll be taking a look at him today. 

Yes, he's blue.

This time.

Rumble is a very cool little toy. When I say little, I mean it. He's tiny. Which is what you'd expect for a a cassette bot, but it does throw one off initially. Rumble is about the same size as the Studio Series 86 version of Rumble/Frenzy and matches with the Studio Series Core Class Ravage from a few years ago (I don't think I ever covered him here). Like that Ravage, he also works as a data cartridge type thing that the matching Studio Series Soundwave toy (whom I also don't think was covered here) can carry in his chest ala G1. The alt mode can also be a sort of flight mode I assume, it does look like one of the entry mode from from the 2007 movie preview toys. As a robot, Rumble is pretty sharp looking. He's this small little robot with his famous pile driver piston arms. Unlike the Studio Series 86 version, those do not convert into regular arms. In true live action movie fashion, his arms are just weapons. Rumble's head is fairly traditional although sporting a mouth plate as opposed to his normally open face. It really fits his overall look here and kinda makes him look like a Combaticon. Considering the brutality of the live action movie series... it fits.

Rumble looks like he's out to cause as much destruction as possible for such a little shit. Like Ravage, he also comes with guns that he doesn't personally wield. They store on his back which gives him a slightly traditional appearance, however cannot be held by Rumble himself (aside from alt mode storage). Instead, and also like the gun that comes with Ravage, it's a weapon for Soundwave. The two pieces can be combined and form another gun. I like how both Ravage and Rumble are effectively upgrade kits for Soundwave and wonder if a gift set containing them all will be released. Maybe a Soundblaster version. Rumble is very articulated for such a little guy. It's likely due to his transformation, but not complaining. I was very happy to see Rumble in the Easter Basket given to me by the Mrs and am very pleased with him overall. He's a cool little toy that interacts with another cool toy. What's not to like about that?

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.

Autobot Ratchet (Studio Series 86/Voyager Class)

I happily picked up Ratchet shortly before Christmas. I say happily as I've been quite endeared to Ratchet since the early days of G1. In particular, during a time when my family was moving to another state, my older brother and I found ourselves often staying with family as our parents locating us a new home. During that time, well, it wasn't terribly exciting. I often found myself re-reading issues of the Marvel G1 Transformers comic. In those early issues, Ratchet took a starring role for a bit. I fondly look back at the frames of Ratchet helping campers cook hot dogs still to this day. Of course this toy of Ratchet is meant to represent him as he appeared in the 1986 movie, being a Studio Series toy and all. I've made my fondness for this series of figures known and having this very screen accurate figure of Ratchet is a real treat.

Of course Ratchet is a remold and repaint of the Voyager Ironhide figure I've talked about before. I raved about that Ironhide... and that's pretty much the same opinion of this Ratchet. A truly excellent toy of a classic character. Let's look at their differences. Not just a simple recolor as you'd assume, Ratchet has some new molded parts. A new head, as Ratchet traditionally has a chevron on his helmet as opposed to Ironhide's 'mowhawk'. Being an ambulance, of course he has a light bar. Most notably and something they really could have not done is Ratchet features a different waist piece. To differentiate the two back in the day, there were slight differences in their show models. Something like a slightly different waist made for a somewhat different looking character. In a toy though... I probably wouldn't have noticed. That little extra attention to detail is appreciated. Ratchet retains the dual pistols Ironhide was packing, they both used them. Ratchet is sporting a show accurate deco that really pops on this toy. Of course the Red Cross markings on his shoulders have been replaced with the Autobot variation seen in recent toys for legal reasons. Like Ironhide before, this is my favorite figure of Ratchet to date. As a legacy character, he gets plenty of updates. This one, however, is special. It feels like a much more premium figure than it should for a standard retail release. That's a good thing and this is a good toy.

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.

Frenzy (Red) (Studio Series/Core Class)

I've never been  a stickler for which of the Decepticon tapes is which. RIRFIB, FIRRIB... whatever. I've always taken whichever is whomever depending on how they are being presented at the time. Not to mention, whichever the red one is supposed to be in any incarnation is black. There's about as much red  if I got my thighs and shoulders sunburned at the beach. Regardless, in the cartoons, Frenzy is normally the black and red one with the toys being opposite. This is a Studio Series 86 toy, which represents Frenzy as he appeared in the 1986 animated movie. So that's that. I unfortunately never got the Rumble that came out last year (dammit), so this is my first time with the mold. It's a fun little toy that I was overjoyed to find among the Christmas gifts from my wife.

Even for a Core Class, Frenzy is TINY. That's to be expected considering his cassette alt mode. Said alt mode is fully compatible with Siege Soundwave. Frenzy comes with snap on arm pile drivers and signature Thruster Guns. The guns can be held or worn on his back, almost identically the G1 toy. Frenzy is VERY similar to his G1 toy, but smaller. It's pretty neat. He has the expected amount of articulation aside from the elbows. Transformation is pretty easily and similar to other variations of this idea. For the most part Frenzy is fairly screen accurate with his sculpting and colors being almost perfect. I say almost as there's only so close a working Transformer is going to get to the cartoon model... especially for $10. I'd imagine Microman fans would like this toy too as it's very similar to the original Micro Cassette Robo Micross. Frenzy is a neat figure and a good representation of his G1 cartoon self. The tiny size is hard to resist and the pile drivers are neat. I've always had a soft spot for the cassettes, especially the initial batch. Not to mention being a Core Class, I was destined to like this toy as is. Though I'd have a hard time believing anyone could not like this little hellion.

Battletrap (Studio Series/Voyager Class)

Rise of the Beasts is certainly a bright spot in recent Transformers for me. One unexpected stand out was Battletrap, the orange Terrorcon who didn't get much focus in media leading into the films release. However, once the movie got rolling, there was this badass villain that I found myself wanting more of. He's a little slim on toy releases for some reason, but today we're looking at the Studio Series toy of him in all it's glory. Battletrap is a Voyager Class figure that turns from spike covered robot bruiser to a somewhat rustic looking tow truck. There's some great character design going on, it's a shame he was just in the background for the most part. 

Battletrap's tow hook can be used as a melee weapon as it's kibble is a part of his arms. This can also be done with his wrecking ball. I do wish he had more in the line of weapons. You could really see him carrying a battle axe, hammer, or some crude rifle. In fact one of my only complaints about this toy is those arms. They just don't look right to me and that kibble doesn't help. The other complaint is transformation was rather difficult for me. Admittedly, I could have been just having a bad day or clumsy hands... but he just didn't want to go together right. Those arms I spoke of earlier were part of that. That's really a shame because he's such a cool looking character and this is a really nice looking toy outside of those issues. 

I REALLY like the way Battletrap looks. There's some visual cues reminiscent of Kamen Rider Zero-One that goes well with the more brutal looks of live action Transformers villain designs. Orange is one of my favorite colors and it plays so well with black. Of course he works just right for a Halloween time post here on the site. I also like the older GMC pickup truck used. The movie takes place in 1994, but the truck looks to be a late 70's model. Being a work truck, it would normally be an older model and seeing one of it's year wasn't out of the norm around that time. I feel that's more realistic than the out of touch decisions you normally see in movies. In vehicle mode, Battletrap looks all too familiar thanks to the vehicles I was accustomed to seeing my family members from my fathers more rural side of the family drive.

In all Battletrap is pretty great despite a few problems I had. It's hard for me not to like him thanks to all the things mentioned above. Just a great looking robot and a cool character. I really wish he got more character time and the character was a little more fleshed out. That's one thing I liked about the 2007 robots, they got another life in assorted media. I could see Battletrap in some anime really causing a problem. Though with his name being reused from a classic character, he'd probably be called something else. Honestly I wish he would have been Big Hoss. Unfortunately, Battletrap so far only has two toys, and the other is an Ironhide repaint. I'd love to have seen him in Beast Alliance. 

Cheetor (Studios Series/Voyager)

While the prior Cheetor toys from Rise of the Beasts have been more in line with his classic design, the Studio Series release has our favorite cool cat in his new movie looks. Like I've said before, Cheetor is one of my favorite Transformers characters. It's going to be hard to be impartial with this one, and to be honest, I love this toy. I'm going to gush. This is a good, solid, figure and great representation of Cheetor's movie appearance. He's a Voyager class figure. That seems a little large for a character who's normally in the Deluxe range, but it's nice having this larger toy. The Maximals size up to regular Transformers in the movies, so it's not too odd. Not to mention, with his movie looks...it just fits. I can't believe I'm comparing this with toys like Clench or Stalker... but the larger size feels super appropriate here.

Cheetor turns into a cheetah of course. As with the case with the other movie beast warriors, it's a techno organic cheetah. If I were to compare it with anything, this Cheetor looks like a cross between his Transmetal and Beast Machines design with a dose of late Euro G1/G2. It's a mix of design cues that somehow just works. If I had any complaints, I wish the yellow was a little more varied. Cheetor is a somewhat metallic Dijon mustard that works, but I'd have preferred something different. The colors are a little darker than normal because movie, but I feel like there was other dark yellows that would have worked better. It's not a deal breaker at all, just a slight nit pick. 

Transformation is a breeze, and kinda works exactly how you'd expect. I do really appreciate the fact that his weapon doesn't form from the beast mode tail. Tail weapons are pretty standard for beast type toys, so it's really refreshing then they're not. Cheetor's spear splits in half and can be held as a whole or in halves. It also mounts on his back in both modes. That's not a big feature or anything... but I feel like that really adds to his look. Since his arms are made from the cheetahs front legs, the claws can either fold out of the way, or over the hand as a melee weapon. For some reason this reminds me of the claw gimmick from Supreme Cheetor. Not his most popular figure, but hey... this one is much better!