Bumblebee (Devastation) [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

Transformers: Devastation was one of those games that came in hot, got a ton of fanfare, and then kind of slipped into obscurity. Lately it’s been getting a bit more attention again, and I’m pretty happy to see that version of Bumblebee finally get a toy.

Admittedly, it’s still your standard Bumblebee at its core—but I like this variation a lot.

Instead of the classic VW Bug, he’s got that sporty hatchback look, which I’ve always felt was a great modern equivalent. Add in the cell-shaded style deco, and it ends up being a pretty slick take on a familiar design.

A big part of why I like this one is how much it resembles the 2006 Transformers Classics Bumblebee, which served as a base for his design in the game. Even 20 years later, Classics is still a high point for me, so that connection goes a long way.

I initially thought this might be a retool of the Studio Series 86 Bumblebee, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. In robot mode, he’s armed with twin blasters like in the game, along with a larger vehicle-mode blaster mounted on his back. It gives him a much more aggressive look than you’d normally expect from a “kid appeal” character.

Transformation is pretty straightforward, though some of the parts fit a bit tight. Be careful when folding the head into place—I’ve seen reports that the molded copyright info can scrape the paint on his nose.

In vehicle mode, he turns into a clean little hatchback. The large blaster mounts on the roof, with the smaller ones on the sides for a bit of vehicular combat flair.

Overall, this is a simple, solid figure. Good articulation, decent firepower, and a really nice-looking alt mode. The cel-shaded deco does a lot of the heavy lifting, and I’m just happy to have a strong take on Bumblebee from a game that deserves a little more love.

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?

Gamer Edition Ironhide [Studio Series/Voyager Class]

Along with the Age of the Primes deluxes I had been talking about, I had grabbed some Studio Series that I had meant to post about a little while back and just completely forgot about. Admittedly, I don't cover every toy I buy, but like to get a good range in. Gamer Edition Ironhide joins the other War for Cybertron figures in Studio Series. As you'd expect he's a repaint and retool of Ratchet, whose toy I liked a lot.

It's probably no surprise then that I'm fond of Ironhide as well, but we should get into the differences first. I do admit, this version makes me think of the Doomslayer (the newer incarnation of the Doom Guy) and that flavors my opinion some. You all know I love to play Doom. It's funny, the similarities to games like Gears of War was an early criticism of the War for Cybertron games within the Transformers fan base. I guess opinions may vary.

In robot mode, the obvious difference is in the colors and new head sculpt. There's also some other new parts that may not be as instantly recognizable. He's got new shoulders, chest, and a new EMP shotgun weapon. I didn't notices the shoulders at first, but they are indeed different. That feels like a little extra effort that could have probably been skipped, but... Whose going to complain about extra effort? Like Rathcet, Ironhide's right forearm can be removed to attach his gun to match the game appearances. He can also just hold it, which I'm more of a fan of. If you so choose to use the gimmick, the arm can store in his robot backpack as can the gun. The axe is the same as before and can be held by both hands. Ironhide looks pretty sharp in robot mode and is very well articulated wielding his weapons in any badass pose you'd want to put him in.

Transformation is my only complaint with this toy. While I don't remember any trouble with Ratchet, Ironhide gave me a little. Those new shoulders combined with some new vehicle mode back panels proved to be a little too fiddly for my liking. There is some panel forming which may not be everyone's cup of tea, but when done well, I generally don't take any issue. The new parts didn't seem to work as smooth as the existing parts did with Ratchet. Considering these parts are usually included at design time, I'm thinking it's possibly a symptom of mold usage. He transforms the same as Ratchet, it just didn't seem to fit into place as well. That was frustrating.

Once transformed, vehicle mode looks great! While I normally like Ratchet more than Ironhide, this Cybertronian Tactical vehicle seems like a better fit for Ironhide and it looks great in his colors. Like I mentioned above, there's new vehicle mode back panels that I honestly didn't notice initially like the shoulders. Once again, I'm not complaining about the extra effort that went into the toy even though they gave me a little trouble in the transform. Thanks to the new robot mode chest, the vehicles bumper is also slightly different. It's just a neat looking alt mode that looks even better in these colors. The EMP Shotgun can store on the backside, while the axe forms a cannon of sorts on the roof. If you didn't get those back panels just right, the axe won't connect right. Be sure everything clicks into place. Ironnhide looks great in both modes, and despite some annoyance during transformation, I really like this toy. It just looks awesome, you know?

Constructicon Scrapper [Studio Series/Voyager Class]

The Constructicons are one of those eternally cool teams in Transformers. I don't know if it's because they were the first combiner team or what... but I love them too. Being the leader of the group, it's only appropriate that Scrapper be the first one of the new Studio Series 86 set to be released. He was among the group of toys I bought a while back that had been completely forgotten about and it's good to get around to them. I'm hoping to not have any trouble completing the set as there's just something special about Devastator.

Scrapper is a Voyager Class like the rest of the team (I think), though he's about the size of a Deluxe. The Voyager designation was due to the extra jointing in Combiner limb mode. So basically, Devastator will be extra poseable compared to other Combiners who tend to just stand there and maybe have a raised arm. Admittedly being charged more for extra joints feels a little fishy, especially thinking of old Beast Wars or Robots in Disguise 2001 toys that were much more articulated at a much lower cost. Times are different I guess... and a little poopy.

I often see some folks complaining that Generations toys (Studio Series is part of Generations too) are basically the G1 toys with more joints. That's a good thing in my eyes, so I don't see the problem. Not to mention, the same people with that complaint love Missing Link. Maybe they're just stupid. While Studio Series 86 is supposed to be more show accurate, that's not an issue with the Constructicons whose individual members were pretty toy accurate on the show. This toy is a happy middle ground of that as Scrapper manages to look both like his TV appearance and original toy. That's awesome, there's just something about those old blocky designs I love. With Scrapper you've got this well articulated chonky boi who looks like he did in the original Transformers movie. What's not to love? Scrapper comes with his laser pistol as well as Devastator's Solar Energy Beam Rifle. Devastator's gun can be broken up into two smaller guns that can be held by Scrapper. His pistol even fits into one. When you're using guns that big, might as well be flippant with a little flair.

Transformation to bulldozer mode is easy. Everything just goes into place without any fuss. This is one of those toys you can transform just by looking at it. Awesome. The two halves of the Solar Energy Rifle can attach to his sides in vehicle mode. The wings from Devastator's breastplate can fit on Scrappers sides as well if you want to recreate the look of the original toy. I always liked the way it looked when the combiner parts were connected to the alt modes back then. Scrapper is the only member of this set I have as of this writing, so I can't judge his combiner mode form at this time fairly. As a stand alone toy however, I really like him. Both modes are solid. He looks both like he did on TV and in original toy form. There's plenty of articulation and so much satisfying chonky robot fun. Scrapper, you're alright.

Devastation Optimus Prime [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

Transformers: Devastation was a pretty fun game and now that video game depictions are included in Studio Series, I'm glad to see it included. Admittedly I'm mostly glad to see it included for the character designs than the game itself. They had an almost Studio Ox look to them that I loved and feel like a counter part to the Studio Series 86 series I've been enjoying greatly. I am curious as to why the Devastation figures aren't given the 'Gamer Edition' title like the War for Cyberetron ones were, but I guess this is an easy way to keep them separated.

After all, there's multiple versions of the same character as a gamer edition in Studio Series is obviously going to be confusing. I've been critical of the naming in Transformers, so an attempt to stay simple it is appreciated. Once again, Devastation was a fun game, and the designs make for some nice looking figures. Especially with the cell shaded look from the game being carried over. I love cell shading, it's so pretty.

This Optimus has the unfortunate luck of coming out not long after the more higher end Commander Class Studio Series Optimus Prime, Missing Link Optimus Prime, and even the same price class Legacy Deluxe G1 Optimus Prime. After those toys meant to celebrate the 40th Anniversary, a regular figure is going to get some unfair comparison. Fortunately enough time has passed since those toys that I can look at it with some fresh eyes and appreciate it on it's own merits. Of course when it was announced, I was originally excited for it as I think it resembles a cab mode Ginrai/Powermaster Optimus Prime. That combined with that Studio Ox resemblance and I was sold right off the bat. In robot mode, this is a pretty great toy.

Lot's of articulation and the design just looks great. I appreciate that he has full smoke stacks. Toy safety laws usually have lead to the shortening of the stacks in the past 20 or so years. Obviously if it makes things safer for a child, I'm not taking any issue with it, but it is nice to see a full set. They are removable and look to be the right size to be safe if swallowed. Optimus also has a removable Matrix of Leadership in his chest. I'll never get tired of this gimmick no matter how many times its done. It's unpainted and the same color as the smoke stacks, so I assume they're molded from the same sprue. The Matrix cannot be held unfortunately, that's probably going to be an issue for someone I'm sure. While Optimus doesn't have his trademark Ion Blaster, he does have his Energy Axe. It has a molded in swoosh effect to resemble being swung in the game. It's a neat weapon. 

Transformation is pretty easy and... pretty much the same as other deluxe sized Optimus's. I guess there's no reason to overly complicate it. The truck is fine, though there's no ignoring the cab portion looking a little small compared to the rest of the truck. If there was a trailer, it'd probably look more proportionate. It doesn't bother me, but I'm sure that it gets under the skin of others.

Admittedly I mainly wanted the toy for the robot mode, so there's that. The energy axe can store on the area of the truck the trailer would fit over. I have no clue what that's called. Overall this is a pretty decent Optimus Prime toy. I was happy to see it in my Easter Basket from the Mrs. and have enjoyed it thoroughly. It's a good toy and it looks great. Once again, I really like it's overall visual. I also like Optimus Prime toys, he's a cool looking robot. Here's looking forward to the other Devatration figures.

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.

Gamer Edition Ratchet [Studio Series/Voyager Class]

One of the earlier posts this year was a Ratchet toy, so I suppose it's only fitting that one of the last posts of the year would also be a Ratchet toy. As the 40th Anniversary year comes to a close, it feels super appropriate to me that Ratchet makes an appearance. I've mentioned it before, but those older issues of the G1 Marvel comic where Ratchet took a starring role have always stood out and endeared the character to me. This specific figure of Ratchet represents him as he appears in the War for Cybertron video game. As the game is set during the early days of the war, Ratchet has a Cybertronian based design. That's something I've always gravitated towards in Transformers, I love those creative takes on the characters. Ratchet looks badass, which was a hallmark of those games. Everything and everyone was just awesome looking.

Ratchet is a Voyager Class figure and the larger build suits his bulky design. These War for Cybertron Studio Series figures have featured a removable arm to mount the weapons on in a way that mirrors the game. That's present here, but in a pleasant twist, Ratchet can forgo that gimmick and just hold his 'Energon Repair Ray' in a more traditional way. Or the gun can be stored on his back in case he wants to hold his battle axe with both hands. Considering how big it is, I understand. Fortunately Ratchet is articulated very well and can assume whatever pose you'd like to put him in. Well, I think he can anyway. Transformation is pretty easy and it doesn't take too long to get from robot to Cybertronian Medical Vehicle form. It's definitely not an ambulance, but I can see him rushing to the front of a battleground to administer some first aid in this form. It looks cool and I love the white and red colors on this design. His weapons store on the vehicle nicely and in all is a satisfying little car-like thing.

Ratchet is one of those characters who gets a lot of toys and that's ok. The main cast in a long running series tends to get the most attention. The War for Cybertron games were a lot of fun and spawned some great toys. These more recent Gamer Edition Studio Series figures are much more screen accurate and have a premium feel. Ratchet comes off great here and looks amazing. I love the more sci fi look of the toy and really enjoy the colors on the design. The figure is well articulated and the vehicle is cool. It's hard for me to find anything about this toy that I don't like. Nice things are nice.

Gamer Edition Bumblebee [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

Transformers: Reactivate is a video game that will allegedly come out at some point. That point is probably never, but allegedly should come out at some point maybe. Fortunately Hasbro released figures based on the game on a time table that possibly included a time that the game was promised to come out... but didn't. The figures were initially released in two packs that I passed on, but are now also being released as Gamer Edition Studio Series. I decided to get them now, because they look cool... despite being tied to vaporware. Bumblebee takes a somewhat new look at the classic character as he might have appeared in the game if it ever comes out. It's not going to, but if it did, this is what he'd look like. Maybe. Part of me thinks in an alternate universe, this could have been a live action movie design for Bumblebee.

Bumblebee is a realistic sci fi take on his classic look that looks pretty neat even with those tiny pistols he's packing. Those same pistols can be mounted on his shoulders as well. Robot mode is fairly articulated and looks bigger in pictures than in real life. I say this because I swore it was a larger toy prior to getting one. Alt mode is a sporty dune buggy type vehicle. I like this quite a bit. It manages to resemble the classic Volkswagen vehicle form while being something else. This is a completely solid alternative to the Bug. I recall thinking Bumblebee should be a dune buggy before and having one is great. It just works. Transformation isn't terrible hard, but is pretty involved. There's a few parts you have to really work into place and it's not clear how to do so until you've got it. Once transformed it's a solid car and those guns I spoke about earlier can either store in his undercarriage or mount on his hood (it's the same joints as the shoulders in robot mode). I liked this toy more than I thought I would. It's been funny laughing at the games failure to launch and the fact that there's figures from a game that might never see the light of day. Though the designs are cool and I'm looking forward to getting the others when they find their way out in Studio Series.

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.