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Post by fenris72 on Jan 25, 2010 10:04:27 GMT -5
Soundwave: Destron Communicator Quote: "Cries and Screams are Music to my Ears" Designed by: Shinji Aramaki Content:#1 Soundwave "micro cassette" player #2 "batteries" (one is spring powered) #1 back cover/clip #3 har.p.o.on. like missiles #1 Buzzsaw or Rumble (depending on where you got him) #1 label sheet Poses:The Rant:Scientist(a retcon), blackmailer, opportunist, boot licker and nerd. Said to be the power behind the Decepticon throne. This guy ranks about second to the most famous G1 characters of all time. Great characterization by Sunbow/Marvel. Especially the vocoder effect (which Michael Bay flagrantly omitted ) Back to the fig. My review is based on the 1985 Euro version. As in the one with a slightly different face sculpt from the Soundblaster mold. Not to mention his buttons are also molded differently, plus a different mechanism on his chest chamber. His face design is so bad@ss. That being said, Hasbro used it as the basis for the Decepticon sigil. One more thing, you will notice that I have also applied some custom labels on Soundwave to make him a bit "anime" accurate so please don't be surprised to have a slightly differently looking product. Soundwave was advanced for his time. For a standing brick, I count 9 points of articulation (except that his knees do it in reverse). You want bling? Well he's got them. His simulated batteries turn to one concussion shoulder canon and a harp.o.on. launcher (the launch mechanism of the recent Hasbro versions have been gutted) and a clip holder/back cover if you want to simulate the "walkman effect". Early Japanese versions had a simulated earphone accessory ( oh the Japanese...........it all boils down to presentation ) Aside from that did I mention he's got die-cast parts? 2 on his shoulders, 2 on his thighs and 2 more on his black feet. My version hasn't aged smoothly though (the black paint has gotten a lot of chipping ). Again, the recent Universe and Hasbro release aren't painted so well and good. Over all Soundwave is a real treasure lo this past 2 decades. Shinji Aramaki really did number on him. As in bad@ss in badness. Or should that honor be given to the writers of the show? Rating:Fun Factor: 5/5 (especially when used in conjunction with his casseticons.) Fragility: 1 being uber fragile with 5 being tough, he is surprisingly tough so 5/5 Availability: Good luck again.............he's always sold out regardless of whatever version you get. Coming next: Rumble is Black and Frenzy is Blue............... No Transformer was ever harmed in the making of this review (that's why they're all presented in robot mode)
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Post by fenris72 on Jan 25, 2010 10:05:34 GMT -5
G1 Cybertron Spy: MIrage Beginning of my walk through nostalgia..................G1 series really is something else. Blocky, zero articulation and down right expensive. Quote:" Who and what I am I hide from the enemy" Transforms into: F-1 Race car Accessories: Electro disruptor shoulder gun and armor piercing dart gun + 3 missiles Note: Posting only robot mode images due to fragility of my 20 years + old figs. (see the rub symbol) Pose at all anglesMirage's blingTakara logoThe Rant:Remember the fight in Hoover Dam?(oopsie wrong generation) Sherman dam where this kick @ss bot fought 2 seekers and won? What about the way he sabotaged Nemesis 2? Or got the Insecticons bashing the Decepticons for the electro cell? Or even his faking "Dragstrip's appearance in "Masquerade"? Anyway enough of the P.R. Mirage is one of the fan fav bots of G1 who had a very complex characterization (which we rarely see now in todays shows) More like the "Green Arrow" of the Autobots. He comes from a rich background, loves the good life and somewhat unsure of the cause he fights in. But fight for the cause he does............... Transforming into an F-1 racer (even sporting it's Cigar themed sponsor logo...............poor Malbor Wheeljack hehehe) we get to see him first in the G1 shows opening credits. Coming in navy blue and white with a face sculpt looking like an Egyptian warrior and decked with every tf collectors' nightmare..........chrome and white plastic (btw thank Primus mine hasn't shown any yellowing yet) plus with an uber heavy die-cast metal base. That hold over btw from the "diaclone series" allowed Mirage to interface with Convoy's/Optimus Prime Roller/Buggy launcher. Speaking of which, need I mention that the 1984 Season one deluxe cars were all rolling on rubber tires? Who makes ruber tires thses days? Binaltech/Alternators, Masterpiece and Alternity. Besides that...........nothing anymore (if you don't include Encore Anyway one design flaw I have to warn about for Mirage owners is the swivel connector at his hip. Said to be easily breakable and all that. Rating: Throw out all references of articulation okay Fun Factor: 5/5 Nostalgia: 5/5 Fragility: 4/5 (Meaning very fragile at his hips) Availability:Good luck finding an original (Mine btw seems to be the Euro version by MB as in Milton Bradley)
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Post by emerje on Jan 25, 2010 18:03:44 GMT -5
My version hasn't aged smoothly though (the black paint has gotten a lot of chipping ). Again, the recent Universe and Hasbro release aren't painted so well and good. Don't worry, the feet aren't painted black so yours isn't suffering from wear there. What you're seeing is oxidization of the bare diecast which is completely normal and appears on all Soundwaves, new and old, including reissues and Ravage's legs. Nice reviews. It always amazes me to see someone famous like Shinji Aramaki listed as a toy designer. A lot of big names in the business got their start doing jobs like this that would seem to be beneath them today. Emerje
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Post by fenris72 on Jan 26, 2010 5:32:16 GMT -5
Thanks for the clarification bro'
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Post by fenris72 on Jan 26, 2010 5:33:07 GMT -5
Bumble B/Bumble Function: Espionage Quote:: "The least likely can be the most dangerous" The rant:Who couldn't forget the first two transformers ever to be exposed to our young and innocent minds back in 1984? Remember.............Wheeljack and Bumble B scrounging for energon in the most hard to find places? And boy was I disappointed when I first purchase my Bumble B because................. he didn't look at all like his animated version Ever since then it was a great mystery until the advent of the Internet where all the explanation about how Floro Dery "humanized" their faces etc. Who wouldn't like Bumble B? He was cute, friendly, always clumsy(he sucked at espionage his current function) but had an X-factor that clicked with all of us (heck even now, in Bay's movie, Bumble B almost eclipse Optimus in screen time). This review btw is based on the original 1985 G1 version (which also includes Takara's TFC edition and Encore) Beginning from his design, this "fender bending beetle" to quote "Buster" Witwicky was based on one of Takara's pre TF line Microchange series. More in synch with Choro-Q (their wheels are compatible btw), all he lacks are the motorized pull back action. Anyway back to the face design. It took Don Figueroa to "explain" that the original face is actually a "battle mask"that he puts on prior to battle (See War Within #6 and MTMTE#4 and #6) Thankfully, Takara released the "anime" face sculpt back in 2004 for the TFC mini-bot set. * Please note: I applied my own "blue" color optics, added black paint applications on the rear fender and reprolabels' recreation of Bumble B's chest patterns on his box pic. Aside from that, he is virtually identical to his 1984 release (The 1984 and G2 chrome release btw had "Dunlop" rubber tires) Also note that the two latest incarnation of Bumble B, his rub symbol is located on the back of the head with the propeller like pattern removed. See the difference? (the TFC version is prone to paint chipping) The latest version of the G1 Bumble B as presented in the Encore version, he looks more "realistic" in a sense that he's got chromed fenders, painted headlights and this time stamp graphed blue optics. His autobot symbol too is stamped graphed. Overall, even for his time, he was very high tech . A very simple transformation sequence (why IDW changed his transform mode is beyond me ) of a Volkwagon bug to a robot........priceless. One thing I noticed though, my G1 1985 version is as loose as heck. It was like that way back then when I purchased him so maybe the mold was already degrading(?) Bumble B need not be high tech to enjoy. His design though simple is really well kid friendly. Maybe that's why we all love him. Maybe once I get Alternity Bumble I might change my mind .........get him now as in the Encore version(and don't throw away his other mini-bot colleagues, they also have feelings you know ) Rating:Fun factor: 5/5 Nostalgia: 5/5 (Rotf, eat your heart out!) Fragility: 3/5 (arms are the weak point and his die-cast back paint is prone to chipping Availability: Anime face version is really HTF, beware of K.O's of the 1984 version
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Post by fenris72 on Jan 27, 2010 9:14:45 GMT -5
Destron Bad Boys Rumble and Frenzy Rumble is black while Frenzy is blue or is it the other way around? This review is in honor of Encore#19. I thank Primus with all my spark for even considering the release of this HTF figs. Quote:"Sow panic and surrender will bloom" Frenzy "Destroy what's below and what's above will follow" Rumble Contents:# 2 micro cassette Rumble and Frenzy # 2 clear cassette case # 2 pairs of winged laser rifles Background:Two of the most meanest, baddest punks in the destron army. Fiercely loyal to the Emperor of Destruction, these two have harmed many an autobot who underestimated them for their short stature. In this review I will refer to their figure name/color reference and not to the switcheroo in the anime. Fyi my figs actually represent two generations............my Frenzy is a Takara vintage while Rumble is the latest "re-issue" the figs:Rumble is the one on the right while Frenzy is to the leftFrenzy full body shotRumble full body shotThe transition of the past two decades have been very kind to the casseticon mold. Unlike Eject/Rewind/Rosanna/Flipside which have uber defects, this one is null. Though the gloss finish of Frenzy isn't as evident as that of Rumble, the molding is fine and smooth Rumble's torsoFrenzy's torso*please note, I have applied some custom "gold" labels on frenzy to make him look like his box photosThe original Frenzy didn't have any sigils on him. Encore Rumble on the other hand has metalized sigils (Eject/Rewind were stamp graphed) One horror for us vintage owners of the casseticon bad boys were the "cassette" label sheets applied, post transformation, they just fall apart Encore did away with that See the shin labels? Frenzy had labels, Rumble...stamp graphed (Btw, both have die-cast feet) So this time no danger of the labels getting ripped One nasty wrinkle on that shift is that Rumble's thigh labels were removed (I applied custom labels) Frenzy's on the other hand......... Both share the "silver "colored wing laser rifles. Wished it was gold for frenzy though, to distinguish him from his brother as seen in his box art. The Rant:In this day and age, them microcassetes seem obsolete but waaaaaaay back in the 80's, everyone was pining for one. Heck we had to be thankful to be able to purchase the K.O. Micros version. Enjoyable as they were, constant transformation made them all loose and woobly (my frenzy in fact is quite loose despite my transforming him only twice in it's lifetime). The Encore version on the other hand is veryyyyyyyy tight (both the head and legs). And of course, those d@mn labels kept on falling off. Now, the labels don't fall but Takara dropped the thigh labels la...........well you win some and you loose some. Just like their Cybertron foes, both are back heavy and prone to falling, what was nice with Eject/Rewind, you could adjust their feet outward for more balance, this one....nadahhh. Mass shifting aside, these two are one of my fan faves, especially how they massacred the english language ("unchrasimatic" hehehe) Chalk it to Marvel/Sunbow's excellent character development for the show). I highly recommend getting them while supply lasts. IIRC The Eject/Rewind combo is all sold out and every fence sitter are now banging their sorry heads on the wall. Rating:Fun Factor: 5/5 Nostalgia: 5/5 (these guys can kick ROTF's robo@ss anytime Fragility: 2/5 for the vintage......3/5 for Encore Availability:: 5/5 while supply last (Encore that is)
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Post by fenris72 on Jan 29, 2010 4:02:59 GMT -5
Cybertron Bad Boys Sideswipe and Sunstreaker Quote:Sideswipe:"I don't break rules;I bend them...a lot" Sunstreaker:"You can't beat the best" Contents:Sideswipe aka Lambor (Sideswipe sounds better....SS as initials in their "twins" nature.) : Lamborghini Countach "Super car" Sideswipe : #3 "Flare" missiles : #1 shoulder mounted flare gun launcher : #1 photon rifle Sunstreaker : Lamborghini Countach custom super car Sunstreaker :#2 shoulder missiles :#2 fists :#3 electron pulse missiles Background:If Rumble and Frenzy are the Destron bad boys, well the Cybertrons too have their own "Bad boys". Their bio indicated they were twins......as in unidentical twins (at least in robot mode) In the anime, I remember seeing the two recklessly charging up against the Destrons with their "jet judo". What about their brush against the Insectrons? Or how Sunstreaker knocked out one of the Seeker pursuers of Trailbreaker in the MTMTE pilot episode? Anyway enough of the nostalgia.....................Sideswipe and Sunstreaker. (Please note: Sidesipe is the Takara version while Sunstreaker is the USA version...........the Japanese version was released as a versus pack with Skids and Buzzsaw) Side by sideAt all sides: Sideswipe the good natured trouble seeker Face shotFlare missileHis chest (note the copyright infringing logo)Lamborghini radialsHis shinsHis soles (copyright infr....you get my point) Sunstreaker The egoistic/sociopath at all anglesFace shot (He is handsome for a 'bot)Chest shotDetails: "shoulder missiles"his "matrix chamber"...........diaclone influencesShouldersPulse missiles (the Japanese version could actually launch) his shins his feet Brother's fight together! The Rant:G1 Season one deluxe cars were just that, 'bots with car parts sticking out. But boy, do they kick @ss or what? Die-cast and copyright infringing labels notwithstanding........the details were outstanding by 80's standards. Transformation were simple , a twist here, pivot there and voila instant robot warrior. In Sideswipe's case though, he looked kind of weird with the rear part of his legs looking like well the back of a car. Sunstreaker on the other hand, despite the foot basically the front part of the car looked more, well robotic.....proportioned. Another thing that kind of bothered me were their bios. Sideswipe was said to have "pile drivers" for hands and is equipped with a "rocket pack". Well, he don't look like he had any on. "rocket pack?" Sunstreaker on the other hand is said to be equipped with a pulse rifle. Well, no rifle here. Just as the great tech spec switcheroo on Starscream and Skywarp and the never ending debate of Rumble and Frenzy, some quarters indicate that there was another mix up between these two. (Take a look at Sunstreakers' shoulders. It's red, a hold over from his diaclone incarnation (another was a black and white fire chief custom Countach).............he could have been red for all we know........... Anyway it must have been for the best that is. I just can't imagine Sunstreaker looking otherwise, same as Sideswipe, again I blame Marvel/Sunbow for their excellent character development of the two (for it's time bro's for it's time...... ) Despite being stellar pieces of mid 80's pop culture, this figs are really showing their age. Sideswipe and Sunstreakers' paint has started to chip and the horror yellow plastic syndrome on Sideswipe(same with Red Alert but that is for another review) The rubber tires though are still whole thank Primus. Fault's aside (they can't change their nature of die-cast, white ABS/PVC plastic ) these boys really gave me many an enjoyable time in recreating their classic fight scenes. Who would have know, the transform mode already was great, their robot mode was even more awesome! Rating: Nostalgia: 5/5 Fun factor: 5/5 Fragility: 5/5 (tough alright but paint chipping and yellowing is a nightmare Availability: 2/5 (TFC series anyway....originals are HTF)
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Post by southpawdragon on Jan 29, 2010 4:19:05 GMT -5
great reviews .. and thanks for keeping it on one thread so its easier to survey
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Post by fenris72 on Jan 30, 2010 23:08:14 GMT -5
Thanks for the kind words. More to come.
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Post by fenris72 on Jan 30, 2010 23:19:58 GMT -5
G-1 Devastator(high -end K.O.) In honor of the "gorilla" like mech of the upcoming movie, I am presenting this review of the original (sort off) D-man himself. Remember that booming voice in Transformers: the Movie? The set(based on the USA gift set so long ago) that I couldn't resist getting. Box: G1 art style complete with oh so environmentally friendly styrofoam A lot of spelling errors(intentional?) in the box(mostly in the instruction manual) Contents: 6 "Contructicons" 1 tech spec decoder Accessories(fists, drills,missiles,guns,etc) 2 big label sheets 6 rub signs Description: Mold: a near perfect copy of the original, smooth and not cruddy compared the G2 re-issue which was a pack of sh#t mold wise. In fact, I believe the manufacturers used the "Diaclone" mold for Longhaul. Why you may ask?, Checked the numerous pics and held an orig G1 version, the front fender has a rectangular hole which should have supported his "V" wing chest guard. Colors are a cool "avocado" green, though certain parts (Scavenger's steam shovel, Scrapper's and Bonecrusher's roof, Hook's hook and Longhaul's hip guard and "missiles") are a tad bit lighter avocado yellow. His purple is neat (comparing Mixmaster's chest though, my orig japanese version had his chest painted over with a glossy purple, this version), this version, all are just molded purple. Die-cast: Yes(!) for Hook and Scavenger Chrome: smooth and shiny( unlike the G2 re-isse which was again a POS!) Front view: Back view: Right view: Left view: Close up: Accesories: Everything fits right. Though his missile/fist holders tend to fire a lot. Now the negatives: Scavenger's foot is loose.....as in very. Not sure if it's just in my version Label sheet a mix bag. Let me elaborate, the original Transformers, some labels are already applied, this one...................nada! So it is provided separately and printed on a metallic like label, trouble is, not all are printed on this label. Two pieces (one on Hook and Longhaul) are printed on uber cheapo paper label The label sheet for each individual 'cons are also printed on this cruddy label(the originals are printed on a metallic type sheet.) Why the company didn't print it on the same type of paper is beyond me........... Paint apps: Spot on and very neat, no smudging on his face. Trademark: The made in Japan/Takara stamp are non existent on some of the 'cons, only the "Hasbro" prints. Overall, should we buy it? A knock-off? The quality is really good, if you aren't familiar with this unit, you'd be hard pressed to tell the difference (besides the box which has a different print quality) The molds are really neat, not like the KO's found in various Malls Price? A C9 Devastator would cost around US$ 200.00( ? )(you're not event sure if the quality of the plastic which might break due to aging) so this is the next best thing to the real one (so long as you don't pull a fast one and sell it as an original) Overall(labels aside ) satisfaction 4/5. Get one if you don't have one or at least until Takara decides to release one.
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Post by fenris72 on Jan 30, 2010 23:24:01 GMT -5
Blaster/Broadcasts' pose (Eject,Rewind,Rosanna and Flipside) Finally o finally, Takara has decided to release the official Eject and Rewind in their original colors.........End of Review Contents: Box Blister case 4 bio cards 4 clear cassette cases 4 Cybertron chromed weapons 4 Destron chromed weapons 4 transformer cassettes 1 instruction manual Eject/Rewind: Basically the same (like Rosanna/Flipsides). very simple transformations with nary a label sheet complementing its robot mode (Rumble/Frenzy has simulated shin guards FYI) Unlike the classic 80's versions (which came with both stamp marked labels and adhesive labels) this version comes with adhesive pseudo labels plus a tiny Cybertron symbol on the groin The faces are painted red orange (the original was bright orange) plus noticed that the chrome gold markings on their chest is drab not glossy like their weapons or the originals. Also, the chromed weapons are silver without nary a tinge of gold like that of Steeljaw. Just like the casseticons, they are a pain to stand (with the exception of Laserbeak/Buzzsaw) so prepare to pose them at your peril. Unlike the casseticons though, Eject and Rewind "can" bend on their knees.......all in all. I count 8 POA. One thing that sticks out like a sore thumb, mold degradation. it release is quite noticeable especially on Rewind/Ejects thigh section. Looks almost like a knock off, heck the whole plastic structure looks like a knock off. Seriously......Encore #15 for a completist it comes out as a mixed bag (the Jaguar and Buzzsaw component anyway)..........just how much can you milk a mold for Primus' sake?!. IIRC since year 2000, Takara has released like TFC Soundblaster, Soundwave, E-hobby Cobalt sentry, Kiss players and Encore..............so I'm skipping my review on those two Destrons. Eject Rewind (take a look at the mold degradation in his left arm) Duo shot Comparative shots of mold degradation: Rewind's back: Flipside's back: Eject's thighs: Rosanna and Flipside's thighs: (R) (F) Family(?) shot So how do I rate the set: out of Reasons: Ravage/Jaguar and Buzzsaw.....too many versions and the lack of gold on Eject and Rewind's weapons. Plus mold degradation on Eject/Rewind
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Post by fenris72 on Feb 13, 2010 8:53:30 GMT -5
Cybertron Demolition Man:Brawn/Gong Quote: "Might over Microchips" Contents:#1 "Brawn" Range Rover vehicle Background:Again another holdover from the Microchange Takara line, this midget of a fig/vehicle is another stand out fan favorite in the G1 show. There are at least two molds of Brawn (one has a whole face where you detach him at the optics and another where he is detached at his mouth guard). An actual remold of him came in the form of Outback. Small, short (most likely overcompensating) and over powered demolitions expert, he is well respected or feared by the Destron forces. In the episode where Chip Chase was first introduced, Thundercracker acknowledged that without "Prime" or "Brawn" to back you up, he'll make short work of Prowl and Bluestreak (I'm paraphrasing so not be too OC mr. you know who......... ) In Fire in the Mountain (he had the "balls" to actually use Megatron's fusion canon against him) and in the Anti-matter gun episode, priceless. He also showed some of his softer side in "The Ultimate Doom". It was quite sad that he went into permanent stasis lock in the 1986 Movie. . The scene where he shouted: Brawn: "Megatron!...........Decepticons!" Megatron: "Die Autobots!" Action: transforming + robot pulsing+"Instruments of Destruction" background music Such gratuitous violence had forever seared my psyche. The figure:At all sides Close up (Please note, in the anime he's got a face. Again, the great Don F has made a believable retcon rendering of him in the now defuct DW G1 series...like Bumble B, he is wearing a battle mask.) Vehicle mode The Rant:Please note btw I added some "labels" for more details on my Brawn/Gong figure. One of the most simple to transform of the minibots. This green colored 4wd Range Rover is quite detailed. He has a non detachable spare tire on his roof (another remold of him, Outback actually has a canon attached to the roof but not "backward" compatible). The detail molding of his doors, front chromed grills, rugged tires and another simulated non detachable gas can on his robo butt. Another thing, he is quite tough( unless you willfully pull out his legs and break his chromed hands) just like his animation persona. Brawn, both as a fig and vehicle is quite fun to play with. He is prone to becoming loose over time though. Articulation? A brick in a sense.........this is G1. One weak point I can see in his design (blame Floro Dery for the "humanization portrayal) are his "clawed" chrome hands. I wished if Takara will do a proper Encore of him (not the recent key chains) and give him Outback's hand and give him a real face. Rating:Fun factor: : 5/5 Nostalgia:: 5/5 (if you don't know him, well you've really missed a lot) Fragility: 4/5 tough (except for his robo chromed claws) Availability 2/5 (the key chain re-issue are the only known pieces besides the G1 bootlegs.)
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Post by fenris72 on Feb 13, 2010 8:55:04 GMT -5
Cybertron Space Commander Metal Hawk Contents:#1 "Metalhawk" Space Commander/jet #1 Pretender shell/figure #1 horned helmet #1 titanium saber #1 jet rifle #2 wing guns #1 biocard Background:Mass shifting has always a sore sticking point in transformers lore. How Soundwave,Astrotrain and Megatron continuously flaunt the Laws of Physics is beyond me. But in Masterforce, the japanese writers made it more believable. The USA version had the Pretenders as gigantic humanoids or Monsters under the premise that the former(humanoids) are less threatening than giant robotic beings( yeah sure Mr.Budiansky So in Masterforce, the "pretender" shell actually is a mass shifted human sized version of a 40 foot tall mechanoid. Another thing, this was before Beastwars and how the Transformers have long influenced the course of human civilization was another great retcon. the figurePretender Mode:His armor kind off reminds me of a cross between the Japanese Kamen Rider/Sentai/henshin series (you know all this "transform stuff with their wrist band morphers) Close upHelmet No helmet Note: Unlike the first generation of Cybertron Pretenders, Metal hawk's face is fully rendered in a pinkish flesh tone Weapons:Close upAt all anglesJet modeCybertron mode:Side by side The Rant:He is one of the most hard to find of the Pretenders. Sold exclusively in Japan with a designated C-201. Unlike all other figures in 1988, Metalhawk was an anomaly. He was literally made of die-cast (well half of him was). Quite heavy and very sturdy.........but still a brick . But being a Pretender, he still shared the flaw of the series.........that is, his d@mn plastics are prone to melting...........heck, I'm having trouble keeping his helmet in place because of that same issue. Still, if you managed to watch the horrid Malay dub in StarTv, you'll greatly appreciate the figure together with the show. Recently, as I previously posted,a Wonderfest exclusive transformable resin figure of his was sold. The Rating:Funfactor: 4/5 (Watch the show, appreciate him even more) Nostalgia: 5/5 Same reasons as the above Fragility: 5/5 Very tough (his robot mode that is. Availability: 1/5 Good luck in finding one
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Post by tragichero on Feb 13, 2010 10:57:45 GMT -5
Great review , Fenris72.Will you do the review for Predaking , Sixshot , Black Zarak and Overlord?
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Post by fenris72 on Feb 13, 2010 22:26:49 GMT -5
You're welcome. The first two, well yes eventually, but the other two..............don't own them
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Post by emerje on Feb 14, 2010 15:42:05 GMT -5
Very nice review of Metal Hawk, I've been wanting on of those for years. I really like the inner robot, not just because of the diecast, but also because he easily has one of the most complex transformations. I've never had problems with melting on my pretenders, but the shells do show paint wear easily and the bots have soft plastic, but they're still fun.
Emerje
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Post by fenris72 on Mar 3, 2010 8:41:59 GMT -5
Thanks brother. I was lucky getting one waaaaaaaaaaay back when collecting TFs wasn't dangerous to your health.
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Post by fenris72 on Jul 23, 2010 23:16:00 GMT -5
Thrust: Finally..........a more affordable version of G1 inspired Thrust! Contents: (Please note that I added several destron sigils to cover the "white" ones printed by Hasbro) Jet Mode VTOL robot mode (front) close up face chrome cockpit back functional VTOL blades #1 Thrust (custom F-15) with functional VTOL (Vertical take off and Landing) accessory #2 missile holders #2 machine guns #2 VTOL accessories #1 blister pack #1 box Background: One of the three "cone heads" of G1 , Thrust together with Ramjet were released back in 1985. Sporting different sets of wings(and missiles) from Starscream, Thundercracker and Skywarp, they were rendered a bit differently by Floro Dery, which made owners then transform them with the nosecones standing up. Fast forward 25 years and Hasbro released the classics versions. Unfortunately they never received a mass release (for Dirge and Thrust anyway). Then Takara released their own exclusive versions......again waaaaay expensive. Now we are fortunate that a mass release version has just been re-issued. An odd thing is, it is a virtual carbon copy of the Ganbo version (with the exception of some paint apps and destron sigils). His cockpit by the way is chromed.............an oddity in the international releases. Again as previously mentioned, he's got functional VTOL accessories (it actually spins), not sure if the original 1985 release also was functional. Like the original, his missiles are the default machine guns, which this time, thanks to the shorter wings, allows you to pose him pointing the machine guns without it getting in the way (that is if you pose the wings correctly). PVC/ABS plastic molding is neat and smooth..........no noticeable degradation at all. Machine guns fit well, joints are tight and all.........and no two left feet. Face paint apps is anime accurate.........as in yellow optics(the normal destrons have red optics) and whiteface paint. He's maroon color(it is maroon right?) greatly replicates his original G1 incarnation. One thing I noticed though, his instruction manual have his wings mis transformed( no surprise on how "helpful" the modern instruction manuals are today)........and no more twisty ties(yay!) If I have any complaints, it's the packaging....it .......... well ruins the box once it is opened(can't Hasbro copy henkei's packaging style?) Rating: 4.9 out of 5.0 (nitpicking on the packaging otherwise a real steal for it's price).
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Post by fenris72 on Jul 23, 2010 23:18:37 GMT -5
Piranacon set 2010 Contents: #1 plastic container #1 instruction manual # 6 Seacons # 7 biocards (1 for Piranacon) with a metallic type finish # 4 target master base stands # 4 target master support stands (long thingie) # 4 target master connectors (small square thingie) # 1 Piranacon head # 2 robot fists (with a clickity click locking mechanism) # 2 feet modules # 1 chest plate (with chromed blades) #1 chrome sword # 10 guns Background: Besides Predaking and Bruticus, this bruiser has been re-issued like 5x already. Personally, he ain't one of my most wanted figs (second to Predaking but he grows on you) given he's a 'con with all the horrid colors (he was G2 before his time). But in Masterforce, he was a bad@ss gestalt! Though his limbs more or less functioned as mindless drones. Anyway on to the figure itself. The figure: This review will be for the Piranacon figure itself and I'll gloss over the individual 'bots that make up the team. Snaptrap has this pom pom effect switch on his back for twin guns mounted on his backpack. Switch the peg back and forth and you'll know what I mean. The rest of the beasties that make him up ain't to shabby though. Above average looking mech beasts who share their Scramble City origins (limbs are interchangeable with no specific assignment). I use overbite by the way as the "target master component. One more thing that makes this set a must buy (if you are a hardcore g1 fan and don't own one) Piranacon was never released as a set "complete". Back in the late 1980's, when fan interest was dying and to off set costs, the Piranacon set was sold sans one part (Nautilator for the US version). King Poseidon was complete if I'm not mistaken). Another thing I noticed, the original Overbite was colored violet purple while this one, well pink purple. Snaptrap's head was originally colored black , joints now riveted and not screwed etc etc. so this isn't exactly a carbon copy of the 1988 version but amazingly close. Now the good/ bad news ( view this objectively brothers) 1. Expect a lot of molding degradation. ('nuff said) This is like over 12 years old baring the 5th time it's been released. If it were up to me, I wished it were all smooth and all but hey that's life...........(expected) 2. Pre applied labels (a mixed bag depending on your taste, me I'd prefer applying them (it was quite fun back then). In my unit, the labels were nicely applied anyway. (depends on your preference) 3. Chromed sword (not the BBTS version btw). The original G1 version for both Piranacon/King Poseidon was pink. (Good) 4. Loose connecting joint on Snaptraps right leg. Remedied by changing a specific limb Seacon. (The original gestalts had very tight clamps.) (Bad and good depending how OC you are) 5. Reports at seibertron.com member Diem was unlucky enough to get two clunkers (one missing either Seawing's gun or Nautilator's connecting pin) (verified with pics so HasTaks QC might have been slipping again........like henkei Starscream.................so it's like a hit or miss) Mine thankfully has no such problems. So good and bad again The verdict: I never owned one. Now I do! In a consumer friendly price. Sure it has a lot of molding issues (which was expected though it would have nice if this was minimized) Plus verified QC issues don't help either. If you have never owned one get him now! Once in a lifetime opportunity. Get him while his hot! So I give this a 3.9/5.0..........that is my honest opinion. Edit: I was recently informed that the BBTS exclusive will also come with a chromed sword.
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Post by fenris72 on Jul 23, 2010 23:19:43 GMT -5
Drift What do you get when you mix Ridge Racer,Fast and the Furious,Samurai X and a bit of Transformer defections? Well you get a non flyer/seeker version of Skyfire/Jetfire.............now known as Drift! Contents: All robot mode mein freunds............... full body face close up added yellow paint apps side view back radials hands feet (veryyyyy G1 no?) #1 Drift "super car" genericised Nissan whatchamacalit Silvia S15 # 2 short swords # 1 big bad@ss buster sword (reminds me of the one used by Sano from Samurai X) with the Japanese characters "Peerless" under heaven or if you like.........a warrior without equal #1 instruction sheet # 1 box/blister bubble with no more twisty ties but more like fabric fiber ties that won't scratch the fig. Background: IDW is sort of in the roll. Story wise, hit or miss and controversial in all aspects........ahem AHM(?) Anyway back during the "Furman" reign when Stormbringer came out, everyone wanted the updated version of Jetfire. (FYI , Jetfire was not redesigned by DonFig but his pencils of him were just as AWESOME). Not bad for a figure introduced in a comic tapping into nostalgia for fans. Until now, the Jetfire mold is still being squeezed for all its worth (gives credit to its design and staying power...........could have been made bigger though) Now fast forward to AHM. Said to be designed this time by Guido Guidi, we are introduced to a 'bot who is basically Jetfire/Skyfire on wheels. Unlike the former, Drift was known back then as Deadlock. A murdering mother f*ckr who struck fear in the sparks of all Autobots. But somewhere along the way he achieved some sort of Nirvana with a still unnamed Cybertronian faction who espoused non violence blah blah blah. Enough.......back to the figure/toy: He is a well thought off/designed figure(for his size) It even has a homage to his previous "Deadlock" persona (check his chest piece..........behind the windshield, that's what he looked like before becoming Drift. Taking a cue from MP Starscream, the designers incorporated functional sword sheaths on his hips. (IIRC, that's the reason S.Kawamori added those kibbles on Starscream...........envisioned to to have a samurai effect). The two short swords which can be folded at the handles fit snuggly (rubberized for safety reasons of course) He also has a groove on his back where the big@ss sword can fit in both 'bot and car mode. Points of articulation?...............12 if I count correctly. And he can do a two handed grip on his sword if you like. He's got light piping, grafitti on his doors............"Samurai" in kanji and simulated rubber tires. (Simulated as in it's plastic that looks like rubber.) Paint job is neat, not much bleeding but I would have prefered if the simulated blue for his windshield also extended on his rear side windshields. Also, if Takara will do a henkei version of him, maybe they could add extra red stripe paint patterns on his cheaks like that in the comic.(minor quibbles that's all) Oh, his white ABS PVC plastics are also well molded, smooth not cruddy rough.........in another place and time, Drift would have made a good Alternity fig (same pain in the @ss transformation sequence) Overall, I'd give him a rating of 4.98/5.0. Not because of the hype, (hey it took HasTak 2 years to finally admit his existence) but because he is indeed a well designed figure. Sure the back story ain't too original................defections? Please......... ! But it did do the job of giving him prior exposure/advertisement. I'd have also preferred they'd given him some form of die-cast (at his joints.......he's shoulders and that of his sword sheaths 'cause thats where I expect a lot of breakage to appear due to his very articulated design) Minor quibbles aside............he's soooooooo sugoi! Get him while he's hot, worth the wait and the price.
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