Encore Devastator

[sideswipes brother]

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-encore-g1-devastator-giftset-reissue/21975/

Im surprised it took this long??

[1AZRAEL1]

I thought they lost the mold, that's why they didn't do it. I could be wrong though.

Still, it's good for those that want a new minty fresh Devs, or for those that don't have it :D

[gdmetro]

Wow...Reissue g1 Devy as giftset? Encore style box? Am i dreaming?

IF this is true... I will probably have to get it. My only worry is that it will have mould degradation...

Anyway...

Does this mean the mould was re-engineered or they never lost the mould?

Could we be seeing dinobots?

[Gutsman Heavy]

I was under the impression that they had the mold, but didn't want to compete against the countless KOs.

Great news if true.

[Paulbot]

Interesting news. Very happy to see the Encore line return since there's so much I'd like to see them re-release in that line.

So the eHobby version of Devastator: yellow or orange? Place your bets.

But there's no truth to the rumour that Fun Publications will release this as a club exclusive in Protectobot colours as Shattered Glass Devastator.

[Hursticon]

Curious, but then I'm very very happy with my original that I've got as it's not often you get given a complete Devy for nothing. :D
Like a lot of my G1 figures, I'd like to get a ReproLabel sticker sheet for the set to bring them back to their former glory. :o

[1AZRAEL1]

Curious, but then I'm very very happy with my original that I've got as it's not often you get given a complete Devy for nothing. :D

Oh yea, I remember that :p

[Skullcruncher]

This is good news for all - shame it didn't come out before the KO but still good news!

[LordCyrusOmega]

OOh I want him bad. Always have and after my KO experience I need him even more.
Great news

[hanprimus]

Great news, not only because it's Devastator but also that Encore is still alive!:p

[valkyrie_76]

Ill probably get this. I sold my complete Hasbro version not long ago because I was getting the Takara version but this will come in handy to display out of the box.

[reillyd]

Had to be a naysayer, but that image VERY clearly is not an encore box :(
That is not an image of a TakaraTomy product, as there's no Tomy on it

Its an old Hasbro box, and if I didn't know better I'd say its the repro that KOToys sell. Gee I hope I'm wrong on this, and there s a genune release coming out, but I won't hold my breath

[GoktimusPrime]

I thought they lost the mold, that's why they didn't do it. I could be wrong though.


Does this mean the mould was re-engineered or they never lost the mould?

I was under the impression that they had the mold, but didn't want to compete against the countless KOs.

Great news if true.
Gutsman Heavy is correct. TakaraTOMY never lost the mould - but in 2000 they released a statement saying that they refused to compete with bootleggers. If this news proves true, then it sounds like they've changed their mind on this.


IF this is true... I will probably have to get it. My only worry is that it will have mould degradation...
HasTak has never used this mould since 1993. All those KOs are based off pirated moulds, not TakaraTOMY's originals. There may be degradation just from aging though, but it wouldn't be from overuse like we had with Bruticus.


Could we be seeing dinobots?
I doubt it -- I believe those moulds have been lost/destroyed. The Swoop mould was probably the first to go because he wasn't reissued in 1991 (whereas Grimlock, Sluge and Snarl were) -- and I suspect that the Sludge mould may have been lost/damaged by 1993 because that mould was never used for G2 (whereas Slag was).

But I strongly suspect that all the Dinobot moulds must have been lost or damaged by now, because considering that Takara started reissuing G1 figures in 2000, and given the large amount of early G1 toys that have been reissued surely they would have reissued the Dinobots by now if they could have.


Interesting news. Very happy to see the Encore line return since there's so much I'd like to see them re-release in that line.
If this toy does come out, I'm totally getting it. :) I still have my 1985 G1 Constructicons, but I'd like to have a new minty set to play with. :D (and also so I can display one set as individual Constructicons ;)) - and of course, to show my support to TakaraTOMY to do more reissues, especially of G1 toys that they haven't reissued before!


So the eHobby version of Devastator: yellow or orange? Place your bets.
I'd really love to see eHobby reissue Devastator in his Diaclone colours as new characters. =)


Had to be a naysayer, but that image VERY clearly is not an encore box :(
That is not an image of a TakaraTomy product, as there's no Tomy on it

Its an old Hasbro box, and if I didn't know better I'd say its the repro that KOToys sell. Gee I hope I'm wrong on this, and there s a genune release coming out, but I won't hold my breath
Fair point, but maybe Seibertron didn't have access to photos from the Tokyo Toy Show, or maybe aren't allowed to publish them <shrug>

But yeah, I'm not gonna start leaping for joy until I have the toys in my hands! :)

[kup]

It's this for real as in not the KO?

[5FDP]

reillyd is 100% correct. The image shown on Seibertron is in fact the KO, more specifically the KO produced by Zhong Jin. Unless I see an official photo, I'm taking this with a grain of salt. If it turns out to be true, I'm all over this like a Sharkticon on an energon goodie :D

[kaiden]

i will probably pass on this since i never had it as a child and dont have the same kind of attachment to it.

plus im saving for the igear version... (+1 KO = loss of income)

[Paulbot]

The picture on Seibertron is for illustration. The news has leaked out of a toy fair where photos probably aren't allowed or are still coming.

[jazzcomp]

will get this if it comes. liitle kid friend of my brother broke my original g1 devy :(

[canofwhoopass_87]

The bastards have knocked the hell out of the G1 Constructicons and driven the price of *potential* vintage originals down to nothing. On top of that, the high quality giftset KO's have flooded the market and can be easily purchased for the meager price of $70-$80 :mad:

If this news is true, I can't see this reissue selling very well.

[Zippo]

Well this definatly gets two purchases from me, one for the sealed G1 collection and one to open and display (so I can also remove the Yellow G2 I have as a place holder)

Good news.

[Sharky]

Well this definatly gets two purchases from me, one for the sealed G1 collection and one to open and display (so I can also remove the Yellow G2 I have as a place holder)

Good news.

you will need atleast 4 sets :P
1: keep MISB
2: Display as devestator
3: display as individual robot forms
4: display as vehicle modes.

i do think for it early release (and lack of articulation) the individual bots are very good compared to later gestalt team members.... and are worthy of being on show themselves..

providing it is cheap enough :p

[Robzy]

Wicked news! I'm excited!! Already got an original, but I'll buy this for sure! It's great for people who don't have him...


So the eHobby version of Devastator: yellow or orange? Place your bets.
Maybe it will be a Bayformer version, with giant enemy scrotum:/

:p

[reillyd]

There are photos up of the Takara display, including a Skywarp Deluxe movie repaint, but no sign of Encore Devastator :'(

[Sky Shadow]

That is just brilliant, this will be one case where I'll buy one in original colours as well as whatever e-Hobby produces, since Mixmaster and Scavenger were my equal first-ever Transformers.

[GoktimusPrime]

Autobase Aichi has posted something that confirms Encore 20 Devastator, here:
http://snakas.blog95.fc2.com/blog-entry-1869.html
According to Autobase Aichi:
+ Will be available on Amazon Japan in July, and in retail stores from November.
+ RRP 10500JPY

The news has leaked out of a toy fair where photos probably aren't allowed or are still coming.
Yeah, Autobase Aichi's blog also states "画像はありません。" - no images available


The bastards have knocked the hell out of the G1 Constructicons and driven the price of *potential* vintage originals down to nothing. On top of that, the high quality giftset KO's have flooded the market and can be easily purchased for the meager price of $70-$80 :mad:
That's never affected me since I collected my Constructicons back in the 1980s -- but it has always annoyed me that Takara have been reluctant in reissuing Devastator because of the unfair competition from bootleggers. :mad:


If this news is true, I can't see this reissue selling very well.
Which is why Takara have been so reluctant in reissuing this toy for the past decade. I'm surprised that they've changed their mind about it... hope the risk works out for them; especially because for the past 10 years whenever I tell people the reason why Takara won't reissue Devastator, folks are like, "That's BS! Collectors would totally buy a legit reissue Devastator regardless of KOs!" -- so it feels like TOMY's really going out on a risky limb here... well, they can definitely count on my support. :)


i will probably pass on this since i never had it as a child and dont have the same kind of attachment to it.
I can totally understand that. :) I'd feel the same if I were in your shoes.


you will need atleast 4 sets :P
1: keep MISB
2: Display as devastator
3: display as individual robot forms
4: display as vehicle modes.
Zippo's gonna need a 5th set - to display in attack vehicle modes! (^O^)


i do think for it early release (and lack of articulation) the individual bots are very good compared to later gestalt team members.... and are worthy of being on show themselves..
The main thing I don't like about Devastator compared to other G1 gestalts is the stability of the gestalt robot - or lack of. Also it's very dependent on kibble to form the robot mode too. A lot of other G1 gestalts aren't quite so kibble-dependent and don't fall apart so easily. But otherwise I think Devastator has a lot of winning points.

As you said, the individual robots are really good - each one with a distinctly unique design which made them better value for money. The Aerialbots are the least imaginative in terms of the individual designs of the limb robots -- all of them have the same basic core design and transformation scheme! They also don't have "blockhead" syndrome like the Scramble Gestalts do, but to be fair to the Scramble Gestalts, they do have the interchangeable limb gimmick which the Constructicons don't have.

And while I did criticise Devastator for being kibblicious, at least his feet are actually made up from Scrapper and Mixmaster, and not clip on pads that a lot of other G1 gestalts have. The Constructicons also have a uniform size (which other non-Scramble G1 gestalts have too) and the sculpting on them is really nice. While the gestalt mode has lots of kibble, it is rather nice looking kibble! IMO Devastator has one of the nicest head sculpts of the G1 gestalts.

Oooh... you know what? If TOMY reissues Devastator, the launcher springs will be strong! Encore Devastator will be able to shoot his fists and drills at some distance!! <schoolgirl.squeal> :D



Maybe it will be a Bayformer version, with giant enemy scrotum:/

:p
IMO the Diaclone colours of Devastator kinda resembles ROTF Devastator insofar as each Constructicon have different colours from each other instead of a uniform green or yellow. Perhaps some 3rd party manufacturer will make an add-on kit for his Nemesis Janglies(TM).

[kurdt_the_goat]

Autobase Aichi has posted something that confirms Encore 20 Devastator, here:
http://snakas.blog95.fc2.com/blog-entry-1869.html
According to Autobase Aichi:
+ Will be available on Amazon Japan in July, and in retail stores from November.
+ RRP 10500JPY

Your translation might be a bit off since Amazon's listing it for November 19 (http://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%82%BF%E3%82%AB%E3%83%A9%E3%83%88%E3%83%9F%E3%8 3%BC-%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%83%95%E3%8 2%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%9E%E3%83%BC-TF%E3%82%A2%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B3%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AB20-%E3%83%87%E3%83%90%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF%E3%83%BC/dp/B00564Z99C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=toys&qid=1308239760&sr=8-1)

[GoktimusPrime]

Your translation might be a bit off since Amazon's listing it for November 19 (http://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%82%BF%E3%82%AB%E3%83%A9%E3%83%88%E3%83%9F%E3%8 3%BC-%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%83%95%E3%8 2%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%9E%E3%83%BC-TF%E3%82%A2%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B3%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AB20-%E3%83%87%E3%83%90%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF%E3%83%BC/dp/B00564Z99C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=toys&qid=1308239760&sr=8-1)

Umm, dude...

アマゾンJPに7月発売のTF商品と
I was just translating what Autobase Aichi said -- not my fault if their info's inaccurate.

[Shirokaze]

This is an insta-buy for me. I've been hoping for a reissue for a long time.:)

[5FDP]

It's been front-paged on TFW (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/generation-1-1/devastor-reissue-coming-in-japan-172508/) now as well. I guess it is official. Happy days :D:D:D:D:D

I've already put the order in with the wife for xmas :p

[kurdt_the_goat]

Umm, dude...

I was just translating what Autobase Aichi said -- not my fault if their info's inaccurate.

No offense meant, but i don't think their info's wrong - isn't it saying that Amazon has updated with pics of *other* toys releasing in July, plus Devastator in November?

[Tallestblue]

Hrrrmm. If Takara does reissue Devs then I'll be tempted to get Crazy DEvy add-ons. Hrrrm and Hrrrm again.

[1orion2many]

Well this definatly gets two purchases from me, one for the sealed G1 collection and one to open and display (so I can also remove the Yellow G2 I have as a place holder)

Good news.

If you don't want your ugly yellow ones anymore when this gets released(or if) I'd be more than happy to take them off your hands:D

[k.wong23]

Fantastic new i'll get one so I can get all the little weapons and etc i'm missing! Might even sell my G1 Devvy :)

[Hursticon]

Pre-Order (http://tfsource.com/products/view/product_id/2735/) and images now up at TFsource - courtesy of TFW2005 (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/japanese-transformers-40/official-images-of-encore-devastator-and-pre-order-at-tfsource-172515/). :eek:


http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/EncoreDevastator.jpg

[GoktimusPrime]

No offense meant, but i don't think their info's wrong - isn't it saying that Amazon has updated with pics of *other* toys releasing in July, plus Devastator in November?
It stated "アマゾンJPに7月発売のTF商品と" ("Transformer product on sale at Amazon Japan in July"). But anyway, now Nakashi's editted that line, so if you take a look now it says "11月19日発売"; so now they've corrected it to the November 19 embargo date. It was probably just a simple mistake. Anyway, they're reporting Nov. 19 now so it's a moot point. (^_^)

Note: I think I can see where the mistake might've come from. Underneath the passage it then says "以下、7月発売のアイテム" (below are items on sale in July) then proceeds to list all the toys coming out in July (including Jetwing OP ;)) -- I'm guessing Nakashi must've accidentally got those months confused and stated July when he meant November because he was probably thinking ahead about what he wanted to type next :)

[UltraMagnus]

I saw the news the other day and was advised about this last week from a source.
I am so excited I bought the Crazy devy add on kits so I can finally have a mint Devastator.

The best news in all this is that Encore continues to grow (even though its still 5 months to go...)

The information I am hearing is that they have green-light the next 10 reissues to come. But they will be staggered. The will reassess at #25.
Rumors are floating about Grimlock/Dinobots. I have also heard that Scorponok and Fortress Maximus are potentials (fort max #25).... will confirm once i confirm the news from my always awesome source.

If the source is correct, I wonder what that will do for the insane prices of Fort Max's and Scorponok's ?

[sideswipes brother]

I saw the news the other day and was advised about this last week from a source.
I am so excited I bought the Crazy devy add on kits so I can finally have a mint Devastator.

The best news in all this is that Encore continues to grow (even though its still 5 months to go...)

The information I am hearing is that they have green-light the next 10 reissues to come. But they will be staggered. The will reassess at #25.
Rumors are floating about Grimlock/Dinobots. I have also heard that Scorponok and Fortress Maximus are potentials (fort max #25).... will confirm once i confirm the news from my always awesome source.

If the source is correct, I wonder what that will do for the insane prices of Fort Max's and Scorponok's ?

I hope you are absolutely 100% correct on all the above information. That would just be awesome!!!

[swoop]

I have also heard that Scorponok and Fortress Maximus are potentials (fort max #25).... will confirm once i confirm the news from my always awesome source.

That would be a great FU to the rumoured ko fort max makers

[gdmetro]

I saw the news the other day and was advised about this last week from a source.
I am so excited I bought the Crazy devy add on kits so I can finally have a mint Devastator.

The best news in all this is that Encore continues to grow (even though its still 5 months to go...)

The information I am hearing is that they have green-light the next 10 reissues to come. But they will be staggered. The will reassess at #25.
Rumors are floating about Grimlock/Dinobots. I have also heard that Scorponok and Fortress Maximus are potentials (fort max #25).... will confirm once i confirm the news from my always awesome source.

If the source is correct, I wonder what that will do for the insane prices of Fort Max's and Scorponok's ?


And if this is true, I will jump on all of em' :D

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

BOOYEH! Tets loves minty fresh Constructicons. And LONG LIVE ENCORE!!

Scorponok would be very welcome in my house!!

[gamblor916]

I'd buy a multi-coloured eHobby set on sight.
As for more encores, come on Trypticon...

[jaydisc]

Firstly, I couldn't be happier. But I can't fathom why they wouldn't have done this to coincide with ROTF though. The timing seems bizarre. Possible complications?

Based on the fact it had yet to appear since then, I had basically given up hope, and had just added a saved search to my eBay account because I desperately want a G1 Devastator, so yet again, I'm utterly thrilled by this news. This is also compounded by the same realization as others: Encore is continuing!

I'm hoping the quality is better than that of Encore Bruticus, but I don't think this mold has been used as much as that one has.

Lastly, yet again, this is further proof against the fallacy that TakTom does not make molds that have been KO'd. Hopefully, the trend will continue.

[GoktimusPrime]

Firstly, I couldn't be happier. But I can't fathom why they wouldn't have done this to coincide with ROTF though. The timing seems bizarre. Possible complications?
Maybe they didn't want to cross-compete with the ROTF Constructicons. That's the reason Hasbro's supplied as to why they never went ahead with making the Animated Constructicons.


I'm hoping the quality is better than that of Encore Bruticus, but I don't think this mold has been used as much as that one has.
No, it hasn't. So barring aging issues, it ought to be in fairly good nick.


Lastly, yet again, this is further proof against the fallacy that TakTom does not make molds that have been KO'd.
Or more likely they've just changed their minds (as people are entitled to do ;)). This venture may or may not work for them ya know... Takara's fear with reissuing Devastator was that they wouldn't generate enough sales because too many people are buying KOs.

But if they're willing to give fans the benefit of the doubt now and risk reissuing a heavily KOed toy like Devastator, then I hope collectors are willing to show them support and make it worth their while. :) I would hate to hear reports of Encore Devastator shelf-warming. :( Well, they'll definitely have my support. :)


Hopefully, the trend will continue.
+1

Here's hoping Encore Devastator will sell like hot cakes and prompt TOMY to give us more Encores! :D

[Kranix]

This is fantastic news, I am getting this encore! I hope the quality is good.

[5FDP]

There is a listing on RK (http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=TFECR20&lang=us&CatID=) however you can't order it yet (no 'add to cart' button or price listed).

[kurdt_the_goat]

Masabon from TFW2005 was at the Tokyo Toy Show today and seemingly confirms the mold had to be repaired for reissue, explaining the delay after ROTF.

http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l630/MASABON1980/CIMG3696.jpg

In Devastator, the toy 25 years ago was displayed.
As for him, it determined a resale to have appeared for a movie.
He was going to release it last year. However, It was in condition not to be able to use the die of the toy.It is likely that TOMY modernizes a die and produces it.

[bruticus]

BBTS has them on preorder already.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=tak11302&mode=retail

unfortunately i have soooo many constructicons atm, theres no need to buy another.
however, im very glad that the encore line is continuing!

[orionpax1]

This is great news as i dont have one yet, i will definately be ordering this. And if UltraMagnus's info is correct, then it will look like my wallet will copping a flogging, bring on fort max and Dinobots and bring on more encore :D

[GoktimusPrime]

This is great news as i dont have one yet, i will definately be ordering this. And if UltraMagnus's info is correct, then it will look like my wallet will copping a flogging, bring on fort max and Dinobots and bring on more encore :D
The dinobot moulds are most probably lost, so I wouldn't bank on them being reissued. Fort max might still be possible because the mould was of course used for brave max. Problem is that encore omega supreme & metroplex reportedly shelf warmed, which would discourage tomy from reissuing other big & expensive city formers like trypticon... Let alone the biggest and ultra expensive toy like fort max. All we can do is vote with our wallets & continue to support encore if we wanna see more

[kup]

I will buy this to support the encore line and encourage Tak-Tom to re-create/repair more lost/broken molds.

[Lordy]

If the Dinobots rumors are true, especially with Swoop (who is a huge one for KOs) then I will be very very poor.

[reillyd]

The dinobot moulds are most probably lost, so I wouldn't bank on them being reissued. Fort max might still be possible because the mould was of course used for brave max. Problem is that encore omega supreme & metroplex reportedly shelf warmed, which would discourage tomy from reissuing other big & expensive city formers like trypticon... Let alone the biggest and ultra expensive toy like fort max. All we can do is vote with our wallets & continue to support encore if we wanna see more

You seem to be our resident expert on all things Japanese Goktimus :). ,so perhaps you can answer a mystery for me about the molds. New transformers are created and sculpted all the time, no? Eg classics henkei Grims. So why isn't it just a case of creating a new mold for a toy that is a close replica to the original? Some of these knock offs don't quite get the mold right, so they must be rebuilt and not using the original molds. Is it that encore just doesn't have the same volume as say a Hasbro toy at retail, or that hasbro just isn't intested in Encoree?

[GoktimusPrime]

New transformers are created and sculpted all the time, no? Eg classics henkei Grims.
Yep. And it takes a considerable amount of time and money to develop new moulds.


So why isn't it just a case of creating a new mold for a toy that is a close replica to the original? Some of these knock offs don't quite get the mold right, so they must be rebuilt and not using the original molds.
It always costs more to produce something legitimately. Counterfeiting is easier and cheaper. Look at the costs of legit DVDs and Blu Rays versus the cost of buying pirated DVDs and Blu Ray discs -- you can get some pirated DVDs at a third of the price of the legit, and some of them are decent quality too.

And there's a lot more to producing a legit toy than meets the eye - costs that counterfeiters don't have to pay. e.g. legal costs (e.g. registration, patents etc.), marketing, design etc etc. And remember that TOMY is a company that employs professional engineers, maintains customer call centres, market researchers, illustrators, designers, cleaners, secretaries, human resource officers, liaison officers, web designers and all the other people who are on their payroll. And these people would be paid in Japanese Yen, probably on higher wages than bootleggers in China being paid in Chinese Yuan - and they would also have various other employer costs such as superannuation, sick leave, annual leave etc. Then there's the costs of maintaining their actual offices (there's one in Tokyo and one in Osaka) and all kinds of other additional costs like liaising with Hasbro in the U.S. (which would include international business class travel, accommodation, transport, interpreters etc.) -- while a lot of these costs may be tax deductible, it's still a cost that they have to bear. Then there's the costs of attending toy shows where they showcase their products to retailers.

Furthermore, TakaraTOMY have higher standards than bootleggers. They also have a strict budget to adhere to -- I don't buy KOs, but I've heard that a lot of them can be pretty expensive, whereas TakaraTOMY tries to keep their reissues relatively affordable.

Look at the reissue of the original G1 Optimus Prime toy (first reissued by Takara in 2000) - the G1 mould was too deteriorated or far gone to use, so they took the G2 mould. But the problem was that the arms were too deteriorated to use, so Takara had to rebuild new arms for Convoy from scratch. Takara have said that this was a _very_ expensive venture for them - and we've seen HasTak milk that mould for all it's worth with many, many times that they've kept reissuing that toy over and over again! But with Optimus Prime it seems to have been worth it as the single most iconic toy in Transformers. And that's just with a mostly in-tact G2 mould that just needed new arms! If the Dinobot moulds are even more deteriorated than that, or are completely gone - then I highly doubt that it would be viable for TOMY to reissue those figures.


Is it that encore just doesn't have the same volume as say a Hasbro toy at retail, or that hasbro just isn't intested in Encoree?
This is also true. G1 reissues are part of what Hasbro classifies as "high end collectables" - i.e. toys targeted at the adult collectors market, which is a niche market. As a result, toys like reissues, Binaltech, Masterpiece etc. are produced in much more limited numbers compared to their "mainstream" Transformer toys aimed at children.

This is also why when a Japanese reissue is shelfwarming, it's more serious than seeing a regular mainstream TF toy shelfwarming.

[kup]

I am not sure if I would buy all the Encore Dinobots if released. I already have all the originals complete. I would still like to support 'lost mold' reissues so I would at least try to buy a couple.

[UltraMagnus]

The dinobot moulds are most probably lost, so I wouldn't bank on them being reissued. Fort max might still be possible because the mould was of course used for brave max. Problem is that encore omega supreme & metroplex reportedly shelf warmed, which would discourage tomy from reissuing other big & expensive city formers like trypticon... Let alone the biggest and ultra expensive toy like fort max. All we can do is vote with our wallets & continue to support encore if we wanna see more

Reportedly and facts are two different things. From HK perspective, Omega and Metroplex were good sales. Metroplex (if you remember) was reissued again because they didnt meet the demand. The shelf warmers are Ironhide/Ratchet/Skids as well as Op Prime.

I remember when the TFC was starting people were screaming for Soundwave and people were saying "the mould this, the mould that". Honestly with todays technology, putting a new mould together is simple and relatively inexpensive for Takara/Hasbro (who 100% guarantee have mould machines).

It all comes down to supply and demand. If they know the Dinobots will sell even if they have to retool the mould, they will do it.

Japanese business, now more than ever, need to get their bottom line up.

[Kranix]

I am another one who would purchase all the Dinobots. I wouldn't expect them to be made though. Mind you I didn't expect Devastator either! Pretty excited about it but the Dinobots would be on a whole new level!

[GoktimusPrime]

Remember when Takara used to include self-addressed survey cards with all their toys? And each card always allowed to name any 3 Transformers that you'd like to see them do? Well each time I got a reissue I always would put down the name of one of the Dinobots - so by time I got my 5th reissue I'd already requested them all. After that I'd keep cycling through their names again. Takara actually did pull through on most of the other requests I've made (and I'm sure many other fans too), e.g. Inferno, Hound, Skids etc etc. -- so this indicated to me that they were listening to people. But of course, this was all before the merger with TOMY, because unlike Takara, TOMY's online survey no longer gives you the option of making open suggestions like that, which is a shame IMO. :(

But anyway, if retooling moulds is as cheap and easy as you say it is (which is contrary to what Takara told us back in 2000 - unless there have been considerable improvements in technology since then, I wouldn't know) - then other than sitting around and complaining, all we can do is show our support for Encore and hopefully prove to TOMY that it is worth their while to ressurect more moulds and reissue more stuff through Encore.

Because there's only a small handful of Takara owned moulds from the first two years of G1 that Takara/TOMY haven't reissued yet. So upon examination we have...

1984
+ Bluestreak: reissued
+ Brawn: reissued
+ Bumblebee: reissued
+ Bumblejumper: not reissued (possibly insufficient demand for such an obscure figure)
+ Buzzsaw: reissued
+ Cliffjumper: reissued
+ Frenzy: reissued
+ Gears: (re)issued
+ Hound: reissued
+ Huffer: reissued
+ Ironhide: reissued
+ Jazz: reissued
+ Laserbeak: reissued
+ Megatron: reissued
+ Mirage: not reissued - mould known to be lost
+ Optimus Prime: reissued like a mofo
+ Prowl: reissued
+ Ratchet: reissued
+ Ravage: reissued
+ Rumble: reissued
+ Sideswipe: reissued
+ Skywarp: reissued
+ Soundwave: reissued
+ Starscream: reissued
+ Sunstreaker: not reissued - mould rumoured to be lost
+ Thundercracker: reissued
+ Trailbreaker: reissued
+ Wheeljack: not reissued - mould known to be broken
+ Windcharger: reissued

1985
+ Astrotrain: reissued
+ Barrage: not reissued - mould not owned by Takara
+ Beachcomber: reissued
+ Blaster: reissued
+ Blitzwing: reissued
+ Bombshell: reissued
+ Bonecrusher: not reissued - reissue pending
+ Camshaft: not reissued
+ Chop Shop: not reissued - mould not owned by Takara
+ Cosmos: reissued
+ Dirge: reissued
+ Downshift:not reissued
+ Grapple: reissued
+ Grimlock: not reissued - mould known to be lost
+ Hoist: reissued
+ Hook: not reissued - reissue pending
+ Inferno: reissued
+ Jetfire: not reissued - mould not owned by Takara
+ Kickback: reissued
+ Long Haul: not reissued - reissue pending
+ Omega Supreme: reissued
+ Overdrive: not reissued
+ Perceptor
+ Powerdasher (drill): not reissued
+ Powerdasher (F1): not reissued
+ Powerdasher (jet): not reissued
+ Powerglide: reissued
+ Ramjet: reissued
+ Ransack: not reissued - mould not owned by Takara
+ Red Alert: reissued
+ Roadbuster: not reissued - mould not owned by Takara
+ Scavenger: not reissued - reissue pending
+ Scrapper: not reissued - reissue pending
+ Seaspray: not reissued
+ Shockwave: not reissued - mould not owned by Takara
+ Shrapnel: reissued
+ Skids: reissued
+ Slag: not reissued - mould known to be lost
+ Sludge: not reissued - mould known to be lost
+ Smokescreen: reissued
+ Snarl: not reissued - mould known to be lost
+ Swoop: not reissued - mould known to be lost
+ Thrust: reissued
+ Topspin: not reissued
+ Tracks: reissued
+ Twin Twist: not reissued
+ Venom: not reissued - mould not owned by Takara
+ Warpath: reissued
+ Whirl: not reissued - mould not owned by Takara

...so as we can see, Takara have reissued quite a lot of G1 figures from the first two years of Transformers. Many of the Transformers that they haven't reissued have been either because the mould is no longer available, or because they never owned the mould to begin with. It was only possible for them to reissue Omega Supreme and Sky Lynx after the merger with TOMY because TOMY owns those moulds.

Anyway, having said all that, if they did reissue the Dinobots, I'd definitely get them for the same reason that I wanna get the Constructicons -- even though I have my original G1s from my childhood, it'd be nice to have a minty new set, and also so I can have another set so I can display them in robot and dino modes :) So while I'm skeptical that they'd reissue the Dinobots, if they did I'd be all over them like Cosmic Rust germs! :D

P.S.: they really should re-reissue Ramjet and Thrust again... because the first reissues were very limited convention exclusives. They deserve to be reissued in as retail toys IMO.

[GoktimusPrime]

kristofferer's posted links to pics he took at the Tokyo Toy Fair, including a nice pic of Encore Devastator here (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/819/dsc0046uh.jpg/) :)

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Ratchet, ironhide, Omega Supreme and to a lesser extent Sky Lynx all shelf warmed quite a bit.

I was in Japan a good 6 or so months after Omega Supreme was released and I was able to find plenty sitting on store shelves. Same story with Sky lynx as well if I remember correctly.

[kurdt_the_goat]

Metroplex did indeed have a second run as mentioned above.
But, just last month in Japan i saw 2 Omega Supremes and for only 2800Y if memory serves!
Whatever it was, it was damn cheap; only the cursed overflowing suitcases prevented a purchase :(

[UltraMagnus]

But anyway, if retooling moulds is as cheap and easy as you say it is (which is contrary to what Takara told us back in 2000 - unless there have been considerable improvements in technology since then, I wouldn't know

Wow sooooo much has happened in technology in 11 years :)

I will tell you how simple it is. If you have the original figure, you bring it to a moulder (there are heaps in Hong Kong). They will usually charge between 5-10k AUD for a full mould for average toy. They will usually use this 3D scanning machine before moulding to create all the pieces. For ones that a slightly off, they will use the computer to recreate the mould. When its exactly as they need it. Give it a few hours, mould is made.
The price of the mould then depends on how many you want to make. A mould will usually make 10k pieces. If you are selling mass retail and will continue to use the mould then i suspect it will be more. The Devastator mould would cost Takara between 60-70k AUD but I am sure they will continue to use it for the next 10 years :)

Hence why all the henkeis are being reissued easily.

It's a piece of cake in all honesty.

In 2000, no google, facebook, smartphones, broadband home access, tablets... you get the drift! :)

[Skullcruncher]

Skullcruncher say powerdashers need reissue! Me want powerdashers with shiny new chrome!

[Hursticon]

Skullcruncher say powerdashers need reissue! Me want powerdashers with shiny new chrome!

Hursticon concurs, along with Reflector! :D

[kup]

Wow sooooo much has happened in technology in 11 years :)

I will tell you how simple it is. If you have the original figure, you bring it to a moulder (there are heaps in Hong Kong). They will usually charge between 5-10k AUD for a full mould for average toy. They will usually use this 3D scanning machine before moulding to create all the pieces. For ones that a slightly off, they will use the computer to recreate the mould. When its exactly as they need it. Give it a few hours, mould is made.
The price of the mould then depends on how many you want to make. A mould will usually make 10k pieces. If you are selling mass retail and will continue to use the mould then i suspect it will be more. The Devastator mould would cost Takara between 60-70k AUD but I am sure they will continue to use it for the next 10 years :)

Hence why all the henkeis are being reissued easily.

It's a piece of cake in all honesty.

In 2000, no google, facebook, smartphones, broadband home access, tablets... you get the drift! :)

To be honest, I never swallowed the 'Too hard and expensive!' excuse. For many years, KOers have been able to very easily and accurately reproduce molds with very little financial penalty or they would not be able to sell KOs as cheaply as they normally do. If reproducing a toy for a KOer was 1/5 as expensive as it is claimed to be, then we wouldn't have so many of them out there.

I think it was more about a willingness to do so rather than a financial hit.

[1AZRAEL1]

If reproducing a toy for a KOer was 1/5 as expensive as it is claimed to be, then we wouldn't have so many of them out there.

Probably because KOers had 1/5 of the quality control employees :p

[reillyd]

Thanks for the length of your response Goktimus, that answers a lot.
Secondly, when you list all of the toys reissued (mental note to self, must track these down) that is actually fairly good coverage, and better than I thought. I didn't know some if those other jets even had been reissued, like thrust. I hope you are right and they see the demand for another thrust release :)

[kup]

Probably because KOers had 1/5 of the quality control employees :p

Recently Has-Tak's QC has been questionable, particularly on the Hasbro side of things.

'Quality' is no longer something that only a 'legit' or large corporate company guarantees, nowadays its often the opposite.

[1AZRAEL1]

Recently Has-Tak's QC has been questionable, particularly on the Hasbro side of things.

'Quality' is no longer something that only a 'legit' or large corporate company guarantees, nowadays its often the opposite.

Yea I know, it was just my (bad) attempt at a joke :p

QC has become a bit of an issue in that last few years for anything TF related really. I remember that Encore Bruticus had a few problems himself, just hoping that Devs doesn't suffer from problems.

[loophole]

cool!! if the price is right i'll probably get one

even if the price isnt right i'll still praobably get one :D

[canofwhoopass_87]

... I didn't know some if those other jets even had been reissued, like thrust. I hope you are right and they see the demand for another thrust release :)

Wait, I don't recall having ever seeing a Thrust or Ramjet reissue. Are there e-hobby reissues of them?

[Zippo]

Wait, I don't recall having ever seeing a Thrust or Ramjet reissue. Are there e-hobby reissues of them?

Yep, back in 2002 (or 2003)

[sideswipes brother]

Wait, I don't recall having ever seeing a Thrust or Ramjet reissue. Are there e-hobby reissues of them?

Yes, released around 2002 and they were the limited to 1000 pieces kind. I have Ramjet, Thunder and Warp. I am Desperately looking for a Thrust but having no luck finding one for under $300.

[GoktimusPrime]

The price of the mould then depends on how many you want to make. A mould will usually make 10k pieces. If you are selling mass retail and will continue to use the mould then i suspect it will be more. The Devastator mould would cost Takara between 60-70k AUD but I am sure they will continue to use it for the next 10 years :)
The only reissue mould that I can think of that HasTak have repeatedly reissued for approx. 10 years was the original Optimus Prime. I mean, if demand for Devastator was so big enough - like big enough to rival the popularity of Optimus Prime - then that might justify a decade's worth of Devvie reissues and thus the initial expense.


Hence why all the henkeis are being reissued easily.
Yeah but Classicsverse moulds are new and I suspect fairly in-tact. The only Classicsverse mould I can think of that started deteriorating was the Starscream mould (ya know, all those Seekers), as evidenced by Gentei Thundercracker and Skywarp. I don't have Generations Thundercracker, but I haven't read/heard any complaints about that mould suffering from the mould degradation issues that his Gentei counterpart had. But I reckon repairing a recently degrading mould might be easier than trying to restore or rebuild a 26-27 year old deteriorated mould - or building one entirely from scratch if the mould is too far gone or has been lost.


In 2000, no google, facebook, smartphones, broadband home access, tablets... you get the drift! :)
But we did have a forum and the #transformers IRC channel on austnet! :D :)


I think it was more about a willingness to do so rather than a financial hit.
...well, let's just say that you're right... it seems that they've at least changed their mind about Devastator. Hopefully if this toy sells well enough, they might change their mind about other figures that they've yet to reissue too. At the end of the day, we can all communicate to TakaraTOMY with the universal language -- money! :)


Wait, I don't recall having ever seeing a Thrust or Ramjet reissue. Are there e-hobby reissues of them?
Not e-Hobby, they're part of the "Collectors Edition" reissues, which are convention exclusives. And yeah, something like only 1000 of each were ever made, making them freakishly rare. :eek: But in any case, we know that TakaraTOMY probably still have these moulds -- they really ought to reissue them as Encores.

But I have no idea how well Encore Skywarp/Thundercracker sold (I bought a set even though I have G1 Skywarp and Thundercracker - so I've done my bit in showing support for more Seeker reissues) -- but if they sold well enough then I hope that might persuade TakaraTOMY to consider reissuing Ramjet and Thrust as Encores. All depends on how well they sold I suppose. Anyway, if you wanna see what reissue Ramjet and Thrust look like, click on the links below:

Reissue Ramjet (http://homepage3.nifty.com/redalert/toybox/tf/g1/g1d10/tfg1d10.html)
Reissue Thrust (http://homepage3.nifty.com/redalert/toybox/tf/g1/g1d21/TFG1D21.html)

[sideswipes brother]

I LOVE those collectors edition boxes. They look awesome.

[5FDP]

RK (http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=TFECR20&lang=us&CatID=) has it for pre-order now. About 80 or so available. Mine was $125 shipped :D

[GoktimusPrime]

I don't like their bland and generic nature. :( I much prefer reissues with G1 repro boxes -- even the book boxes of TFC and Commemorative Edition are have more individual effort put into them. But of course, Takara uses these generic boxes for some of their limited exclusives where it's not worth the expense of making more individualised packaging. So I get why they do it... but I can't say I'm a fan of it. I tried selling some of my eHobby boxes before, and only sold one (Deepcover's box to gamblor916 ;))... other than that, I had no takers! :p

And of course, having these generic boxes keeps the cost of the reissues down. One thing I like about collecting Japanese exclusives is that they're actually reasonably cheap! (I'm talking about their RRP, not their inflated aftermarket prices which I don't go for) For example, Collectors Edition Ramjet and Thrust sold for just 6000JPY, which is the same RRP that Encore Skywarp and Thundercracker sold for. But of course, the Collectors Edition figures are hideously rare! But just awesome for those who could get them at the time -- like a friend of mine whose friend went to the convention where Collectors Ed Red Alert and Sideswipe were sold and he picked up a set for him. My mate was SO excited! And I was happy too cos I got to review them. :)

[Jay-Tron]

I'm so excited about this reissue. I've wanted Scrapper for the past 25 years, as a 5 year old my neighbour owned him and I used to play with Scrapper in the sandpit in the backyard. Now I get to have the entire Constructicons brand new! Yesss:)

[Gutsman Heavy]

I only ever had the yellow, non-combining Constructicons, this is a big deal for me!

[5FDP]

I'm so excited about this reissue. I've wanted Scrapper for the past 25 years, as a 5 year old my neighbour owned him and I used to play with Scrapper in the sandpit in the backyard. Now I get to have the entire Constructicons brand new! Yesss:)

I know exactly how you feel. Seeing other members here get burnt by accidentally buying KO's, I have stayed away from buying any of the Constructicons aside from Scrapper which I bought MOSC. November can't come soon enough :D

[Soundwarp]

OMG My jaw just fell off.....

I have a real one and like 5 sets of fakes.....

Must have new ones

[kurdt_the_goat]

Official pics up now at Amazon (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/B00564Z99C/ref=s9_simh_gw_p21_d2_i2?pf_rd_m=AN1VRQENFRJN5&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=1WF19XJM7JSM2QWAGZCH&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=463376736&pf_rd_i=489986)!

I'm not educated enough to know if there's any differences, but to me it looks pretty sharp!

One thing's for sure, they're definitely going to make their mold recreation monies back real quick!

How much did he retail for back in the day? Probably a third of the price they're asking for it now :(

[GoktimusPrime]

Based on those pictures, I can see the following differences:
+ The missile launchers (forearms) are black with yellow triggers instead of purple with green triggers.
+ Mixmaster in the photo of Devastator has a grey mixing barrel instead of green, however the photo of the individual Constructicons in vehicle mode shows Mixmaster with a green mixing barrel like the G1 toy.

However the images do have the disclaimer 画像は開発中のものです ("Images are of items still in development") -- so we shouldn't necessarily be taking these images as gospel in terms of what the final product will look like.


How much did he retail for back in the day?
Devastator was never sold as gift set here - we had to collect the Constructicons individually. IIRC they were $9 each? Long Haul was my first Constructicon and I remember thinking that he was the most expensive carded Transformer I'd ever seen. :)

The Devastar gift set in Japan retailed for 5800JPY.


Probably a third of the price they're asking for it now
Yeah but you're looking at prices from 1985... where a Transformers comic book cost less than a dollar!

[sideswipes brother]

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-encore-20-devastar-devastator-revisited/22218/

I hope these are just test shots and not the final package. I don't like the black arms and the yellow tab looks so out of place. I really want him to have red eyes too.

[1AZRAEL1]

I dunno, I kinda like the changes. I would buy it too.

[5FDP]

The changes don't bother me at all. I'm just going to be happy to finally own a G1 Devy. Having said that, I reckon we're too far off to get any real indication on what the final toy looks like.

[Sky Shadow]

That's exactly what Devastator looked like in the 1985 catalogue, and I think it looks great.

[Ultra Mackness]

I'm pretty excited about this and if it does come with mixmaster having a grey barrel and different arms, the encore version will be distinct from the vintage version, but only in a small way. After picking up a K.O. version last year beleiving this would never be released, I'm past feeling burnt and am finally excited about it. I never understood why mixmasters barrel was grey in the 85 catalogue, but this small, subtle detail sells it for me!

[GoktimusPrime]

The text in the top-left of the image (画像は開発中のものです) says "Image of product under development.", in other words, the final product may vary. So whenever you see "画像は開発中のものです", then yeah... don't take it as absolute gospel just yet.

[Mr Ed]

I guess this Devastator G1 remake paves the way for Hasbro to make different coloured versions. eg G2 orange Devastator, a black edition or even current ROTF coloured ones.....

[5FDP]

I guess this Devastator G1 remake paves the way for Hasbro to make different coloured versions. eg G2 orange Devastator, a black edition or even current ROTF coloured ones.....

If it's true about them having to recreate this mold, I wouldn't be surprised because they would want to get their moneys worth ;)

[GoktimusPrime]

I'd really like to see eHobby reissue this mould in its original Diaclone colours. Perhaps as the Constructicons back when they were allies of the Autobots and friends with Omega Supreme. Although the ability to combine into Devastator came from Megatron. Meh. It could still work I reckon -- maybe give them Autobot logo stickers, but Decepticon rub signs.

Or alternatively just make them entirely new characters. ;)

[Gutsman Heavy]

I'd really like to see eHobby reissue this mould in its original Diaclone colours. Perhaps as the Constructicons back when they were allies of the Autobots and friends with Omega Supreme. Although the ability to combine into Devastator came from Megatron. Meh. It could still work I reckon -- maybe give them Autobot logo stickers, but Decepticon rub signs.


Great idea!

[rocman12]

I'd really like to see eHobby reissue this mould in its original Diaclone colours. Perhaps as the Constructicons back when they were allies of the Autobots and friends with Omega Supreme. Although the ability to combine into Devastator came from Megatron. Meh. It could still work I reckon -- maybe give them Autobot logo stickers, but Decepticon rub signs.

Or alternatively just make them entirely new characters. ;)

Love the Diaclone idea! I would fork out the money for that!

[liegeprime]

Hrrrmm. If Takara does reissue Devs then I'll be tempted to get Crazy DEvy add-ons. Hrrrm and Hrrrm again.

You only need the legs add on TB. All the other add ons actually adds nothing to the toy's aesthetic, but having proper crotch, thighs and additional height makes G1 devy all better. Dont invest on any of their other add on sets. Here have a look at my Devy with the add on. He's now as tall as Bruticus, while before bruticus towers above him by a few cm.

http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb313/liegeprime/Miscellaneous/DSC00471.jpg

[Dante112011]

Ever since I first laid eyes upon the Japanese Devastator Giftset, I have wanted one. I was extremely impressed with the box art (how the Devy Artwork is centred) and how there's 3 on each side (similar to Raiden Giftset (please please please Encore that in my lifetime!)). Unfortunately, my folks never bought me any Constructicons when I was a kid (even though i recall seeing them!), and my best friend had the full set. Now a chance to own one (albeit a reissue) happens anew, and I totally refuse to pass this up!!!!! Will be buying 2 of these in November!!!!!!!!

[5FDP]

I doubt if I've missed them, but has their been any further pics posted of what the final Encore release will look like? It's less than 3 months away from being released...

[kup]

I doubt if I've missed them, but has their been any further pics posted of what the final Encore release will look like? It's less than 3 months away from being released...

Here:

http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=TFECR20&lang=us&CatID=

The biggest change is black forearms.

http://www.robotkingdom.com/images/products/thumb/TFECR20.jpg

[5FDP]

Cheers kup :)

So, is this an official (not a placeholder) image? The colours for the combined mode appear to be different to the individual bots e.g. Mixmaster's cement mixer.

[kup]

Cheers kup :)

So, is this an official (not a placeholder) image? The colours for the combined mode appear to be different to the individual bots e.g. Mixmaster's cement mixer.

That's at least the most up to date images we have. No 'In Hand' images as of yet.

[bowspearer]

I'm surprised that the TF Collectors club haven't used this old to release a SG Devestator.

[kup]

I'm surprised that the TF Collectors club haven't used this old to release a SG Devestator.

Very possible that an Ehobby repaint of some sort will happen but I suspect that this will be either G2 or Euro rather than Shattered glass.

[Hursticon]

From the latest RobotKingdom Newsletter:

Takara Transformers Encore Reissue #20 Devastator (http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=TFECR20&lang=us&CatID=).

Pre-order, available on 19 November 2011.

US$104.9/pcs