Gasaraki's Transformers Classics - Photography, Reviews, & Musings

[Gasaraki]

Been thinking about doing something like this for a while, so here it goes! My own little collection is focused mainly on updates of the G1 roster, so naturally I go for Classics/Universe/Generations figures.

I also have an interest in photography, so I'm gonna combine this with my TF hobby for this thread, which is going to be primarily a reference for myself. It'll probably also be a place to record collected thoughts/musings, many of which would've have occurred over 6 years of collecting interest, as well as a lifetime of Transformers influence.

As for my reference for what is in G1, I consider TFwiki's G1 roster (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/The_Transformers_(toyline)) to be the standard, and will roughly try to follow the order presented there.

To start with, a little something special...




http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_9906L.jpg

G1 roster of Classics/Universe Seekers

I've searched images on the 'net but haven't seen something quite like this.... a picture I've been wanting to take ever since the Classics Starscream came out way back in '06, and we all knew that some day the full set would be available. I was really happy when Thundercracker came out a couple years back... following him, it was then a patient search to get my hands on a Skywarp. Happily for Classics collectors, with the United sets now costing around $250 to get, an original set of these probably should go for well upwards of $300.

What is it about the Seekers that makes so many love them like crazy? So much so that the opposing view of frank indifference is almost a reaction to the devotion of others. Is it that they turn into some of the most exclusive vehicles on the planet (how many of us have sat in an F-15?)? Is it the look of a well executed plane robot (ok, not so much the G1 toys)? Is it the representation of the power of flight? Heck if I was a TF, I'd certainly turn into something that flies myself...

IMO, Thundercracker looks the best of this bunch... there's something about the paint they used with his color scheme that just really pops. Skywarp by rights should look coolest, but maybe the one I got has gone a little flat over the years, whereas TC is quite new. Of the coneheads, Dirge has my money.

[lancalot]

Yeah the seekers are one of my favourite as well... When will takara/hasbro release a masterpiece of the conehead seeker!!.. don't really want to get the KO igears .... at least they releasing acid storm soon :D

Keep posting your collection up , love seeing them :)

[Gasaraki]

Yeah the seekers are one of my favourite as well... When will takara/hasbro release a masterpiece of the conehead seeker!!.. don't really want to get the KO igears .... at least they releasing acid storm soon :D

Keep posting your collection up , love seeing them :)

Thanks dude... I'll try to do another post later tonight.

[DarkHyren]

Nice picture of the seekers there, you've done what I would one day love to do myself.
Pity I got back into collecting too late to get Skywarp before the set with him and Ultra Magnus became scarce, but the dream remains.
Looking forwards to some more line ups :)

[Gasaraki]

OK, I got something a little different about this figure to share, so before I get into season 1 Transformers proper, here's something recent:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_9983.jpg

Fall of Cybertron Deluxe Brawl
I have to say I really don't like this figure. What is with those feet? A half-arsed effort from a kid would've resulted in better and more stable feet than the pretty much non-existent flaps this guy has. Rear kibble could also have been handled better, and the way you're forced to show the hollowed out forearms is another bad point in a terrible figure.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_9981.jpg

With United Brawl and Movie Deluxe Brawl
Both the other figures here do a better G1 color impression than FoC Brawl. So maybe color isn't all that important, but why is it that Movie Deluxe Brawl, who is 5 years older, craps all over FoC Brawl? Movie Brawl is not without his own issues, but he's got more articulation than many many Deluxes, and is way way better looking IMO. United Brawl isn't a great figure either, but I think coupling United Bruticus with the Fansproject repaint figures make FoC Combaticons obsolete in my collection.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_9984.jpg

Vehicle (really?) Mode
What is this meant to be?? OK, it's a rhetorical question - I know it's supposedly a Cybertronian hover tank, but the thing I really wonder about is this: if you have the ability to 'cheat' with a fictional alt-mode (i.e. not being constrained to a real world design), then don't you have an easier job creating a good Transformer?

Are there any good points? Well, I do like the turret articulation and the integration of the hand weapon into it. It's almost as if the whole turret construct is really to facilitate a non-official mode, which I think ironically is the best thing this figure's got going for it:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_9970-1.jpg

Spider Tank Mode
I haven't seen anything like this as yet, but this spider tank mode seems a really obvious alternative to me, and is what I will leave this guy in when he is displayed!

Ratings:
Character importance 4/10 - Brawl was never a big character in G1, and 2007 film had about 2 words from him. IDW's given him some page time recently though.
Toy 3/10 - Only got him to 'Build Giant Robot'. Maybe 5/10 counting the spider tank mode.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_9978.jpg

"Die in your shame, you sorry excuse for a Combaticon!"

[Gasaraki]

Nice picture of the seekers there, you've done what I would one day love to do myself.
Pity I got back into collecting too late to get Skywarp before the set with him and Ultra Magnus became scarce, but the dream remains.
Looking forwards to some more line ups :)

Spot on there about Skywarp... I ended paying something like $45 for the guy on eBay (about 2 years back). I first settled for a CHMS KO (around $20) which actually displays very satisfactorily, but no one handling the toy will be fooled into thinking it's an original.

[Bidoofdude]

The Ace Seeker Skywarp is pretty nice and so are the other two figures in the pack.
If anyone doesn't have Screamer already, why not buy the pack? It's well worth it, IMHO.:cool:

[Gasaraki]

The Ace Seeker Skywarp is pretty nice and so are the other two figures in the pack.
If anyone doesn't have Screamer already, why not buy the pack? It's well worth it, IMHO.:cool:

Yeah I agree... the Seeker Ace Skywarp does look very nice, and I actually prefer the purple they've used over Classics Skywarp. However, since I can't just get him alone, I'd probably have to give it a skip since I can't justify getting the 'Scream and TC as well...

IMO $120-130 is not too bad a deal for 3 paints of what has proven to be a very resilient mold. If I didn't have the Classics/Generations version of these guys (and even if I've got say 1 of them already) I wouldn't think twice about getting this set.

[Gasaraki]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_9994.jpg

Bumblebee oh Bumblebee. Seems like much sighing accompanies every release of a new 'Bee toy these days, which is understandable given that Hasbro/Takara seem to always revert to him and OP as the perennial new line defaults. Classics 'Bee came out before the explosion of the live-action movies, and did I ever love this guy. Must've been about the 3rd or 4th Classics toy I got, and still one of the few that is almost always out on my shelf.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_9996.jpg

I think the hot hatch update is a very good one... nondescript enough not to be recognised as a definite brand, but clearly a sporty hatchback nonetheless. Very clean lines, neat undertray, and some interior seat detail to boot! Many people seem to like the RTS release with the black stripes, but I probably still go back to this dude when I have to choose. Cliffjumper arguably has a nicer deco, but he doesn't hold a candle in the recognizability stakes. Not too crazy about the wave-crusher gizmo (deliberately not shown) myself though.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0006.jpg

Robot mode - didn't realize I managed to photograph the Autobot symbol!
Robot mode is likewise a very good update of the G1 look - he's got the car roof torso, bonnet feet, and horns. I used to dislike the door kibble on the arms, but over time this has proven to be not too bad in comparison with many other figures (Voyager Prime, ahem). The loose shoulder wheel swivel can make posing difficult, and lack of waist, ankle (i.e. feet can't sit flat) & wrist articulation are minor weaknesses.

Ratings:
Character importance 10/10 - Even 11 if that makes sense. 'Bee is one of the most important and well known TFs of all, with the major role in the Bayverse movies capapulting him into lay vocabulary.
Toy 7/10 - Some minor weaknesses but he's still my go to Bumblebee.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0012.jpg

"You're kidding me? You foiled his plans for world domination and he let you get away with a crushed vocalizer??"

[Gasaraki]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0130.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0130.jpg.html)

Got Green Giant recently, and I've enjoyed him so much I could't resist jumping into reviewing these guys now... but seeing as they are unauthorised products, I've placed a new thread in the 3rd party forums here (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=350490#post350490).

[Gasaraki]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0209.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0209.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0210.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0210.jpg.html)

I got this little guy quite a while after initial release - just earlier this year actually. I had always kinda ignored any figures smaller than Deluxe class up until now, but when I was trying to see what G1 figures I hadn't yet rustled up from Classics/Universe, I was surprised to see that Windcharger had only been put out as a scout. So eBay it is I turned to, and fortunately got him at a pretty reasonable price ($12 MOSC I think).

I like the update that he's been treated to... a good muscle car looking mode and very fair robot mode, with hands that can swap around to cannons as a nice feature. No real complaints about the car mode, as I don't think you can expect much more than rolling wheels really - even among Deluxe figures opening doors are not standard at all.

As for robot mode, I have to add the proviso that I don't own many Scout class figures so don't have a big range to compare with, but I do like the figure overall. Sure, he's got obvious kibble especially at the back, and some missing articulation (e.g. waist, wrists). However, several well placed ball-joints and aforementioned cannon features make him a very likable little guy.

Ratings:
Character importance 3/10 - Many minor appearances in G1 seasons 1 & 2, but passing fans might ask 'Who's Windcharger?'
Toy 7/10 - Definite weaknesses, but I like the update they've done. A pity there hasn't been a Deluxe treatment.

[GoktimusPrime]

I think Windcharger's fantastic for his size and price point. The Scouts were certainly much better value than today's Commander Class! (who are dearer and smaller :rolleyes:). And I like Windcharger as a Scout Class because it makes him feel more like a Mini-Bot compared to Deluxe Class Jazz, Smokescreen etc. I wish all the Mini-Bots (including Bumblebee) would've been done as Scouts and Autobot Cars as Deluxes, with boxed toys being reserved for traditionally larger than Autobot Car figures like Optimus Prime, Jetfire etc. Ah well... ship's already sailed on that one... but yeah, I miss the Scout Class. They gave us some really nice figures in that range.


So eBay it is I turned to, and fortunately got him at a pretty reasonable price ($12 MOSC I think).
That is a good price. The RRP for Scouts here is $15. Kmart did mark Windcharger down to $7 cos he was a pegwarmer, but $12 is still definitely a good price to pay. :)


I like the update that he's been treated to... a good muscle car looking mode and very fair robot mode, with hands than can swap around to cannons as a nice feature.
They're meant to be his electromagnets. Windcharger's original G1 tech specs state, "Casts powerful magnetic field which can attract or repel large metal objects." - so basically he's like Magneto from the X-Men. ;) The G1 comics showed him simply casting it from his hands (again, like Magneto - little wonder considering it was Marvel ;)), but the G1 cartoon showed his hands transforming into these "magnetic guns" that he would use to project tractor beams (http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/7/7a/UltimateDoom2_Windcharger_tractorbeam.jpg). Windcharger also casts his electromagnetic field from his hands in the IDW comics too.

[Gasaraki]

Thanks for the great comments.


I think Windcharger's fantastic for his size and price point. The Scouts were certainly much better value than today's Commander Class! (who are dearer and smaller :rolleyes:). And I like Windcharger as a Scout Class because it makes him feel more like a Mini-Bot compared to Deluxe Class Jazz, Smokescreen etc. I wish all the Mini-Bots (including Bumblebee) would've been done as Scouts and Autobot Cars as Deluxes, with boxed toys being reserved for traditionally larger than Autobot Car figures like Optimus Prime, Jetfire etc. Ah well... ship's already sailed on that one... but yeah, I miss the Scout Class. They gave us some really nice figures in that range.

Oh yes, I do think the Scout size had a nice Minibot-ish feel to them. The big preference problem for me is scale of course... they just don't look 'right' sitting next to a Deluxe that's also supposed to be a car (applies to the original Minibot vs. Car scaling too, naturally). That's just a preference of course, since the question of scale becomes totally ludicrous when you have things like an F-15 and space shuttle also in Deluxe size! :)


They're meant to be his electromagnets. Windcharger's original G1 tech specs state, "Casts powerful magnetic field which can attract or repel large metal objects." - so basically he's like Magneto from the X-Men. ;) The G1 comics showed him simply casting it from his hands (again, like Magneto - little wonder considering it was Marvel ;)), but the G1 cartoon showed his hands transforming into these "magnetic guns" that he would use to project tractor beams (http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/7/7a/UltimateDoom2_Windcharger_tractorbeam.jpg). Windcharger also casts his electromagnetic field from his hands in the IDW comics too.

That's some awesome insight dude... you know your stuff. I have a pretty good memory overall, but I didn't remember that bit about Windcharger! I also remember a scene where he cast his EM field whilst in car mode (?), so who needs transforming hands? :cool:

I never read the early comics... perhaps I should some day, but have always found it hard going back decades considering the style and print-quality we enjoy these days.

[Gasaraki]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0009.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0009.jpg.html)

Ahh... the mini-cars. So much nostalgia in these little guys. Bumblebee has eclipsed all others in prominence, but I have much fondness for all of them, even the ones with not much screen-time in the original cartoons. Admittedly though, the toys are quite laughable when I look back at what I played with!

As mentioned before... I currently aim at completing a collection of updates to the G1 roster. Obviously there are some annoying 'holes' still left despite 7 years since Classics debuted, but there are some alternatives in filling almost every character. Here are my thoughts on what may satisfy as an update to the six 1984 mini-bots:

Bumblebee:
Classics deluxe - the obvious choice but...
Generations deluxe - I'm liking the look of this!

Cliffjumper:
Classics deluxe - once again, obvious but...
Generations deluxe (GDO) - Again, I think it's a great alternative!
I have all four of these (Generations 'bee on pre-order), but will likely stick to Classics for my shelf for now.
I'm keen to know if anyone prefers 3rd party offers i.e. Art Feather and iGear.

Brawn:
The Universe legends version is just too small for me... so I've gone for:
iGear Hench - I actually really like how G1 they made it, and have enjoyed him a lot. Can't fault the quality, at least in the one I got.

Gears:
iGear Cogz is the only one I can think of, still on pre-order.
There are ROTF versions of Brawn & Gears but they just really really don't fit IMO.

Windcharger:
RTS Scout is the only choice I know of really - a very nice figure which I personally would've preferred in deluxe size.
He's got a fantastic Binaltech (OK Overdrive... I call him Windcharger), but once again, doesn't fit.

Huffer:
Now this one is quite interesting... I've have to settle for:
PCC Huffer, which I am really quite happy with. He is G1 enough for me, with several design cues that clearly harken to G1.
If you're lucky enough to have Timelines Huffer (BotCon 2007), would love to hear what you think of that figure.
iGear Rager is very faithful homage, but again, too small for me!

[UltraMarginal]

Interesting thoughts Gasaraki,
I wish I'd picked up the classics cliffjumper years ago, it's pretty much the only early classics figure I'm missing but I can't justify the crazy aftermarket prices for him.

Given the attention classics has been getting for a while, I think we'll see updates to pretty much all g1 characters and toys in the next few years. at least I hope so.

[GoktimusPrime]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/th_DSC_0009.jpg
Aaah, the bad old days when Hasbro felt that simply repainting Bumblebee in red made him Cliffjumper <shudder>; it greatly annoyed long time G1 fans who remember seeing the original G1 Bumblebee in both yellow and red (http://www.tfw2005.com/resources/attach/1/transformers-g1-0003_1191456436.jpg) (as well as G1 Cliffjumper in both colours (http://www.tfw2005.com/resources/attach/1/transformers-g1-0005_1191456496.jpg) too). I've replaced the head on my Classics Cliffjumper w/ that of Generations Cliffjumper (and Gen. Cliffjumper remains in vehicle mode; I pretty much bought that toy to salvage the head :p). The head's a different shade of red, but it sure beats staring at a red Bumblebee! ;) (plus Gen. Cliffjumper's 5mm weapon post is compatible w/ Classics Cliffjumper's fist! :D)


Ahh... the mini-cars. So much nostalgia in these little guys. Bumblebee has eclipsed all others in prominence, but I have much fondness for all of them, even the ones with not much screen-time in the original cartoons. Admittedly though, the toys are quite laughable when I look back at what I played with!
Yeah but don't forget that:
A) The G1 mini-cars came out in 1984, by the standards of their day they weren't bad.
B) They only cost $1.99 each (and you got the 1c change back in those days! ;) #CopperCoins) - the Classicsverse counterparts may be superior, but they came 22+ years later and they cost at least $25 each!

As mentioned before... I currently aim at completing a collection of updates to the G1 roster. Obviously there are some annoying 'holes' still left despite 7 years since Classics debuted, but there are some alternatives in filling almost every character. Here are my thoughts on what may satisfy as an update to the six 1984 mini-bots:


Windcharger:
RTS Scout is the only choice I know of really - a very nice figure which I personally would've preferred in deluxe size.
He's got a fantastic Binaltech (OK Overdrive... I call him Windcharger), but once again, doesn't fit.
It was an odd decision to try and make BT Overdrive into Alt Windcharger considering that the toy was a deliberate and excellent homage to Overdrive. No surprise that it looks nothing like Windcharger. :rolleyes: That's why I'm glad that I got BT Overdrive and not ALT Windcharger-who's-not-quite-Windcharger-who-was-meant-to-be-Overdrive-but-he's-Windcharger (#hurtmybrain :p)

[Sinnertwin]

Yeah but don't forget that:
A) The G1 mini-cars came out in 1984, by the standards of their day they weren't bad.
B) They only cost $1.99 each (and you got the 1c change back in those days! ;) #CopperCoins) - the Classicsverse counterparts may be superior, but they came 22+ years later and they cost at least $25 each!

Comparing them (BB, CJ, Cosmos, Brawn, Warpath, Wheelie) to their updated Legends/Legion counterparts rather than their oversized versions, a BB that cost $2 back in '84 would cost you roughly $5.60-$6 today. The Legends retailed for $7. It's all personal taste, but I prefer the Legends class instead of their bigger versions to create a scale similar to their G1 toys. :)

[lancalot]

For G1 bumblebee ...and your not worry about 3rd party issue then i recommend the art feather one..a very good g1 likeness.. and he in scale well with the Mp line ...that why i like him ..

[GoktimusPrime]

Comparing them (BB, CJ, Cosmos, Brawn, Warpath, Wheelie) to their updated Legends/Legion counterparts rather than their oversized versions, a BB that cost $2 back in '84 would cost you roughly $5.60-$6 today. The Legends retailed for $7. It's all personal taste, but I prefer the Legends class instead of their bigger versions to create a scale similar to their G1 toys. :)
Yeah but you're also looking at 25-30 years' difference in engineering. For the equivalent of "30 year old Legion Class toys," I think the G1 Mini Bots are reasonably well made. Except for Wheelie. He sucks, even by G1 standards.

[Gasaraki]

I've replaced the head on my Classics Cliffjumper w/ that of Generations Cliffjumper (and Gen. Cliffjumper remains in vehicle mode; I pretty much bought that toy to salvage the head :p). The head's a different shade of red, but it sure beats staring at a red Bumblebee! ;) (plus Gen. Cliffjumper's 5mm weapon post is compatible w/ Classics Cliffjumper's fist! :D)

So it fits! I had been wondering that... although hadn't researched too much into it. I got the Generations one MOSC sitting around... will have to try it when I get around to open it. I kinda also had in mind swapping the head when I bought the dude. Does the Classics head look any good on the Generations body?


Yeah but don't forget that:
A) The G1 mini-cars came out in 1984, by the standards of their day they weren't bad.
B) They only cost $1.99 each (and you got the 1c change back in those days! ;) #CopperCoins) - the Classicsverse counterparts may be superior, but they came 22+ years later and they cost at least $25 each!

It is AMAZING you guys REMEMBER they cost $2! At that stage of my life I had no concept of money (or value thereof), let alone the price of toys...:p


It was an odd decision to try and make BT Overdrive into Alt Windcharger considering that the toy was a deliberate and excellent homage to Overdrive. No surprise that it looks nothing like Windcharger. :rolleyes: That's why I'm glad that I got BT Overdrive and not ALT Windcharger-who's-not-quite-Windcharger-who-was-meant-to-be-Overdrive-but-he's-Windcharger (#hurtmybrain :p)

Hahah.... that's a funny anecdote! You might say that BT Sunstreaker and Sideswipe also look nothing much like their homage characters. And... Grimlock!?!? :D But I guess at least the heads kinda do.

I have the BT myself (personally find the Alternators so much inferior in quality I stopped after getting 1), and think of it as Windcharger in my mind. Seems like perhaps the decision was motivated by Windcharger being a lot more popular as a face/character?? Someone like me, for example, just has no interest in Overdrive (or knowledge for that matter :rolleyes:).


Comparing them (BB, CJ, Cosmos, Brawn, Warpath, Wheelie) to their updated Legends/Legion counterparts rather than their oversized versions, a BB that cost $2 back in '84 would cost you roughly $5.60-$6 today. The Legends retailed for $7. It's all personal taste, but I prefer the Legends class instead of their bigger versions to create a scale similar to their G1 toys. :)

I think it would be quite cool to have a whole line-up of Mini-bots in the legends class, it's something to hope for. Unfortunately, looking at what's been released (at least considering 1984-86) it looks even less likely that a complete legends update will happen... deluxe seems a bit closer to reality at present...

[GoktimusPrime]

So it fits! I had been wondering that... although hadn't researched too much into it. I got the Generations one MOSC sitting around... will have to try it when I get around to open it. I kinda also had in mind swapping the head when I bought the dude. Does the Classics head look any good on the Generations body?
Narp. Also, the Classics head is a bit too big for the Generations body - he can't transform into vehicle mode properly with it attached. But the Generations head looks pretty good on the Classics body. :)


Hahah.... that's a funny anecdote! You might say that BT Sunstreaker and Sideswipe also look nothing much like their homage characters. And... Grimlock!?!? :D But I guess at least the heads kinda do.
The heads most certainly make a big difference (just ask Cliffjumper ;)). And the bodies do evoke the characters too. Grimlock may not be a robotic dinosaur, but they did choose a beefy muscle car, and the way it forms the robot mode really bulks him up. He even comes with an Energo Sword. The main downside with that toy is the counter-intuitive transformation. But the BT Grimlock mould really does evoke the Grimlock character. I personally didn't think it was the best idea to redeco the mould as Wheeljack; despite the extensive repaint and retooled head, that mould still looks too bulky to be Wheeljack... it's like Wheeljack on 'roids. :o And Wheeljack with a sword just feels weird (yeah, I know ironic considering the current incarnation of that namesake :p)

[Gasaraki]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0298.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0298.jpg.html)

"COMBATICONS COMBINE!!"


Got this a while ago and opened them up for my birthday, along with FansProject's fantastic add-on... but honestly only got this guy to make Colossus. It's a nice little moment to see that Starscream is the perfect guy to pose with him whilst also serving as the perfect size comparator.

The Energon combiners seemed to be little loved given the massive compromises they had, and repainting Bruticus Maximus into the ROTF/Universe version did nothing for the poor guy. United's version improved it a little by getting rid of the horrible translucency of the limb parts (apparently they were hands and feet?), but coloring can really only achieve so much in this case.

Having said that, the color scheme they have applied for United Bruticus is arguably the best of all the versions of the mold, and IMO, the best of the three individual bots here is Vortex. The helicopter is really not bad for the size (and age) of the figure, and the robot is not the eye sore that the other 2 guys are. Onslaught sadly does suffer, but I can forgive the guy some way as it's the natural challenge with torso bots.

Unfortunately the gestalt (United Bruticus I mean) is barely serviceable, and whilst it poses better than G1 counterparts, it's just plain UGLY! I'm not sure whether it's this or the duplicate limb molds that's the most annoying factor...

Ratings:
Character importance 6.5/10 - Bruticus has a spattering of appearances through the G1 continuities, and was involved in some really fun memorable battles in season 2.
Toy 3/10 - Sorry Hasbro/Takara, I really don't like this by itself... Vortex is a small saving grace.

Thoughts and review of the Crossover 02SP kit and Colossus here (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=359861#post359861).

[Gasaraki]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/iPhone001m.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/iPhone001m.jpg.html)

Had been musing a little on FansProject's Last Chance over at the 3rd party acquisition thread (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=367963#post367963). Something about this piece just makes me like it very much, despite the fact that it's US$60 before postage for what is in total not a huge amount of plastic, and it's smaller than the average Deluxe. So what makes me feel happy having forked out that amount?

A number of initial thoughts come to mind. First, it's 3rd party, and given the lower production runs, we accept a higher cost straight off the bat. Second, it's better engineered than the vast majority of TFs, both official and non-official. FP managed to fit a complex very well articulated robot into a very tight car. Probably more than anything, it's the innovation and engineering I don't mind paying for. Third, it's made with a lot of attention and love... the color choice is gorgeous, and pains were taken to homage the paintwork of G1 Deadend's car mode, and the paint apps (including lovely gold on the face) don't leave me wanting.

Interestingly, after fiddling with it a couple more days, a different set of thoughts then came to mind, as it seemed like the reasons why I like this toy so much went even beyond those first thoughts. Just as much, it came down to what makes a great (if not perfect) TF toy, many factors of which this little guy embodies very well:


Great robot mode - probably this above most things, it's gotta look great (from all angles, including the back) and pose great. It's gotta have minimal or no kibble. It should be expressive.
Great alt-mode - mostly has to look great. If it's an Earth mode, it should resemble what it's meant to be, and shouldn't look like it will transform. Preferably should also look great even from underneath. Wheels should turn, propellers rotate, etc.
Satisfying transform - this will mean different things to different people, but I think it should be intuitive, not too simple (and it won't be if the robot is very articulated), but also not frustratingly hard.
Media accurate - it should look like who it's meant to be (G1 Ironhide/Rachet, I'm looking at you guys!).


So there's my thoughts on what is probably a very subjective topic. It's those factors that semi-subconsciously, for me at least, makes me like or dislike a toy. Last Chance fulfills many of these factors, and FP can be proud to have put out a figure like this.

[Gasaraki]

"Wreckers don't call for back-up... we call for CLEAN-UP!"
- Bulkhead

"What do you mean it's a lost cause? Of COURSE it's a last cause. That's why we're here!"
- Springer


The fan-favorite Autobot sub-division par-excellence... what is it about the Wreckers that endear them to us? It's probably gotta do with a combination of several factors - maverick characters who have a tendency to shoot first, a certain disregard for formal regulations, that 'win even if it costs our sparks attitude', and just the sheer history of attracting some of the toughest Autobots. Whereas Decepticon philosophy has an ends justifying the means tang, the Wrecker philosophy is much like 'my spark is worth the end we fight for - and the end is probably today!'.

Ever since Mech Ideas released their homages to Topspin and Twin Twist, I've kinda wanted to fill a roster of Wreckers. The hunt has been an exciting one, with some expensive aftermarket buys, but when Sandstorm finally got here, my ensemble was complete (at least for now).

So here's my thoughts on what might constitute and update to the G1 representations of these characters, and some alternatives:



AERIAL BRIGADE

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0555.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0555.jpg.html)

Sandstorm:
Generations Voyager - there's been enough gushing about this mold, and I'll simply say that I think it's currently the best choice.
Generations Scout - a remold, and with ROTF aesthetics = not good enough. Not to mention too small, and only does the buggy.

Topspin:
Mech Ideas Apex - a really awesome homage, with excellent articulation and super faithful to G1 aesthetics. Another 2cm of height would make it near perfect.
Generations Deluxe - doesn't quite cut it for me, but a cheaper alternative.

Whirl:
DOTM Deluxe Vortex with Headrobots Drone - I think this is the best there is at the moment, and homages IDW Whirl very nicely.
Universe Ultra - this was just ... crap. Enough said.
Generations Deluxe - a remold of Vortex which is OK, but certainly not as good as the DOTM Vortex/Drone combo.
Generations Voyager - yet to be released, this is looking a little too lanky, but impressions may change.



GROUND DIVISION

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0556.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0556.jpg.html)

Perceptor:
Universe Deluxe - easy choice for me, with the aesthetics being based on IDW, which is the only place where Perceptor is a Wrecker. Add-on the iGear rifle and he's great to go. Doesn't do an official microscope though.
Third party - there a couple on the way which will be triple changers, but I think I will end up passing as I'm happy with what I've got.

Twin Twist:
Mech Ideas Geminus - See for Apex above... this guy is a great mold.
Generations Twin Twist - Brawl remold, again, doesn't cut it for me.

Roadbuster: - Probably the most interesting conundrum
Universe Deluxe - OK, it's a remold, and the head's wrong, but it's the best I've managed to get my hands on. At least he's buff, like this guy should be. Not the best.
Generations Deluxe - might be a better choice in the end, but still a Swindle remold that's far from perfect.
Combat Calibur - if you can afford this guy, he's probably the best at the moment, but I'm gonna hold back...
Fansproject not-Roadbuster - this might be the one to wait for in the end.



LEADERS

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0554.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0554.jpg.html)

Springer:
Generations Voyager - Once again, enough gushing. I think this is an awesome mold and is super fitting as the leader of the Wreckers.
Fansproject Defender - The only other triple changing Springer we have... was really good when it came out, but I think the official Voyager now trumps it.
Universe Voyager - only does helicopter, was a very good toy, and was the representation of Springer on my shelf until now.
Botcon Deluxe - too much Cybertron Defense Hotshot, and too little Springer I think.

Ultra Magnus:
Classics Voyager with Fansproject City Commander - I make no secret that I love this combo and think it's legendary. It's a little too anime for some, but I love the aesthetic, and this guy is definitely my choice for UM.
Prime BH Voyager - a reasonable stand-in and I would accept it as a second choice. Love the shoulders on this guy, but some hate it.
Prime RID Voyager - good for Prime, but aesthetics too far from G1 to be a good choice IMO.
Generations FOC Deluxe - yikes! A nice toy, but way too small to be UM! MakeToys add-in looks good, but aesthetics again not right.

Kup:
Generations Deluxe - a great update, and the iGear head and pistols completes it very nicely and just adds so much character. ATM, no other versions out there I'd consider.

Broadside:
Fansproject Assaulter - this was one of my last pickups, and one I am liking so far. His look is different, but I think he still fits in fine, and he's got a very nice jet mode.
Broadside is a character where there's just no other modern alternatives we have seen, so FP it is.


And there we have it.... my own rather personal selection of the Wreckers. I might take a serious look at the iGear not-Impactor if it ever materializes, but not that interested in the Generations Onslaught remold. For now, the set is complete:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Transformers/DSC_0553.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Transformers/DSC_0553.jpg.html)

[Gasaraki]

Being a native of Malaysia, I still make the odd trip back home, and have many fond memories of times spent wandering the massive shopping centers looking out for the odd bit of interest. Was back there just last week, and was surprised to see that the prolific AnimeTech stores have now all closed down. Those who are familiar will recall that aside from the large selection of mainly pirated Anime stuff, they often carried an eclectic selection of TFs at not unreasonable aftermarket prices. Oh well, too bad. On trawling through some forums, I was amused to see some rather serious comments about them being a 'scourge on civilization' and a 'cancer that needed to die years ago'. Man, some people need to lighten up!

Anyway, here's a brief report of where I wandered to this time around, which may help some as a guide:

Lot 10 (http://www.lot10.com.my/index.asp) - this place is struggling, and probably will have closed if not for the great basement food court. Only place I saw TFs was in the Isetan department store, where I saw Generations Springer and GDO stuff on shelf for the first time - it was surreal. Retail Voyagers go for RM110 (AUD38), Deluxes for RM60 (AUD20):


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Photo1.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Photo1.jpg.html)



Suria KLCC (http://www.suriaklcc.com.my/index.htm) - I advise against coming here on weekends... bucket loads of people and narrow walkways make for an unpleasant time, although I admit I have kids with me. The TRU had the usual interesting stock of Gundam and a lot of Generations stuff. This was the one time I saw a Roadbuster, and I am glad I snapped him up (only 1 on the shelf). Also first time I saw YotS Bruticus & Grimlock, priced at RM400 (AUD135) which sounds reasonable:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Photo2.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Photo2.jpg.html)


Pavilion (http://www.pavilion-kl.com/content/index.php) - Not a big fan of this place as it's rather upmarket, but the Parkson store had a nice toys sections with plenty of GDO stuff. There's also sad looking stall called Toy Garden in the Tokyo section at the top floor, which had overpriced aftermarket items.

Publika (http://www.publika.com.my/publika/home/) - This is a fascinating mall catered for foreigners with lots of interesting arty stores, and not departmental anchor. There is a nice little shop called Big Bang Toys here which had an MP-13 priced at RM600 (AUD200) and an MP-12 at RM260 (AUD90), but no other stores of note I could find:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/iling79/Photo3.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/iling79/media/Photo3.jpg.html)


1 Utama (http://www.1utama.com.my/) - This is where I got to spend most time, with several trips, as my relatives live in this suburb. Incidentally it's the 5th largest shopping mall in the world, and was the most pleasant one with plenty of space to walk around, even when packed on weekends. The TRU had an extensive stock of TFP First Editions, all available except Bumblebee. Parkson had the usual stuff, and AEON has the best selection of Gundam I saw, for those who are interested. Most interesting of all is an independent store called VHobby which had a great selection of TF United, and Takara TFP and Generations stuff, mostly at reasonable prices, e.g. Generations Deluxes going at RM100 (AUD35), as well as a few MP around, including MP-05(!) going for what I thought was a very reasonable RM450 (AUD150) IIRC. What I picked up was an MP-12 for RM270 (AUD90). Of note is that United Ultra Magnus seems to be in demand, and was priced at RM285 (AUD95) as compared with other United Voyagers at RM120 (AUD40) or so.

Tropicana City Mall (http://www.tropicanacitymall.com/) - a smaller mall in a smaller suburb, but notable for the store Brickboy Brothers, ostensibly a Lego collector store, but they also have a number of older MP on display, plus a few for sale, including a King Grimlock in box for RM1200 (AUD400), plus some other older stuff, most notable of which are Encore items as well as some busts (which look like they're not in high demand). They also have a TRU.


And that's where I got to... would have loved to be able to make it to Megamall (http://www.midvalley.com.my/), but didn't manage to this time around. I know there are a couple of hobby stores on the top floor (e.g. XL-Shop and Comics Mart) which may well have had some very interesting items.

[lancalot]

:eek: they had comic grimlock! cool....