Toy Review: Generations Metroplex (all versions)

[griffin]

(Please post photos, comments or even a fully comprehensive review - these are just some brief details to start you off)

NOTE - versions so far, covered by this topic...
- Regular Hasbro retail version
- SDCC version (silver hips & face, 2 guns, 12 purple & red decoys)
- Asian convention version (silver hips & face, 2 guns, 12 silver & gold decoys)
- JP version (silver face, 2 guns, white carrier deck)


Metroplex w/ Scamper
Series - Transformers Generations (both US & JP)
Sub-line - N/A
Size/class - Titan
New/remould/redeco - new
Wave - 1
Released here - not yet (released globally July (US) - Sept (JP) 2013)
Approximate Retail Price - US$125 (could be here for AU$175-250)
Approximate Size - 58cm (head), 62cm (shoulder cannons), 9cm (Scamper), 4-5cm (decoys).
Allegiance - Autobot
Alt-mode - City, Battlestation (Metroplex), Cybertronian car (Scamper)
Main Features/Gimmicks - Biggest/tallest Transformers toy ever, missile launcher(s), electronic lights and sounds (including game phrases), Scamper, decoys (in applicable versions).
Main Colours - white, grey, black, red (Metroplex), black/grey (Scamper)
Main Accessories - 2 shoulder guns, missile (2 in applicable versions), missile launcher (2 in applicable versions), Scamper, Scamper's gun.

(images of Hasbro version - promo images)
http://www.toycollectors.com.au/tftoys/gen57.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/tftoys/gen57a.jpg

[DELTAprime]

- SDCC version (silver hips & face, 2 guns, 12 purple & red decoys)

The SDCC version also features metallic stickers which the other versions including the ACG-con version lack.

[lancalot]

i found that my figure, the head is fiddly when im tipping it forward then back again it not staying in place and has gaps between the joins ... And also that he top heavy so any movement on the knees will just topple him over... but beside that he awesome with just his huge presence !

[Deonasis]

The SDCC version also features metallic stickers which the other versions including the ACG-con version lack.Wait, so the ACG-con does not have the metallic stickers? I thought the only difference between it and the SDCC version was the decoy colours??

[griffin]

Clash of the Titans....

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/a720.jpg

Regular and SDCC Hasbro versions. (plus a couple Gen1 decoys thrown in for comparison to the SDCC decoys)

Shiny stickers are more vibrant up close, but in photos look a lot darker. The foil stickers are also thicker, so don't fold to well, which means they don't stay stuck to areas that aren't flat. (they will need to be glued, or else those stickers will eventually catch something and come off)

Scampers are almost identical... but I think there is a slight variance in the shading of the red plastic. (it could just be my eyes though)

I'm not planning to get the HK version, as the main toy isn't really any different to the SDCC version... but might be tempted to buy a JP version if I see one at retail over there (if I end up going there later this year), as I'd just bring it home on the plane with me as checked luggage and save postage.

A look at how much bigger the SDCC box is to previous Metroplex boxes (with a Classics seeker toy thrown in for scale)...

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/a721.jpg

[Paulbot]

That SDCC art/box is very nice but I thought the box I carried home was big enough!

My initial thoughts on the regular Hasbro version:

Big! So big. A bit too big for his legs. It's not really a figure you can pose on the shelf but he's got enough joints to be flexible.

The fake kibble helipad on the robot mode shoulder is a bit odd.

He looks good without stickers, enough textures. I don't miss the chrome. I will add stickers but don't really like the ones with Cybertronian on them.

I love the vehicle mode, it's the space battleship I imagined back in the 90s, but both vehicle and city mode do suffer a little by the very long legs. They look fine in robot mode but stretch out a bit too far when folded out.

I had trouble getting the ramp out the first go, was worried about breaking it because it was so tight.

I like that that the city-to-battle station transformation adds a little more complexity than the G1 version had.

It's a great homage/remake to the original toy, the big toy I always wanted Metroplex to be, and I think for the size quite a reasonable priced figure.

[griffin]

One thing I want to mention now that I have the SDCC version that already has the right arm attached... if you pop in the arm of the regular one and it keeps coming out while transforming it - plug it in at 90 degrees (instead of the prongs being top and bottom - have them front and back). It is very tough to get it in (which is why I didn't think it went in that way at first), but when it does go in, it STAYS in.
(thanks to JustOwen for helping me figure it out)

[Paulbot]

I didn't even think of plugging it in with the prongs at top and bottom. I did look at the instructions, which were useless. The prongs back and forth just felt right despite how tight a squeeze it seemed.

[GoktimusPrime]

Hmm... I haven't had any problems with the arm popping off at all. I must've plugged it in the "correct" way. :o

My thoughts (after spending over 2.5 hours tonight applying freakin' stickers...):

Tall and lanky but lacks the sheer bulk and mass of Fortress Maximus (though it is bulkier than I thought it would be). It certainly feels a lot lighter than Fort Max, and little surprise because a lot of this toy is hollow (because the city mode has lots of compartments for Cyberverse figures to interact). The transformation is fairly basic, though not as simplistic as I'd expected for the city mode - that has a few neat surprises. The electronic sound block is a hindrance though (but Metroplex's voice does sound very cool :D).

I have no idea why Hasbro decided to put orange tips on the gun barrel. That's just stupidly unnecessary. The sculpting is wonderful and the toy is by no means awful, but it's really not exploiting current day engineering standards IMHO. The stickers are a massive pain in the backside to apply -- the instructions for them are terribly drawn and a few of the stickers are incorrectly numbered.

I wouldn't say it's worth paying full RRP for -- my advice: if you really want this toy, get it on sale. Btw, is there a trick to getting the visor to stay up?

P.S.: I noticed that those black things that hold the twist ties on the back of the tray now have recycling numbers on them. So be sure to chuck 'em in your recycling rubbish and not regular household rubbish bin. :)

[liegeprime]

I don't have mine yet, but as far as the fake shoulder helipad is concerned Paulbot, I think because it becomes the helipad when in mobile battle station mode - just looking at the promo pics from griffins first post.

Is there a big difference why the boxes are bigger? Is the sdcc one already preassembled? coz most photos Ive seen (Hasbro regular version) is that
the arms need to be attached. Just curious.

[GoktimusPrime]

Tip: Test the electronic gimmick BEFORE applying the stickers! Sticker application is extremely time consuming on this toy, and you do NOT want to have to do it all again if you need to exchange the toy!! :eek:


I don't have mine yet, but as far as the fake shoulder helipad is concerned Paulbot, I think because it becomes the helipad when in mobile battle station mode - just looking at the promo pics from griffins first post.
There's a small helipad for the mobile fortress mode and a large helipad for the city mode. You can see if it you look closely at the stock image. I think that's a rather clever feature of the design. :)

[BigTransformerTrev]

I've only just taken mine out of the box and popped his arm in.

Haven't transformed him, haven't applied the stickers, haven't put the batteries in - YET I LOVE HIM!!! :D :D :D :D :D

SO chuffed with this figure (though yes I do find him lanky!) - cant wait to get to grips with him!


Edit: Just finished Transforming him - wow - that was waaay easy! Very reminiscent of the original Metroplex. Gathering his battle station mode will look better with stickers attached, do like the look of his city mode. Good range of sound effects, they seem to try and emulate the sound a giant TF would make transforming instead of a regular one, and the voice bytes are a mixture of homages to the game and general Autobot platitudes. All I have to do now is tackle the sticker sheet. Personally I was one of those people that was happy when they did away with sticker sheets and had everything done straight into the plastic, and the prospect of putting on this multitude of stickers has got me procrastinating majorly.


(Photo not as cool as Griffins but for some reason it makes me think I should have a christmas tree in the background :p )

http://i1294.photobucket.com/albums/b615/BigAngryTrev/P1000896_zpsce9bfd10.jpg (http://s1294.photobucket.com/user/BigAngryTrev/media/P1000896_zpsce9bfd10.jpg.html)

[GoktimusPrime]

Personally I was one of those people that was happy when they did away with sticker sheets and had everything done straight into the plastic, and the prospect of putting on this multitude of stickers has got me procrastinating majorly.
Hunnert percen' agree, bro. Stickers are the one thing I don't like about Arms Micron (that and the actual Arms Microns themselves). I don't mind stickers on G1 toys -- they're recreating toys of Yesteryear... but stickers on contemporary toys irk me. :rolleyes:

------------------------------------------------------

So I measured Metroplex's height -- about 58cm, so approx. 3cm taller than Fortress Maximus.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Metroplex/gen_metroplex01_zpsf5fababe.jpg
I also weighed him on my bathroom scales -- 3kg, making him 2kg lighter than Fortress Maximus (whom I also weighed, and yeah, he's about 5kg).

I've set up a Metroplex Comparisons Thread (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=16773) for anyone to post photos of their Metroplex compared to any other Transformer toy or pets or kids or whatever. ;)

[ispayks]

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3797/9568303975_7e7923fc8c_b.jpg

[drifand]

After seeing a nice side to side comparison, I think I really like the Hasbro one. Mainly I don't like the chrome feel on the Takara version.

Still waiting patiently for it to hit the stores here.

[GoktimusPrime]

I like the chrome on the TakTOM version -- but I'm not willing to fork out a premium price for it. :o

As mentioned on the TF Venting thread, one of the toes on mine has a stress mark after I was playing w/ it last night. Also when transforming the head the helmet "dislocated" and I had trouble transforming it back to head mode until I got it to realign correctly.

[GoktimusPrime]

Last night I noticed that Metroplex has a wheel in his pubic basin (i.e. the pelvis' subpubic angle (http://legacy.owensboro.kctcs.edu/gcaplan/anat/notes/f8-7_pelvis_c.jpg)). Obviously placed there to help a toy of this size and weight to roll in mobile fortress mode, unlike he G1 toy which is small and light enough to rely solely on the wheels located on the legs.

[Jim_jim]

I must say that this is one of the best transformers ever. The downside is that joints are not very tight.

It is a very big toy and you do need a large space to play with it. I like placing the CV and Legends and the new CV with minicon in city mode as it looks stunning.

[Omega Metro]

Thinking of getting the SDCC version but don't think it's worth the extra $200. Plus I'm unsure of the chrome face. Doesn't look right IMO.

[Jim_jim]

For me, it does not look as good as the cheaper, normal version.

[Deonasis]

With patience of stone
For Takara Metroflex
I save silently

[GoktimusPrime]

With patience of stone
For Takara Metroflex
I save silently

Heh. (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=12480) :D ;)

[Omega Metro]

Any tips for applying the 3463 stickers so they don't peel off over time? I may not even put them on as I don't think it will add to the looks of it overall.

[Gofigure]

i think im in love.....

wish these would hit retail

[GoktimusPrime]

Any tips for applying the 3463 stickers so they don't peel off over time? I may not even put them on as I don't think it will add to the looks of it overall.
I think the stickers absolutely do enhance the look of the toy. If you're concerned about "preserving" them, perhaps you could make a hi-res scan of your sticker sheet and submit it to reprolabels, then just apply the reprolabels on our Metroplex keeping the originals as your own personal master copy.


i think im in love.....

wish these would hit retail
Only a few more weeks to go until it comes out here. :)

[jazzcomp]

Which is the cheapest source for metroplex?

[UltraMarginal]

retail in australia I think we're looking at Target @$179 before any sales.

[Omega Metro]

As great a toy as Metroplex is, he has faults as the Hasbro version of mine had.
His round red light on his chest was loose ( recommend not touching it on yours) and it didn't even have a connector piece to attach his loose arm. My replacement is fine though.:)

[M-bot]

I love this guy. I knew he was big, but he seems so much bigger in person than in photos I've seen. He's just HUGE. At Target's current price of $119, that represents the best value in a Transformers toy for some time.

I like the stickers, but time will tell how well they last. There's almost no doubt Reprolabels.com will either release a sticker sheet (or sheets) with their own version or a duplication of the official release on better stock.

Metroplex has got some great detailing that doesn't come out very much with the white plastic, so he's crying out for some panel lining - I'm definitely giving this a shot at some stage.

My head/helmet seems a bit wobbly, and I'm having a bit of trouble with the visor. The instruction sheet doesn't seem to cover this, and the instructions overall lack the detail I would have hoped for. Another negative is a Transformer of this size could probably afford to have a more complex transformation and engineering, but unfortunately there's little update on the G1 version of the transformation.

Scamper's great. A neat little update.

Overall, a fantastic toy, lots of character, fantastic detail, massive size and superb value for money. Get 'em while they're hot!

[Jetfire in the sky]

I think this is one of the best TF's to come out in Aus retail for a long time, it will become iconic in years to come.

On stickers, I didn't have much intention of putting them on but when I felt Metro's plastic it seemed to have a slick almost slightly oily feel to it which means the stickers will not stick around over time. He looks great without them anyway :)

[drifand]

I think this is one of the best TF's to come out in Aus retail for a long time, it will become iconic in years to come.

On stickers, I didn't have much intention of putting them on but when I felt Metro's plastic it seemed to have a slick almost slightly oily feel to it which means the stickers will not stick around over time. He looks great without them anyway :)

I stated this that you should have done a 1:1 scan for anyone who hasn't.
I am getting decal replacements made for this guy.

On the note, here's is my rating for this toy (Hasbro ver).

Price for Hasbro: affordable, comparably cheap for its size,

Quality: Above average but would require some care. The plastic is not
extremely high quality, I wouldn't recommend modellers to try airbrushing as thinners may melt the plastic.

Lights and sound: Hit and miss, should have better connectors? Otherwise good.

Transformation design: could have done a bit better, as people have stressed the tracks (toes) area. The head worried me a bit trying to bend and tilt down.

Fun factor? 7.5/10 The Hasbro lacks of the second gun, with scamper the only figure in the base, it feels a bit empty, otherwise probably kids dream for Christmas this year.

I would almost rate it a 8, but just below.

[GoktimusPrime]

If you're going to make a hi res scan, why not submit it to reprolabels?

[drifand]

If you're going to make a hi res scan, why not submit it to reprolabels?

might not be a bad idea, wonder how much it will cost.

[M-bot]

If you're going to make a hi res scan, why not submit it to reprolabels?

I'd be reasonably certain that they already have the toy and are scanning the sheet themselves. I'm torn whether to sticker mine up now or wait for news and a possible extra purchase from Reprolabels.

[Hursticon]

On Tuesday my Tak/Tom version of Metroplex arrived; here's a couple of pics that might help to highlight some of the differences between theirs & Hasbro's releases :cool::
(Please Note: I've not applied any stickers as of yet ;):))

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BVkhW5yCUAA9pvO.jpg:large https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BVkmd4lCIAABuTJ.jpg:large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BVk23TiCQAAPUgJ.jpg:large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BVk7JwcCAAAmwPO.jpg:large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BVky8-CCYAIfa5u.jpg:large

[Omega Metro]

On Tuesday my Tak/Tom version of Metroplex arrived; here's a couple of pics that might help to highlight some of the differences between theirs & Hasbro's releases :cool::
(Please Note: I've not applied any stickers as of yet ;):))

Looks a lot more colourful than the Poverty Pack version doesn't it? My only gripe with it is the white runway/road sections on the legs.

[UltraMarginal]

So Hursty, does the Takara version speak English?

[willocrew]

REVIEW

I bought this toy a few weeks back from target at $119+.

To be honest I was a little apprehensive about this figure because I have some space issues at home and the last thing I need is a robot that is the size of a small child.

I haven't really worked out where I'm going to store this fella but at the end of the day I really think it is worth the trouble and hassle. IMO this isn't just another transformers toy but rather a huge milestone in transformers collecting history. I figured that if I didn't get metroplex now, then I probably never will. Shipping for this thing will really kill and I think the discounted hasbro version is such a good deal.

Robot Mode 9/10

Robot Mode is definitely the standout feature for metroplex. The proportions are just fantastic. Admittedly the paint application (or lack of) is a bit bland and I think there is lots of potential for a customizer to give it some weathering and paint details to bring out all the molded details in the plastic. This will certainly take the overall aesthetics a few notches higher. I would have preferred a few matte silver highlights particularly for the face and the middle section just to break up the white plastic look. But I think I can probably modify this myself with a silver sharpie.

That being said, the figure is impressive and expensive-looking out of the box and it certainly doesn't look like a big oversize plasticky toy for preschool kids.

In terms of the robot mode design, if this was voyager size or slightly bigger, I would give it an 8/10. But when it is 2ft tall and so spectacular, I've just gotta add one more point to make it a 9/10. It is that impressive. There are also some nice features like the light up moving eyes and the articulated hand.

It is not quite 10/10 because i thought the figure lacked just a few things to warrant a perfect score. I would have liked better neck articulation and the robot visor gimmick doesn't really work as well as it should. You have to pull the antennas back and then lift his helmet forward and then back again for the visor to click and be hidden away. It works half the time so it is a rather unreliable feature. Also, I would have preferred better hand articulation. That thumb just gets in the way.

City & Vehicle Modes 5/10

The alternate modes for this toy are both a little disappointing. It is essentially robot mode doing a series of yoga and pilates exercises. But to be fair, city mode and vehicle mode aren't complete rubbish (there are some REAL rubbish alt modes out there but this is not one of them). However it is quite disappointing when you compare it with the excellent robot mode.

IMO, one major reason why the alt-modes don't work so well is that the slim torso of the robot really stands out and you can't help but notice its a humanoid robot sitting down rather than a building.

Quality 7/10

The overall quality of this Hasbro metroplex is slightly above average.

Some of the features that Hasbro came up with is quite clever, but unfortunately the implementation is quite poor. For example, the retractable visor while neat, doesn't work as smoothly as intended. Also the ratchet arms and legs are not as fine as I would have liked but fortunately the figure seems to hold its pose in between ratchet clicks. Also the instructions are quite bad and the pictures and words are sooooo small. FYI, I do not have eyesight troubles.

I guess my review is for those who are sitting on the fence. If you have not intention of getting this toy then I guess your mind is already made up. But if you're toying with the idea of getting this toy, then you need to get this toy locally as soon as possible before it runs out. If you haven't got space in your house you need to make space. Sell your bed and sleep on the floor if you have to. On second thought maybe not. But nonetheless, If you miss out on getting it locally, it might be a pain to hunt for one later because I suspect shipping this from interstate or overseas can't be cheap.

Only time will tell if this big huge toy novelty factor will wear off leaving me with a huge white elephant. I guess I will find out soon. But until then I'm enjoying having metroplex answering the call of the last prime in the corner of my living room.

Overall this toy scores a 7/10 on average based on my above ratings. But subjectively, I would give it an 8/10.

[Hursticon]

So Hursty, does the Takara version speak English?

You know I cannot believe that after all this, after SO much time wondering, I completely forgot to disclose this! :eek::p:D

Takara-Tomy's - Generations: Metroplex does indeed speak in English.

:cool:

[UltraMarginal]

Mot interesting indeed. now to deide if I get the hasbro version from Big W or spend nearly twice as much for better (robot) paint apps and a second gun.:confused:


BTW Willowcrew, Great review. thanks

[Hursticon]

Most interesting indeed. now to decide if I get the Hasbro version from Big W or spend nearly twice as much for better (robot) paint apps and a second gun.:confused:

I spent a LONG time saving up for the TakTom version (Close to 3-4 months) as I love big robot toys, but also because this figure will almost always remain in Bot mode - I went for the version that, in my opinion, would look the best in such a state. :)

The added gun was just a happy little addition. ;)


BTW Willowcrew, Great review. thanks

Agreed! A very detailed & informative review indeed. :cool:

[ILikeSoundwave]

The stickers on this figure are just disappointing, i've lost a couple and I have only put them two hours ago and they are peeling off, even worse than takara's arms micron stickers. Anyone know where I get a new set of stickers? Does reprolabels have Metroplex stickers?:mad::(

[Lordy]

Reprolabels haven't got anything yet.

I have only put minimal stickers on my Metroplex, only in robot mode. I have put the knee stickers on, as it breaks up all the white there, the booster/rocket stickers on the back and the black ones on the top of him. Yet to have any issues with them falling off, will see what happens over the week.

[lancalot]

The stickers on this figure are just disappointing, i've lost a couple and I have only put them two hours ago and they are peeling off, even worse than takara's arms micron stickers. Anyone know where I get a new set of stickers? Does reprolabels have Metroplex stickers?:mad::(

you can always just scan it then get the blank printable sticker sheets and print them out .... office works has them ...

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Cracked open my Taktom one last night.

And it is GLORIOUS. Although engineering is fairly simple, it is certainly aided by the size. I think a smaller version of this exact toy would be a little disappointing.

Scamper is pretty cool and a nice addition (well, eh should be there, so not really an addition as such.).

My thoughts on this guy are pretty unchanged since when I first saw images of him. Cool, but but I would have liked it if his waist could compact down a little more for city and 'vehicle' mode. I would have also preferred a bit more of an enhancement in his city mode. The G1 one looks fine, as it uses the chest ramp to fill out the gap in the middle, but this one just has it drop into one of the legs, which results in the large gap in the middle. If that ramp didn't need to go into the leg, it would have filled in the gap a bit better... Sadly the sudden drop off the end of the ramp doesn't allow you to fudge this either. I really think an extension of that ramp would have worked a treat. There is plenty of space in the hold are for the ramp to fold up in there too.

So an impressive toy, but not really a major enhancement on the original. Sure robot mode articulation is a massive improvement, but considering how that is the ONLY enhancement, technology wise it's a bit lacking.

But after all that, I still highly recommend him. At $120 it's great value, especially for us, if you can nab him at Big W for the 98 then it is a BARGAIN! I grabbed the Taktome as I preferred the colours and extra gun and even though it was more expensive by approx double, I don't really feel ripped off.

Better value than modern MPs.

[M-bot]

The stickers on this figure are just disappointing, i've lost a couple and I have only put them two hours ago and they are peeling off, even worse than takara's arms micron stickers. Anyone know where I get a new set of stickers? Does reprolabels have Metroplex stickers?:mad::(

Reprolabels set is now out. $35US, looks absolutely astounding.

[Sam]

Not being a collector, I don't know enough to say whether this is a 'must buy' set for the year.

But Metroplex is special for me, because when I was a kid, my parents were going to buy me G1 Optimus Prime (back in 1986). Then at the toy shop, I saw G1 Metroplex and asked if I could get that instead.

So instead of a 98HKD toy, I got a 300HKD toy (approx. 43AUD) and the box was massive (since I was little).

So even though I have not really read any reviews of the toy in great detail, seeing it on sale at Target for $119 prompted me to buy it. Being able to look at a toy and inspect the packaging in person brought back fond memories for me, and I don't think I'll regret this purchase.

[willocrew]

Being able to look at a toy and inspect the packaging in person brought back fond memories for me, and I don't think I'll regret this purchase.

I bought it mainly for the size and the hype re the fact it's the biggest transformer ever. Theres a chance it might turn into a white elephant.

Never owed the original toy and never really knew much about the character except thriugh the really cool character summary book I biught as a kid. Still got it somewhere.

I have cleared out half of my ikea detolf and metroplex stands proudly, occupying 2 shelves!

[Lint]

After declaring that I do not need (or have the space for) this toy, after a terrible week at work my resolve completed and utterly collapsed and I bought this guy on a Friday afternoon at Target :o

Here are my thoughts:

If you're looking for a toy with a clever and satisfying transformation, THIS TOY IS NOT FOR YOU
If you're looking for a toy that can do awesome action poses, THIS TOY IS NOT FOR YOU
If you're looking for a toy that has a buttload of playability, THIS TOY IS NOT FOR YOU
If you're looking for some kind of cartoon or video game accuracy, THIS TOY IS NOT FOR YOU
If you're looking for a toy that can pass off as Autobot City or any city in general, THIS TOY IS NOT FOR YOU


That said, this toy is worth every dime and sells itself on scale and sculpting alone. The sculpting on this toy is just gorgeous and I can see customisers having a field day painting up all the details. I haven't applied stickers yet but I am quite happy with how he looks in the 'blank canvas' state which is excellent. I reckon Hasbro took a huge risk in producing this (which I appreciate) and I hope it really pays off for them.

Other highlights

If you just look at Plexys gun alone it kinda looks like an awesome space battleship/cruiser
Scamper is wicked and could definitely get me back into that size class of figure
The voice-box has more phrases than the usual and they've picked some great sound-bytes! I really wish Hasbro would do more with the lighting electronics though. Blinking on and off every half-second is getting really old. Why not have a cool power-up sequence where the light flickers rapidly until fully on? (probably kills the batteries)
Did I mention how gorgeous the scultping is? I did? Well I still can't get over it!


Other lowlights

Weak ratchet joints at the pelvis meant when I picked up Plexy like a small child he fell forward and head-smacked me in the face. He's kinda unweildy in general and is gonna hurt some children.
I really wish the hands folded/tucked away somewhere in the alt-modes. Awful.
The flight deck mode is awful. I felt like they were trying to do too much with this toy. Sometimes it's not worth having a G1 transformation AND be a triple changer AND look like a WFC figure. Would have appreciated a more solid city/base mode.
The 'detachable' arm. It's mounting is not that great and I accidentally pulled it off a couple of times.

[griffin]

The 'detachable' arm. It's mounting is not that great and I accidentally pulled it off a couple of times.



If the arm pops out of the robot mode, try plugging it in with the two tabs the other way (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=370211#post370211) (front and back). It should be a lot tougher to pop in, but that tightness will make sure it stays in.

[drifand]

Something is not right if you can detach the arm, mine are firmly in placed and I don't see how they can drop out.

[Reflector]

Got mine yesterday from Big W , on sale for $98. Played with it for hours last night, the stickers are a pain, but i didnt apply all of them. His sound bytes are awesome. Value for money here is amazing, my kids and i had fun for hours and i could tell the kids wanted to drag him away and play with him all night. Im super impressed, and if Trypticon was to come out id just about have a heart attack. Im totally in love with this guy, and recommend anyone on the fence to just go out and grab him.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1392531_10202436059526902_1759569526_n.jpg

[Magnus]

No matter how many pics and video reviews you see, it doesn't prepare you for seeing a fully assembled Metroplex in the plastic. Colossal, massive, titanic - whatever word you use, it's big.

I've only had mine for a few hours - I've only just started applying stickers - but I agree with most comments so far. I wish that the hip and knee joints were a bit stiffer, so they wouldn't flop about when manhandling him. Looking at the face, I don't feel like I'm missing out by not having a chromed face, although silver paint on the face and thighs would have been nice.

I like the light and sound gimmick, but I wish that the eyes would stay consistently lit when Metroplex speaks - it would help when using the lever to better showcase the moving 'eyeballs'. It's got a good range of sounds and phrases, but I feel that it should have had a second button for weapon sounds - cannon firing, missiles launching, whatever.

At the Big W sale price, considering the sheer amount of toy you get, I'd have to say it's the best value-for-money Transformers toy purchase I've ever made.

[ComicGuy89]

No matter how many pics and video reviews you see, it doesn't prepare you for seeing a fully assembled Metroplex in the plastic. Colossal, massive, titanic - whatever word you use, it's big.

I've only had mine for a few hours - I've only just started applying stickers - but I agree with most comments so far. I wish that the hip and knee joints were a bit stiffer, so they wouldn't flop about when manhandling him. Looking at the face, I don't feel like I'm missing out by not having a chromed face, although silver paint on the face and thighs would have been nice.

I like the light and sound gimmick, but I wish that the eyes would stay consistently lit when Metroplex speaks - it would help when using the lever to better showcase the moving 'eyeballs'. It's got a good range of sounds and phrases, but I feel that it should have had a second button for weapon sounds - cannon firing, missiles launching, whatever.

At the Big W sale price, considering the sheer amount of toy you get, I'd have to say it's the best value-for-money Transformers toy purchase I've ever made.

I'm getting mine in the mail soon, but how floppy are his legs, exactly? I'm really worried about that. He really just has to stand and not fall over. :D

[M-bot]

I'm getting mine in the mail soon, but how floppy are his legs, exactly? I'm really worried about that. He really just has to stand and not fall over. :D

He'll stand just fine, may have a bit of trouble with very dynamic poses. There's springs inside the ratchets that, if replaced with stronger ones, would resolve any looseness issues.

[ComicGuy89]

He'll stand just fine, may have a bit of trouble with very dynamic poses. There's springs inside the ratchets that, if replaced with stronger ones, would resolve any looseness issues.

Ah maybe someone can find ideal springs in the future. I saw that video on YouTube about putting washers in, but I don't have a dremel device.

If he stands fine, that should be okay. :) I don't really expect to pose him much, though hopefully he can bend down a little. Thanks!

[M-bot]

Ah maybe someone can find ideal springs in the future. I saw that video on YouTube about putting washers in, but I don't have a dremel device.

If he stands fine, that should be okay. :) I don't really expect to pose him much, though hopefully he can bend down a little. Thanks!

I suspect if you got the right sized washers, you wouldn't need a Dremel.

[jazzcomp]

He's a bit top heavy and that's why he falls over but really awesome toy.

[Deonasis]

My configuration makes him a split level dwelling..

http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc285/Deonasis/C7772714-B519-4DE8-9605-F533E47E254B-416-000000944330DEB2_zpsb5aab5fe.jpg (http://s216.photobucket.com/user/Deonasis/media/C7772714-B519-4DE8-9605-F533E47E254B-416-000000944330DEB2_zpsb5aab5fe.jpg.html)

http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc285/Deonasis/DC98873D-A106-4208-B2C0-43342525FF1E-416-00000091270FA22B_zps4e50d427.jpg (http://s216.photobucket.com/user/Deonasis/media/DC98873D-A106-4208-B2C0-43342525FF1E-416-00000091270FA22B_zps4e50d427.jpg.html)

[griffin]

Three of four... and unless someone gifts me one, I am NOT getting the HK AGC version.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/b101.jpg

Hasbro - SDCC - JP
(try to ignore the helmet on the Hasbro one... I must have knocked it while setting up the photo)

It's worth noting that my JP version in that photo does NOT yet have any stickers put on it, and yet it has more paint aps on it than the other two WITH stickers. (paint apps on the feet, knees, hips, waist, sides, shoulders, forearms, top, chest... everywhere!)
I actually LIKE the JP version sooo much better than the other two... except the shiny face. The shiny plating obscures the sculpting (facial features), so I'm tempted to swap heads with the Hasbro one, just to make the "perfect" version. (I prefer the silver paint on the hips than the shiny plating)
The sticker sheet is about 2/3 the size (and quantity) of the other two (because of all the extra paint on it).

I haven't had time to transform it yet, so haven't seen how significant the all-white alt-modes look compared to the other two (which have a fair bit of black).

I'm a little disappointed that the JP Scamper doesn't appear to have any differences to the Hasbro versions... as I would have liked to have a black head on the JP version, as their Metroplex is most Gen1 toy-accurate (all white), so why not their Scamper as well?

[Sinnertwin]

That JP Metro... One day... :D

[Barrel05]

Got my Target layby and he had two left elbows:mad: now i need to find him again and most places are sold out

[millhouse]

Got my Target layby and he had two left elbows:mad: now i need to find him again and most places are sold out

Buy one at TRU, refund the faulty one at TRU. TRU send it back to Hasbro for a credit, and all they lose is profit.

TRU should have stock around, as they are charging a ridiculous $199 for it.

When returning the faulty one to TRU with the receipt, if they offer to swap it out, politely refuse, and say something along the lines of "if this is their quality control, I don't want to buy any more of their product."

When they offer a gift certificate, politely remind them it is your legal right to have a refund in the manner you originally paid as it is faulty and not fit for purpose.

Best of luck!

[Barrel05]

Buy one at TRU, refund the faulty one at TRU. TRU send it back to Hasbro for a credit, and all they lose is profit.

TRU should have stock around, as they are charging a ridiculous $199 for it.

When returning the faulty one to TRU with the receipt, if they offer to swap it out, politely refuse, and say something along the lines of "if this is their quality control, I don't want to buy any more of their product."

When they offer a gift certificate, politely remind them it is your legal right to have a refund in the manner you originally paid as it is faulty and not fit for purpose.

Best of luck!

No TRU in Tasmania only Big W and Target and both have sold out

[Barrel05]

Prob have to get him off bbts

[millhouse]

No TRU in Tasmania only Big W and Target and both have sold out

Contact Target's Customer Support (http://shop.target.com.au/help/contact-us) and see if they can arrange a transfer by finding stock in another location.

Apologies, didn't realise you were in Tassie!

Also, does Hasbro have a customer support base in Australia? Might be worth trying them directly?

[UltraMarginal]

take it back to the shop you got it from and ask if they can order another to be transferred from another store. It's amazing how far polite enquiry will get you. there are definitely still some in the country. If nothing else they might be able to order a replacement from Hasbro.

It's surprising you got two of the same elbow, since the upper arm is installed differently onto the figure.
good luck.

[Barrel05]

take it back to the shop you got it from and ask if they can order another to be transferred from another store. It's amazing how far polite enquiry will get you. there are definitely still some in the country. If nothing else they might be able to order a replacement from Hasbro.

It's surprising you got two of the same elbow, since the upper arm is installed differently onto the figure.
good luck.
yeah its the same on both arms all the ones i've seen in picks are correct

[Barrel05]

Contact Target's Customer Support (http://shop.target.com.au/help/contact-us) and see if they can arrange a transfer by finding stock in another location.

Apologies, didn't realise you were in Tassie!

Also, does Hasbro have a customer support base in Australia? Might be worth trying them directly?

Thanx for the link contacted them and turns out the store i got it from suddenly had one in stock. Guessing someones laybuy was canceled.:)

Fingers crossed its not a bad batch

[griffin]

I'm guessing it is the grey bit between the two white arm parts?
If not, are you able to post up a photo before you take it back?

If it is that bit, it looks like the arms would still transform exactly the same, but doesn't look nice with the hollow parts of the grey part on the outside (instead of "hidden" on the inside).

[Barrel05]

I'm guessing it is the grey bit between the two white arm parts?
If not, are you able to post up a photo before you take it back?

If it is that bit, it looks like the arms would still transform exactly the same, but doesn't look nice with the hollow parts of the grey part on the outside (instead of "hidden" on the inside).

Yeah thats what it was. Exchanged last night. I had applied scampers decal and it was already started to come off, so not gunna apply stickers. Might order reprolabels ones. Hate the stupid visor gimick mine doesn't stay up unless i put his antenae back. Seen some reviews where it stays up without the antenae being back

[UltraMarginal]

i'm glad you got that sorted out. quite the happy ending.

[Barrel05]

i'm glad you got that sorted out. quite the happy ending.

Yeah now to just decide on decals. reprolabels look good

[Barrel05]

Anyone know do reprolabels come with instructions on where to place stickers

[5FDP]

No, they unfortunately do not. When applying them, I find it best to reference their site. Having said that, my last order was about 6 years ago so maybe they do now...

[GoktimusPrime]

Someone could actually make a video just on how to apply Metroplex's stickers. :p

[SuspectimusPrime]

Someone could actually make a video just on how to apply Metroplex's stickers. :p

I was hoping Vangelus would do a V-build on it.

[Stompy]

So I realized with the Hasbro release that once I've attached the arm I won't be able to pack it back in the box? By the tight clamp attachment (I installed it vertically/teeth on sides) I won't be trying to pull the arms off at fear of breakage.

I love the size of the box but would have rather a wider one to accommodate the other arm.

[griffin]

It probably would be difficult to remove the arm once it is attached, without disassembling part of the toy to do it... which is a shame for those who want or need to rebox their toys.

[1AZRAEL1]

Anyone know do reprolabels come with instructions on where to place stickers

The reprolabels stickers look far better than Hasbros by far. I'll take some more pictures of my Metroplex when I find some time.


It probably would be difficult to remove the arm once it is attached, without disassembling part of the toy to do it... which is a shame for those who want or need to rebox their toys.

Honestly, taking apart his shoulder to take the arm off is not too difficult. A few screws and gears to put back in right and your set. The gears are pretty simplistic and not too troublesome to put back together. Still, I'd suggest taking a couple of photos when you ppen it up just in case you need a reference :)

[Bidoofdude]

Got mine 2 days ago, love him to bits. The size and detail illustrated by the size really are something you can only grasp in person, IMO. He looks much less anorexic in hand. Stickers were fine for me, though I sometimes had trouble with where some went.

Generations Trailcutter fits snuggly in 'Plex's chest compartment, due to his small vehicle mode. :) Looks good with FOC Optimus as well.

[griffin]

Finally joined the Metroplex club, huh? Excellent.

(and I saw it was already put to work in your "welcome" photo)

[philby]

Hello, first time poster, just wondering what the differences are with these Metroplex editions? I've seen one in Target for about $150. I've also seen on ebay a hong kong exclusive:

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/HASBRO-TRANSFORMERS-GENERATIONS-TITAN-CLASS-METROPLEX-ACG-CON-HK-Exclusive-MISB-/221262849444?pt=AU_Action_Figures&hash=item33844b25a4&_uhb=1

a us hasbro version:

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Transformers-Generations-Titan-Class-Metroplex-Hasbro-US-Version-/301093196615?pt=AU_Action_Figures&hash=item461a8d9347&_uhb=1

a takara tomy version:

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Takara-Tomy-Transformers-Generations-TG-23-Titan-Class-Metroplex-TG23-in-USA-/400663082176?pt=US_Action_Figures&hash=item5d496174c0&_uhb=1


They all range wildly in price up to about $300 or so. From the picture below, it looks like there are some minor colour and sticker variations, and one of them is missing a gun. Is the toy basically the same? Is any single version 'better' than the others? Part of me thinks if I can get the toy for 150 that would be cool, the other part is thinking 'would I be missing something...?'

What do you guys think? In that photo below which one is the 'australian' one, if any of them are? Cheers



Three of four... and unless someone gifts me one, I am NOT getting the HK AGC version.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/b101.jpg

Hasbro - SDCC - JP
(try to ignore the helmet on the Hasbro one... I must have knocked it while setting up the photo)

It's worth noting that my JP version in that photo does NOT yet have any stickers put on it, and yet it has more paint aps on it than the other two WITH stickers. (paint apps on the feet, knees, hips, waist, sides, shoulders, forearms, top, chest... everywhere!)
I actually LIKE the JP version sooo much better than the other two... except the shiny face. The shiny plating obscures the sculpting (facial features), so I'm tempted to swap heads with the Hasbro one, just to make the "perfect" version. (I prefer the silver paint on the hips than the shiny plating)
The sticker sheet is about 2/3 the size (and quantity) of the other two (because of all the extra paint on it).

I haven't had time to transform it yet, so haven't seen how significant the all-white alt-modes look compared to the other two (which have a fair bit of black).

I'm a little disappointed that the JP Scamper doesn't appear to have any differences to the Hasbro versions... as I would have liked to have a black head on the JP version, as their Metroplex is most Gen1 toy-accurate (all white), so why not their Scamper as well?

[Trent]

Hello, first time poster, just wondering what the differences are with these Metroplex editions? I've seen one in Target for about $150. I've also seen on ebay a hong kong exclusive:

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/HASBRO-TRANSFORMERS-GENERATIONS-TITAN-CLASS-METROPLEX-ACG-CON-HK-Exclusive-MISB-/221262849444?pt=AU_Action_Figures&hash=item33844b25a4&_uhb=1

a us hasbro version:

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Transformers-Generations-Titan-Class-Metroplex-Hasbro-US-Version-/301093196615?pt=AU_Action_Figures&hash=item461a8d9347&_uhb=1

a takara tomy version:

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Takara-Tomy-Transformers-Generations-TG-23-Titan-Class-Metroplex-TG23-in-USA-/400663082176?pt=US_Action_Figures&hash=item5d496174c0&_uhb=1


They all range wildly in price up to about $300 or so. From the picture below, it looks like there are some minor colour and sticker variations, and one of them is missing a gun. Is the toy basically the same? Is any single version 'better' than the others? Part of me thinks if I can get the toy for 150 that would be cool, the other part is thinking 'would I be missing something...?'

What do you guys think? In that photo below which one is the 'australian' one, if any of them are? Cheers

The one on the left is the one you saw in Target. They are all the same except for the different colour schemes and the Hasbro one only has one gun. Given the price of the others, I suggest you get the Hasbro one from Target but it is really up to you. Remember that the others aren available in Australia and you would have to find one online from overseas. But he time you add postage it will be very expensive.

And welcome to the boards :)

[Paulbot]

The one on the left in the photo if the Hasbro "Australian" one (the one you'll find at Target). It only has one gun. The Hong Kong exclusive one is in the middle and the Takara Tomy version is the one on the right.

The Takara Tomy version has more paint applications and fewer stickers, plus shiny chrome paint on the face and the thighs.

The Hong Kong version also has shiny chrome on the face and thighs, but the same stickers as the Hasbro version. The Hong Kong one also comes with little plastic figurines (those red and purple figurines at the bottom of the picture).

Hope this helps a bit. I think the Takara Tomy one looks better, less stickers is a plus for me, but I don't like the chrome on the face (and the higher price tag!)

[griffin]

Pretty much everything Paulbot said, except the middle one is the SDCC version (red & purple figurines), while the Hong Kong version has gold and silver figurines... but Metroplex is almost identical.

So there are four versions so far, with three in the photo above (Hasbro - SDCC - TakaraTomy). I have no interest in the Hong Kong one, as it is the most expensive of the four with shipping.
Cheapest is the one you can find here at Target, BigW, Costco and TRU, but it is getting hard to find now.
The TakaraTomy is probably the next in price before shipping (from Japan)... then SDCC, and Hong Kong as the most expensive (those two are expensive just because they are limited edition versions, and much bigger boxes for shipping).

[Deonasis]

Welcome philby, if you were leaning towards importing the Takara version another big difference is the runways in space cruiser mode - they are white on the Takara version. All other versions are black.

[Danzvader78]

I just received a Metroplex recently second hand.. It's massive.. It does not come with a box unfortunately.

I am wanting to find two grey missile parts that went with the set and a sticker sheet.
When I purchased the set. It was about 1/4 done on the robot. Only a very tiny orange sticker for the head antenna is missing.
My OCD towards about the missing sticker is going a bit overboard…
It must have fallen off during previous play time and wondering if some one can email me a complete scan for me to print out?
That would be wonderful if I had any links to obtaining the two missile parts and the stickers.

[Bidoofdude]

I just received a Metroplex recently second hand.. It's massive.. It does not come with a box unfortunately.

I am wanting to find two grey missile parts that went with the set and a sticker sheet.
When I purchased the set. It was about 1/4 done on the robot. Only a very tiny orange sticker for the head antenna is missing.
My OCD towards about the missing sticker is going a bit overboard…
It must have fallen off during previous play time and wondering if some one can email me a complete scan for me to print out?
That would be wonderful if I had any links to obtaining the two missile parts and the stickers.

There is only 1 missile included with Metroplex, unless you're talking about something else.

[Sky Shadow]

Emiliano Santalucia's original concept pitches for Metroplex are interesting. Particularly, "I believed I had to go for TF Prime aesthetic, I wasn't aware this was for Generations."

http://santalux.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/generations-metroplex.html

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e0ZEFYH4IlY/U6BqN9QbKPI/AAAAAAAADbM/7D6a5Ki187I/s1600/Metroplex+sketch+1.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6gE16R61R88/U6BqWY_vM5I/AAAAAAAADbU/Qtaa70V9_ws/s1600/Metroplex+sketch+2.jpg

[Lint]

Emiliano Santalucia's original concept pitches for Metroplex are interesting. Particularly, "I believed I had to go for TF Prime aesthetic, I wasn't aware this was for Generations."

http://santalux.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/generations-metroplex.html

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e0ZEFYH4IlY/U6BqN9QbKPI/AAAAAAAADbM/7D6a5Ki187I/s1600/Metroplex+sketch+1.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6gE16R61R88/U6BqWY_vM5I/AAAAAAAADbU/Qtaa70V9_ws/s1600/Metroplex+sketch+2.jpg

It's sad to see how much of the original concept material got 'rationalised' through the development process. Would have made for a fantastic base mode. They kept the core principles of the transformation though, which unfortunately, was still a bit mud at concept stage as it did not adequately hide the robo-hips.

[Joshy]

Got my regular hasbro metroplex today, is it spose to have a projectile for the big cannon?

[Barrel05]

Got my regular hasbro metroplex today, is it spose to have a projectile for the big cannon?

Yes usually at bottom of box

[Joshy]

Bugger. Someone must have helped themselves to it out of the box.

[Bidoofdude]

Bugger. Someone must have helped themselves to it out of the box.

It is pretty small. It may be somewhere in the box. I know I couldn't find mine for a few minutes.

[GoktimusPrime]

Yeah, have a good look - especially in all the nooks and crannies of the cardboard tray. IIRC the missile might be tied or taped down to that tray, but it may be the underside or something.

[UltraMarginal]

Got my regular hasbro metroplex today, is it spose to have a projectile for the big cannon?

As the others have said, it's either loose in the box or taped to the cardboard somewhere I think. I have a spare one if you end up having no luck and are happy covering postage to get it to you.

[Joshy]

Thanks guys I'll have another look through the box on the weekend but don't like my chances.

[kup]

Emiliano Santalucia's original concept pitches for Metroplex are interesting. Particularly, "I believed I had to go for TF Prime aesthetic, I wasn't aware this was for Generations."

http://santalux.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/generations-metroplex.html

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e0ZEFYH4IlY/U6BqN9QbKPI/AAAAAAAADbM/7D6a5Ki187I/s1600/Metroplex+sketch+1.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6gE16R61R88/U6BqWY_vM5I/AAAAAAAADbU/Qtaa70V9_ws/s1600/Metroplex+sketch+2.jpg

Thanks for posting that.

I had a feeling Hasbro had 'artificially' stretched Generations Metroplex out for the 'biggest TF evah!' tittle. Unfortunately it seems to have suffered a bit for it.

Emiliano's designs actually remind me more of the Maketoys release which appears to be a much more sensible design than Hasbro's final.

[MayzaPrime]

:eek: :eek: :eek:

Wow! Those concept sketches are pretty good. While I am happy with the current version, I think the version in the sketches would have been even better.

[philby]

for those who have him, any tips on cleaning? he's a bit of a dust magnet :)



Thanks guys I'll have another look through the box on the weekend but don't like my chances.

did you end up finding it?

super bump

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

for those who have him, any tips on cleaning? he's a bit of a dust magnet :)

I had mine covered with other toys. Saved dust getting on Metro.

Just had to clean all the little toys over him ;)

[prjkt]

Cans of compressed air should work

[UltraMarginal]

Cans of compressed air should work

in conjunction with a soft brissled paint brush, maybe a vacuum off to the side to collect dust.