Toy Review - MP-17 Masterpiece Prowl

[Trent]

Toy Review - Prowl
Series - Takara Masterpiece
Sub-line - none
Size/class - MP Car
Wave - MP-17
New/remould/redeco - New
Released here - No
Approximate Retail Price - 6090Y - $50-70AU (depending on where and when you bought)
Approximate Size - Dunno, havn't measured
Allegiance - Autobot
Alt-mode - Datsun Fairlady 280ZX
Main Features/Gimmicks - retractable dual shouder cannons
Main Colours - Black/White
Main Accessories - Gun


Stock images:


http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc88/Wrxus/TFs/Hi-Res20Images20MP-1720Prowl20and20MP-1820Bluestreak20Transformers20Masterpiece20Figrues 201__scaled_600.jpg
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc88/Wrxus/TFs/reduced-image_6262_106.jpg


And mine so far:

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5341/10017435644_f289463179_b.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5465/10017482566_557c7c788b_b.jpg
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3693/10017494656_9ef65d40b8_b.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5340/10017471815_186b4ba226_b.jpg

I love this guy. If you were a fan of the Lambos then you will like this mould. Very similar level of complexity for the transformation but very different. Looks great in car mode but for me bot mode is where he really shines. He looks fantastic. Great head sculpt and overall silhouette. Posability is around the same as SS/RA/TT. You lose some in the hips but gain more in the ankles.

Bit of a downside is how visible the shoulder cannons are in car mode. And also the paint apps on mine are a bit dodgy. Nothing majorly major, but when you look close you can see a few things. Mine has a paint dot on the bonnet. And also one side of his helmet appears to be unpainted. It's a good thing they matched the paint and plastic colours so well that you really have to look to notice.

Anyway, overall I'm very glad I picked this guy up.When he was announced I had zero interest as I've always found Prowl's character boring so I have never had an attachment to him, so this is all toy engineering love :D

[lancalot]

Wow nice photo shots man ..... he looking good... yeah the cannon really stick out in car mode hey ..no wonder the promo shot at a lower angle ....quick question...can the light bar be taken off?..
i can't wait to get mine...

[gamblor916]

Great photos. It looks even better than the official shots.

[Deonasis]

So very very jelly. That black and white is making me fell like I want a MP Galaxy Shuttle. Mmmm.

[GoktimusPrime]

Approximate Retail Price - $50-60AU
6090JPY = AU$67. It may be AU$50-60 for those of us who've preordered and gotten earlybird discounts, but TakTOM's standard asking price for this toy is almost seventy bucks. I've yet to be convinced that this toy is actually worth its full RRP (I'll obviously be able to judge this for myself once I get the toy in hand ;)).


Main Features/Gimmicks - none
The official web page is promoting the shoulder cannons as a feature/gimmick. <shrug> :o


I love this guy. If you were a fan of the Lambos then you will like this mould.
I gotta ask... is the robot mode solid? No issues like w/ the shoulders on Lambor?


And also the paint apps on mine are a bit dodgy. Nothing majorly major, but when you look close you can see a few things. Mine has a paint dot on the bonnet. And also one side of his helmet appears to be unpainted. It's a good thing they matched the paint and plastic colours so well that you really have to look to notice.
That's pretty ordinary for a $70 toy. :(


When he was announced I had zero interest as I've always found Prowl's character boring so I have never had an attachment to him, so this is all toy engineering love :D
I like Prowl's character. He's has the veneer of a cool headed pragmatist who can actually be quite charismatic and take charge (after all he did assume command of the Autobots when Shockwave captured Optimus Prime's head), but beneath it lies a petty and arrogant @$$hat; as wonderfully exposed when Grimlock rubbed it in Prowl's face that Powermaster Optimus Prime had named Grimlock as his successor with his dying breath, and not Prowl. That one panel where Prowl is gritting his teeth in angry frustration with both fists clenched behind Grimlock's back is one of the most visually powerful moments in G1; it spoke so much without using any words. ;) :)

That was of course in the G1 comics. In the G1 cartoon Prowl wasn't quite as memorable; but then again most of the Transformers weren't as memorable in the G1 cartoon compared to the comics (caricatures vs characters). But Prowl did deliver one of the best lines of innuendo in the G1 cartoon;
Prowl: "I've got the plan, if you've got the cast-iron manifolds to carry it out."
Optimus Prime: "We do!"
This line totally flew over my head as a kid, but watching it again as an adult doth make me grin. :D

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

It was ~4600 JPY when I picked up mine.:)

[Trent]

6090JPY = AU$67. It may be AU$50-60 for those of us who've preordered and gotten earlybird discounts, but TakTOM's standard asking price for this toy is almost seventy bucks. I've yet to be convinced that this toy is actually worth its full RRP (I'll obviously be able to judge this for myself once I get the toy in hand ;)).

When I preorered and paid the dollar was much stronger. Fortunately for me I also paid for Bluestreak and Smokescreen at the same time. But this is the price it looks like we are going to have to pay as our dollar drops. So it's either cough up or deal.



The official web page is promoting the shoulder cannons as a feature/gimmick. <shrug> :o
Didn't think of them. Fixed


I gotta ask... is the robot mode solid? No issues like w/ the shoulders on Lambor?

Shouders are much more solid. I can honestly say that this shoulder issue on SS, which appears to have become the bane of your existance, does not exist on Prowl. ;)



That's pretty ordinary for a $70 toy. :(

Good thing I didn't pay $70 for it then isn't it?


But Prowl did deliver one of the best lines of innuendo in the G1 cartoon;
Prowl: "I've got the plan, if you've got the cast-iron manifolds to carry it out."
Optimus Prime: "We do!"
This line totally flew over my head as a kid, but watching it again as an adult doth make me grin. :D

Topped by Sentinel Prime in Animated:

Jetfire/Jetstorm: He's getting away!
Sentinel: Well don't just stand there with your servos in your hands! After him!!

:D

[liegeprime]

How come some of the stock pics are showing him with shoulder cannons of some sort... not the promotional black with missle ( ive seen some posts by friends on facebook (sg based) but like an in built one - does he have any just like those on Bluestreak?

They've been promoting that Shoulder cannon gimmick which apparently one comes with Prowl and you get the second one when you buy Bluestreak (thus ensuring you buy him too). Though Im not totally sure on this as it could be speculation. Most of the people who posted on facebook though has showed their purchase with the coin... how come these coins always seem to vanish on imported ones and why does Takara not just make it standard to include the coins as there already charging premium pricing for this figures of smaller stature. I find it annoying.

[Sinnertwin]

Liege, if you look at Trent's photo in alt mode, you can see the retractable rocket launchers tucked away. RK for instance had a promotion wherby if you preordered before Sept. 15th, you received one coin & launcher each as a bonus with Prowl & Streak. I went with HLJ & won't be getting them. BBTS sometimes sell them individually, ~$10 for a single coin.

Here's to living vicariously through your photo's,Trent :D I won't see mine until Smokescreen arrives.

Love the alt & robot modes. I can see myself rolling him around on the dining table or posing him in some heroic gunslinger stance- something i very rarely do with my TF. They've really outdone themselves with this mold.

As for the extra coins etc, this is a nonissue for me as i don't collect them anymore & having one set of launchers for me is pointless; Prowl never had them, Smokescreen's are unique enough & Streak's standard ones will suffice. If anything, Smokescreen's coin should at least resemble a poker chip ;)

[GoktimusPrime]

It was ~4600 JPY when I picked up mine.:)
Most excellent! \(^O^)/

Shouders are much more solid. I can honestly say that this shoulder issue on SS, which appears to have become the bane of your existance, does not exist on Prowl. ;)
This pleases much! :D

Topped by Sentinel Prime in Animated:
Topped by countless lines in Beast Wars. :D I've never seen any Transformers series quite so loaded with subtle innuendo (the Bay movies' innuendo is anything but subtle, so I'm not counting them :p)

How come some of the stock pics are showing him with shoulder cannons of some sort... not the promotional black with missle ( ive seen some posts by friends on facebook (sg based) but like an in built one - does he have any just like those on Bluestreak?

They've been promoting that Shoulder cannon gimmick which apparently one comes with Prowl and you get the second one when you buy Bluestreak (thus ensuring you buy him too). Though Im not totally sure on this as it could be speculation. Most of the people who posted on facebook though has showed their purchase with the coin... how come these coins always seem to vanish on imported ones and why does Takara not just make it standard to include the coins as there already charging premium pricing for this figures of smaller stature. I find it annoying.
Are you talking about these missiles/launchers (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/attach/4/0/5/9/7/717AThA1DxL_AA1100__1363897255.jpg)? If so, they're only available if you purchase the toy from Amazon JP or Hasbro Asia (w/ coin). It's not available with the standard version of the toy. Amazon & Hasbro AS Streak will come with these missiles/launchers (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/attach/4/0/5/9/7/71WZbaoR6AL_AA1100__1363897238.jpg).

As for the coins, that's something that's come from Hasbro Asia (Hong Kong) as a bonus accessory for their market. It's never been something that TakaraTOMY's ever done. If you're keen on collecting the coins and Amazon bonus accessories, then the Hasbro AS versions would be the way to go. I'm personally not into the coins but I like the bonus accessories, so I get the Amazon versions. :o


As for the extra coins etc, this is a nonissue for me as i don't collect them anymore & having one set of launchers for me is pointless; Prowl never had them, Smokescreen's are unique enough & Streak's standard ones will suffice.
The standard versions are designed to resemble the G1 cartoon and if show-likeness is good enough for you, then the regular versions are just fine. :) The Amazon/HAS AS versions are only there for those of us who prefer G1 toy accuracy. ;) The Amazon version of MP Smokescreen doesn't come w/ any bonus accessories though. :o


If anything, Smokescreen's coin should at least resemble a poker chip ;)
Nice. :D

Alternatively Amazon should've included a small bag of little poker chips that MP Smokescreen can hold.

[Jim_jim]

I've picked up mine already without the cannon. Don't really mind. Nice mode, at least, I can clearly see the logo! The Limbo is a QC fail, there is no way I can see a clear logo in any one of them. For this one, it is nice and clear, maybe the logo is a lot easier to print I suppose.

[yoshi594]

Just got him.

He has some of the same issues as sideswipe...no car seats or steering wheel! Also his doors can't be opened without shifting his legs out a bit...better than swipe though, as there's no option to lift up his doors that's aesthetically pleasing.

He's soo white! whiter then metroplex! I hope he can stay that way!

Love his transformation, very g1 esque and also very much like masterpiece grimlock where the top transformation is easy and similar to g1 but his legs are a whole new ball game.

His shoulder cannons could have been done better. I've no idea what purpose they serve in car mode...but they could have moulded it like they did with the classics prowl instead of these weird pipes that can be slightly extended to look better on the side.

He also has good head articulation! Not as good as mp 10 prime but at least he can look up unlike metroplex.

[lancalot]

just had a go with my friends one ... my still coming :(
he is quiet nice... the shoulder cannon are the same as the cartoon in which the image they trying to capture ... there a pic of it on the instruction sheet.
now to the negative ... i found that the door window stay on his feet abit odd , i rather it just stay with the door it might make it better looking as yoshi stated that with a little fold of the door up didn't make it any better.. And this one a major one for me ..is that there a peg sticking in on the inside of his angle that just get in the way....
overall i like him as both robot and alt mode looks really good , very accurate cartoon look of the robot mode with good articulation and the detail in car mode is superb .

[Trent]

More pics for those still lacking :p Found a few more niggling flaws, but I still love this guy. :)


Hold!
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5467/10035446524_c3bf657755_b.jpg


Side view
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5539/10035564663_3fe445146c_b.jpg


Rear view
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7373/10035437164_a54538de79_b.jpg


What did you say?!
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2812/10035469405_528d5e4991_b.jpg


Your defeat is only logical.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5534/10035486546_55c2d6b56c_b.jpg


Rollin out
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5442/10035546313_c232fc32ba_b.jpg


Group shot
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3682/10035447865_21f5edb098_b.jpg

[gamblor916]

I just had a fiddle with mine. This guy is amazing. Everything clicks together solidly and just looks 'right'.

[doublespy]

Love your pics Trent. Can't wait for mine:D




He has some of the same issues as sideswipe...no car seats or steering wheel! Also his doors can't be opened without shifting his legs out a bit...better than swipe though, as there's no option to lift up his doors that's aesthetically pleasing.

Realistic interior and working doors would be nice but they are not something Masterpiece focuses on. More importantly the budget doesn't allow for these. These "less known" characters are priced at lower end for a reason:D

[Iriorne]

Looks very nice, I'm looking forward to getting mine in a few weeks along with Streak. It's a shame the roof/windscreen backpack looks so prominent when viewed from the side. It's probably about the same as MP-12/14, but the long chest on Prowl accentuate the size and the folded in windows on the Lambor mould make it look less gappy.

Including a realistic interior would waste a lot of space and most likely compromise the look of the robot. Even if the interior could somehow fold up and collapse for robot mode, there wouldn't be any room for all the robot parts in alt mode!

[5FDP]

Question - For those that have already received theirs through RK, did you get an email prior saying it had been shipped? Cheers.

[Trent]

Question - For those that have already received theirs through RK, did you get an email prior saying it had been shipped? Cheers.

Yep. And welcome back. :)

[liegeprime]

Love the views of shots Trent.... the let down of the toy is the rear view - too much gaps and hollow parts showing, especially the legs:(... ah well, not gonna shoot from a rear view perspective then heheh

@Gok - not those cannons. but some tube like ones that are part of the figure itself. Those cannons are the exclusive accessories I know and have seen the SG based posters in FB have been saying...never mind I found it. hehehe. Cheers...

[5FDP]

Yep. And welcome back. :)

Thanks Trent :) Looks like I'll be firing-off an email to RK tonight ;)

[Jim_jim]

I had mine open this morning. The transformation is quite easy, very detailed and my overall comment is too little metal (or is there any? I did not pay attention to it). Weapon is a major disappointment, the gun does not look good, it's more of less similar to a V-class or D-class which I would expect it to be more like, you know, appealing.

[MayzaPrime]

The more I see these pictures the more I want him!!! But I will have to wait until next month when Bluestreak is released.

[Hursticon]

Absolutely amazing photos Trent :eek::cool:, truly mate, they only make me more disappointed in my own shots then I already am. :o

You'll see them in the Acquisitions thread... I'm really not happy with them :(, which is the exact opposite to how I feel about the actual figures. ;):)

[Omega Metro]

Prowl does look great but I refuse to buy ANY 'deluxe' class 'Masterpiece'. And after the awful quality control from Sideswipe and the current flooding of KO versions (not sure on Prowl but assume it will happen eventually), I'm just really not that keen on him.:(

[ILikeSoundwave]

Sigh, mine still hasn't arrived from RK, fingers crossed it comes today.

[lancalot]

My arrived this morning ... :) one of mine had a small smudge on the bonnet that they repainted white over it and both came with a little bit of sticky grime ..:(
i really like his articulation and robot mode very good ...well here a pic of him with two missile launcher and the coin ...

http://imageshack.us/a/img837/8123/t6hd.jpg

[Cat]

Prowl does look great but I refuse to buy ANY 'deluxe' class 'Masterpiece'. And after the awful quality control from Sideswipe and the current flooding of KO versions (not sure on Prowl but assume it will happen eventually), I'm just really not that keen on him.:(

QC is pretty darn good on this figure, very few complaints so far besides the occasional minor ding here and there.

And the 'deluxe' class Masterpiece thing is just so silly. This toy is light years above any and every Voyager we've ever had. If you don't like it fine, but don't make up stuff.

As far as I'm concerned, the whole line has been rebooted, and this is MP1. It's THAT perfect.

This is the Prowl I've wanted since I was a kid, and I finally have it, and couldn't be happier.

[Omega Metro]

QC is pretty darn good on this figure, very few complaints so far besides the occasional minor ding here and there.

And the 'deluxe' class Masterpiece thing is just so silly. This toy is light years above any and every Voyager we've ever had. If you don't like it fine, but don't make up stuff.

As far as I'm concerned, the whole line has been rebooted, and this is MP1. It's THAT perfect.

This is the Prowl I've wanted since I was a kid, and I finally have it, and couldn't be happier.

I'm not making things up. Its a fact. It's a size of a deluxe. Of course it's more detailed than a deluxe and it bloody well should be for the price premium that you pay. It's just annoying that the Masterpieces are not the same size. MP Soundwave is brilliant cos it's the right size that a MP should be. And he was basically released around the same time as Sideswipe, Red Alert etc. Go ahead, enjoy Prowl.:)

[Cat]

I'm not making things up. Its a fact. It's a size of a deluxe. Of course it's more detailed than a deluxe and it bloody well should be for the price premium that you pay. It's just annoying that the Masterpieces are not the same size. MP Soundwave is brilliant cos it's the right size that a MP should be. And he was basically released around the same time as Sideswipe, Red Alert etc. Go ahead, enjoy Prowl.:)

It's REALLY not the size of a deluxe though.

[Megatran]

It's just annoying that the Masterpieces are not the same size.

I have to disagree. I prefer MPs to be as accurate to (relative) scale as possible. That means Prowl is smaller in stature than MP-10 Prime, & is reflected in the price gap. But each to their own.

[Trent]

Crappy picture quality size comparison. It's the same size as Classics Prime and clearly taller than Drift. So voyager height. And if you can nab it with the preorder discount, it's nearly the same price as a Takara voyager. So I don't really see the problem.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc88/Wrxus/D7BCE408-0267-4D48-8798-1E9C38B8FCA3-1255-000002F7009F58C4_zps7d572704.jpg

[Omega Metro]

When Prowl is to scale with an MP-01 Optimus Prime, I will be a happy chappy. But I'm 100% certain that will never happen with Takara's cost cutting.:mad:

[Nevac]

Very pleased with this MP the paint apps are perfect no variations of tone like Lambor. The only downside is the rear of Prowl's legs being hollow and exposed. Even though Lambor's legs/back is hollow he does a better job of concealing it.

[willocrew]

When Prowl is to scale with an MP-01 Optimus Prime, I will be a happy chappy. But I'm 100% certain that will never happen with Takara's cost cutting.:mad:

Looks like you should stay away from transformer masterpieces. But I think you're missing out BIG TIME.

Just look at how many people ended up snapping up MP-10. When it first came out, the transformers community was like WTF, it looks ugly, so small, I rather keep my MP-01, hate those cankles yadda di da etc.

Those same people ended up getting an MP-10 ultimately.

[willocrew]

My prowl is on the way from HLJ!

So pumped to be receiving this item that I even Pre ordered the brothers. I don't usually double dip much less triple dip but why he hell not in this instance!

[Jim_jim]

Masterpiece is now resizing everything such that they are following the G1 scale，the likely situation will be, the upcoming MP will be all resizing. BumbleBee, Wheeljack, they are all going to be the same size as Prowl and SideSwape. Ultra Magnus will be a bit taller than OP.

[5FDP]

Just letting everyone know that even though I didn't receive a shipping notice from RK, my MP Prowl arrived today. Not sure what happened there :confused:

[Trent]

Just letting everyone know that even though I didn't receive a shipping notice from RK, my MP Prowl arrived today. Not sure what happened there :confused:

It didnt to through to your junk folder?

[Golden Phoenix]

Just letting everyone know that even though I didn't receive a shipping notice from RK, my MP Prowl arrived today. Not sure what happened there :confused:

A wizard did it.

[Hursticon]

A wizard did it.

Yep, that'd be my guess.

[Gofigure]

Cheers for the review and info

Prowl is the reason I'm such hardcore TF fan to this day

Can still recall quite vividly the getting this figure waaaayyyyy back in the day; was not my first transformer but my first autobot. And my fave since that day

And now to be getting this version now seems a little like a dream come true. Without sounding too cliche about it all :)

[Robzy]

Can't wait til mine arrives. Should be any day now:o

[5FDP]

It didnt to through to your junk folder?

HA... you said 'junk' :p Nope, that was my first thought as well.


A wizard did it.


Yep, that'd be my guess.

Yeah, this seems plausible ;) :rolleyes: :D

[Kapryiath]

Recieved my prowl yesterday and I'm super impressed with the figure he's great head sculpt is amazing. no qc issues so far but the black plastic feels a little uhm waxy? Not up to the usual mp standard? Which was a little disappointing but not a major issue I tend to leave my mp's alone once I've posed them in my display :) all in all I'd give it an 7/10 , losing points for the lack of shoulder cannons personally I think they should have included a pair and given the Amazon exclusive something more interesting and for the plastic

[Sinnertwin]

Relieved my prowl yesterday and I'm super impressed with the figure he's great head sculpt is amazing. no qc issues so far but the black plastic feels a little uhm waxy? Not up to the usual mp standard? Which was a little disappointing but not a major issue I tend to leave my mp's alone once I've posed them in my display :) all in all I'd give it an 7/10 , losing points for the lack of shoulder cannons personally I think they should have included a pair and given the Amazon exclusive something more interesting and for the plastic

I'm not even going to ask :D :p

[Kapryiath]

It was the best day of my life ;) also, I HATE auto correct . I really should learn to just not type stuff ok my phone

[drifand]

As Trent realised, I ordered my first mp car.

After reading great reviews unlike the sideswipe, this seems to be a very nice one to get. I missed the initial pre-order but manage to get one from Hobbysearch.

How will this sit in my display? separated from my Binaltech and mp01 etc.
I probably may get bumblebee and wheeljack as I like wheeljack's car mode and bumble bee....well.....there hasn't been a proper release version to my liking.

[lancalot]

As Trent realised, I ordered my first mp car.

After reading great reviews unlike the sideswipe, this seems to be a very nice one to get. I missed the initial pre-order but manage to get one from Hobbysearch.

How will this sit in my display? separated from my Binaltech and mp01 etc.
I probably may get bumblebee and wheeljack as I like wheeljack's car mode and bumble bee....well.....there hasn't been a proper release version to my liking.

they actually in scale with the alternity and Gtr line ...:)

[drifand]

they actually in scale with the alternity and Gtr line ...:)

Which I have none and have no interest. I be very selective with the cars. Not keen at all with G2 stuff.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Finally opened mine, and he's good. No paint issues or anything on mine. Definitely a major improvement on the Universe version. The shoulders on mine are a little loose, but other than that everything locks into place nicely. Transformation is pretty decent - not too simple, not too complex. I'm glad I got him, but couldn't help but feel a little bit like "Is that all?" after reading some of the gushing praise he's been getting on teh interwebz...which is entirely my fault for getting my expectations too high.:( I was expecting something that would blow me away like, say, RiD Scourge, but what I ended up with was exactly what was TakTom was going for - a really solid, decently-sized, nicely-detailed, well-designed representation of G1 Prowl, no more, no less. He's been overhyped quite a bit IMO, but regardless of that he is a nice piece that's well worth picking up. Just be aware that that's all you're getting - a really good G1-style Prowl, very much the definitive Prowl but nothing more - and you won't be disappointed.:)

I voted 'Only if', as in only if 1: you can find him for a decent price (I got mine for $45-$50, but much more than $60-odd, $70 tops I think would be pushing it in terms of value for money) and/or 2: you're a fan of the character (which I sort of am).

[bassbot]

Great reviews, honest reflections to from all sides of the equation. I'm still patiently waiting for mine to arrive. Can't wait to bust him out and flip some tables

[GoktimusPrime]

A really nice toy and a big improvement over MP Lambor (no shoulder problems, yaaay! :D). I got the Amazon version which came w/ an extra launcher, but only one launcher which seems a bit odd. I hope that the launcher that Bluestreak comes with will be the same, as I'd like to put both launchers on Prowl (and keep Bluestreak w/ the default launchers, further differentiating the two MP Nissans ;)). The way that the weapons can clip onto the vehicle mode was well done and subtle, much like w/ MP Lambor. And having clear windows is a nice touch over Lambor's painted black windows. I have some silver paint smudges on one of the tyres, which should be easily removable w/ rubbing alcohol, but still disappointing QA for an MP toy.

I paid about the same as Odie and agree with his comments about the toy and price. It's a much better toy than Henkei/Universe Prowl, but IMO Binaltech Prowl still offered far superior value for money.

Vehicle mode pics
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl01_zpsf72492cb.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl02_zps33cc73a5.jpg

Robot mode. I was trying to emulate G1 Prowl's box art. ;)
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl03_zps6b765f66.jpg

And of course, the table flip. :D
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl_flip_zpsf150742d.jpg

[kup]

Just opened and transformed mine. Wow, this MP Prowl is pretty damn good.

[Zand]

Mine came in the mail today, I really quite like the figure. I think the head sculpt is fantastic and that overall the figure is excellent.

[willocrew]

Masterpiece Prowl Review.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2813/10435215305_0ec2d8c46a.jpghttp://farm8.staticflickr.com/7404/10435210376_14dbf8e658.jpg


Quality Control:
Not too happy. There's a noticeable paint chip on Prowl's right brow. There are also some minor paint dings on the other parts which are acceptable for a mass produced item. But the chip on the brow is unacceptable. Fortunately I could probably repair it with some paint touch up but frankly for a masterpiece I shouldn't have to go through the trouble of hunting for the right colour at a hobby store finding a suitable brush. Not everyone is a customizer with tools readily availble.

On to the better stuff.


Car Mode:
It's a Datsun. It's as good as a Datsun will get. It's no Lamborghini that's for sure, but it looks like an accurate Datsun 280ZX which is what the cartoon car mode is based on albeit less accurately with a 1980s aesthetic. So top marks!


Transformation:
Not very good. In all my years of owning masterpieces, I never had this much trouble transforming an MP robot. Okay, I never did own the finnicky MP Megatron, but the transformation of all the other MPs felt more intuitive. This is coming from a guy who never owned a G1 Prowl as a kid so I guess I'm new to this as I believe this Prowl has a similar transformation to the G1 toy. Anyway, the upper torso gave me the most grief. My main complaint is the transformation often requires you to use your fingers to squeeze/knead at some plastic pieces to release another plastic piece out of its tab to move into a new position. It's not intuitive at all and a couple of times I could have broken stuff if I were a bit more hasty. The feet were easy. Overall I can't say I really enjoyed transforming Prowl.


Robot Mode:
This is where it's at! It looks like the cartoon Prowl. The proportions are great, just check out the photos I included. The head sculpt is better than sideswipe. And I just wished they painted MP10's eyes like that. That being said, it is faaaar from perfect. In particular, the hollow legs and backpack. Truth be told, the hollow legs don't bother me that much. It doesn't look too bad. But the backpack annoys me a little. Why? Well because I feel that Takara could have and should have gone the extra step to let us compress the backpack a little more the way it was possible with Generations Jazz (See picture below). Right now it is sticking out and looks not as nice as it could have from the side. It's not terrible. But it could have been soo much better and I wished Takara paid that extra bit of attention. That's my only complaint. Other than that it's a great robot!

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3769/10435854446_0638d48de3.jpghttp://farm3.staticflickr.com/2828/10435937186_fcdee528fc.jpg



Summary:
I demand from my transformers: a great kibble free robots mode, great vehicle mode and great transformation. In that order of priority. You give me a great robot mode, I'm a happy collector. A great robot and car mode, I start waxing lyrical about how the manufacturing process has improved our toy tech. Add in an intuitive transformation process and I'll be buying a second toy.

Prowl has a poor transformation process but an excellent car mode and robot mode except for that backpack issue. So is this the greatest MP? Nope. My favourite two are still Grimlock and Optimus. But if this is the standard we can expect if we have any hopes of getting more of the G1 cartoon characters, then we are in for some good times.

[Trent]

^Interesting to read others opinions. I thought that his transformation was rather intuitive. There were a few mildly scary moments but overall I was impressed.

[willocrew]

^Interesting to read others opinions. I thought that his transformation was rather intuitive. There were a few mildly scary moments but overall I was impressed.

Maybe I'm just not familiar with the transformation.

But there were several instances where the instructions said flip this and it wouldn't flip without using considerable force which is always a big no no with transformers. Fortunately I was patient and took the time to work out where the tabs are and how to squeeze the toy in the right places to release plastic pieces instead of pulling blindly.

For example, the door has a tab to lock it in place and you can't just pull it open. Need to squeeze the rear backwards so that the tab is released allowing the door to swing open. But there were plenty of moments where I had to guess where the tabs are.

Also the platform which forms the base of Prowl's head has tabs that meets somemore tabs in the chest and I wasn't sure if I had to force the platform to click over those tabs or if they are there for the platform to rest upon. This caused me some doubt as the chest wasn't flipping over nicely; something was catching it. But in the end i managed to flip it with some plastic massaging :eek:. Had to massage those flip out side view mirrors as they were catching an internal part of the chest.

The most nerve wrecking part was clicking Prowl's chest downwards. I had to use quite a bit of force to get it to click into place. If it was the wrong step then it would have been bye bye Prowl. Fortunately it was correct and admittedly the chest is locked down very nice and tight.

[GoktimusPrime]

I find Prowl's transformation to be fairly intuitive - much more so than say MP Rodimus and the MP Seekers IMHO. And of course, MP Megatron would have to be the single most frustratingly difficult toy to transform out of every Transformer made! :rolleyes:

I know what you mean about the instructions though; I found the instructions weren't that well illustrated or written, which is quite surprising for TakaraTOMY who usually make pretty good instructions that are easy to follow. But even as someone who reads Japanese, I found MP Prowl's instructions to be... "Hasbroesque!"

The tabs can be tricky, but I didn't have any major problems with them. I find them to be fairly intuitive, but yeah, the instructions really don't adequately illustrate or explain what to do w/ them IMO.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Just wondering...how does MP Prowl look wielding Alternators/Binaltech Prowl's traffic baton/red club-y thing?
I was thinking about it this morning and I realised I kinda want to find some sort of Japanese police-y handheld weapon for him.

[GoktimusPrime]

I'll post a pic on FB later for ya. :)

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Cheers Goki, it looks pretty sweet.

[kup]

As I said before, an awesome toy. It shows that there can be official toys just as good as 3rd parties. Too bad they don't make them more often :)

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl01.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl02.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl03.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl04.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl05.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl06.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl07.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl08.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl09.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl10.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl11.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl12.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl13.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl14.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl15.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl16.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl17.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl18.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl19.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl20.jpg

http://kupscigar.com/collection2013/mpprowl/prowl21.jpg

[5FDP]

Great pics Kup.

[lancalot]

very good pics....

[Cat]

Such beautiful photos.

I take it you don't have a set of the Amazon launchers?

I'd love to see a pic as high quality of yours with the launchers next to the G1 toy.

And you didn't forget AM Prowl.

HURRAH!!!!!!

[Autocon]

I'm liking the Subaru version better:o

[Lint]

Just opened mine tonight, I have to say this is a step in the right direction for the MP line. Paintwork is much higher grade, tolerances are perfect. I'm excited for future MPs!

Still want those damn rubber tyres though :p

[MayzaPrime]

Just opened mine tonight, I have to say this is a step in the right direction for the MP line. Paintwork is much higher grade, tolerances are perfect. I'm excited for future MPs!

Still want those damn rubber tyres though :p

I agree... The rubber tyres would be perferct

[GoktimusPrime]

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl01_zpsc21dbdf9.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl02_zps4416b376.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl03_zpsafc8ab6d.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl05_zpsd5c5fad2.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/mp_prowl_zps6ba8645d.jpg

[jazzcomp]

what is the small one?

[GoktimusPrime]

what is the small one?
Smallest Transforming Transformers (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Smallest_Transforming_Transformers) Prowl (http://www.tfu.info/2004/Cybertron/SmallestProwl/prowl.htm).

[Gasaraki]

MP Prowl is my Christmas present to myself this year, which I opened yesterday. I'm very impressed, and feel that this figure lives up to most of the hype I've heard (either that or I was able to have realistic expectations of what the hype translates to). Love both modes, and I think the transform is pleasingly complex enough, with a scary bit tabbing the chest down to the abdomen plate, and a pretty darn awesome leg transformation that is unlike any other TF I have.

Agree with others that the shoulder launchers are a poor omission, and I would've also liked to see the gun storing somewhere other than the roof. It looks like it just might be possible with this particular weapon and figure (unlike Sideswipe's shoulder cannon).

Haven't looked with a fine-toothed comb, but I've noticed a pain blemish on the right shoulder cannon (? defect that's painted over). Otherwise the paint scheme is perfect for me.

[M-bot]

Awesome toy. The MP Datsuns are a massive hit. Paint apps on mine are immaculate. The only small negative for me (as with all of the recent MP cars) is the lack of rubber tyres, as others have noted.

[GoktimusPrime]

G1 nostalgia aside, I personally think that the Binaltechs were much better toys and far superior value for money (I personally don't think any post Grimlock MPs are worth paying full price for <--JMHO). The MP cars may transform from licensed vehicles to articulated G1 based robots, but Binaltechs do the same thing only that they also have die cast parts, rubber tyres, working steering columns, clear windows, detailed interiors e.g. steering wheel, air con vents, speedo, gear stick, park brake, glove box panel, air bag panels, seats, opening doors, opening boots, opening bonnets with engines, weapons are all concealed or incorporated into the transformation etc. etc.

I personally paid 4980JPY ($53) for each of my BTs, whereas my MP Datsuns cost me an average of 4549JPY ($49) each... so even w/ preorder discounts, my MP Datsuns cost me nearly the same as what I paid for my BTs (approx. $50). But to be also fair to the MP Datsuns, they are also constrained by the engineering challenge of taking a licensed vehicle and making it resemble a predetermined cartoon model while still making the toy design intuitive and fun. This is a restraint that Binaltech didn't have - the characters only needed to bear an identifiable resemblance to their G1 namesakes, but the robot modes didn't have to try and look like them. But even bearing that in mind, I still find that Binaltech gave me more bang for my fifty bucks than MP Lambor or Prowl... and that's comparing full priced BTs w/ discounted MP cars. <---JMHO :)

[Gasaraki]

G1 nostalgia aside, I personally think that the Binaltechs were much better toys and far superior value for money (I personally don't think any post Grimlock MPs are worth paying full price for <--JMHO). The MP cars may transform from licensed vehicles to articulated G1 based robots, but Binaltechs do the same thing only that they also have die cast parts, rubber tyres, working steering columns, clear windows, detailed interiors e.g. steering wheel, air con vents, speedo, gear stick, park brake, glove box panel, air bag panels, seats, opening doors, opening boots, opening bonnets with engines, weapons are all concealed or incorporated into the transformation etc. etc.

I personally paid 4980JPY ($53) for each of my BTs, whereas my MP Datsuns cost me an average of 4549JPY ($49) each... so even w/ preorder discounts, my MP Datsuns cost me nearly the same as what I paid for my BTs (approx. $50). But to be also fair to the MP Datsuns, they are also constrained by the engineering challenge of taking a licensed vehicle and making it resemble a predetermined cartoon model while still making the toy design intuitive and fun. This is a restraint that Binaltech didn't have - the characters only needed to bear an identifiable resemblance to their G1 namesakes, but the robot modes didn't have to try and look like them. But even bearing that in mind, I still find that Binaltech gave me more bang for my fifty bucks than MP Lambor or Prowl... and that's comparing full priced BTs w/ discounted MP cars. <---JMHO :)

I have a great amount of love for Binaltechs myself, for many of the reasons you stated. They are still some of the most amazing Transformers ever made and anytime I wanna impress one of my mates of what toy tech has achieved these days, I whip out BT Smokescreen (or even Jazz for example, but Smokey does it best!).

You are right and I agree that BT's can do much of what they do (and MP's have not) because they do not have the restraints that MP's have to abide with (G1 accurate robot modes being a major thing). The prices we have paid plays on our mind alot about the bang-for-buck factor, however, perhaps a relevant thought (taking into account economy and other factors that have changed over the years) would be to consider what a BT made and sold today would cost us - going by the Super GT series (smaller toys), one would have to say considerably over $100. That would give me some pause... small-ish pause, but still :)

[GoktimusPrime]

The prices we have paid plays on our mind alot about the bang-for-buck factor, however, perhaps a relevant thought (taking into account economy and other factors that have changed over the years) would be to consider what a BT made and sold today would cost us - going by the Super GT series (smaller toys), one would have to say considerably over $100. That would give me some pause... small-ish pause, but still :)
BT-19 was released in 2008 and cost only a few dollars more than most previous BTs, and the cost of TFs in 2008 are more or less the same as what we pay now. Anyway... I didn't mean to get bogged down in a discussion about prices, I just wanted to mention that I feel that as nice as the MP cars are, I personally think that BTs are better toys and value for money. Just my two cents. ;)

[Gasaraki]

BT-19 was released in 2008 and cost only a few dollars more than most previous BTs, and the cost of TFs in 2008 are more or less the same as what we pay now. Anyway... I didn't mean to get bogged down in a discussion about prices, I just wanted to mention that I feel that as nice as the MP cars are, I personally think that BTs are better toys and value for money. Just my two cents. ;)

No worries, I gotcha. And I personally consider your thoughts always worth considerably more than two cents!

[GoktimusPrime]

Comparison pics between all 3 MP Nissans w/ G1, BT and Classicsverse posted on the MP Nissans Comparison Thread (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=393543#post393543)

[Nevac]

There's no denying the detail that goes into the binaltechs for their vehicle modes as this is the main focus of them but the datsuns are far superior in robot mode. The detail, proportions and articulation are all much better in the datsuns in my opinion.

[GoktimusPrime]

I trust you've seen my comparison pics. BTs are just as articulated as MPs. The most significant articulation improvement on the MPs would be the additional swivel joint in the upper arm. However the MPs don't have a separately articulated trigger finger or toes like BT Smokescreen and Bluestreak do (though BT Prowl doesn't have the toe articulation). Another thing that the MPs have done better is to use flexible rubber wing mirrors which are more resistant to snapping off than on the BTs (especially Prowl), although the plastic wing mirrors do allow for greater detail. And again, remember that BTs are notably cheaper than the MPs at full RRP. So it's not just about the BTs being "hands down better" than the MPs, but more about being better value. And don't forget that the MPs have 10 years' worth of more advanced engineering too, so you would expect them to be better than the BTs. The MP Nissans are very nice toys, don't get me wrong... but for example, MP Smokescreen today hasn't blown me away like BT Smokescreen did back in 2003.

[willocrew]

Don't forget the ankle articulation. You can get some really dynamic action poses with the MP Datsuns.


I trust you've seen my comparison pics. BTs are just as articulated as MPs. The most significant articulation improvement on the MPs would be the additional swivel joint in the upper arm. However the MPs don't have a separately articulated trigger finger or toes like BT Smokescreen and Bluestreak do (though BT Prowl doesn't have the toe articulation). Another thing that the MPs have done better is to use flexible rubber wing mirrors which are more resistant to snapping off than on the BTs (especially Prowl), although the plastic wing mirrors do allow for greater detail. And again, remember that BTs are notably cheaper than the MPs at full RRP. So it's not just about the BTs being "hands down better" than the MPs, but more about being better value. And don't forget that the MPs have 10 years' worth of more advanced engineering too, so you would expect them to be better than the BTs. The MP Nissans are very nice toys, don't get me wrong... but for example, MP Smokescreen today hasn't blown me away like BT Smokescreen did back in 2003.

[BigTransformerTrev]

Opened up my Prowl tonight. Am infinitely more impressed with this mould than the Lambor/Alert one. Really looks great, good posability and an intuitive transformation. Truly a worthy addition to the Prowl ranks :D

[Sutton]

I wish these MP's were just a smidge smaller so I could use them to replace the dodgy/ugly classics Prowl.

Yes, I know I'm in the minority for wanting these to be smaller.

[GoktimusPrime]

Looking at dirge's pics of Hasbro's MP Prowl, the toy appears to be identical to the TakaraTOMY version. I don't suppose anyone here is going to buy both the TakTOM and HAS versions. :p But if two people with one version each happen to have the chance to meet up, I'd appreciate seeing a proper side by side comparison pic. :)

In the meantime, I've just attached a photo of my TakTOM MP Prowl next to dirge's pic of his MP Prowl. The colour of the indicator lights, red head crest and crotch triangle appear to be brighter on the Hasbro version, but it could very well just be due to differences in photographic conditions (e.g. different cameras, lighting etc.) -- that's why I prefer proper side by side comparisons that are taken with the same camera and conditions.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Nissan/comparison_mpprowl1_zpsdb7f0fdf.jpg