MP-22 Revealed!? Ultra Magnus with trailer

[Cat]

http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=TAK11771&mode=retail

BBTS thinks so.

It's expensive, but that's not surprising considering the size.

Many will be happy.

[Gutsman Heavy]

hmm...

http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=TAK11771&mode=retail

[serialmonkey]

I couldn't press that pre-order button fast enough. Hope it's true !

[kaiden]

I was expecting this to happen but not so soon. If I remember correctly in one of the interviews it was discussed that they were trying to make a true MP UM and not a white repaint of Optimus.

All I can say is preorder it or else you'll be hurting from aftermarket prices.

[Bidoofdude]

Discussion on TFW:http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/transformers-news-rumors/958132-mp-22-ultra-magnus-trailer.html

[doublespy]

Yep thought it would happen eventually but they did this before Megatron? Must be Hasui's personal preference :p I'm happy so long as they keep the MP goodies coming. It will be interesting to see how Hasui utilizes all the "hints" he left on MP10 in preparation for Magnus.

[ILikeSoundwave]

It's pricey that's for sure!:rolleyes:

[1orion2many]

It's pricey that's for sure!:rolleyes:

No more than Japanese MP-10 considering it will have a trailer that actually does something interesting:)

[1AZRAEL1]

Hangon, what? :eek:

We hoped it was gonna happen, but I'll wait for an official statement. That and bbts is becoming way too expensive and their POL system not worth it for items they have to import to them. I will go with a company that are located where they are made insteaf.

[Cat]

I hope this means there's a Diaclone recolour planned too.

That'd be neat.

[lancalot]

release August! wow.... at least that give us plenty of time to save up to get him :) so no excuses

[Kazza]

Yessssss!!!:eek::D

[VGMStudios]

Im going to wait for more concrete information before I preorder anything.

[griffin]

(edited topic title - if it isn't a spoiler, news titles and posts shouldn't be a tease that requires going offsite to find out what it is about)

[Cat]

Cool, wasn't sure if reveals like this counted as a spoiler thing.

Question mark's there in case it turns out to be a false listing from BBTS.

[1AZRAEL1]

Bbts have done that before...

Though they are pretty on target most of the time.

[iscreamonstars]

Hell yes if true and looks great, maybe new mp annoucement off topic but still no pics of mp WJ or BB

[Iriorne]

Hope it looks better than the rough concept pics (http://photozou.jp/photo/show/2044750/100016766#content) from a few years back which look like a bunch of bits plugged into the back of MP-10. Judging from that picture the trailer would be too small, anyway. I imagine they can do a lot more with a trailer equivalent to MP-10's in size. Takara have been spot on with the MPs so far, hopefully they can continue the trend. :)

[Cat]

That's the question isn't it.

Is it legit, or is it BBTS jumping the gun again. You could even see them possibly just seeing the old mock-up for the first time and mistaking it for the next one, and throwing up a listing just to be first. It's exactly what's happened in the past.

I do think they'll be correct, but we'll have to wait and see.

Feels like just yesterday the old site I worked for got the world-first on MP-02. Man I'm getting old.

[Tober]

BBTS haven't screwed up for a while with per-solicitation info, but they are probably guessing the price. Ultra Magnus shouldn't be more than MP-10. They just want people to throw their pre-orders down before their competition or Japan gets their solicitations from Takara.

I wonder if a Hasbro release will include Sideswipe, Prowl, Bumblebee and Wheeljack, and be $200 locally...

[Gouki]

I'm thinking this might be a jump the gun listing. No announcement or anything and then suddenly, bam, announced for release in August next year (less than twelve months), as a "Perfect Edition"? I hope I'm wrong.

[Trent]

I just vomited a rainbow. I wonder when the Japanese preorders will go up? Probably not until next year.

[Sinnertwin]

MP04 was also featured as 'Perfect Edition' - Cab & functioning trailer, as opposed to MP's 01 & 02 that didn't have one or included a cardboard stand-in. Which I'm thinking this new MP is referencing with the PE title.

As for the preorder, I'll order one. There's no harm in having my name down for one... If/when a cheaper alternative presents itself.

[Deonasis]

FFFFFFFiiiiiiiiiiinnnnnnnnally.

It nearly got a smiley with teeth but this isn't concrete info so a be happy will do :)

[Shirokaze]

Just had a happygasm! I'll wait 'til a cheaper retailer puts up their pre-order though. :)

[M-bot]

I've always thought that since MP-10, an MP Magnus is pretty much inevitable. Looking forward to this one!:)

[Sinnertwin]

TFSource $279.99
http://tfsource.com/masterpiece/mp-22-ultramagnus/

BBTS now also $279.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=TAK11771&mode=retail

[DELTAprime]

BBTS haven't screwed up for a while with per-solicitation info

Actually they screwed up just last month, remember Fire Convoy (http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/c001-super-fire-convoy-2014-reissue/28088/) got "canceled" last month.

As for price remember that BBTS is always way more expensive than the Japanese retailers. I got MP-17 for $60 shipped from HLJ, BBTS is charging $80 before shipping.

[Bidoofdude]

Liking the sound of this. Hope he can still be proportioned well and still have the level of articulation that regular MP10 has. Won't he be quite heavy with all that armour and the core figure though?

Hope this means we'll see a MP Galvatron sometime soon, as I'm losing hope in Megatron 2.0 right now. That would be glorious. :D

[liegeprime]

wow that's pricey as.... hmmm oh well,hopefully this comes to fruition... No new MP Decepticons though... bring on Reflector! or the insecticons!

[jazzcomp]

Will wait for hasbro :)

Too pricey, My plea is do not order so that the price will go down :D
Wishful thinking.....

[liegeprime]

Will wait for hasbro :)

Too pricey, My plea is do not order so that the price will go down :D
Wishful thinking.....

The thing is, if Takara's offer don't sell well, Hasbro might not pick it up thinking that the toy will flop in their market too...

[Deonasis]

This will sell. Hasbro will jump on this like Rodimus and with zero licence worries. BBTS will price this higher than most etailers but it still should come down somewhat.

The adjoining rumour is Galvatron is not far behind him.

[jazzcomp]

If Hasbro does sell, hope it won't be another MP-10 stock incident :D

[BigTransformerTrev]

Damn - that's expensive! But he would have to be HUGE and super detailed! A nice change of pace from the smaller Autobot MP's we've been getting of late.

[Trent]

If we do get a Hasbro release, considering that they go for toy accuracy over cartoon accuracy, what are the differences between the 2? The blue would probably be a fair bit lighter. Anything else?

[BigTransformerTrev]

If we do get a Hasbro release, considering that they go for toy accuracy over cartoon accuracy, what are the differences between the 2? The blue would probably be a fair bit lighter. Anything else?

I'd hope for cartoon accuracy even from Hasbro - remember how Magnus' legs, hips and torso are all one flat wall with the G1 toy - that would be the biggest difference and crap in a giant MP!

[Gofigure]

Sweet

As I have going thru some older idw issues catching up UM certainly stands out as a cool character; dig the whole intergalactic cop thing he's got going on

[janda the red]

i was very happy to recieve the email from bbts this morning stating this was up for pre order... i'll probably pre order just to be safe, but looking forward to more concrete details.

:)

[drifand]

Hasbro or other online websites for me. I think the price is a bit rich for what it is. I be kicking myself if Hasbro decides to do a combo with an additional mp car in it. For me, I don't have mp 10 and I am okay not having this but I don't mind having it for the right price.

[Starscream77]

Like some here i have pre ordered just as a fail safe but its like a year away so plenty of time to shop around for better prices closer to the date, it doesnt cost a cent to pre order with BBTS and can cancel without incident right up to release date.

[MayzaPrime]

As the Masterpiece whore that I am, I can not wait to get this...

Well done Takara you have made my year. :D:D:D:D:D

If the rumoured Galvatron comes true I think I am going to explode!!!

[Megatran]

The vast majority are uber happy with Ultra Magnus being the latest installment in the MP line up. I'm happy for all of you. But that makes it 6 consecutive MP autobots without a Decepticon in sight. TakTom (& Hasbro) need to have a Decepticon for MP-23. I, for one, would like Trypicon. :D

[canofwhoopass_87]

YES! Finally! Ahahahaha!

[Ultra Mackness]

Very excited by this announcement! MP-02 always felt a bit strange to me with the white optimus only robot mold and the cardboard trailer so it will be great to see a version released with trailer/armour.

I'd be a happier if we'd seen at least some prototype shots of MP Wheeljack and Bumblebee prior to this announcement, but this has definitely made my day!

[Hursticon]

I'll believe it when Japanese retailers put up their preorders for it; I'm still waiting on actual confirmation for Bumblebee & Wheeljack, if/when these all eventuate I'll only be too happy to add another Shogo Hasui-designed Masterpiece figure to my collection. ;):cool:

[Trent]

The vast majority are uber happy with Ultra Magnus being the latest installment in the MP line up. I'm happy for all of you. But that makes it 6 consecutive MP autobots without a Decepticon in sight. TakTom (& Hasbro) need to have a Decepticon for MP-23. I, for one, would like Trypicon. :D

I imagine MP Trypticon is a while off yet. And since MP-10 the releases have been

MP-11 - Decepticon
MP-11S - Decepticon
MP-12 - Autobot
MP-13 - Decepticon
MP-10B - Decepticon
MP-14 - Autobot
MP-15 - Decepticon x2
MP-16 - Decepticon x2
MP-17 - Autobot
MP-18 - Autobot
MP-19 - Autobot
MP-13B - Decepticon
MP-20 - Autobot (unconfirmed)
MP-21 - Autobot (unconfirmed)
MP-22 - Autobot (unconfirmed)


If you include MP-10, that's 9 Autobots and 9 Decepticons. They're hardly uneven.

And even then I'm not counting Lazerbeak and Ratbat.

[Sinnertwin]

Don't forget MP13B Soundblaster. ;)
& Although not TT, Acid Storm, as far as individual characters are concerned :)

[Trent]

Don't forget MP13B Soundblaster. ;)
& Although not TT, Acid Storm, as far as individual characters are concerned :)


Good point sir. And yes I was only counting Takara releases.

[nexusnixx]

Mp20 and mp21 is confirmed. Wheeljack and bumblebee


I imagine MP Trypticon is a while off yet. And since MP-10 the releases have been

MP-11 - Decepticon
MP-11S - Decepticon
MP-12 - Autobot
MP-13 - Decepticon
MP-10B - Decepticon
MP-14 - Autobot
MP-15 - Decepticon x2
MP-16 - Decepticon x2
MP-17 - Autobot
MP-18 - Autobot
MP-19 - Autobot
MP-13B - Decepticon
MP-20 - Autobot (unconfirmed)
MP-21 - Autobot (unconfirmed)
MP-22 - Autobot (unconfirmed)


If you include MP-10, that's 9 Autobots and 9 Decepticons. They're hardly uneven.

And even then I'm not counting Lazerbeak and Ratbat.

[kup]

Very exciting indeed! :)

However I will go for caution. Even if this turns out to be true, I want to see pics as getting the armor right can be difficult on the base MP-10 mold.

I didn't like that fan-made Mark's Project armor for MP-02 from several years ago for example.

Link for those curious:
http://www.marksprojects.com/upum5.jpg

[Magnus]

I don't want to believe it until I see pics, but please be true...

[Megatran]

I don't want to believe it until I see pics, but please be true...

Have some belief.... in yourself.:D:D:D

[Megatran]

If you include MP-10, that's 9 Autobots and 9 Decepticons. They're hardly uneven.

And even then I'm not counting Lazerbeak and Ratbat.

What about the iterations of MP-12 (TigerTrack, Sideswipe & Lambor)? That would add two additional Autobots.

On a pure count alone, that may be true. However, four of the nine Decepticons are cassettes, which doesn't really make for an 'even' comparison. You might already guessed I'm biased towards Decepticons.:)

[Hursticon]

You might already guessed I'm biased towards Decepticons.:)

This is something to be proud of. ;):D

[Sinnertwin]

What about the iterations of MP-12 (TigerTrack, Sideswipe & Lambor)? That would add two additional Autobots.

They're listed ;) Lambor 12 & Alert 14.


On a pure count alone, that may be true. However, four of the nine Decepticons are cassettes, which doesn't really make for an 'even' comparison. You might already guessed I'm biased towards Decepticons.:)

Listed by mold usage in the new scale, both Hasbro & Takara:

12 Autobots:
Rodimus Convoy + Rodimus Prime (Hasbro)
Convoy + Optimus Prime (Hasbro)
Lambor + Alert + Tigertrack + G2 Lambor
Prowl + Streak + Smokescreen

Waiting on official images/prototypes:
*Wheeljack
*Bumblebee
*Ultra Magnus


14 Decepticons:
Black Convoy
Black Rodimus Convoy
Starscream + Sunstorm + Thundercracker (Hasbro) + Acid Storm (Hasbro)
Soundwave + Soundwave (Hasbro) + Soundblaster
Laserbeak + Laserbeak (Hasbro) + Buzzsaw + Buzzsaw (Hasbro)
Rumble + Rumble (Hasbro) + Frenzy + Frenzy (Hasbro)
Ravage + Ravage (Hasbro)
Ratbat

[Tober]

They're listed ;) Lambor 12 & Alert 14.



Listed by mold usage in the new scale, both Hasbro & Takara:

12 Autobots:
Rodimus Convoy + Rodimus Prime (Hasbro)
Convoy + Optimus Prime (Hasbro)
Lambor + Alert + Tigertrack + G2 Lambor
Prowl + Streak + Smokescreen

Waiting on official images/prototypes:
*Wheeljack
*Bumblebee
*Ultra Magnus


14 Decepticons:
Black Convoy
Black Rodimus Convoy
Starscream + Sunstorm + Thundercracker (Hasbro) + Acid Storm (Hasbro)
Soundwave + Soundwave (Hasbro) + Soundblaster
Laserbeak + Laserbeak (Hasbro) + Buzzsaw + Buzzsaw (Hasbro)
Rumble + Rumble (Hasbro) + Frenzy + Frenzy (Hasbro)
Ravage + Ravage (Hasbro)
Ratbat

Why do you count Rodimus in the new scale but not Grimlock? The other Takara Seekers I can sorta understand.

[Wheelie]

Ultra cool, but ultra pricey. I think I'll wait for the hasbro version

[Sinnertwin]

Why do you count Rodimus in the new scale but not Grimlock? The other Takara Seekers I can sorta understand.

Grimlock should be a head or two taller than Optimus in robot mode. They're compared on the 3rd row of the cartoon scale guide here. :)
http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/transformers-3rd-party-discussion/434916-prototype-g1-cartoon-soundwave-20.html

[drifand]

Grimlock should be a head or two taller than Optimus in robot mode. They're compared on the 3rd row of the cartoon scale guide here. :)
http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/transformers-3rd-party-discussion/434916-prototype-g1-cartoon-soundwave-20.html

I would agree with this, basically mp01 and megatron were the only few out as they were scaled towards the binaltech series.

Wished they had everything sorted from the start.

[UltraMarginal]

Wished they had everything sorted from the start.

^ this.

[griffin]

They probably never expected the "one off" figure to spawn a series that has lasted 10 years now... as they number everything, but it doesn't mean they have plans to do more than xx-01.
The first one was supposed to be big and fancy, to be a centrepiece of people's collections... but as the demand spawned more and more moulds (after the first three moulds generated about 10 MP toys :p ), the cost factor started weighing in, prompting a rethink on the scale to be more affordable in the long run as costs keep going up (inflation & exchange rate fluctuations)... but realistically, do they need to? The original toyline was all over the place in terms of scale in either mode, but since TakaraTomy are focussing more on the cartoon versions, scale is a factor they are at least trying to factor in.

[Tober]

Yeah, I heard MP-10 Convoy basically represented a reboot of the MP line. They do indeed seem to be focusing on cartoon accuracy and taking scale from the cartoon's bot-height style guide. Pity Grimlock wasn't a bit bigger then.

[drifand]

well the reboot sort of back fired for me. Is like I wished they stayed on that scale and I be a happier person. Now I look at the cars and I know they would not be part of my display where all the Binaltech and alternators are.

What screws myself more is considering whether to buy mp10 which I gave up for now, I am quite confident a reissue may occur down the road.

But I avoided collecting all the cars just solely of that reason, in some ways "lucky" as it saves me money but at the same time disappointed because I would have jumped on it if they were bigger. But saying that, this started way back when Alternalty was introduced and they sized it smaller, so technically no surprises from there.

[doublespy]

Apart from being the commemorative one off thing, the original MP01 was also an attempt to compete with Bandai's Soul of Chogokin figures(which were extremely successful with collectors). So Takara went full on with die cast parts/accessories/working pistons/air intakes, etc.

Personally the new design direction and scale feel more "Transformers-y" to me. And the new scale simply means they can make a lot of figures cheaper, which makes more obscure characters getting MP treatment possible. If the Autobot cars were done in the old scale a lot of people would definitely think twice to fork out 10000 yen to get, say an MP Smokescreen.

[GoktimusPrime]

Hmm... nothing on Amazon JP yet. Hopefully they'll release some interesting exclusive bonus content. :o Hasbro should release a convention exclusive version where the cab-robot is repainted in a Minimus Ambus colour scheme (possibly w/ retooled head or an alternate head that fans can attach themselves). It'd be fully deserved. ;)


And the new scale simply means they can make a lot of figures cheaper, which makes more obscure characters getting MP treatment possible.
I've personally found the new smaller scale to be dearer, not cheaper when comparing the RRP of similar toys.

e.g.:
MP04 Convoy = AU$206 (18900JPY) vs MP10 Convoy = AU$251 (23100JPY)
MP03/MP06 = $112 (10290JPY)/MP07 = $114 (10500JPY), so let's say the avg. RRP for the old Seekers was $113 vs MP11 $141 (13000JPY)

So Optimus Prime has become $46 (4200JPY) more expensive; and I don't think the inclusion of Roller and Spike justifies that hike with the smaller scale and more simplistic core figure (as very nice as it is in its own right). Likewise the MP Seeker has seen a $28 (2605JPY) average price rise, and I don't feel the figure justifies that either (yes, the robot mode is improved, but the jet mode isn't as good; and IMO the coronation set doesn't feel worth paying nearly thirty bucks for).

IMHO the old MPs were (mostly*) worth paying full RRP for whereas the new ones aren't (which is why I'm more likely to either preorder and get at discounted prices, or just skip and hope for a Hasbro version). I've yet to see a new TakTOM MP and thought, "That's worth paying full RRP for." At best I'll think, "That's worth paying the discounted price for," but of course it's the RRP that represents the price that TakaraTOMY has set and is expecting most people to pay for these toys.

-----------------------------------------
*I didn't think MP04 Convoy Perfect Ed. or MP09 Rodimus Convoy were worth paying RRP for.

[Paulbot]

Hmm... nothing on Amazon JP yet.
Can you see if "Wheeljack" and "Bumblebee" are on Amazon JP?

[Cat]

You can't compare the RRP of MP01 and MP10 as an equal comparison. It's been close to 10 years and a hell of a lot of change in the economy, strength of currency, and price of oil and other supplies, and shipping costs.

[Nevac]

Not to mention that little thing called inflation, I just hope that it's true we're getting a real Ultra Magnus would love to have one. It'd make sense to release him since we're getting all these MP cars be great to have a car carrier to put them on. Anyone here take pics of which cars fit on G1 Ultra Magnus? I only have Magnus and Hotrod is slightly too wide to drive into his car carrier. I wondered if many of the S3 cars could actually use him. I'm sure the G1 Datsuns can fit but never had them to try them out.

[liegeprime]

Gok, don't forget plastics nowadays may cost more than metal as it is dependent on Oil prices/production so this may be the one reason for the price hike. There could be labor costs as well - prolly why they moved some production to Vietnam rather than all of it to China. If it was cheaper in production cost I don't think they'd have removed the light up gimmick for the matrix as you know how they are with big TFs and gimmicks. As it is, I guess the current MPs are growing on me. MP Prime 01 and 04 and Megs are for me always were in line more with the Alts/BTs. Although Im thankful I can still consider the earlier Seeker to be in tune with the newer ones sizewise.

But considering all this, our pockets and wallets take a big hit. I agree you get little bang for our buck now with the new MP line... SO every little additional accessory or bonus or saving helps.

As bad as it sounds (hey Im a basement resident anyways:p) Im waiting for somebody to KO that exclusive rocket launcher freebie they get from JP for MP Prowl. Ill most likely get four - just so Bluestreak can have them as well.

[Cat]

Not to mention that little thing called inflation, I just hope that it's true we're getting a real Ultra Magnus would love to have one. It'd make sense to release him since we're getting all these MP cars be great to have a car carrier to put them on. Anyone here take pics of which cars fit on G1 Ultra Magnus? I only have Magnus and Hotrod is slightly too wide to drive into his car carrier. I wondered if many of the S3 cars could actually use him. I'm sure the G1 Datsuns can fit but never had them to try them out.

Inflation alone makes the costs pretty much dead-on equal.

[MayzaPrime]

Not to mention that little thing called inflation, I just hope that it's true we're getting a real Ultra Magnus would love to have one. It'd make sense to release him since we're getting all these MP cars be great to have a car carrier to put them on. Anyone here take pics of which cars fit on G1 Ultra Magnus? I only have Magnus and Hotrod is slightly too wide to drive into his car carrier. I wondered if many of the S3 cars could actually use him. I'm sure the G1 Datsuns can fit but never had them to try them out.

I got Ultra Magnus for my 8th Birthday (I still have him :D) I used to put the Autobot cars in his trailer and drive them around the house along side was Optimus Prime.

[Trent]

According to the RBA's inflation calculator (http://www.rba.gov.au/calculator/):

MP-04 RRP was $206 in 2006(ish), is equivalent to $242 in 2012.

MP-03 mould seekers at Gok's $113 in 2006(when the first one came out, is equivalent to $132.86 in 2012.

MP-08's $163 RRP in 2009 is equivalent to $176.35 in 2012.


So Gok, the price difference between MP-04 and MP-10 is $9 not $46. And the seeker mould has increased by $9 too, not $28 And as others have said, that is purely inflation. It doesn't take into account material and labour cost increases above inflation.

So at best case scenario (as we don't know how many external factors have affected costs and to what degree) we are paying equivalent prices.

[Tober]

As bad as it sounds (hey Im a basement resident anyways:p) Im waiting for somebody to KO that exclusive rocket launcher freebie they get from JP for MP Prowl. Ill most likely get four - just so Bluestreak can have them as well.

Dr. Wu (http://tformers.com/transformers-dr-wu-masterpiece-prowl-missile/21233/news.html) apparently has a set of optional launchers coming. But I''m sure we'll see actual KO launchers coming soon.

[kup]

I've personally found the new smaller scale to be dearer, not cheaper when comparing the RRP of similar toys.

e.g.:
MP04 Convoy = AU$206 (18900JPY) vs MP10 Convoy = AU$251 (23100JPY)
MP03/MP06 = $112 (10290JPY)/MP07 = $114 (10500JPY), so let's say the avg. RRP for the old Seekers was $113 vs MP11 $141 (13000JPY)

So Optimus Prime has become $46 (4200JPY) more expensive; and I don't think the inclusion of Roller and Spike justifies that hike with the smaller scale and more simplistic core figure (as very nice as it is in its own right). Likewise the MP Seeker has seen a $28 (2605JPY) average price rise, and I don't feel the figure justifies that either (yes, the robot mode is improved, but the jet mode isn't as good; and IMO the coronation set doesn't feel worth paying nearly thirty bucks for).


I think he means that they are cheaper to manufacture which I believe to be the case. Yeah there is inflation to take into account that's for sure but one should not dismiss contemporary corporate greed either. If it is cheaper to make and they can charge more for it then the profit margin increases. This is specially so if sales continue to be strong as they can charge more for 'less'.

[Trent]

I think he means that they are cheaper to manufacture which I believe to be the case. Yeah there is inflation to take into account that's for sure but one should not dismiss contemporary corporate greed either. If it is cheaper to make and they can charge more for it then the profit margin increases. This is specially so if sales continue to be strong as they can charge more for 'less'.

On what evidence are you basing your comment that they are cheaper to manufacture now Kup? I worked in a global manufacturing market for 8 years (2002-2010) and in that time, costs did nothing but go up. Look at manufacturing markets in every industry across the world, costs are rising as people's wages and the cost of raw materials increase.

I have no doubt that TT are trying to increase their profit margins. As a publically listed company that is the responsibility the have to their shareholders. But to apply a blanket statement that that is the primary reason that MPs cost what they do today is a stretch, to say the least.

[kup]

On what evidence are you basing your comment that they are cheaper to manufacture now Kup? I worked in a global manufacturing market for 8 years (2002-2010) and in that time, costs did nothing but go up. Look at manufacturing markets in every industry across the world, costs are rising as people's wages and the cost of raw materials increase.

I have no doubt that TT are trying to increase their profit margins. As a publically listed company that is the responsibility the have to their shareholders. But to apply a blanket statement that that is the primary reason that MPs cost what they do today is a stretch, to say the least.

No evidence, just what I think given the way the corporate world works hence the "I think" and "I believe". I thought this was a discussion, not an official inquiry where I have to provide 'evidence' for any comment I say ;)

To me, makes perfect corporate sense for them to minimize manufacturing costs and sell for more if the demand is still willing to pay it.

[drifand]

The alternators scale are definitely more appealing for me and definitely a better approach. Perhaps some of you think this whole thing is a good thing to scale down but personally it wouldn't have deter me at all and I would buy the entire car range. as it is I have skipped the lot.

If scale isn't a factor, you wouldn't have worried you if they stayed the same binaltech size. This is why I don't CARE about Starscream sizes nor Soundwave. However being I have almost the entire Binaltech sitting nicely with Mp01 and Megatron, I do care about what cars I be interested and also it be a different part of my display.

Chances is, if they had stayed all the same scale and increased price by $20 you ALL will still have bought it. Unfortunately I do not blame the mp scaling but the Alterninty range were the first to start and that put me off entirely.

With everything else, aren't you curious if you EVER going to get a proper scaled down Megatron against you mp10? My point exactly, we are all screwed in some ways.

I will stick to characters that I like and buy selective due to this, I could very well miss the entire car robots, but that's life.

Unfortunately Got's point is valid, if the whole idea was keeping cost down, it hasn't and we are all sucked in thinking it has if we comparing price to size ratio for these new mp cars.

[Tober]

TAKARA almost went bankrupt towards the end of BINALTECH (allegedly). That's why they merged with TOMY, to keep shared costs down.

One of their last moves was to release the BINALTECH ASTERISK line with a little figure at a 500jpy cost rise. Then came Kiss Players, plastic instead of diecast with a 1000jpy price hike again.

And now we have Transformers GT for about 8500jpy. Bless 'em. :)

[GoktimusPrime]

Paulbot: no sign of MP Bumblebee or Wheeljack on Amazon JP.

I'm still not entirely convinced that inflation can satisfactorily explain the sudden price hike of MPs around the time of the 'reboot.' Let's compare the prices of Deluxe Class Bumblebees released in the same years.

* MA-10 New Bumblebee (1st movie Deluxe 2009 Camaro Bumblebee), 2007; same year as MP-6 Skywarp (same RRP as MP-3 Starscream), RRP 2310JPY
* C-02 Bumble (Henkei Bumblebee) 2008; same year as MP-7 Thundercracker (210JPY (AU$2.30) more expensive than MP-3 & MP-6), RRP 2100JPY
* AM-02 Bumblebee (Arms Micron Bumblebee), 2012; same year as MP11 Starscream (2605JPY/$28 dearer than previous MP Seekers), RRP 2100JPY

So we can see that the price of Deluxe Bumblebees has remained fairly stable and has actually become a little bit cheaper (by about $2.30). I'd say if we looked at the prices of similarly comparable Transformers across the same years, we'd find that there hasn't been any significant fluctuation in prices. I don't quite understand why it's only been the price of Masterpieces that's risen (and only in Japan), while the Japanese prices for other Transformers has remained relatively constant. Even in Australia where we notoriously pay through the nose for Transformers, our prices have remained relatively constant too. The first Hasbro TRU MP Starscream sold for $99 in late 2007, and Acid Storm is listed at selling for the same price in late 2013.

I don't know the reasons why TakaraTOMY have increased the price of MPs so much since the "reboot", and I'm not going to speculate. But as an end consumer, I know that these products have become a lot more expensive than they were just a few years ago, and as such I do not feel that they are worth paying full price for. So I'll either:
* Pre-order it and get it at a discounted price
* Skip it and hope for a Hasbro release

How many people here are doing the same thing, or are we all happily paying full RRP for TakaraTOMY MPs? Because I remember when the old Takara MPs came out, we were all happy to pay full RRP for those toys. I know I was, and I felt that they were worth it and offered superior value for money to the local Hasbro releases (I'm so glad I got MP-1 over Hasbro's version w/ the shortened smoke stacks and ridiculous looking attempt at "battle damage" (that just makes him look pre-smudged); the only thing I think the Hasbro version did better was the black rifle). Now I feel it's the other way around (I wish that I'd skipped TakTOM Soundwave & Cassettes and waited for the Hasbro version instead).


One of their last moves was to release the BINALTECH ASTERISK line with a little figure at a 500jpy cost rise. Then came Kiss Players, plastic instead of diecast with a 1000jpy price hike again.

And now we have Transformers GT for about 8500jpy. Bless 'em. :)
Yeah, I didn't bother collecting the KISS Players BTs as I felt they were a rip off. And Alternity similarly felt like inferior value for money too, and I've only collected a small number of them; whereas I went nuts collecting almost all of Binaltech. ;) Perhaps the price hike has only occured to the high end collector lines but not the mainstream lines aimed at children.

Either way, I'm not a fan of paying more for less.

[drifand]

thus my question, "Is Hasbro ever going to consider releasing the cars?" lol
I was a bit surprised they not going to, or nothing mentioned whether they intend to as the products are already available just need the licensing.

Of course the other thing is Ultra Magnus wouldn't need licensing and thus will there be a release in Hasbro?

[kup]

thus my question, "Is Hasbro ever going to consider releasing the cars?" lol
I was a bit surprised they not going to, or nothing mentioned whether they intend to as the products are already available just need the licensing.

Of course the other thing is Ultra Magnus wouldn't need licensing and thus will there be a release in Hasbro?

I think that is more a licensing issue. It is always possible that it may one day happen but having to pay the license to the car manufacturers to sell in the Hasbro markets may be deterring them.

Paying what would be an expensive license makes sense from a collector's item point of view. However Hasbro has never really stepped away from 'Transformers are toys for kids' business plan even when some of their releases have been indirectly intended for collectors (reissues, MPs, Titanium).

[GoktimusPrime]

I agree w/ kup. Hasbro's been pretty good with releasing the MP moulds, and the only ones they haven't have been ones that are legally problematic for them. Previously it was MP Megatron (re: replica firearm), and the cars present licensing issues. TakaraTOMY only released their MP Soundwave earlier this year, and Hasbro's already released their version overseas and the Australian version is only weeks away from release; so we're seeing a release of a Hasbro MP in Australian stores only a matter of months after they first hit Japanese stores -- that's pretty damn quick! :D

Scale's not a big deal for me. It wasn't the smaller scale of Alternity that made me not really get into them, it was the size to price ratio. I don't mind Masterpieces getting smaller... I would just prefer their RRPs to similarly reflect this. I find preorder discount prices better reflect this (but are still pretty expensive), but not full RRP.

P.S.: Made a thread w/ poll about how we pay for the new MPs here (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=17039) :)

[Megatran]

Slept through Economics 101 classes back in my uni days. Did pretty much the same for the last lot of postings. Don't take it the wrong way. I visit this thread to find new news on MP-22.

[Cat]

Amen to that.:cool:

[liegeprime]

Dr. Wu (http://tformers.com/transformers-dr-wu-masterpiece-prowl-missile/21233/news.html) apparently has a set of optional launchers coming. But I''m sure we'll see actual KO launchers coming soon.

oooh... you guys do find such wonderful news for me to save up for hehehehe:D:D - I choose 2. 6 and 9 please;)

[Bidoofdude]

Slept through Economics 101 classes back in my uni days. Did pretty much the same for the last lot of postings. Don't take it the wrong way. I visit this thread to find new news on MP-22.

Well this is a discussion topic... :p


Thinking I'll have to miss this myself or wait for Hasbro.

[GoktimusPrime]

Well this is a discussion topic... :p
^This. :D And this is a discussion board/forum. :o

I probably should wait for a Hasbro version... but who am I kidding? Given the fact that Ultra Magnus has become my favourite G1 character, I know I'm gonna be preordering the TakTOM version as soon as I see it on Amazon JP. :o

[bassbot]

I don't have MP-10 so I think my interest levels are reduced due to this. I'm more interested in the IDW design toys (swerve and skids for example...)

[drifand]

I don't have MP-10 so I think my interest levels are reduced due to this. I'm more interested in the IDW design toys (swerve and skids for example...)

You do know that mp-10 has another release right? this isn't end of the road.

I also noticed there is a second issue of sideswipe as well. Hopefully this teaches scalpers a huge lesson for giving these companies more opportunity to make more and them loosing out in the end due to excessive stock.

[bassbot]

Yeah just at the moment can't justify the $ for another Prime! ;) I believe the reviews, he looks amazing. Maybe down the track!

[drifand]

Yeah just at the moment can't justify the $ for another Prime! ;) I believe the reviews, he looks amazing. Maybe down the track!

Tell me about it, I have MP01 and MP04, thus making MP-10 a non essential but at the rate things go due to scaling they are forcing you to have it.

[CBratron]

So get rid of MP-01 and -04, the new non-essentials.

[drifand]

So get rid of MP-01 and -04, the new non-essentials.

And forgo showing it next with MP Megatron? Are you nuts? lol

[drifand]

Though I am only speculating but I think due to the number of "legal" issues Takara may not do Megatron in gun mode ever again. We might just see Galvatron which I think it be ridiculous if the customs think this looks like a real gun.

[MayzaPrime]

I just love the MP line... I have MP-01, 01b, 02, 04, as well as both Hasbro and Takara MP-10 I just can't get enough of them of the Op\Convoy mold :D.

The second UM's pre-order is up at RK I will be buying!!!

The onlly MP I am not completely happy with is Acid Storm... Sadly :(

[Jetfire in the sky]

I hope this means there's a Diaclone recolour planned too.

That'd be neat.

Like this, this is a custom I recently bought, the concept is very good, basically hack up a G1 magnus trailer and stick it to a MP 01 Prime, however the execution was very poor.

http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag95/Raymo2377/P1040316_zps231c7623.jpg (http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/Raymo2377/media/P1040316_zps231c7623.jpg.html)

[Sinnertwin]

^ Powered Convoy FTW!

[kup]

^ Powered Convoy FTW!

When MP-22 happens, Powered Convoy will be a mandatory repaint.

Provided they do a reasonable job with the Magnus armor (doesn't end up looking goofy), then I would be all for a Powered Convoy repaint. Would pay the big bucks for it.

[MayzaPrime]

When MP-22 happens, Powered Convoy will be a mandatory repaint.

Provided they do a reasonable job with the Magnus armor (doesn't end up looking goofy), then I would be all for a Powered Convoy repaint. Would pay the big bucks for it.

I really hope so! I would love a PC repaint!

[Sinnertwin]

When MP-22 happens, Powered Convoy will be a mandatory repaint.

Provided they do a reasonable job with the Magnus armor (doesn't end up looking goofy), then I would be all for a Powered Convoy repaint. Would pay the big bucks for it.

Definitely! :D Wishful thinking on my part, but if we get a PC perhaps that would open the door for the other two Lamborghini molds to be released. Even better, the original PC DX set reissued on a MP level with the red Ligier contained in the original replaced with the other LP500S

[Jetfire in the sky]

Definitely! :D Wishful thinking on my part, but if we get a PC perhaps that would open the door for the other two Lamborghini molds to be released. Even better, the original PC DX set reissued on a MP level with the red Ligier contained in the original replaced with the other LP500S

Exactly what I was thinking. :D

[Deonasis]

Definitely! :D Wishful thinking on my part, but if we get a PC perhaps that would open the door for the other two Lamborghini molds to be released. Even better, the original PC DX set reissued on a MP level with the red Ligier contained in the original replaced with the other LP500S Replacing a red Liger with a red Countache does not make sense to me. And I would not rule out a Liger-ish vehicle being MPized sometime.

I cannot wait to be thoroughly gobsmacked when images of UM appear. :D

[Megatran]

MP Ultra Magnus on pre-order at RobotKingdom for US$246.90 + hefty shipping cost.

Also on pre-order at RK are MPs Wheeljack and Bumblebee. Each at 'Special price' of US$56.90.

[Iriorne]

Discount ends 1.5 months before release (whenever that is) so there's no immediate hurry. Given that there's still no concrete information from TT, I'd guess that they're simply listing them so that they don't lose too many orders to the US based sites.

[Bidoofdude]

Can't wait for pics on this. Of course, unless there's a cheaper Hasbro release, I'll probably skip this guy, but nothin' wrong with a little eye candy. ;)

[Magnus]

So... it's been confirmed? :confused:

[griffin]

Not necessarily, but certain online stores will put up speculative pre-orders just in case rumours end up being true, just to be first to lock in pre-orders of the desperate people. (even though you can cancel pre-orders at most of them, some people will just stick with their first choice, even if the price ends up being a little better elsewhere)

[Megatran]

Not necessarily, but certain online stores will put up speculative pre-orders just in case rumours end up being true, just to be first to lock in pre-orders of the desperate people.

Some call 'em desperate people. Others call 'em early uptakers, enthusiasts, collectors, I've got too much money and I don't know what to do with it ...

I call 'em Just take my money and give me MP Ultra Magnus NOW :D

Given the asking price, I'll wait for a Hasbro release from Big W???? (just like Hasbro Metroplex). That would be sweeeeet.

[Sinnertwin]

Given the asking price, I'll wait for a Hasbro release from Big W???? (just like Hasbro Metroplex). That would be sweeeeet.

If only other retailers would. TRU's your one stop shop for MP's at this point.

[drifand]

If only other retailers would. TRU's your one stop shop for MP's at this point.

After seeing their prices for metroplex I might even bypass supporting waiting for their release. And I continuously do not wish to see TRU as being having exclusive rights.

[Sinnertwin]

After seeing their prices for metroplex I might even bypass supporting waiting for their release. And I continuously do not wish to see TRU as being having exclusive rights.

That's the way it is & looks to be for the forseeable future anyway.
And even if TRU do manage to get MP Magnus in, if Hasbro decide to release one, you going to say no if it's similarly priced to MP10?

[Megatran]

The Message board on RK websiite is telling people not to mix this pre-order with other items. And I quote: "Be careful that this MP-22 may release as late as end of 2014" :eek::eek::eek:

[1orion2many]

The Message board on RK websiite is telling people not to mix this pre-order with other items. And I quote: "Be careful that this MP-22 may release as late as end of 2014" :eek::eek::eek:

Well if it's that far away my wallet will be happy but not my addictive streak:p:D

[drifand]

That's the way it is & looks to be for the forseeable future anyway.
And even if TRU do manage to get MP Magnus in, if Hasbro decide to release one, you going to say no if it's similarly priced to MP10?

I am saying whats stopping them from giving us a hard time (price wise) being the ONLY provider? Had anyone cared to complaint to Hasbro Australia?

I mean look at Metroplex, even without sale other stores are at $149, and TRU at $199? I mean really?

So yes I would hate to see TRU as the sole provider of Australia's mp products. Think about it, when there isn't any competition, the price would be monopolized.
What happened? What changed? Why we used to get some mps through Target, myers, and Toy world but now only TRU?

[MayzaPrime]

The Message board on RK websiite is telling people not to mix this pre-order with other items. And I quote: "Be careful that this MP-22 may release as late as end of 2014" :eek::eek::eek:

Nooooo!!! I can't wait that long :eek: :eek: :eek:

[drifand]

Nooooo!!! I can't wait that long :eek: :eek: :eek:

All the more I will never pre-order prior not knowing or seeing the product.
I have already risk pre-order and paid in full for an offical release product for december this year. In hind sight there might be a risk of the online store going bust and there is no way PAYPAL will even bother to help you.

[Sinnertwin]

I am saying whats stopping them from giving us a hard time (price wise) being the ONLY provider? Had anyone cared to complaint to Hasbro Australia?


Target did sell MP02. It shelfwarmed & eventually went to clearance. They then sold MP04 as part of their 2008 Toy Sale and nothing since.
If the retail sales were sufficient enough to maintain the range then we would see more retailers take the line onboard.


I mean look at Metroplex, even without sale other stores are at $149, and TRU at $199? I mean really?

There's a $40+ difference in cost price for Metroplex between the major retailers & TRU. Costs more to buy, so they're going to charge more. There's a huge difference in buying power when you have 35 stores as opposed to 300.


So yes I would hate to see TRU as the sole provider of Australia's mp products. Think about it, when there isn't any competition, the price would be monopolized.
What happened? What changed? Why we used to get some mps through Target, myers, and Toy world but now only TRU?

You think TRU were the only retailer that Hasbro approached? Where were Target, Big W, Myer? More product in more stores means more profit for Hasbro. Even if they weren't, TRU managed to secure the exclusive sales of MP toys. You think that happened by accident?

[drifand]

Well I would sought the cheapest offer than just going for one source, I am tempted not to buy the Hasbro Soundwave as I seen some online selling pretty reasonably cheaper.

[ILikeSoundwave]

Well I would sought the cheapest offer than just going for one source, I am tempted not to buy the Hasbro Soundwave as I seen some online selling pretty reasonably cheaper.

Selling Hasbro Soundwave for cheaper?

[drifand]

Selling Hasbro Soundwave for cheaper?

Not quite, but reasonably without the hassles of waiting.

Yes, I am not arguing that it is what it is "TRU exclusive" for mps. I wished it wasn't

[Megatran]

Just had a look on RK. Shipping cost for this dude is a WHOPPING US$62.71 for Registered Air Mail Parcel. For comparison sake, shipping cost for combined YOTH OP & Starscream was US$67.29 with RK as well, which came in a humungous shipping box. That's a price of a MP Prowl, Streak or Smokescreen. :eek: