MP Star Saber coloured prototype

[kurdt_the_goat]

From Tag Hobby (http://www.taghobby.com/1-0/1-1/2014%E5%B9%B48%E6%9C%889%E6%97%A5-17%E6%97%A5-transformers-exo%E6%A8%AA%E6%B5%9C-%E5%B1%95%E5%93%81/) (few more at the link ... including ... the Beast Wars Neo Unicron prototype, along with Binaltech Jazz prototype for whatever reason)

http://i.imgur.com/WlvTi5o.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/WlvTi5o.jpg)
http://i.imgur.com/oLATtg1.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/oLATtg1.jpg)

[kurdt_the_goat]

And i'm only now realising how he utterly dwarfs MP-10 there!
Even bigger than i expected. Not sure i like the gold on his chest though, needs to be a bit more vibrant like the other yellow for my tastes.

Edit... Better pics from Monari on TFW. Gold looks fine now :)

http://i.imgur.com/BK01HjO.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/62Miibu.jpg

[griffin]

Looks too big, but from the interview, was necessary to have the inner robot and inner inner brainmaster work.

[Sky Shadow]

Very, very nice indeed.

[Initial_G]

Looks pretty good!, can't wait till we get to own one ourselves ;)

[drifand]

Looks like it is going to burn a hole in our wallets. I be really surprised if it is just a bit more than Magnus

[SuspectimusPrime]

Those are some handsome looking antennae!

[DELTAprime]

I'd like to know a couple of things. A: When is it coming out? B: When will I be able to preorder him from Japanese retailers? Cause dam he looks nice.

[kurdt_the_goat]

A better look at his size from oh_tacky (https://twitter.com/oh_tacky/status/498019794302423040/photo/1) on Twitter. The angle and steps still make it hard to tell exactly, but he sure looks huge to me!

http://i.imgur.com/It862LD.jpg

[Bidoofdude]

He looks superb, but not having much relation to the characters, I'm going to have to skip.

[griffin]

A better look at his size from oh_tacky (https://twitter.com/oh_tacky/status/498019794302423040/photo/1) on Twitter. The angle and steps still make it hard to tell exactly, but he sure looks huge to me!



Yeah, and if Ultra Magnus is closing in on AU$200, I'd be really surprised if Star Saber is less than the price of Magnus.

It will look out of scale with the other MPs while we wait for other JP Gen1 characters.

[Omega Metro]

Does look very tall.:confused: and those flares on his forearms are gonna annoy me. I may be passing on this.

[Sinnertwin]

It's perfect :D but where's the Saber Blade?

[Nevac]

Yeah, and if Ultra Magnus is closing in on AU$200, I'd be really surprised if Star Saber is less than the price of Magnus.

It will look out of scale with the other MPs while we wait for other JP Gen1 characters.

How big is Star Saber in the cartoon? I thought he'd be a pretty large char?

[Omega Metro]

Kinda reminds me of a Greek Zorba dancer.:D

[Raptormesh]

How big is Star Saber in the cartoon? I thought he'd be a pretty large char?

I think he's gestalt sized or just a tad smaller.

[Penetrator]

Size looks great! I seem to recall he should be the height matching god ginrai
Snd ginrai should be the height of normal convoy.

White on ssabre looks cheap. Needs a better white

[ChlorHex]

Looks great.
I'm getting this and supporting Takara to churn out more Japanese Transformers :)

[Mythirax]

Mmmm, love it :D

[nexusnixx]

Cannot wait for this too. So many great masterpiece releases!!!

[VGMStudios]

I am salivating profusely. Want this bad. Looks amazing.

Question.
http://www.taghobby.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/mps007.jpg

Does anyone know what the 2 things on the top right are? Some kind of beast and is that Gigatrons head?

Also on that Primal, is that brown fur?

[VERT]

Thats a Proto of a BW Fuzor Torca. The head is BW Megatron

[VGMStudios]

Oh cool. Thanks VERT.
I wonder if they will realese the BW Megs head. Looks neat.

[ChlorHex]

Wow.
Those are actually protos... awesome.
Test shots are always readily available but these... whoa :eek:

[Sky Shadow]

Oh cool. Thanks VERT.
I wonder if they will realese the BW Megs head. Looks neat.

They already did, in 1996.

[millhouse]

Does anyone have any further information on that Wheelie prototype? Obviously it's of a by-gone era, but can anyone translate the card?

[kurdt_the_goat]

Back on topic people! Awesome pic of the face sculpt - more here (http://metalrobot.forumfree.it/?t=67540715&st=120#lastpost)

http://i.imgur.com/kiKvLP4.jpg

[nexusnixx]

Wow!!!! Loving it

[1orion2many]

Looks hand painted:confused:

[millhouse]

Looks hand painted:confused:

Umm, it's a prototype. It's probably *gasp* hand painted.

Especially considering it's the first place (AFAIK) that the coloured prototype has been shown.

[griffin]

Don't be so mean... some people may not be aware of the toy-making process.

[Trent]

Looks sweeeeeeeeeeeeeet :D

[nexusnixx]

Don't be so mean... some people may not be aware of the toy-making process.

Ha ha some hot toys figures are hand painted I think ha ha

[millhouse]

Don't be so mean... some people may not be aware of the toy-making process.

Apologies.

[VGMStudios]

They already did, in 1996.

Well hot damn. Where was I at that time? lol.

OT. The head sculpt is awesome. They really are doing a good job with these. Just hope he wont cost an arm and a leg to get.

[gekisou]

So pretty... I want...

[kurdt_the_goat]

Another pic this time showing coloured sword & shield, from GAME Watch (http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/20140904_665263.html).

http://i.imgur.com/APjytqUl.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/APjytqU.jpg)

There's another pic with a better look at the test shot Magnus (http://i.imgur.com/Ce5ZDku.jpg) as well... I wonder why they didn't exhibit the same colour version as they've shown previously?
The shot appears to confirm his feet will be diecast metal though.

[Tober]

Similar pic showing more of Magnus for a size comparison.

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj230/AUST_Tober/10622701_743153325750610_6101060345315529965_n__sc aled_600_zpsbcfec0d5.jpg (http://s273.photobucket.com/user/AUST_Tober/media/10622701_743153325750610_6101060345315529965_n__sc aled_600_zpsbcfec0d5.jpg.html)

[drahsrebu]

Up for preorder at HLJ now

[Hursticon]

Up for preorder at HLJ now

Here's your linky! ¥14,400 + Postage (http://www.hlj.com/product/TKT81692/Sci). :cool:

[drahsrebu]

Thanks hursti :) I had to do it quick.

[Trent]

Up for preorder at HLJ now


Here's your linky! ¥14,400 + Postage (http://www.hlj.com/product/TKT81692/Sci). :cool:

Cheers people :)

[VGMStudios]

Phew! AE is still much cheaper! :)

[Shirokaze]

Thanks for the heads up on HLJ, went with them so I wouldn't have to pay upfront like AE. :)

[kurdt_the_goat]

Japanese retailers are starting to list it now, ie E-Hobby (http://www.e-hobby.co.jp/shopdetail/000000002779/), Amazon Japan (http://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%82%BF%E3%82%AB%E3%83%A9%E3%83%88%E3%83%9F%E3%8 3%BC-%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%83%95%E3%8 2%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%9E%E3%83%BC-%E3%83%9E%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF%E3%83%BC%E3%83%94%E3%8 3%BC%E3%82%B9-MP-24-%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF%E3%83%BC%E3%82%BB%E3%82%A4%E3%8 3%90%E3%83%BC/dp/B00NDW5RPU/ref=lh_ni_t?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AN1VRQENFRJN5) and Digitamin (http://item.rakuten.co.jp/digitamin/vq68/) (note none of these ship internationally)

http://i.imgur.com/BvGv7Hu.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/02PFkio.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/1x3tQ7I.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/pYqy2dp.jpg

Plus one more pic from @TFYUKI (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/509103120194879488/photo/1) - looks like he has no problem swinging with the sharp edge of the sword!

http://i.imgur.com/QY3RQIE.jpg

[Initial_G]

Thanks for the pre-order links :)

[drifand]

This guy is like a must buy for me.

[Raptormesh]

Thanks for the heads up on HLJ, went with them so I wouldn't have to pay upfront like AE. :)

Same, thanks for the heads up. :)

[VGMStudios]

Thanks for the heads up on HLJ, went with them so I wouldn't have to pay upfront like AE. :)

Id rather pay upfront then later cause I might not have the money then.
This way its all paid for and I dont have to worry about paying later. :D
fact remains your still paying a lot more with hlj.

[Trent]

Id rather pay upfront then later cause I might not have the money then.
This way its all paid for and I dont have to worry about paying later. :D
fact remains your still paying a lot more with hlj.

True, but cost isn't the only factor for me ;) I'm will ing to pay a bit more for the superior customer service that HLJ offer in the event of an issue. AE aren't exactly known for the same.

[Nevac]

Will they recolor the mold into anything else like previous MP's? I don't know much about Star Saber is there potential repaints for him? Thinking I might go for a repaint if it's in the cards.

[theheretic]

Will they recolor the mold into anything else like previous MP's? I don't know much about Star Saber is there potential repaints for him? Thinking I might go for a repaint if it's in the cards.

I think I know what you're saying... Those colours are just awful, but I do like my masterpieces. Between this and exhaust having his own number (not a sub-number) I'm not overly impressed. UM, WJ and BB look great though :-)

[Sinnertwin]

Will they recolor the mold into anything else like previous MP's? I don't know much about Star Saber is there potential repaints for him? Thinking I might go for a repaint if it's in the cards.

If they follow the RobotMasters lead, there's a repaint in... wait for it... black, purple & teal. Original, right?

[Tober]

Will they recolor the mold into anything else like previous MP's? I don't know much about Star Saber is there potential repaints for him? Thinking I might go for a repaint if it's in the cards.

Yeah, most probably:

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj230/AUST_Tober/Ehobby_black_rm_starsaber_zps5012cdf2.jpg (http://s273.photobucket.com/user/AUST_Tober/media/Ehobby_black_rm_starsaber_zps5012cdf2.jpg.html)

[Defcon]

Will they recolor the mold into anything else like previous MP's? I don't know much about Star Saber is there potential repaints for him? Thinking I might go for a repaint if it's in the cards.

I would say a nemesis "Decepticon version" would be in the cards. It would probably be black, dark grey and purple I would assume.

I watched a snippet from the Japanese Victory cartoon on Youtube, there another character who can combine with Star Saber? Victory Leo. Is it possible he will be made a masterpiece character also.

[VGMStudios]

True, but cost isn't the only factor for me ;) I'm will ing to pay a bit more for the superior customer service that HLJ offer in the event of an issue. AE aren't exactly known for the same.

Please explain more. I have never had an issue with AE. They have always given me excellent customer service even if I had an issue, it was always resolved quickly.

[drifand]

The only main difference I find is you can pay off when the exchange rates are better. Also AE may not offer sal as it requires registered which of course won't come to Australia .

Hlj on the other hand may have sal(non registered economy) option and ems. Anything higher than 15,000yen hlj will force ems.

[1AZRAEL1]

Wooooo ordered 2. Thanks guys for notifying of HLJ

[Trent]

Please explain more. I have never had an issue with AE. They have always given me excellent customer service even if I had an issue, it was always resolved quickly.

Not me personally but have read of people having an issue, mainly with Macross stuff, and AE have been reluctant to provide a satisfactory resolution. I can only recall 2 examples in all the years I've been stalking/participating on different hobby boards but yeah. YMMV. :)

[drifand]

Some have forgotten to mention that hobby search , amiami and now ny have a point system which saves you the more you purchase from them. Hlj has not gone down this path but to me their ordering system has been most flexible and top service.

[Sinnertwin]

Wooooo ordered 2. Thanks guys for notifying of HLJ

Two?! have you got a black hole for display space? This thing's huuuge! :D:p

[1AZRAEL1]

Two?! have you got a black hole for display space? This thing's huuuge! :D:p

I'm under the thought that there will be a Leo to go with this in the not too distant future, and will want a second Saber to combine with said Leo :p

[Sinnertwin]

I'm under the thought that there will be a Leo to go with this in the not too distant future, and will want a second Saber to combine with said Leo :p

:D
Does that also means two Leo's?

[Hursticon]

Ami-Ami APPARENTLY had preorders go up at some point? (NOW SOLD OUT) :rolleyes::p
¥13,140 + Postage (http://www.amiami.com/top/detail/detail?scode=FIGURE-007801).

Hobby-Search have theirs up & available though :D:
¥15,300 + Postage (http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10291157).


HUGE thanks to Drahsrebu however for getting the word out to we Twitter mob (https://twitter.com/drahsrebu/status/509092429463449602) this morning, whilst trying to get his little one ready for school! ;):cool:

[1AZRAEL1]

:D
Does that also means two Leo's?

Damn skippy :D

[Tober]

Please explain more. I have never had an issue with AE. They have always given me excellent customer service even if I had an issue, it was always resolved quickly.

I've had problems with AE after several years of excellent service. You can read about it here (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=19249) if you're interested/bored enough.

[drifand]

Ordered mine with exhaust now to find the best time to pay them

[kaiden]

https://twitter.com/TFYUKI

http://i1320.photobucket.com/albums/u528/L45TN7/BxKlPw7CYAATUcd_zpsb12d3787.jpg

http://i1320.photobucket.com/albums/u528/L45TN7/BxEon1ZCIAAyXdw_zpsb5304e81.jpg

http://i1320.photobucket.com/albums/u528/L45TN7/BxH9PRUCQAA8h1d_zps75e563ce.jpg

[MayzaPrime]

Lovin' the sheild :D

[Trent]

Damn! He's looking good! :)

And damn! They need to hire a decent photographer! :(

[kurdt_the_goat]

Gimmicks galore!

https://twitter.com/tf_pr/status/511856825403052032

http://i1286.photobucket.com/albums/a619/OptimalPrimus/294f6b10d36dac86b4d34591eed4e6c9_zps4c9101d2.jpg

http://i1286.photobucket.com/albums/a619/OptimalPrimus/59718732156ba2ad20714e96abe00dfc_zpsc4824748.jpg

http://i1286.photobucket.com/albums/a619/OptimalPrimus/4ca0ab688d0aa7abe63afa5603c26535_zps30ddf578.jpg


https://twitter.com/tfyuki/status/511836162017615872

http://i1286.photobucket.com/albums/a619/OptimalPrimus/eea465f5cdfe888379b807b000566cd3_zps7e140edd.jpg

[VGMStudios]

now that stand thingy for the shield is awesome. Way to go Takara!

[Trent]

Very cool use of the shield but does that also mean that it doesn't store anywhere in alt-mode? Because if so that's mildly disappointing.

[kurdt_the_goat]

In the last pic (blue background) it looks like the shield is stored under the V-Star.

[Lint]

now that stand thingy for the shield is awesome. Way to go Takara!

+1, lookin like a true Masterpiece release


Very cool use of the shield but does that also mean that it doesn't store anywhere in alt-mode? Because if so that's mildly disappointing.

I'd say 9 out of 10 times you'd be using the shield as a stand for the alt-mode. Though it would be sweet if it had somewhere to live, just for completeness sake.

On that topic, does the sword blade store anywhere? I can't remember.

[kurdt_the_goat]

Sword will store in the blue side sections just like the cartoon!

[kurdt_the_goat]

If they keep releasing photos so constantly we'll be sick of this thing well before it comes out in March!

https://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/512165983893463040/photo/1

http://i.imgur.com/HbntFBP.jpg

[drifand]

For all you know they will release it earlier than we expected.

[Mythirax]

If they keep releasing photos so constantly we'll be sick of this thing well before it comes out in March!

Oh my is he sexy! Good thing my Birthday is in March. I know what I'll be getting myself.

[kaiden]

here's the sword features, not on my own comp so just providing a link.

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/takara-tomy-transformers-masterpiece-mp24-star-saber-features-sword/31323/

[nexusnixx]

So will they do victory leo?

[Sinnertwin]

So will they do victory leo?

I believe so.

[Sky Shadow]

So will they do victory leo?

In over a decade of Masterpiece toys, Star Saber is only the thirteenth base mould they've produced (plus four base cassette moulds.) Star Saber was only chosen because it won a fan vote. So they would have to think carefully before devoting a slot and resources to a toy with almost no recolour potential or US market.

[GoktimusPrime]

So will they do victory leo?
See Sky Shadow's post. Also, if you (or anyone else) really want an MP Victory Leo toy, then be sure to elect/nominate the character on Q.38 of the online survey. The more people who vote for Victory Leo, the better the odds IMHO. :o

So they would have to think carefully before devoting a slot and resources to a toy with almost no recolour potential or US market.
The former rather than the latter. TakaraTOMY aren't allowed to take Hasbro markets into consideration when developing toys (unless it's a joint venture w/ Hasbro, which in the case of MPs, it's not). But the lack of redeco potential would certainly be very relevant.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

I suppose a makeshift black "Nemesis Leo Prime" would work at a pinch...

More likely, some 3rd Party group or another will put one out. Probably a few of them.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

I'm so excited that

I know that I'll be Wetting myself.

That looks incredible, with the little guy in the cockpit and all that Jazz.

How am I gonna sneak this past the wife? I'll be so happy she'll be thinking I'm having an affair!:eek:

[Mythirax]

How am I gonna sneak this past the wife? I'll be so happy she'll be thinking I'm having an affair!:eek:

Haha, good one. Hey, at least letting her know the news after she thinks you're having an affair, will make her happy knowing you're not :p.

[kaiden]

How am I gonna sneak this past the wife? I'll be so happy she'll be thinking I'm having an affair!:eek:

thats a pretty cheap affair...

[griffin]

Heaps more images (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-masterpiece-47/masterpiece-star-saber-magazine-images-181198/) from a recent JP hobby magazine... mostly featuring the gimmicks.

Still six months away from release, and the toy looks completed. I guess it gives them more time to pre-sell it to western fans, to make it worth the cost of producing it.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

thats a pretty cheap affair...

I'm a pretty cheap guy :p

[Sinnertwin]

I'm a pretty cheap guy :p

Badoom-tssshhh
;)

[Hursticon]

I'm a pretty cheap guy :p

:p:D

[drifand]

amiami accepting orders. lol:eek:

[kaiden]

amiami accepting orders. lol:eek:

With a firm release date and rrp - is there any reason not to?

[Sinnertwin]

Meh, HLJ for moi :D

[drifand]

With a firm release date and rrp - is there any reason not to?

Not at all, I am just surprised there are open dots at amiami given their reputation they only import less than 10 most of the time .

[griffin]

Looks like the toy has some confirmed die-cast parts (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-masterpiece-47/takara-mp-24-star-saber-die-cast-parts-shown-181275/)... and none of it appears to be load-bearing parts (for added strength on bigger/heavier toys). Which means it is just there for the fans by being just on the extremities, and hopefully doesn't over-balance the toy in any mode.
Nice.

[Falcon]

Do you guys think it's worth getting an MP Star Saber?

Just like to hear your opinions about it :)

[drifand]

Do you guys think it's worth getting an MP Star Saber?

Just like to hear your opinions about it :)

what are you on about? most people have already placed their orders long time ago.

Opinions? well as far as I know, those who don't know him may not care about it. To me, its a well made toy cheap enough for me to bite.

[Trent]

Do you guys think it's worth getting an MP Star Saber?

Just like to hear your opinions about it :)

I guarantee nearly everyone who has posted in this thread has him preordered. But apart from that it's up to you :)

[kaiden]

Do you guys think it's worth getting an MP Star Saber?

Just like to hear your opinions about it :)

yes. from all the photos of the toy - its definitely worth it just for the toy alone. also, if predictions turn out true - they'll make victory leo to combine with him.

i'll get around to watching the tv show later but for now i really want that toy.

[VGMStudios]

Now that he will have die cast in him this figure gets better all the time.

[drifand]

Now that he will have die cast in him this figure gets better all the time.

Die-cast at this stage is all additional pluses to buy it.
For those who are still thinking, you are now left with the more expensive online stores to order from.

I actually wanted the g1 as a kid, despite its stiffness in engineering at that time. Just couldn't afford it.

[nexusnixx]

So is victory Leo a known fact or hearsay at this stage?

[kaiden]

So is victory Leo a known fact or hearsay at this stage?

if its ever confirmed - it'll have its own thread.

[Sky Shadow]

So is victory Leo a known fact or hearsay at this stage?

It's not even hearsay. Nothing has been heard, and the only people saying anything are people who know nothing.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

^^
And at risk of being a downer, I kind of doubt we'll ever be seeing an official Victory Leo. I'll be happy to be proven wrong on that, but the MP line is still very much a niche thing, a supplement to HTTs main TF business of flogging cheaper toys to kids, and Star Saber was itself a special Japanese-only "Fans Choice". It doesn't seem likely to me that they'd spend the time and resources to design what's effectively an add-on for Star Saber when they could use those resources to make a probably-better-selling character (most likely with remold potential) instead. Even if they do another Japanese fan poll I reckon another Autobot leader character would win over Leo.

Again, I'll be happy to be wrong - I'm liking the look of Star Saber and will pick him up when he comes out here, and would very much like a Victory Leo to go with him - but I doubt it'll happen anytime soon.
Though I imagine a few 3rd Party types will probably put one out sooner or later.

[VERT]

Or how about having him be backward compatible with a G1 Victory Leo to combine them.

[drifand]

Or how about having him be backward compatible with a G1 Victory Leo to combine them.

A bit late right? They would have shown otherwise.

[Tober]

From Hisashi Yuki's twitter:
https://mobile.twitter.com/TFYUKI/st...231298/photo/1

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj230/AUST_Tober/image_zps7bd924ca.jpg (http://s273.photobucket.com/user/AUST_Tober/media/image_zps7bd924ca.jpg.html)

[1AZRAEL1]

So, he can transform into his battle station mode too. Even though that mode has interest for me, it just adds to how amazing this figure is shaping up to be.

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/mp24-masterpiece-star-saber-battle-station-mode/31629/

[High_Q]

Hmm, Saber has hollow forearms. A bit disappointing on an MP figure.

[nexusnixx]

So, he can transform into his battle station mode too. Even though that mode has interest for me, it just adds to how amazing this figure is shaping up to be.

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/mp24-masterpiece-star-saber-battle-station-mode/31629/

Looks good. Cannot wait for this

[griffin]

Looks like a slight delay on Star Saber, pushed back 6 days from 15th March to 21st March (http://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%82%BF%E3%82%AB%E3%83%A9%E3%83%88%E3%83%9F%E3%8 3%BC-%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%83%95%E3%8 2%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%9E%E3%83%BC-%E3%83%9E%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF%E3%83%BC%E3%83%94%E3%8 3%BC%E3%82%B9-MP-24-%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF%E3%83%BC%E3%82%BB%E3%82%A4%E3%8 3%90%E3%83%BC/dp/B00NDW5RPU/ref=sr_1_8?s=toys&ie=UTF8&qid=1419823912&sr=1-8&keywords=%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%8 3%95%E3%82%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%9E%E3%83%BC).
A short delay like this is probably more due to a busier schedule at the Factories that push back limited release items like this, rather than a reworking of the toy (which would have resulted in a bigger delay).

At least it isn't a month or two like Wheeljack and Bumblebee.... but it's still three months away so more delays might still happen.

[Megatran]

I'm least attached to this Masterpiece compared to the recent Masterpiece releases. Perhaps because Star Saber is a Japanese TF and not as well known as other characters. There is something about the blockiness of the toy (forearms in particular) that dampens my enthusiam. But the purist will probably enjoy the homage to the G1 version.

He's sword is definitely not short in length, that's for sure. :eek:

[GoktimusPrime]

I'm least attached to this Masterpiece compared to the recent Masterpiece releases. Perhaps because Star Saber is a Japanese TF and not as well known as other characters.
I know what you mean, and it's for that reason that I don't really collect Japanese G1; they're just not toys that I grew up with. :o But I'm getting MP Star Sabre because it's a much cheaper alternative to getting a G1 Star Sabre; i.e. consider the cost of pre-ordering an MISB MP Star Sabre VS the cost of purchasing an MISB G1 Star Sabre today, then factor in the quality of both toys... easy choice. ;)


There is something about the blockiness of the toy (forearms in particular) that dampens my enthusiam. But the purist will probably enjoy the homage to the G1 version.
MP Star Sabre is positively lithe compared to the original G1 figure! :eek: Sure, some of it will be blocky, but that's because it is homaging the original.
Pic links for comparison:
G1 Star Sabre (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vwSloNvfRqs/UpObngdNHXI/AAAAAAAABio/XxGrrDnsHbw/s1600/old+toy.png)
MP Star Sabre (https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3862/15183901981_d7cdeef8de_z.jpg)

He's sword is definitely not short in length, that's for sure. :eek:
The sword can change length (http://i1.wp.com/www.allspark.com/content/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/mp24_starsaber_sword_parts.jpg?resize=840%2C300). ;)

[Sinnertwin]

i can't wait to get him so i can run around the room shouting "Let's say go!"

[drifand]

Never grew up to know this fella by cartoon, I only saw the g1 toy and said I wanted one but never really got there. Here's my chance and I took it.

[Raptormesh]

They can delay all the they want for a proper job. This guys is my fav TF character so I can wait :)

[SuspectimusPrime]

i can't wait to get him so i can run around the room shouting "Let's say go!"

Only thing more epic than that is broom-brooming a future MP Masterforce Ginrai around singing "Masterforce! Everytime we fight, Masterforce! We grow stronger!" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_g4OMGUSoTk)

http://img2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080817140336/transformers/images/f/f2/Ginrai_juniors_manga.jpg

[kurdt_the_goat]

New official images from Amazon Japan (http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B00NDW5RPU/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_nLORub0ADMJF2)

http://i.imgur.com/7LkP4Aol.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/7LkP4Ao.jpg)
http://i.imgur.com/FFlagnLl.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/FFlagnL.jpg)
http://i.imgur.com/aW3W6C2l.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/aW3W6C2.jpg)
http://i.imgur.com/yadHM1jl.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/yadHM1j.jpg)
http://i.imgur.com/FCWqfdzl.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/FCWqfdz.jpg)
http://i.imgur.com/GZGxgRzl.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/GZGxgRz.jpg)

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

And that is the reason why I skipped Ultra Magnus.

One sexy piece o plastic!!

[Raptormesh]

Am I crazy if I think it needs a gerwalk mode.

[Tober]

Teaser images from Hisashi Yuki's Twitter
source: https://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/557123897053560832/photo/1
http://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/557128780053872643/photo/1

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj230/AUST_Tober/large_zps8ee6d135.jpeg (http://s273.photobucket.com/user/AUST_Tober/media/large_zps8ee6d135.jpeg.html)

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj230/AUST_Tober/large_zpsd0a9fa0b.jpeg (http://s273.photobucket.com/user/AUST_Tober/media/large_zpsd0a9fa0b.jpeg.html)

[kaiden]

you forgot to put in spoiler tags but damn that toy is looking really good.

[Tober]

you forgot to put in spoiler tags but damn that toy is looking really good.

Are you being facetious or am I actually going to have to try to take that spoiler topic seriously? :confused:

[griffin]

you forgot to put in spoiler tags but damn that toy is looking really good.

Huh? Spoiler Tags.... What for?

[kaiden]

Are you being facetious or am I actually going to have to try to take that spoiler topic seriously? :confused:

yes, definitely facetious. haha i should probably 'let it go' but okay one last jest

there's some transformation spoilers there! :eek: i can see that the wings are folded back. and, and... those tabs in the legs definitely tab in together AND the thighs slide down.

sorry, couldn't help myself. :p

[lancalot]

more picture of Star Saber with box (http://www.taghobby.com/1-0/1-1/takaratomy-%E7%8E%A9%E5%85%B7%E5%95%86%E5%93%81%E7%89%88%E6%9 C%AC%E8%A8%AD%E5%AE%9A%E7%A8%BF%E5%85%AC%E9%96%8B-transformers-master-piecempseries-star-saber/)

[VERT]

Wow he is taller than MP Magnus. Cant wait :)

[GoktimusPrime]

And that is the reason why I skipped Ultra Magnus.
I'm going with 'por que no los dos' ;)

[Lint]

more picture of Star Saber with box (http://www.taghobby.com/1-0/1-1/takaratomy-%E7%8E%A9%E5%85%B7%E5%95%86%E5%93%81%E7%89%88%E6%9 C%AC%E8%A8%AD%E5%AE%9A%E7%A8%BF%E5%85%AC%E9%96%8B-transformers-master-piecempseries-star-saber/)

Absolutely beautiful

[drifand]

Well it has to be plastic otherwise you be paying 30,000 yen and above for such a piece, no surprises there. In fact the surprise was that it was priced below 15,000 yen at pre-order. If you aren't happy, you won't be happy with other big mp toys down the road. I accepted this fact since the cars were out with no rubber tyres.

Generally, this could be my last big mp toy, I have a space beside magnus just for him. I found Magnus and Starsaber real value for money as opposed to a Skywarp exclusive.

[Hursticon]

New pics up courtesy of Hasashi Yuki (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI)! :eek::D

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Crap/B_eaBqpUYAEPTSz.jpg%20large_zpsrgfypuim.jpg~origin al

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Crap/B_eb9frUgAAUKX_.jpg%20large_zpsurkdnnkb.jpg~origin al

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Crap/B_eedOgUwAAMYZm.jpg%20large_zpsabeu2us8.jpg~origin al

[griffin]

That's so awesome... having the new MP toy in the foam insert of the old one.

[Jetfire in the sky]

That pose !! :eek: Can't wait for this guy

[Omega Metro]

That's so awesome... having the new MP toy in the foam insert of the old one.

Oh, is that was it was? Trying to figure out why the foam looked so old for a brand new MP.:o

[drifand]

That pose !! :eek: Can't wait for this guy

Yup that pose says it all for me.

You kinda wonder how this guy is so much cheaper than mp11 sw

[Jetfire in the sky]

Yup that pose says it all for me.

You kinda wonder how this guy is so much cheaper than mp11 sw

Not "limited edition" :p
I think from reading on here there are collectors who don't give two $h!ts about this guy but the demand will be high in Japan no doubt so a large production run will see prices being maintained at a sane level. Also the production numbers would take into account (to an extent) the collectors who don't live in Japan who they would figure love the JP G1 releases as well as the completist G1 collector as well as the completist MP collector and then you get the casual collector who will think, wow this is cool. The fact that TRU will be importing this is such a positive to the fandom here in Oz. We only got four (maybe five) Ultra Magnuses (Magnii? :confused:) at our TRU and they went pretty quick, I would imagine Star Saber will do the same once word gets out.
He's such a cool item, and I think once the naysayers see him more either in the flesh or in pictures like this they will change their mind.

[GoktimusPrime]

Oh, is that was it was? Trying to figure out why the foam looked so old for a brand new MP.:o
Heh, I initially thought the same thing. :p
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/avatars/meme_customfaded_zps2b0zjkaq.jpg

[drifand]

I have never followed the cartoon for this. I have wanted a g1 version before but skipped in the end. Glad I waited for this. Is a nice transformer by itself.

[Megatran]

This has probably been mentioned before, but I'll mention it again.

That's a mighty big sword. :D

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

I have never followed the cartoon for this. I have wanted a g1 version before but skipped in the end. Glad I waited for this. Is a nice transformer by itself.
I got the Victory DVD set and glad I did. the fight between Star Sabre and Deszarus is awesome

This has probably been mentioned before, but I'll mention it again.

That's a mighty big sword. :D
lol. Well, it would be embarrassing for him to have a sword name as his name, but just be armed with a butter knife or something.

I can't wait, it looks so damn good. I'm gonna need some alone time after I get mine!:D

[GoktimusPrime]

lol. Well, it would be embarrassing for him to have a sword name as his name, but just be armed with a butter knife or something.
In the TakaraTOMY version, the sword is called the "Sabre Blade" (as per the G1 toy/character). In the Hasbro version, it is referred to as a Great Sword (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Great_Sword). Both the small and large blades are called "Sabre Blade," as it's representative of how the Sabre Blade can change length (it only differentiates between the two blade accessories by referring to them as "Sabre Blade (Big)" and "Sabre Blade (Small)"). This doesn't happen in the IDW continuity, so instead Hasbro's MP Star Sabre refers to him possessing two blades; the large one is the Great Sword, and the shorter one is a secondary weapon known as the Gladius Stellae <---Latin for "Star Sabre." ;)

[drifand]

Hlj still has orders open

[Pep_87]

Is he going to be seen in oz stores? Tru? Or more likely only online?

[drifand]

Is he going to be seen in oz stores? Tru? Or more likely only online?

It is coming to our stores in TRU, but its going to be much more than HLJ or even some Australian online stores.

[Hursticon]

Here's the latest from Hasashi Yuki (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI)'s Twitter! :D

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Crap/B_5CL8eUIAA-o5A.jpg%20large_zpssnfvhncf.jpg~original

[Congie]

The posability is so awesome. Also, he's so close to release now I can practically smell him! :D

[Pep_87]

Hes going to be epic. I dont see what alot of the fuss is about with him. Personally i like it that takara and looking at expanding the masterpiece series to cover jap g1. Its not as though theyre going to stop bringing out normal g1.

Hopefully theres not going to be too many qc issues.

[GoktimusPrime]

From a Takara and Japanese POV Japanese G1 is "normal" G1. Star Sabre would be as nostalgic to a Japanese G1 fan as say Thunderwing or Bludgeon would be for us. I've seen a Japanese fan utterly ignore toys like Lio Kaiser but drool over the Triggercons (which were never sold in Japan). What we might find exotic is ordinary to a Japanese fan and vice versa. ;)

[Jetfire in the sky]

From a Takara and Japanese POV Japanese G1 is "normal" G1. Star Sabre would be as nostalgic to a Japanese G1 fan as say Thunderwing or Bludgeon would be for us. I've seen a Japanese fan utterly ignore toys like Lio Kaiser but drool over the Triggercons (which were never sold in Japan). What we might find exotic is ordinary to a Japanese fan and vice versa. ;)

Very true, the price of the Western packaging release of G1 items in Japan is significantly higher then what we generally pay in their stores, saying that I could count on my hands how many I saw.

Ignore Lio Kaiser :eek::eek:

[kurdt_the_goat]

Is it just me or do the chevrons on his chest look more silver than gold in a few of these recent pics?
Probably camera flash and not a big deal, but i hope they're a little more gold in person.

[drifand]

Is it just me or do the chevrons on his chest look more silver than gold in a few of these recent pics?
Probably camera flash and not a big deal, but i hope they're a little more gold in person.

Is gold, is the angle that makes it looked silver.

[Hursticon]

Haha, Hasashi Yuki (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI) is getting all "Meta" on us now! :p:D

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Crap/B_-CKTUVEAAAXkW.jpg%20large_zpsz28ptkbj.jpg~original

[griffin]

The bonus coin for Star Saber (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-masterpiece-47/masterpiece-star-saber-collectors-coin-revealed-182303/), if bought from a Hasbro Asia dealer.

[High_Q]

I just got a payment request for Star Saber from HLJ. It's now in stock there.
Let's say go!

[drifand]

here is where HLJ customers loose out, for AE and NY people paid way less than it is now as they paid upfront.

[Hursticon]

here is where HLJ customers loose out, for AE and NY people paid way less than it is now as they paid upfront.

One is not really loosing out when one knows what they're getting into in their choice of business to preorder with; For many, I dare say most, the importance is predominately focused upon simply having an order in the 1st place. :cool:

For me, as I've said many times before, I will reward great customer service with continued patronage and Hobby Link Japan has well and truly earnt that, even in the face of marginally higher prices resulting from the non-requirement of a payment upfront & fluctuating exchange rates. ;)

In short - We all win by ordering from Japanese Online Retailers wherever & whenever a TakaraTomy Masterpiece Transformer is concerned. :D

[Raptormesh]

here is where HLJ customers loose out, for AE and NY people paid way less than it is now as they paid upfront.

Indeed but it cuts both ways.

Let's say go!

[Trent]

One is not really loosing out when one knows what they're getting into in their choice of business to preorder with; For many, I dare say most, the importance is predominately placed in simply having an order in the 1st place. :cool:

For me, as I've said many times before, I will reward great customer service with continued patronage and Hobby Link Japan has well and truly earnt that, even in the face of marginally higher prices resulting from the non-requirement of a payment upfront & fluctuating exchange rates. ;)

In short - We all win by ordering from Japanese Online Retailers wherever & whenever a TakaraTomy Masterpiece Transformer is concerned. :D


Well said my good sir.

[Hursticon]

Well said my good sir.

Thanks old boy! ;):D

[drifand]

Indeed but it cuts both ways.

Let's say go!

For AE yes, for NY no as you choose when you want to pay. I have no issues on all three retailers yet.

[drifand]

Indeed but it cuts both ways.

Let's say go!

For AE yes, for NY no as you choose when you want to pay. I have no issues on all three retailers yet.

And on one note, certain toys HLJ is always sold out so it just became as a please ignore like Amiami is.

[Lint]

For me, as I've said many times before, I will reward great customer service with continued patronage and Hobby Link Japan has well and truly earnt that, even in the face of marginally higher prices resulting from the non-requirement of a payment upfront & fluctuating exchange rates. ;)


I'd be singing the same praises until that time they did not fulfill my preorder of the fembots. That said, still preordered with them for Star Saber and it dropped into my private warehouse today :D


here is where HLJ customers loose out, for AE and NY people paid way less than it is now as they paid upfront.

I'd rather be down 20 bucks today than 140 a while ago. Also I think I'd rather resort to ebay than shop at AE ever again.

[griffin]

Unless you're a psychic, how would anyone know when is the best time to pay for something that is on pre-order 5-6 months early. Some people got lucky by pre-paying, but there is a 50-50 chance of benefiting by pre-paying.
What if the exchange rate had improved in that time against the Yen, as it will again at some time in the future... then pre-paying will cost more, but since you never know which way currencies will go in 6 months, be careful with boasting about being lucky on one occasion.

[drifand]

Unless you're a psychic, how would anyone know when is the best time to pay for something that is on pre-order 5-6 months early. Some people got lucky by pre-paying, but there is a 50-50 chance of benefiting by pre-paying.
What if the exchange rate had improved in that time against the Yen, as it will again at some time in the future... then pre-paying will cost more, but since you never know which way currencies will go in 6 months, be careful with boasting about being lucky on one occasion.

That's where NY have the option to pay now , pay later. ;)
Unfortunately they seem to be greedy now and have marked up prices very quickly. Psychic or not, NY gives you best of both situations

[DELTAprime]

Unless you're a psychic, how would anyone know when is the best time to pay for something that is on pre-order 5-6 months early. Some people got lucky by pre-paying, but there is a 50-50 chance of benefiting by pre-paying.
What if the exchange rate had improved in that time against the Yen, as it will again at some time in the future... then pre-paying will cost more, but since you never know which way currencies will go in 6 months, be careful with boasting about being lucky on one occasion.

I've canceled a preorder for most of my TAV toys because the exchange rate is bad right now, would have been nice to pay up front but I didn't get a choice. I'll have to pick them up another time if I want them.

[griffin]

That's where NY have the option to pay now , pay later. ;)


That still doesn't make any difference... you are still choosing and hoping that it is the best option, but either option can still work against you if the AU$ goes up or down against what you chose.
Like if you paid first and the AU$ improves, you would have paid more than people who paid when the item is in-stock... but if you paid later and the AU$ drops, then you end up paying more than people who paid at time of ordering.
My point was that no matter what you choose, if it actually ends up in your favour, it was because you were lucky, not because you knew the direction the AU$ vs Yen was going to be in 3-6 months time... and as such, it isn't wise to boast about it. (in other words, be mindful of the people you are boasting about it to... will they praise you for your choice, or grumble at you for pointing out their choice?)

[Raptormesh]

Yeah if you can predict how the currency moves, might as well get into forex trading and buy toys at any price with the boatload of $$$ made.

[drifand]

Actually you can predict and that's what I am trying to say. Unfortunately if you don't understand how I am going about it then I can't explain any better. When I place an order with ny I do not pay immediately and I moniter the exchange rates. I Know what is considered fair and what's good and what's poor.

And no I was not boasting anything, I was just saying this is where hlj is at a disadvantage. Noted AE may be a 50/50 like you said. But ny gives you a slight edge on when you want to pay.

This is why I didn't buy tracks from jp online for once as the local stores were way cheaper. $69 can't go wrong.

Fyi I order from hlj as well so I do know what are its good and bad points.

[Tober]

Takara MP-24 Star Saber linkup with G1 Victory Leo, c/o 游珽安

https://www.facebook.com/daim.choc/posts/622741177825389

[DELTAprime]

I'm going to do my typical figure out the transformation myself. I'm just wondering if any of the video reviews have pointed out any breakable latches like on the G1 version?

[CoRDS]

video review from OptimusPrimeSG
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ccw68pIlxO8

[griffin]

Takara MP-24 Star Saber linkup with G1 Victory Leo, c/o 游珽安

https://www.facebook.com/daim.choc/posts/622741177825389

Some of the comments suggest that the designer put in some redundant parts to accommodate a merging with a Masterpiece Victory Lio... IF one is ever approved for design and production in the future. (and not to be interpreted as one is already coming)

[Trent]

Some of the comments suggest that the designer put in some redundant parts to accommodate a merging with a Masterpiece Victory Lio... IF one is ever approved for design and production in the future. (and not to be interpreted as one is already coming)

That's right. Just because they allowed for it doesn't mean it's a definite. I'd say more likely a 3rd Party company will do one.

[griffin]

As it now ends up in the hands of people, here are some more photos of the toy (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-masterpiece-47/masterpiece-star-saber-in-hand-182315/).

[Zippo]

Still not sure how I feel on this MP
Sure it looks nice, but its not a Transformer I grew up with. Unlike Magnus who I opened up as soon as possible, this one will probably stay sealed for a while

[janda the red]

Still not sure how I feel on this MP
Sure it looks nice, but its not a Transformer I grew up with. Unlike Magnus who I opened up as soon as possible, this one will probably stay sealed for a while

I feel the same way...

Don't get me wrong though, I'm still buying him... :o:p lol

[Zippo]

I purchased two as well. Buying Jp Transformers after release often gets too hard

[drifand]

Mine will be displayed with the rest of the mps. I Do not find him out of place.

[MayzaPrime]

In my display case I have 2 levels for my MPs.

Top level is for all of the new 'in scale' MPs

The 2nd level has all the older style MP, with some of the new stuff that will end up being my Diaclone MP. Star Sabre will be join in this level. :D

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Mine's coming tomorrow. :D

In this case, I don't really care for the G1 character (boring, generic-hero-type), and the IDW version - while I do like the take - hasn't been all that prominent. Not $150 prominent, that's for sure.
The thing is, though, the toy looks amazing, even with the made-up alt-mode. Aside from a few favourite characters I appreciate the design/engineering of TFs as much as I appreciate the characters they're meant to represent, and this one is very much a 'sold-me-on-the-toy' instance.

[leej84]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGkD15Gj4-c

enjoy guys

[Hursticon]

Just got my shipping notice from HLJ! :D

Man they must've had A LOT of preorders to get through from Friday morning, obviously with a weekend in between, as normally I get a shipping notice from them within 4 or 5 hours of payment - Guess there's a lot of checking & re-checking going on because of MP Exhaust? ;)

[griffin]

HLJ are out of stock now, so maybe you got one of the last.

[Initial_G]

HLJ are pretty good, my first time pre-ordering from them. They shipped my MP-24 on the 20th, got it today :)

[BruiseLee]

Got a shipping notice from HLJ too! :)


HLJ are out of stock now, so maybe you got one of the last.

Strange this was the case when I checked earlier today but they are back listing at 14,400 yen but at low stock. Think perhaps some people missed the 3 day payment deadline and their pre order hold was released.

[Hursticon]

HLJ are out of stock now, so maybe you got one of the last.

It's possible, but myself and a number of the other Twitter blokes were fairly on-top of when the preorder page went up, so maybe that says their prioritisation is based on some other metric - Or more likely they just had so many to get out on Friday that there wasn't enough hours in a day! :p

I don't know if it's wise that once there stock is scanned into the warehouse, the website immediately pops-up saying instock & available before they actually start sending out payment requests for preorders - That could lead to issues I think. :o


HLJ are pretty good, my first time pre-ordering from them. They shipped my MP-24 on the 20th, got it today :)

Oh you lucky bugger! :D - Pictures and a review in the thread! - Go on, hop to it! :p
(Kidding, enjoy him dude, I'll just be sitting here grinding my teeth until my own arrives! ;):D)

[Hursticon]

Got a shipping notice from HLJ too! :)

Awesome, another person having to wait eagerly! :D


Strange this was the case when I checked earlier today but they are back listing at 14,400 yen but at low stock. Think perhaps some people missed the 3 day payment deadline and their pre order hold was released.

That's actually a very good point! :)

[griffin]

Got a shipping notice from HLJ too! :)



Strange this was the case when I checked earlier today but they are back listing at 14,400 yen but at low stock. Think perhaps some people missed the 3 day payment deadline and their pre order hold was released.

Ah, so it is (http://www.hlj.com/product/TKT81692).... but be quick if anyone still wants one.
(it was out of stock yesterday and this morning)

The 3 day payment deadline would explain why Swoop is back in stock (http://www.hlj.com/product/TKT82839/Sci), which was the only one I missed on the day the MPs were released.

[k.wong23]

Anime Export shipping cost was 4700 JPY to Melb for both SS and Exhaust. Not too bad once shipping costs split, About $26 each item.

[GoktimusPrime]

Just got charged by HLJ. :)

[Zippo]

It is very hard to know how HLJ prioritize shipments, and very hard to know if "In Stock" truly means In Stock due to the way their website works (it is not real time, since they still manually check and confirm your order after paying for it and I have missed out before on an in stock item.

EDIT: 3860 Yen for MP-23 and MP-24 via EMS to New Zealand via HLJ
3200 for MP-24, rest for MP-23

[griffin]

It is confusing and worrying to those who pre-order from them, as Star Saber was available to purchase by new people and then out of stock for about two days, and then was in-stock again before a couple people here had theirs processed... and that might have only been from people who didn't pay their pre-order within 3 days, which could have ended up being bad for some if all were paid. (or maybe they had their shipment from TakaraTomy arrive over a couple days)

[Bladestorm]

In case people are interested Star Saber is on the shelves here in HK (no MP-23 though). My "local" store has him for HK$1098 (AU$180.26).

[drifand]

It is confusing and worrying to those who pre-order from them, as Star Saber was available to purchase by new people and then out of stock for about two days, and then was in-stock again before a couple people here had theirs processed... and that might have only been from people who didn't pay their pre-order within 3 days, which could have ended up being bad for some if all were paid. (or maybe they had their shipment from TakaraTomy arrive over a couple days)

Hence, I have left feedback before, I told them that if the stock allocation is correct, then there is no reason why the customer cannot pay up front for the item and wait for the correct shipping cost. < of course is just feedback.

It is rarely an in stock item is not accurate, but yes it does happens.

BTW, Aussie dollar is back up a bit, good time to pay stuff if those who were hesitating.

[Megatran]

Just got charged by HLJ. :)
Better HLJ than the Police. ;):p

[Sinnertwin]

still waiting for my shipping notice from hlj :(
oh, the first world problems

[griffin]

Hence, I have left feedback before, I told them that if the stock allocation is correct, then there is no reason why the customer cannot pay up front for the item and wait for the correct shipping cost. < of course is just feedback.

It is rarely an in stock item is not accurate, but yes it does happens.


To be fair, they probably have dozens of other suppliers that are less reliable than TakaraTomy, and want to have a single payment system that covers all items, and doesn't leave them with having to refund all the time when suppliers fail. (and even items from reliable sources like TakaraTomy that don't get released, like the AD-18 & AD-19, or the four BeCool trailers that have been listed on HLJ since mid 2013).

They've probably seen it as easier to not have pre-payment and be stuck with the mess of refunds (especially in part orders, or with shipping paid), and just be willing to be stuck with excess stock from people who don't pay for the items when they arrive.

As for collectors, not pre-paying can often be good, to have the flexibility to buy from another source later who might have it for less, or get it late. At least, that's what I seem to do a lot with BBTS, and prefer it - I've cancelled pre-orders when it has shown up at Amazon first for less, as well as showing up here for less (like the two Leader Megatrons a couple weeks ago - something I wouldn't have been able to do if I had pre-paid for them at BBTS).

[leej84]

has anyone seen these pics of MP star saber apparently combining with G1 victory leo?

[Sinnertwin]

has anyone seen these pics of MP star saber apparently combining with G1 victory leo?

yeah.
they've so designed this sucker with Victory Leo in mind

[leej84]

yeah.
they've so designed this sucker with Victory Leo in mind

link me pwetty please?:p

[Sinnertwin]

link me pwetty please?:p

sure :)


Takara MP-24 Star Saber linkup with G1 Victory Leo, c/o 游珽安

https://www.facebook.com/daim.choc/posts/622741177825389

[griffin]

I haven't seen it combined with the Gen1 toy, but wouldn't surprise me if it can (like Gen1 cassettes into MP Soundwave)... I think it has been designed to allow a Masterpiece Victory Leo to combine with it, IF one is ever built... but is not likely for some time now that the focus is back on early Gen1.

[Raider]

I haven't seen it combined with the Gen1 toy, but wouldn't surprise me if it can (like Gen1 cassettes into MP Soundwave)... I think it has been designed to allow a Masterpiece Victory Leo to combine with it, IF one is ever built... but is not likely for some time now that the focus is back on early Gen1.

In my opinion it will likely also rely heavily on sales of SS as realistically the only people who will buy Leo are those who already own SS. If SS doesn't sell well then there is little point in making Leo.

From what I understand there is some sort of connectors or something built into SS so they probably already have a design in mind. Fingers crossed it sells well then as I would love to see an MP Leo.

[BruiseLee]

link me pwetty please?:p

Here's a link to a vid showing the combo. :)

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=igpbdOEZbhg

[GoktimusPrime]

I think the clever thing to do would be to make it backward compatible with G1 Victory Leo if possible. That way if they don't end up making an MP Victory Leo, then it can still combine w/ the G1 figure. That's something that I like w/ MP Soundwave -- how he can store the G1 cassettes. It's why I'm personally not too bothered about not owning an MP Ratbat, because I can still fit my G1 Ratbat in there. And my G1 Slugest, Overkill, Beast Box and Squawktalk are all still cross-compatible w/ MP Soundwave. :)

Fun fact: the "Leo" (レオ) in Victory Leo is pronounced as "Leh-Oh", and not as "Lee-Oh." Actually, I don't think there are any Leo or Lio names in Japanese TF canon which are pronounced as "Lee-Oh" (because the "Lio" (ライオ) in Lio Kaiser and Lio Convoy are pronounced as "Lye-Oh" (like saying the English word lion, only without the "n" on the end)).

[drifand]

Fun fact: the "Leo" (レオ) in Victory Leo is pronounced as "Leh-Oh", and not as "Lee-Oh." Actually, I don't think there are any Leo or Lio names in Japanese TF canon which are pronounced as "Lee-Oh" (because the "Lio" (ライオ) in Lio Kaiser and Lio Convoy are pronounced as "Lye-Oh" (like saying the English word lion, only without the "n" on the end)).[/QUOTE]

Here's a question for you Goki, How is Subaru pronounced officially.

I been hearing Subaru as it is in Asian countries and In US/Aus Suburu is used? Which is right?

[griffin]

HLJ are pretty good, my first time pre-ordering from them. They shipped my MP-24 on the 20th, got it today :)

You were lucky, just taking 3-4 days to get it from Japan.

Mine was paid/processed on the 21st, and today (27th) it ships. :(

WTF?

And will probably take two weeks to get here.

Typical.

[Megatran]

You were lucky, just taking 3-4 days to get it from Japan.

Mine was paid/processed on the 21st, and today (27th) it ships. :(

WTF?

And will probably take two weeks to get here.

Typical.

Mine (um Kazza's actually) arrived today as well. Perhaps because I used EMS express delivery. :D

[drifand]

Premium collectables still have stock if anyone still wants it.

[griffin]

According to one toy retailer in Japan that I've never heard of before, the Star Saber toy was their best selling item last week (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-masterpiece-47/masterpiece-star-saber-tops-japanese-sales-charts-182367/).

If that was replicated in other places, it might improve chances of a Masterpiece Victory Lio... within a couple years perhaps.

[Tober]

Staff Edit - Posts about the Masterpiece online survey have been moved to the US & JP Masterpiece speculations, rumours & wish-lists (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=14925) thresd.

[Krayt]

Good old RK... just got near $20 back for incorrect shipping charges!