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griffin
27th January 2015, 01:34 PM
After 20 years in legal limbo, Go-Bots could finally be making a return as a toyline (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-movie-just-movie-31/hasbro-applies-for-a-go-bots-movie-and-toyline-trademark-181936/).

In 1991, Hasbro bought Tonka... which was their rival in the 1980s, when they both released competing transforming robot toy lines.
Go-Bots was Tonka's toyline (called Machine Men here), and it came out first to get an early lead, but when Transformers came out in 1984, it crushed the opposition... ultimately leading to Hasbro's purchase of Tonka.

As soon as Hasbro acquired Tonka and all its American trademarks, they stamped their authority on the Go-Bots name by using it in the Transformers line... not once, but twice early on (with the Water Squirter toy called Gobots (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Gobots), and a whole line of Gen2 toys called Go-Bots (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Go-Bot_(G2))), and then a third time in about 2002 with the Playskool Go-Bots (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Transformers:_Go-Bots_(franchise)) kiddie toyline. Not to mention using the name Leader-1 for a toy in 2002.

Even TakaraTomy got in on the act, using the Gobots (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/G1_GoBots) name on an Ehobby exclusive set of Minibot redecos. (the toys were even planned to have Go-Bots character names, but weren't officially named, possibly due to the legal reasons listed below)
And by this time we were seeing original Go-Bots characters showing up as cameos in comics and later by FunPub... inspiring Transformers redeco toys (including those Ehobby Minibots, Hasbro's own Crasher homage called Fracture, and FunPub's Bugbite & Cop-Tur).

So why no homages before now? If Hasbro owns the series and all (Western) Trademarks, what's stopping them from reissuing the original toys or producing all new homage toys that have the original names?

Well, most of it comes down to the same problem TakaraTomy has with releasing certain Gen1 Transformers toys that Hasbro "owns".

Tonka and Hasbro bought licenses from Japanese toy companies, to produce and sell robot toys in America (and their Western markets).
The problem, was that even though Hasbro and Tonka released their versions under one umbrella of "Transformers" or "Go-Bots" in Western markets, those toy designs in Japan still belonged to different companies... often rival companies. Hasbro and Tonka may own the new character names and story concepts to Transformers and Go-Bots, but they could only produce toys from those Japanese sources under strict conditions.

The big problem ended up being, Hasbro were in bed with Takara (who were the source of most Transformers toy designs), and Tonka was in bed with Bandai (a rival company to Takara).
So even though Hasbro bought and owned Tonka in 1991, the Go-Bots Brand was long-dead and probably deemed as minimal return, Hasbro may have seen that there was no need to risk their relationship with Takara (the source of their Transformers designs over the years, and ultimately revenue), by seeing if they could make a little money on the side from the Go-Bots franchise (by way of reissues or homages).
As such, homages like Crasher and the Ehobby Go-Bots have been minimal, and any comic inclusion has been a tiny, often nameless, cameo, so as not to incur the legal wrath of the current owner of those original Go-Bots toys (Bandai)... who would claim that someone else (Hasbro, IDW, FunPub) are making money off their toy designs.
Similar to Harmony Gold suing Hasbro for releasing a toy that looked more like a Robotec toy than a Transformers toy (that was supposed to homage Comic Jetfire NOT toy Jetfire), Bandai would sue anyone trying to make money off toy designs that they must still own... unless there was a license to pay them royalties for it.
(and in reverse, Bandai can't reissue the toys as "Go-Bots" with Go-Bot character names without getting sued by Hasbro... one owns the characters and story, one owns the toys and their *visual likeness*.. but releasing one without the other is too half-assed to be worth trying, or just risky)

Now, thanks to a multi-Billion dollar return on four Transformers Movies, Hasbro must have worked out that it is worth doing business with Bandai for a new Go-Bots toyline... supported by a Movie.

TakaraTomy probably wasn't too happy with that, and may well have made some objections, but ultimately they would have to realise that the same motivation for Hasbro to strike up a business relationship with Bandai (lotsa money) is the same motivation for TakaraTomy to not risk their ties with Hasbro (lotsa money, from Transformers).

Now, if only Hasbro and Harmony Gold could come to a similar business arrangement, so that we could finally see some decent transforming Robotech toys. (Robotech story with Hasbro/TakaraTomy engineering... could be good)


So, if the new Go-Bots are a success for Hasbro, I think there would be a good chance of official cross-overs in the next ten years***... if Hasbro's lawyers can manage a deal between Bandai and TakaraTomy (because someone would have to have the toy and movie-trademark rights in Japan, and both companies would be very protective of their own brand).
I guess if Toy Story was able to eventually work as a toyline with Hasbro and Mattel brands in the one Movie and Toyline, anything is possible.


***Okay, FunPub have already created stories of the two series being in the same universe, that are deemed official because they are a licensed company for a "club" and "convention" (not comics or cartoons, but produce comics and character bios on the side)... but then, does that mean any license holder can create canon if they release some fiction to go with their licensed merchandise? (a serious question, as in, where do you draw the line of official when it comes to stories, based on what a company is being licensed to produce)

CBratron
27th January 2015, 01:53 PM
I still have Fracture (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Fracture_(Movie)) A.K.A Crasher somewhere. Technically she is an example of Hasbro making use of the Go-Bots intellectual property but there wasn't much fanfare when she was imported.

VERT
27th January 2015, 04:26 PM
If this actually happens it would be funny if the movie turns out to be better lol

GoktimusPrime
27th January 2015, 07:39 PM
If this actually happens it would be funny if the movie turns out to be better lol
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/avatars/meme_oilslick_zps39b8cef6.jpg

Robzy
27th January 2015, 08:27 PM
I've always been a fan. Back in the day, both GoBots (Machine Men) and Transformers were equally popular for a couple of years. Basically anything that transformed, especially in to a robot, was super cool, whether it was Robotech, M.A.S.K., Converters (I even remember Matchbox's Parasites line was fun). And of course, many GoBot figures are actually superior to TFs at the same size (both large and small).

I've enjoyed buying and watching the latest DVD releases of the GoBots series. Story-wise, some episodes are really good, even though the animation has always been its weakest point. So, yeah... any new content would be great - the overall premise of GoBots as organic/robotic cyborgs rather than sentient robots, was interesting.

Lord_Zed
28th January 2015, 09:32 AM
Bandai make some pretty good toys, and their high end transforming toys like the Macross Frontier line are pretty awesome.

If Bandai do make whatever merchandise line accompanies this movie it will be interesting to see how they compare.

Maybe it will be like the old days where the small Gobot toys are actually better quality than the equivelant sized Transformer toy. :p

tron07
4th February 2015, 12:51 PM
I have a lot of old gobots compare to transformers back then as they are heaps cheaper.... but then they always comes with bad and loose joints, and are way smaller then transformers.

DELTAprime
6th February 2015, 06:38 PM
So according to TFW Bandai of all people are making Masterpiece Go-bots.http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/other-news-20/non-transformers-soul-of-chogokin-machine-robo-masterpiece-gobots-182019/

I'm not sure how Bandai is making toys of a Hasbro cartoon, but they are.

Paulbot
6th February 2015, 07:15 PM
They're making Machine Robo toys. Nothing to do with the international toyline that reused the original Machine Robo toys or the cartoon that followed based on the toyline.

DELTAprime
6th February 2015, 08:03 PM
But the design looks like Hasbro/Tonka's cartoon appearance, not the Machine Robo toy. Anyway I'm no expert on Gobots, I've only seen screen caps and pictures of the toys.

Robzy
6th February 2015, 08:10 PM
This is great! :)

I'd say these designs look more like the MR toy counterparts than the US cartoon (mind you, the cartoon appearances were closer to their toy designs than Transformers ever were). Don't forget that Bandai already released updated versions of the original design with Machine Robo Rescue in 2003, which included similar designs to what the original GoBots were based on. They own the rights.

Tetsuwan Convoy
6th February 2015, 11:46 PM
Yay, this makes me fairly happy! Always had a soft spot for the machine men.

Trent
7th February 2015, 06:48 AM
I'll probably pick up Leader-1 and Turbo

liegeprime
7th February 2015, 07:19 AM
Ill buy them all....I wonder if they'll make more... hoping for a Crasher, Coptur, Pathfinder and Scooter... Hmm I wonder if they'll come up with the Monsterous figures. As well as Vamp, Scorp, Creepy, Pincher Et all. Are these all in plastic or are there metal parts as well?

lancalot
7th February 2015, 11:25 AM
Wow them prototype looks good.... i also have a softspot for them ...never really like teh cartoon as a kid but love the toys .... i wonder how much they cost ...

Lord_Zed
8th February 2015, 06:50 PM
Those Machine Robo toys look awesome, I've always liked the aesthetic of the Japanese cartoon, the few sniperts I've seen make the animation in some episodes of Transformers look bad. Some of the old toys were great. I hope this line continues long enough to do some of the weird monster car ones.

As for Hasbro/Bandai's Gobots, well.... guess we'll see.

TakTom needs to announce a new MP, as it stands right now between Machine Robo, Macross and 3rd party robots, all the transforming toys I'm looking forward too, are not Transformers.

griffin
8th February 2015, 08:43 PM
More images on Facebook of the display, here (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.974376082574284.1073743425.586853757993187&type=1) and here (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.974374112574481.1073743424.586853757993187&type=3).

From the people behind you get an idea of the size.


Details
>Design by Action toys (not Bandai)
Same company making Ultimetal Optimus Prime.
>Roughly 10.5-12.5cm (top roll 10cm, bottom 12cm MP Bee scale)
>Has diecast metal parts, ball joints
>Estimate release June (Impossible ;) )
>Price range around 50 USD
>There are 9 designs now, release 2 figures each time
>Maybe* total 13 figures, one being an big aircraft carrier roughly 25-30cm in alt mode

Prices are more than I was hoping, but if they pull off that level of detail and colour on all of them, I'd be keen to get some.

GoktimusPrime
8th February 2015, 09:31 PM
But the design looks like Hasbro/Tonka's cartoon appearance, not the Machine Robo toy. Anyway I'm no expert on Gobots, I've only seen screen caps and pictures of the toys.
The Gobots have never appeared in the Transformers cartoon or Hasbro's toyline. As others have mentioned, this is actually a return of Bandai's Machine Robo rather than Gobots... so calling them Gobots is kiiinda misleading (akin referring to Macross or Diaclone as 'Transformers').

Also, even if Hasbro does own the rights for the Gobots designs, it still wouldn't affect what Bandai does with it for Machine Robo in Japan. I think it's similar to how Harmony Gold owns the rights for the Robotech designs in the USA, but Big West still holds the rights to continue making Macross in Japan. Cos knowing what HG are like with jealously hoarding and squatting on their IP, there'd be no way that they would've allowed Studio Nue/Big West to do anything w/ Macross if they had the chance! :p Thankfully this hasn't been the case, and Nue/Big West have continued to make numerous Macross series (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macross#Series_chronology) since the original. :)

Video links for comparison:
Challenge of the Gobots intro (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsw0OnIcU1I)
Original Machine Robo (Revenge of Chronos) Opening (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sohsrp7f3jA)
Gobots toy commercial (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ycaw8JX_yFk)
Machine Robo toy advert (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7VkYY5D6Q0)
...although I'd really love to see the Australian version of the Gobots commercial which called the toys "Machine Men" instead. :o

High_Q
8th February 2015, 09:44 PM
These look amazing in both modes. Not usually a collector of transforming toys that aren't TFs, but I'll get the Blue Jet Robo. Was tempted to get the EM Gokin release of it but was disappointed by the parts-forming. It seems like for this version of Blue Jet, the jet's nose cone splits to become the robot's two scabbards. Clever if that's the case.

griffin
9th February 2015, 01:15 AM
But the design looks like Hasbro/Tonka's cartoon appearance, not the Machine Robo toy. Anyway I'm no expert on Gobots, I've only seen screen caps and pictures of the toys.


The Gobots have never appeared in the Transformers cartoon or Hasbro's toyline. As others have mentioned, this is actually a return of Bandai's Machine Robo rather than Gobots... so calling them Gobots is kiiinda misleading (akin referring to Macross or Diaclone as 'Transformers').

DeltaPrime was actually correct, as he said "Tonka's cartoon", not Transformers cartoon or Toyline - and it was the cartoon that he thinks they look more like than the physical Gobots/Machine Robo toys (similar to how most of the Transformers Masterpiece toys look more like they do on the cartoon/comic than their original 1980s toy).

(and Tonka is now part of Hasbro... so retroactively, it's Hasbro's cartoon now, but can't do much with it because of Bandai's ownership of the toy designs)

5FDP
9th February 2015, 09:41 AM
I had a few Machine Men including Pathfinder :confused:, a scorpion, and a helicopter (looked like Airwolf) when I was a child and used to hunt down the free comics at Myers. This is great news!

Tetsuwan Convoy
9th February 2015, 10:13 AM
After digging around, I discovered I had a fair few more Machine men than I thought I did. Holy. Meeeeemmmories, like the corners of my mind.....

Bartrim
9th February 2015, 11:07 AM
These look awesome :) I'll be saving up for these.

drifand
19th February 2015, 12:15 PM
So according to TFW Bandai of all people are making Masterpiece Go-bots.http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/other-news-20/non-transformers-soul-of-chogokin-machine-robo-masterpiece-gobots-182019/

I'm not sure how Bandai is making toys of a Hasbro cartoon, but they are.

They are NOT Bandai, they are Action Toys. They do look better quality as well.

The_Damned
19th February 2015, 05:49 PM
These look awesome :) I'll be saving up for these.

brother!!!!!

Tetsuwan Convoy
19th February 2015, 06:24 PM
They are NOT Bandai, they are Action Toys. They do look better quality as well.

Even better then!! ;). :D

Robzy
19th December 2015, 02:11 AM
More pics here (https://www.facebook.com/DaimChocReports/photos/pcb.187010951649340/187010748316027/?type=3&theater) of this awesome looking Machine Robo line (10 pics in total). The colours look damn fine.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
19th December 2015, 02:23 AM
More pics here (https://www.facebook.com/DaimChocReports/photos/pcb.187010951649340/187010748316027/?type=3&theater) of this awesome looking Machine Robo line (10 pics in total). The colours look damn fine.

Good to see some fresh news about them! Hopefully they go into production in the near future!

Ahhh... memories!:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArAsVfsZ028

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAcIffhbqwM

jazzcomp
19th December 2015, 08:33 AM
It's gobots in my country. Never heard of machine men on TV. But I don't remember the songs of these intros. Must be getting old or it's totally different for me.

Lord_Zed
19th December 2015, 09:12 AM
I wonder how much they will cost, they look more articulated than todays non MP Transformers.

Trent
19th December 2015, 09:40 AM
Good to see tears still in the pipeline!

Robzy
19th December 2015, 11:49 AM
It's gobots in my country. Never heard of machine men on TV. It's a long story, but there's a reason why it was called GoBots in the US and Machine Men here in Australia (actually the line was originally Machine Men in the US too, before Tonka got invloved).

But none of these new designs are based on characters from GoBots... they're from Machine Robo: Revenge of Cronos, which is completely different. Blue Jet (aka Fitor) and Rod Drill (aka Screwhead) are two of the main characters :)

Sam
19th December 2015, 02:08 PM
Hey those look pretty cool.

Will they have more creative names this time around, instead of stuff like Cop-Tur?

Robzy
19th December 2015, 03:13 PM
Lol, the Robo names are actually worse... and there might not be a Cop-Tur anyway because he wasn't in Machine Robo: ROC

High_Q
21st December 2015, 06:13 PM
More pics here (https://www.facebook.com/DaimChocReports/photos/pcb.187010951649340/187010748316027/?type=3&theater) of this awesome looking Machine Robo line (10 pics in total). The colours look damn fine.

That's fantastic news. After no news for months, I thought the line was cancelled. The glossy paint scheme is appealing, and I hope that this version of Blue Jet does not 'parts-form' as much as the EM Gokin Fewture version.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
12th February 2016, 10:57 PM
Shot from Wonderfest 2016 (via DaimChoc (https://www.facebook.com/DaimChocReports/photos/a.100410510309385.1073741828.100402350310201/215242418826193/?type=3&theater)):

http://i.imgur.com/w0OISzr.png

Although the setup looks identical to the Hong Kong setup (https://www.facebook.com/DaimChocReports/posts/187010951649340) last year, so i'm not sure if it's from Wonderfest...

Trent
13th February 2016, 05:09 AM
I'm so keen for some of these

drifand
13th February 2016, 09:37 AM
I'm so keen for some of these

They actually look better in design than the mp car line I have to say.

GoktimusPrime
14th February 2016, 02:38 PM
I'm so keen for some of these
I reckon your best bet is to order these toys online as soon as they're available for preorder. Given that Hasbro now owns the rights for Gobots, I'm not sure how likely it'd be that these toys would see a Western release, as Hasbro may not want to undermine Transformers by competing with itself. Although it would certainly be possible for Hasbro to consider releasing some of these toys as part of the Transformers line itself. Hasbro doesn't seem bound to only release Takara moulds, as G1 saw several non-Takara figures (e.g. Jetfire, Deluxe Autobots, Sky Lynx, Omega Supreme, Deluxe Insecticons etc.).

But I reckon it'd be unlikely.

Trent
15th February 2016, 08:07 AM
I reckon your best bet is to order these toys online as soon as they're available for preorder. Given that Hasbro now owns the rights for Gobots, I'm not sure how likely it'd be that these toys would see a Western release, as Hasbro may not want to undermine Transformers by competing with itself. Although it would certainly be possible for Hasbro to consider releasing some of these toys as part of the Transformers line itself. Hasbro doesn't seem bound to only release Takara moulds, as G1 saw several non-Takara figures (e.g. Jetfire, Deluxe Autobots, Sky Lynx, Omega Supreme, Deluxe Insecticons etc.).

But I reckon it'd be unlikely.

I intend to slap that preorder button so hard...... :)

The question though is when and where. I've been following these since the prototypes showed up a few years ago. Progress appears to be so slow that it could be another year or next week. Couple that with not knowing how these are going to be released and it makes it ever so slightly frustrating.

drifand
15th February 2016, 01:35 PM
That F-15 eagle would be interesting next to mp-11 seeker.

Robzy
19th February 2016, 10:20 PM
More images (this time footage) (https://www.facebook.com/loopaza/videos/1065790020149179/) of this line. Man, I can't wait!! :eek:

Trent
19th February 2016, 10:38 PM
More images (this time footage) (https://www.facebook.com/loopaza/videos/1065790020149179/) of this line. Man, I can't wait!! :eek:

:eek::eek::eek:

janda the red
20th February 2016, 06:26 PM
They look so awesome!

UltraMarginal
20th February 2016, 10:35 PM
I might be buying some of those, Leader 1 for sure, a Tux if they do it also.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
21st February 2016, 01:00 AM
Leader 1 and Fitor are definite must buys! And a couple of the unpainted ones up the back look rather nice as well!

Lord_Zed
21st February 2016, 06:37 PM
Still keen for these guys, though I wonder what price they will be. They look less complex than a MP, but more fancy than a mainline TF.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
14th April 2016, 07:03 PM
Oh my God! Tramampoline! Trambopoline!:
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geHqnV4Mk_4)
http://i.imgur.com/GZRt0Hn.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/sLB8ueC.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/rLCT6Qw.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ItcfUds.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/3JzGLc8.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/LfJ6xDD.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/xosXgP9.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/auNgHQe.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/K2LJh2U.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/DJo2vId.jpg

Courtesy of the Machine Robo FB page (https://www.facebook.com/Machine-Robo-606937242796422/).

WeallscreamforStarscream
14th April 2016, 07:12 PM
WOOOOOOOWW!!!

Will def be in for starting this collection!

I still want Centurions to come back too :cool:

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
14th April 2016, 07:17 PM
WOOOOOOOWW!!!

Will def be in for starting this collection!

I still want Centurions to come back too :cool:

Same! Both this collection and the Centurions one -- that is if they ever bring it back... :p

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEZWH2VXglM

SMHFConvoy
14th April 2016, 07:24 PM
Bike Robo Cykill, soo... pretty

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
14th April 2016, 07:27 PM
Bike Robo Cykill, soo... pretty

Definitely loving Eagle Robo Leader-1! So much AWESOME!

kurdt_the_goat
14th April 2016, 08:53 PM
Loopaza Mega Store on Facebook says these will finally release in Summer. The other Summer :D

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
14th April 2016, 08:59 PM
Loopaza Mega Store on Facebook says these will finally release in Summer. The other Summer :D

I hate these seasonal timetables! I get so confused! :p

High_Q
14th April 2016, 10:51 PM
There are still no preorders for these :(, and Blue Jet (Fitor) better not be a later release!

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
14th April 2016, 11:12 PM
Yeah, you'd expect there to be preorders by now if they're due for the "other summer".

I'm also with you on Fitor! He was the only machineman I ever had, so he's a definite must buy!

I really hope PC ends up getting them.

Robzy
15th April 2016, 11:20 AM
Anyone know where, when or how much? It's driving me nuts :eek::o:D

I can't wait to get these. They look incredible.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
15th April 2016, 07:08 PM
It's driving me nuts :eek::o:D

You and everyone else! :p

Some dude posted this on the Machine Robo page, but didn't say anything else, can anybody read it?:

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

Robzy
15th April 2016, 09:06 PM
You and everyone else! :p

Haha :D

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
15th April 2016, 09:39 PM
how much?

A December post by Daimchoc (https://www.facebook.com/DaimChocReports/posts/186421508374951) last year lists the price at roughly 200HKD (~AU$34).

Unless that's way off, it's pretty affordable!

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
16th April 2016, 02:16 AM
New pics from Machine Robo (https://www.facebook.com/Machine-Robo-606937242796422/):

http://i.imgur.com/oK4aJUa.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/3zCwuNK.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/V69r6Q7.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/kKUAgbX.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/mhzzVDZ.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/BRAqjRZ.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/g37vdRQ.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/08BlMiS.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/6c2dN3j.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/GW3jqzG.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/kC9Lqb0.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/TjWTIHf.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/wA6Mt15.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/eyG06FS.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/CctK15v.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/lhPkU7y.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/8rKKnhj.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/lDEcbKy.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/sr00D65.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/fGZOMbg.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/Mk2ADKu.jpg

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
16th April 2016, 02:25 AM
Preorders up at BBTS -- MR-01 Bike Robo (http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=ACT10009&mode=retail&utm_source=Marketing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Marketing&utm_content=) and MR-02 Rod Drill (http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=ACT10010&mode=retail&utm_source=Marketing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Marketing&utm_content=).

Also Toy Dojo - MR-01 Bike Robo (http://www.toydojo.com/machine-robo-series-mr-01-bike-robo/) and MR-02 Rod Drill (http://www.toydojo.com/machine-robo-series-mr-02-rod-drill/).

As well as TFSource (http://tfsource.com/machine-robo/).

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
16th April 2016, 03:55 AM
Diecast parts and modular display platform confirmed (https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=607600456063434&id=606937242796422):

http://i.imgur.com/snv3yQl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/LKY7qiQ.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/PnZGPdo.jpg

kurdt_the_goat
16th April 2016, 08:29 AM
Not a horrible price for the diecast, stand and what looks like paint quality, but at 12cm that's quite small. I have this idea they might look good in my collection next to the upcoming Diabattles V2 (at least until more of that line is released - hopefully!)

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
16th April 2016, 02:05 PM
Looks like PC will be carrying them -- with preorders to open on Monday (https://www.facebook.com/premiumcollectaus/posts/1105398932815027), so hopefully we'll get more competitive pricing from them.


I have this idea they might look good in my collection next to the upcoming Diabattles V2 (at least until more of that line is released - hopefully!)

That's a great idea! Can't wait to see how these guys look next to the Moonbase version i've got on preorder!

aching878
16th April 2016, 03:24 PM
i'm kinda glad they are so tiny... running out of space on the shelves :D

drifand
16th April 2016, 04:26 PM
hmm... is a skip for me.

Robzy
17th April 2016, 12:01 PM
So good. Can't wait.

drifand
17th April 2016, 02:23 PM
What happened to the initial masterpiece gobots?
I was keen on that.

Robzy
17th April 2016, 06:38 PM
What happened to the initial masterpiece gobots?
I was keen on that.
This is them. It was never GoBots (despite the error in the title of the thread) it was always Machine Robo.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
17th April 2016, 07:32 PM
What happened to the initial masterpiece gobots?
I was keen on that.

I think people assumed these were MP equivalents because of the level of detail and articulation.

I suppose they still are because they're about the same size as MP Bumblebee.

kurdt_the_goat
17th April 2016, 08:05 PM
There looks to be at least a little parts forming but the quality looks good. I'm glad something new and fresh is coming out more than anything!

Lord_Zed
17th April 2016, 09:48 PM
There looks to be at least a little parts forming but the quality looks good. I'm glad something new and fresh is coming out more than anything!

I would be nice to have highly articulated transforming robot toys that are under $80 again, assuming they are under $80, here's hoping.

drifand
18th April 2016, 11:48 AM
The eagle robo looks very different from what I thought it was but anyway is okay, good for people who want these.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
18th April 2016, 07:34 PM
Preorders up at PC for AU$55 each:

http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/machine-robo-01-bike-robo

http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/machine-robo-02-rod-drill

aching878
18th April 2016, 08:21 PM
You and everyone else! :p

Some dude posted this on the Machine Robo page, but didn't say anything else, can anybody read it?:



No relations, just article about disabled guy started his own biz selling vintage toys

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
18th April 2016, 08:23 PM
No relations, just article about disabled guy started his own biz selling vintage toys

Cheers! Looks like he just spammed the page then, as the post is also gone.

ampoldj
19th April 2016, 06:55 AM
Preorders up at PC for AU$55 each:

http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/machine-robo-01-bike-robo

http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/machine-robo-02-rod-drill

must resist ... :D

DarkHyren
19th April 2016, 02:12 PM
Preorders up at PC for AU$55 each:

http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/machine-robo-01-bike-robo

http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/machine-robo-02-rod-drillGreat deal I must say but Cy-Kill doesn't look right.
It's that face, makes him look too... chibi.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
19th April 2016, 10:11 PM
Great deal I must say but Cy-Kill doesn't look right.
It's that face, makes him look too... chibi.

Yeah, the mouth and eyes are a little too dainty and child-like -- if they made it more like the toy, it would certainly look better:

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

High_Q
20th April 2016, 02:50 PM
Yeah, the mouth and eyes are a little too dainty and child-like -- if they made it more like the toy, it would certainly look better

I think the new toy resembles the Bike Robo animation model (http://machinerobo.wikia.com/wiki/Bike_Robo) quite closely, which I think this series is aiming for. I certainly much prefer this to Cy-kill's rage face. :D

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
20th April 2016, 04:31 PM
I think the new toy resembles the Bike Robo animation model (http://machinerobo.wikia.com/wiki/Bike_Robo) quite closely, which I think this series is aiming for. I certainly much prefer this to Cy-kill's rage face. :D

I see what you mean! Looking at that pic and comparing it to the toy, I think the lack of angularity in the face is what makes it look child-like.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
21st April 2016, 08:29 PM
Lots of info and pics about the Machine Robo 'toon here:

http://counter-x.net/gobots/revenge/index.html

Trent
21st April 2016, 09:17 PM
I see what you mean! Looking at that pic and comparing it to the toy, I think the lack of angularity in the face is what makes it look child-like.

I thought that he was like the kid of the group. Hence the youthful features.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
21st April 2016, 11:01 PM
I thought that he was like the kid of the group. Hence the youthful features.

The images vary so much in the 'toon it's hard to tell:

http://i.imgur.com/lvxW9nW.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/5ZsOsrs.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ovcoWfJ.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/KXZliS8.jpg

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
24th April 2016, 07:58 PM
Via Mr Elljay (http://www.weibo.com/mrelljay):

http://i.imgur.com/DdOC2aB.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/KqIxeIJ.jpg

Robzy
26th April 2016, 08:44 PM
Soooo good *drool*

Tetsuwan Convoy
27th April 2016, 09:26 AM
I think the new toy resembles the Bike Robo animation model (http://machinerobo.wikia.com/wiki/Bike_Robo) quite closely, which I think this series is aiming for. I certainly much prefer this to Cy-kill's rage face. :D

I could totally go for an alternate Cy-Kill rage face.:D

Even though I know nothing about Machine robo, I like these guys. Will defos get a couple methinks.
]
C'mon amazon.
When they due?

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
27th April 2016, 09:56 PM
I could totally go for an alternate Cy-Kill rage face.:D

I'd love to have Cy-kill's rage face!

How could anyone not like it?:

http://i.imgur.com/qDb1GJv.jpg

And for some reason I keep on thinking that Cy-kill and Bender are somehow related:

http://i.imgur.com/p5XTCNs.jpg

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
29th April 2016, 10:57 PM
Image dump from Machine Robo (https://www.facebook.com/Machine-Robo-606937242796422/):

http://i.imgur.com/BtyHRHi.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/mxOfgPH.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/AOkrjXX.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/6g8krzU.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/hDV0aMt.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Igk6T0A.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/vZxDXO5.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/tmhVwiI.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/bNH8rmt.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/YbL28Ql.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/mVX9IXb.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/vDpP2Hw.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/omptVoe.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/V4vMF9f.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/4unR8sa.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/gBM7XGY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/EAj9wQe.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/neL5ckB.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/GdgOjWL.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/NlJukef.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/TK4QGB1.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/HAE93dS.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/OCY0LpY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/qnFXUIF.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/03vKQXq.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/n2HkQ9U.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/US7Udbo.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/WMSgM29.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/oRVbEvT.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/eP021zW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/51ZEvAT.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/LLjY7KA.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/TR2EZKP.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/SCZbzo6.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/1pyfqwM.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ShoyERp.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QChsrpj.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/6eaBCMD.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/eWcIXV6.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/rkpzPcN.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/1juHE4d.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/5CnPkkF.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/4PMmHed.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/FzFDsEK.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ElRwgmd.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/E245Veq.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/1VVjZwn.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/gmcYxt3.jpg

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
11th May 2016, 11:42 PM
Interview (http://masterforceuk.blogspot.com.au/2016/05/action-toys-spencer-talks-machine-robo.html) with Action Toys on the Machine Robo line.

CBratron
12th May 2016, 09:01 AM
Do we know the scale of these guys? From the joint proportions I feel they're small deluxes.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
12th May 2016, 12:06 PM
Do we know the scale of these guys? From the joint proportions I feel they're small deluxes.

According to the listings, Bike Robo is 11.5 cm tall in bot mode, Rod Drill is 12 cm and Eagle Robo 13 cm.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
21st May 2016, 03:58 PM
Reviews of Eagle Robo already up from The Chosen Prime (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NY66Ex6UEA) and Peaugh (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3L7h4YEmCQ).

Robzy
21st May 2016, 11:54 PM
Reviews of Eagle Robo already up from The Chosen Prime (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NY66Ex6UEA) and Peaugh (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3L7h4YEmCQ).

Thanks :) Looks so good!

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
22nd May 2016, 03:09 AM
Thanks :) Looks so good!

No worries! :)

Review for Rod Drill is up:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j34zzl3kUQc

Plus one for Battle Robo:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ayot_7dQcz8

Robzy
22nd May 2016, 07:35 PM
No worries! :)

Review for Rod Drill is up:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j34zzl3kUQc

Plus one for Battle Robo:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ayot_7dQcz8
Thanks again :) I'm absolutely loving these figures.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
23rd May 2016, 11:55 PM
I'm absolutely loving these figures.

Same! I can't wait to get these guys! :D

By the way, where are you getting yours from? I'm pretty sad that PC didn't offer Battle Robo, so if they don't end up offering any more, it's going to get expensive collecting them given there's no sign of preorders at the usual Japanese stores.

Oh, TFW user Rewind removed the facemask (http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/toyark/1033470-gokin-machine-robo-gobots-156.html#post13622997) on Eagle Robo to reveal a mouth:

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

Looks like you can get a Leader-1 face with a bit of modding and cleaning up!

kurdt_the_goat
24th May 2016, 01:31 AM
Yeah i was really hoping i'd be able to find these at retail in Japan to avoid shipping costs. Wonder if they're gonna come a bit later?

That said, the reviews have almost dampened my enthusiasm. Nothing much wrong with them... but not screaming "awesome" to me either. I would rather no stands and drop $10 off the price, for the size.

Robzy
24th May 2016, 10:42 PM
S

By the way, where are you getting yours from? I'm pretty sad that PC didn't offer Battle Robo, so if they don't end up offering any more, it's going to get expensive collecting them given there's no sign of preorders at the usual Japanese stores.
I was going to ask you the same thing :p By PC, do you mean Premium Collectables (http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/machine-robo-01-bike-robo)? Is that who you've used? Are they good? Yeah it's gonna be expensive either way I think.



Oh, TFW user Rewind removed the facemask (http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/toyark/1033470-gokin-machine-robo-gobots-156.html#post13622997) on Eagle Robo to reveal a mouth:

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

Looks like you can get a Leader-1 face with a bit of modding and cleaning up!

That's pretty cool! :)

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
25th May 2016, 12:38 AM
I was going to ask you the same thing :p By PC, do you mean Premium Collectables (http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/machine-robo-01-bike-robo)? Is that who you've used? Are they good? Yeah it's gonna be expensive either way I think.

Yeah, i've preordered these guys with Premium Collectables (along with all my other TF stuff). As for feeback, i've had nine shipments from them without any issue, so would definitely recommend them! Possible downside is there may be a wait for items, particularly if you don't preorder first day they're up, but otherwise once they get the item and ship it, it's real fast -- all my shipments have been next day delivery.


Yeah i was really hoping i'd be able to find these at retail in Japan to avoid shipping costs. Wonder if they're gonna come a bit later?

It makes me wonder whether Action Toys are testing the appetite of the Asian market before going to Japan... at least I hope so...

Robzy
25th May 2016, 07:25 PM
Yeah, i've preordered these guys with Premium Collectables (along with all my other TF stuff). As for feeback, i've had nine shipments from them without any issue, so would definitely recommend them! Possible downside is there may be a wait for items, particularly if you don't preorder first day they're up, but otherwise once they get the item and ship it, it's real fast -- all my shipments have been next day delivery.
.
Thanks. Yeah, it's a shame about "Tank" not being sold through them...

Robzy
2nd June 2016, 08:12 PM
Well, I got my first figure today... Rod Drill from Premium Collectables. Only ordered him the other day, so I'm very surprised at how fast he arrived.

The figure itself is outstanding. Much smaller than I expected, but a really terrific figure. The first "transformation" was a little stiff in parts, but he's fine now. He's got me very excited about this line already. :eek::o

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
2nd June 2016, 10:53 PM
Great to hear Robzy! :)

I received my Eagle Robo from PC today, and he's definitely an awesome figure! Articulation is great and the included flight stand makes a hell of a lot of sense as well!

A little small for my liking, but the diecast adds quite a nice heft to the figure and does help bring back memories of the Machine Robo/Gobot toys!

Joints are a little stiff to start off with but do loosen up, but unfortunately i've already seemed to have stressed the hook that connects the cockpit/nose of the plane to the body -- not sure how it happened as i've only transformed him once, but it may have been already stressed as it sits flush to the plastic of the clamshell.

Another downside is that the cockpit just hangs off the back and doesn't tab anywhere -- a la Ramjet, but all in all, what a great little figure!

I'm really hoping that Weijiang does an oversized version of him, because were he to be Seeker height, he'd be even more awesome!

Definitely looking forward to the rest of the line!

Robzy
3rd June 2016, 09:37 PM
Eagle Robo is the one I'm least interested in, even though I'll pick him up. I love the die cast in these figures :eek:

shockNwave
5th June 2016, 03:15 PM
What Action Toys have done with Leader One and Tank is very impressive.
I hope they do the same for the most dark and foreboding Gobots/Machine Men. In other words, I'm referring to Scorp, Bladez, Pincher and Vamp.;)

Robzy
7th June 2016, 11:53 PM
From the MR Facebook page...


We would like to thank everyone for their support on the Machine Robo line so far and we are very pleased to hear that the overall opinion is good.

We do want to apologize for the delay on Bike Robo but be assured, it is all for a very good reason and one that I think everyone will agree with. When we received the final sample from the factory we found that the Bike Robo was awesome but just missing a few tiny things. First, the wheels in the bike mode were pegged into the hands and the rear were a single piece and so it really did not roll so well. Sure with pressure, you could force the wheels to roll but this was not really what we considered good enough. So we have modified the wheels to be multiple parts and it will allow the wheels to rotate freely so when you are zooming your Bike Robo on the carpet you will not have any hindrance whatsoever. Since the wheels were being completely redesigned, we thought we would go one step further, we will add some nice rubber tires to the wheels so that when you are zooming your Bike Robo on the glass table, you will have enough friction from the rubber that the wheels will roll smoothly as they are now intended to.

We really are sorry for these very last minute delays to this highly anticipated figure but in the end, we figured this was a much better alternative than just releasing the figure with hard to roll plastic wheels. We thank everyone for your patience while we work at getting this finished off. We are hoping to have everything settled up and ready for delivery by the end of June so please keep in touch with your retailer and ensure they send yours when it is in stock!

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
9th June 2016, 07:27 PM
Nice!

Glad they're making changes on the fly rather than letting the customer take the hit!

That said, I should probably tell them about my Eagle Robo problem, maybe they'll send me a replacement part...

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
15th June 2016, 08:01 PM
New figures from Machine Robo:

05 Cement Robo (https://www.facebook.com/Machine-Robo-606937242796422/photos/?tab=album&album_id=634243866732426):

http://i.imgur.com/tBfHdfR.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/usnnPo0.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/K8BeTb1.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/paCqFDy.jpg

06 Blackbird Robo (https://www.facebook.com/Machine-Robo-606937242796422/photos/?tab=album&album_id=634243463399133):

http://i.imgur.com/NiUKvVY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/zoPcDUT.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/BixHvY8.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/PJGEWNA.jpg

07 Turbo Robo (https://www.facebook.com/Machine-Robo-606937242796422/photos/?tab=album&album_id=634243143399165):

http://i.imgur.com/wft4sBR.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/aCOLZQA.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/jlOTIPn.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/IriaTGU.jpg

08 Space Robo (https://www.facebook.com/Machine-Robo-606937242796422/photos/?tab=album&album_id=634241566732656):

http://i.imgur.com/Jo0EAS9.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ZY2J1Am.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/JwLV3rD.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/upwX8sb.jpg

Robzy
16th June 2016, 11:36 PM
Saw pics earlier today - amazing!

liegeprime
18th July 2016, 07:30 PM
finally got the first 3, well technically , 2, 3 and 4... for some reason #1 Cykill isn't issued out yet.

http://i1379.photobucket.com/albums/ah155/liegeprime1/2016%20Acquissitions/DSC08580_zpsrh9fymak.jpg (http://s1379.photobucket.com/user/liegeprime1/media/2016%20Acquissitions/DSC08580_zpsrh9fymak.jpg.html)

Has some diecast parts, poseable but Leader 1 has a bit of kibble that gets in the way of poseability. The plastic quality is like that of Gundam kits, not so thick. Ill try to take more pics in the morning when there's more natural light.

Robzy
14th September 2016, 08:11 PM
My 01 Bike Robo (Cy-Kill) finally arrived, after being shipped from BBTS 4 weeks ago. Ridiculous wait, but well worth it. Great little figure!

Bartrim
23rd February 2017, 06:41 PM
If anyone is interested I've managed to get my hands on the whole series in pretty watchable quality.:)

I haven't watched the whole series yet but the episodes I've watched are really good quality.

MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!
26th January 2018, 09:28 PM
Review of the DX version of Bike Robo:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAn1diSgKOA

Robzy
6th February 2018, 02:00 PM
Review of the DX version of Bike Robo:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAn1diSgKOA

Can't wait for this. Looks so incredible.

Robzy
7th March 2018, 01:06 PM
Finally got my DX Bike Robo... what an amazing figure. It's pretty big too. Conversion (transformation) is really cool, and fun! Figure is solidly built, and looks amazing in both modes, especially with the Cy-Kill faces.

griffin
21st July 2018, 02:44 PM
From SDCC this weekend (https://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/new-idw-publishing-gobots-comics-series-by-tom-scioli-announced/41647/), comes news that IDW will be doing a Go-Bots comic starting this October.



SAN DIEGO, CA (July 20, 2018) – IDW Publishing is proud to announce that Tom Scioli, the visionary creator that brought you Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, will unleash his imagination on the wonderful world of Go-Bots! Launching in October, Go-Bots will be the first story to feature classic toy and cartoon characters like Leader-1, Scooter, Turbo, and Cy-Kill’s Renegades in over three decades!

In the new five-issue series, the existence of Go-Bots on Earth has changed humans’ way of life. They chauffeur us around. They protect us from harm. They do the jobs that are too boring or dangerous for us. They fight our wars for us. They are friends for the lonely. The only thing they don’t do is dream for us… but that could change any day now. For a generation, Leader-1 and the Guardians have said that they were here to help us… but as they become more integrated into our society, the question must be asked: Are they here to replace us?

“This is a dream project – I’m writing, drawing, coloring, and hand-lettering this book. It’s a labor of love,” says Scioli. “When these characters were conceived of in the ’80s, the idea of robots with human personalities was science fiction. Now, it’s history. The world of living machines is here – we’re living it. The time is right for Go-Bots!”

“Avant-garde creator Tom Scioli has been pushing the comic book storytelling medium for nearly two decades now and his work on Go-Bots is yet another watershed moment in his career,” says IDW Associate Publisher David Hedgecock. “It is a testament to the strong collaboration between IDW Publishing and Hasbro, that projects like this can exist on licensed properties.”

hYpNoS
21st July 2018, 05:55 PM
http://news.toyark.com/2018/07/19/sdcc-2018-gallery-tamashii-nations-machine-robo-307917

Meanwhile in japan bandai are having a crack at machine robo themselves.

Clearly a re-imagining of sorts...I think, that cykill/bike robo got katoki'd badly :S

DELTAprime
21st July 2018, 06:44 PM
So is there a streaming service or something where I can watch some of the Gobots cartoons to see what the show was like?

I've only ever seen a couple of really cheesy clips of the show.

High_Q
22nd July 2018, 02:27 PM
http://news.toyark.com/2018/07/19/sdcc-2018-gallery-tamashii-nations-machine-robo-307917

Meanwhile in japan bandai are having a crack at machine robo themselves.

Clearly a re-imagining of sorts...I think, that cykill/bike robo got katoki'd badly :S

These look like extreme anime parodies of themselves ... just terrible. :confused:

BTW, is there any news on when Action Toys MR Blue Jet will be released? I've been waiting for preorders to appear for two years. :(

High_Q
12th September 2020, 11:55 AM
BTW, is there any news on when Action Toys MR Blue Jet will be released? I've been waiting for preorders to appear for two years. :(

Finally! After 5 years of waiting, MR11 Blue Jet is now on preorder at various online stores.:D