Toy Review - JP MP-24 Masterpiece Star Saber

[griffin]

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

Series - Masterpiece
Sub-line - none
Size/class - n/a
New/remould/redeco - new
Wave - n/a (MP-24)
Released here - expected here in Oct 2015 (released in Japan March 2015)
Approximate Retail Price - 19,000yen (about AU$210)
Approximate Size - 30cm?
Allegiance - Autobot
Alt-mode - Cybertronian Jet & armour.
Main Features/Gimmicks - Brainmaster, exosuit, display stand.
Main Colours - Red, white, blue.
Main Accessories - Sword, Brainmaster, gun, shield/stand.

http://toycollectors.com.au/transformers/2015/jp15a11.jpg

[MayzaPrime]

Can't wait to get this :D

I was thinking of waiting until the local release, but I dont think that I can wait until October to get it and with the poor AUD$ at the moment it is going to cost the same either way.

[BigTransformerTrev]

Can't wait to get this :D

I was thinking of waiting until the local release, but I dont think that I can wait until October to get it and with the poor AUD$ at the moment it is going to cost the same either way.

Yeah mine arrived ehobbybaseshop and with the awful dollar between him and Exhaust and shipping it's gonna be $300+ :eek::(

Mate of mine in Malaysia got his last night - he is thrilled with it! But then he was a big Victory fan as a kid . Hoping I like Star Saner too

[griffin]

With the fluctuating exchange rates, it's best to compare the yen price at JP sources to the US$ price at HK sources... but postage will be big factor from either location.
And I prefer to get the HK exclusive Coin or any JP Amazon exclusives, which adds another $10-20 value to the HK sources (when comparing the two). For me, the only reason why I got the JP version of Star Saber was because I had Exhaust on pre-order, so decided to save postage by getting them from the same place.

Looks like HLJ have now sold out of their excess stock of Star Saber, so the HK sources might be the only ones left.

HLJ was 18,000 yen, which equals about AU$193.
Ehobbybaseshop is US$150, which coincidently currently equals AU$193... but comes with the collector coin that is worth $10-20.

But if you took the chance of getting a pre-order at HLJ at the discounted price of 14,400 yen, hoping that the yen rate wouldn't blow out as much as the US rate, that would have been about AU$154.

[UltimateGalvatron]

I don't really know Victory (or Zone or whatever G1 Japanese series he's from) so if I get one from someone I'll keep it or if I come across it in a shop I'd buy it but not go out of my way to buy it.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Initial thoughts, based on a quick look and a once-through transformation. Housecleaning took rather longer than I was hoping, so there was less time to play around with him than I'd anticipated.

Firstly, it's very much what the MP line is supposed to be about according to the designers: upscaled, cartoon-accurate, more poseable versions of the old G1 toys. I don't have Victory Star Saber, but from the look of it this piece is very much just that: a better-proportioned, screen-accurate, far more poseable Star Saber. Fun to handle, looks great, but also pretty basic for a Masterpiece IMO.

The little dude (Yūki no Brain) does what he's supposed to. He fits inside the jet mode cockpit, and inside the Saber robot mode chest, where he raises the Saber-mode robot head. Paint apps and detailing are quite impressive for such a small toy - he really is tiny. To be fair, if he wasn't so small then the overall toy would have had to have been ridiculously large, instead of just being (still just short of ridiculously) huge as it is. But still, when you get right down to it, he's really just an accessory - kind of ironic given that canonically he's the actual 'character' part. Getting him into the right spot to raise Saber's head can be a bit fiddly, but once he's locked in the mechanism works pretty well. Limited articulation, but for a figure that size it can't really be helped.

Saber (the jet/smaller robot that makes up Star Saber's chest) is pretty sweet. Jet mode isn't the best ever (the small wings and overly large engine mean it really doesn't look capable of flight), but it is adequate (and has landing gear), and fits mini-Brain-man quite well. Voyager Brainstorm could take a lesson or two here. The robot mode is quite a bit better, though again Brain can be tricky to get into the right position to raise Saber's head. His legs don't have the best articulation, but they're not awful either - he's no Classics Mirage, but he's far from a brick. His wrists point inwards slightly, but the wrist swivel helps make up for this quite a bit. The hollow forearms may bother some people. The face sculpt looks great, especially the glasses/goggles. He looks good holding the weapons and has good proportions. Slightly smaller than most of the MP car Autobots so far IMO, but not horrendously so.

The V-star mode is, well, it is what it is. Much like the original Star Saber toy it's basically a folded-up robot cosplaying (not entirely convincingly) as a space-sled. It does store most - though not all - of the accessories in alt-mode, and it's definitely got a satisfying size and heft to it. The landing gear works well enough, though one of the front pair of wheels is really stiff on mine. It looks quite a bit better - though again not exactly aerodynamic - with Saber attached to it. The flight stand/shield works well. Not exactly elegant, but functional, and good on the screen accuracy count.

Star Saber (the big robot mode) is what it's really all about. Transformation to SS mode is mostly pretty straightforward, but you do have to get some of the steps in the right order to lock the Saber/chest into the V-Star/body securely. Use the instructions for the first time or two is my advice. He can't quite store all of his accessories on his back, but he can have two out of three stored at a time. Most of his parts can be stored/held, except for the support of the stand. The colour scheme works well - nice and heroic-looking, with a good overall balance which manages to avoid looking garish despite being all vibrant primary colours. His face sculpt looks pretty stern (mostly due to the angle of the eyes), so it should work for the Western/IDW release's characterisation. Poseability is great as you'd expect from an MP release, proportions are excellent (again as you'd expect), he's nice and heavy, and above all he's big. If Brain was tiny, then Star Saber is massive. Not quite Fortress Maximus or Generations Metroplex massive of course, but he towers over MP10 Optimus Prime (who comes up to his mid-chest height). I don't have MP Ultra Magnus to compare, but at a guess he'd still be a good head-and-a-half taller than Magnus. Even without his shoulders he'd still loom over most other TFs, including most of the Combiner Wars combiners - it's also G1/Victory-accurate, but if you're wanting to display him amongst other TFs you may be better going with Saber mode. Fortunately he manages to pull it off. His joints are sturdy enough, but I can see some of them getting loose over time if you're the kind of collector who likes to play with your TFs. The legs are mostly pretty tight on solid ratchet joints, but the shoulders and arms are more flexible - great for a sword-fighting character, but not so great for long-term durability.
Again, he's not exactly an engineering marvel (in fact he's kind of basic for an MP IMO), but that's not really the point of MP Star Saber - he's an MP update to Victory Star Saber, and in that sense he's more than adequate.

If the above appeals to you, then yeah: this toy is for you. It's big, it's fun, it's Star Saber. If you couldn't care less about Star Saber as a character but like the MP line and/or the look of the toy, then it's worth picking up. If you like big, solid, fun toys, well: he's freaking big, he's solid, and he's fun. If you're on the fence, I'd honestly suggest skipping on it, especially since it's gotten a bit pricier than what I paid for it. I ended up getting it for ~$150, and I'd say it's worth it. I wouldn't want to pay too much above that though.

[UltraMarginal]

Excellent review, thank you, though, I'm still on the fence:o

[drifand]

He is worth anything below 19,000 yen original RRP.

The extensive Aussie dollar drop is a big difference of getting one below $160AU delivered and owning one way above $200 now.

He looks better than mp-10 imo and way more value for money. People who stick to G1 plan then they won't buy this.

For me, anything "new" from TT is > than a repainted mp.

[UltraMarginal]

Uh, Star Saber is G1.
Takara G1.

[Hursticon]

Uh, Star Saber is G1.
Takara G1.

Truth! :cool:

Awesome review, Odey, now the feverish wait to receive my shipping notice has been further exacerbated! :p:D

[drifand]

Uh, Star Saber is G1.
Takara G1.

my bad, but I meant in the non Japanese way G1.

[GoktimusPrime]

The little dude (Yuki no Brain) does what he's supposed to.
"Yuuki no Brain" (or "Yūki no Brain") = Brain of Courage ;)
"Yuki no Brain" = Brain of Snow (http://otca.com.au/boards/showpost.php?p=443603&postcount=86) :p

[Hursticon]

"Yuuki no Brain" (or "Yūki no Brain") = Brain of Courage ;)
"Yuki no Brain" = Brain of Snow (http://otca.com.au/boards/showpost.php?p=443603&postcount=86) :p

I like the later! :p:D

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

"Yuuki no Brain" (or "Yūki no Brain") = Brain of Courage ;)
"Yuki no Brain" = Brain of Snow (http://otca.com.au/boards/showpost.php?p=443603&postcount=86) :pOh FFS...there, fixed it for you. It was past midnight and I had work today so I was kind of in a hurry to finish up and get some shut-eye.
Let it go.:p

[MrTrick]

I watched a video review of this yesterday and they mentioned there's connecting ports on the feet... so if enough people buy this they might release Victory Leo to combine with! :D

Can't wait till I get mine.... should be on its way!!

[drifand]

I watched a video review of this yesterday and they mentioned there's connecting ports on the feet... so if enough people buy this they might release Victory Leo to combine with! :D

Can't wait till I get mine.... should be on its way!!

They left it as that to cater for future but not as a promise.

[Chevron Action Flash]

I got into TF's at ground level. Wave 1, G1. I was there. I remember reaching the top of the escalator, arriving at Chadstone Myer toy department circa late '84 and being confronted by this display of new Robots that looked amazingly shit hot.

I collected pretty heavily thru the 80's and consider myself pretty much across the essential G1 lore. Now, having said all that, who the eff is this Starsaber flog? I've never heard of the a-hole. And why is he getting an MP slot when the likes of Jazz or Hound are still not made?

I hate SS's alt mode. Ugly as f*ck. His bot mode looks like something out of Astroboy rather than Transformers. His colour palette is rank and frankly I just don't understand the gush this idiot gets.

Isn't the point of the MP line to bring us CORE G1 characters in their ideal incarnation? I just hope this mis-step by Takara is the last and that future MP's are TF's I actually recognise.

[Omega Metro]

I agree. It is ugly;)

[FruitBuyer]

You are a horrible fan.

*WAH WAH WAH*

HasTak doesn't cater to me specifically! I don't care about other Transformers fans! I'm the only one that matters. Who cares about the characters the Japanese fans identify with better? What did the japanese ever do to benefit the Transformers franchise? I don't care about them. I only care about what us superior Western fans get because we're right!

TRUKK NOT MUNKEY!

[millhouse]

[rant cut]

How about, instead of complaining about a Japanese toy designed by a Japanese company for the Japanese market, you ask Hasbro to tool you up some figures that you want? Or just ignore the Japanese figures you don't?

[Chevron Action Flash]

You are a horrible fan.

*WAH WAH WAH*

HasTak doesn't cater to me specifically! I don't care about other Transformers fans! I'm the only one that matters. Who cares about the characters the Japanese fans identify with better? What did the japanese ever do to benefit the Transformers franchise? I don't care about them. I only care about what us superior Western fans get because we're right!

TRUKK NOT MUNKEY!

Finally, someone who agrees with me!

[Bidoofdude]

Star Saber is a G1 character, albeit only from the Japanese Victory cartoon. He won the MP-24 vote, which was only for Autobot leaders, out of the various continuities, from Japanese fans. The place could not be won by an Autobot car.

The reason his alt mode looks the way it does is because that's what his original toy/cartoon model looked.

He may not be a classic G1 character in Western media, but he certainly is at least a memorable character in Japanese G1, enough to warrant him winning the vote against others like Galaxy Force Optimus, Beast Wars Optimus Primal and even Fortress Maximus.

If you don't like the toy, just don't buy it. Leave it out of your MP collection. He's still a widely appreciated character, and a nice update to a very expensive G1 toy/character.

[Chevron Action Flash]

You are a horrible fan.

*WAH WAH WAH*

HasTak doesn't cater to me specifically! I don't care about other Transformers fans! I'm the only one that matters. Who cares about the characters the Japanese fans identify with better? What did the japanese ever do to benefit the Transformers franchise? I don't care about them. I only care about what us superior Western fans get because we're right!

TRUKK NOT MUNKEY!

Way to completely misunderstand a post. Congratulations.

[FruitBuyer]

Finally, someone who agrees with me!


Way to completely misunderstand a post. Congratulations.

So you're being facetious with your post?

[Chevron Action Flash]

So you're being facetious with your post?

No. I genuinely hate the figure. But yes, I'm having a jovial rant. And no, I'm not a horrible fan. I'm a freaking amazing fan and incredibly loyal to Transformers. Being a fan doesnt mean accepting everything you're offered. Its actually ok to strongly dislike something. Do you have a fave band? I'm sure they've recorded at least one song you can't stand.

[FruitBuyer]

I don't get my panties into a twist when there's something I'm not interested in. I just ignore it and move on with my day because I know my tastes isn't the same as everyone else's.

[Chevron Action Flash]

I don't get my panties into a twist when there's something I'm not interested in. I just ignore it and move on with my day because I know my tastes isn't the same as everyone else's.

Platitudes. Nothing wrong with a venting rant. Its healthy.

[Defcon]

lol that was a very critical assessment ;) but as others have said this is something Japanese fans wanted, and since Star saber is a Japanese G1 Character, he isn't really that well known by most fans. I would of been more excited if they did something else, but what I would of liked wasn't on the list :p
That said he looks like an amazing example of a Robot toy, and is a faithful recreation of the original I am assuming, which I hope delights the fans of the original character and toy. If i grew up watching the series Star Saber belongs to, I would be all over this release.

[Chevron Action Flash]

lol that was a very critical assessment ;) but as others have said this is something Japanese fans wanted, and since Star saber is a Japanese G1 Character, he isn't really that well known by most fans. I would of been more excited if they did something else, but what I would of liked wasn't on the list :p
That said he looks like an amazing example of a Robot toy, and is a faithful recreation of the original I am assuming, which I hope delights the fans of the original character and toy. If i grew up watching the series Star Saber belongs to, I would be all over this release.

Thanks for clarifying SS's origin and place in TFs. Doesnt change my opinion of the figure but it at least explains why the freak got made.

[Raptormesh]

I got into TF's at ground level. Wave 1, G1. I was there. I remember reaching the top of the escalator, arriving at Chadstone Myer toy department circa late '84 and being confronted by this display of new Robots that looked amazingly shit hot.

I collected pretty heavily thru the 80's and consider myself pretty much across the essential G1 lore. Now, having said all that, who the eff is this Starsaber flog? I've never heard of the a-hole. And why is he getting an MP slot when the likes of Jazz or Hound are still not made?

I hate SS's alt mode. Ugly as f*ck. His bot mode looks like something out of Astroboy rather than Transformers. His colour palette is rank and frankly I just don't understand the gush this idiot gets.

Isn't the point of the MP line to bring us CORE G1 characters in their ideal incarnation? I just hope this mis-step by Takara is the last and that future MP's are TF's I actually recognise.


So you're saying you're ambivalent about Star Saber? Personally I hoped Takara would give us My Little Pony dress up dolls.

[Handsprime]

Just a reminder that the Masterpiece toyline is a Japanese toyline and that the toys are based off characters off the TV series and since the Japanese TV is an extended version of the G1 cartoon, expect to see characters that never got a (normal) release in Australia.

[Bidoofdude]

Thanks for clarifying SS's origin and place in TFs. Doesnt change my opinion of the figure but it at least explains why the freak got made.

You're welcome. ;):p

[griffin]

As others have noted, the black-box Masterpiece toys are made for Japanese fans... and subsequently, most are desired by Western (Hasbro) fans but not all, as Soundblaster, Tigertrack, and Exhaust were less popular with Western fans because they were not originally released in Western markets as Gen1 toys... so are less familiar and less desired.

But one thing that many have missed is that Star Saber WON A FAN VOTE to be the 30th Anniversary Masterpiece toy (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=16293) (for the Japanese Masterpiece toyline)... so complain to the fans who wanted this, not TakaraTomy for making what fans demanded.

Both of those reasons is why it is not likely to be released by Hasbro, and I'm actually surprised to see it coming here as one of the direct imports by TRU Australia.

(topic moved into review topic)

[gamblor916]

That was worth a lol.

[5FDP]

Personally, I couldn't care less for Star Saber but I understand his place in TF lore. Have at him fellas :) I'll be eagerly awaiting the release of MP Tracks :cool:

[kup]

I hope we have a Psychiatry student here - We found your thesis topic here!

[dsphatlite]

Hrmmm nice fiery discussion. I love it. I don't mind SS but wouldn't go out of my way to own him. But every fan deserves their favourite bot being made.

[griffin]

Just wanting to note that some of the more feisty posts have been hidden, as it is detracting from the point of the topic - people's opinions of this toy, regardless of if they are getting it or not. (that's why there is a poll option for people to say if the are not even interested)

If a new fan/member isn't aware of the origins of a particular toy, please educate them, not ridicule them.

[UltimateGalvatron]

Looking at the options for the Japenese Masterpiece Line, I would have wanted one of the Unicron Trilogy Primes or Fortress Maximus. But I understand why they chose Star Saber (doesn't change my opinion of the toy though ;))

[prjkt]

Looking at the options for the Japenese Masterpiece Line, I would have wanted one of the Unicron Trilogy Primes or Fortress Maximus. But I understand why they chose Star Saber (doesn't change my opinion of the toy though ;))

I'm just trying to imagine an MP Scale Fort Max....

[BruiseLee]

I'm just trying to imagine an MP Scale Fort Max....

"We're going to need a bigger shelf..."

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Mine just arrived today. I've only gotten as far as playing with Sabre at the moment and I frikking love the carp out of him. Surprised with the amount of posing options for the little guy.

I don't really have nostalgia for him either, but I did like the cartoon and just have a love for robots joining with other robots, and then joining with other robots. I thin this is great!. Shiny big swords, bright colours.

Yup, I'm a happy chappy ATM:D

[koolkollectibleskhai]

Here's my review of the new Transformers Masterpiece MP-24 Star Saber! I didn't expect it to run so long at 45 minutes, so I have rambled a little bit LOL!! But there were a lot of different things to go through with the figure.

I still don't love the figure like I do the other MPs, purely because of my lack of nostalgia towards the character. But overall, it's still a pretty decent addition to the MP ranks.

Transformers Masterpiece MP-24 Star Saber - YouTube (http://youtu.be/6prtFnuUDpo)

Hope you can check out my review, subscribe, like, and comment with your thoughts on this Autobot Commander :)

http://i1329.photobucket.com/albums/w552/chockey88/Transformers/IMG_9947_zpswa1kl4jp.jpg (http://s1329.photobucket.com/user/chockey88/media/Transformers/IMG_9947_zpswa1kl4jp.jpg.html)

http://i1329.photobucket.com/albums/w552/chockey88/Transformers/IMG_9950_zpsfgq9x5ep.jpg (http://s1329.photobucket.com/user/chockey88/media/Transformers/IMG_9950_zpsfgq9x5ep.jpg.html)

[DELTAprime]

Dam it! I can't get Saber to combine with his giant robot body.

EDIT: Ok, got it, didn't realize I had to just clip him in, not line up the clip.

Do the ratchets in his elbows not work for anyone else? Mine can't hold his shield up.

[Trent]

Opened mine last night and I have to say I'm underwhelmed. The lack of paint apps combined with the colour scheme really doesn't do the figure any favours. Ultra Magnus had minimal paint apps and yes, it was noticable but the figure still managed to achieve (if just) that premium MP look. Star Saber doesn't do that at all. To me it just looks like a really big toy. Yuki mentioned is a recent interview that the lack of paint apps on star Saber was being used to test the waters with MP collectors to see how they'd react and that if the reaction was favourable, then the reduced cost of not painting the figures could lead to an increased MP production schedule. Personally, I'd prefer they continue with paint apps in most cases. To me, Wheeljack and Ultra Magnus are good examples of where minimal paint apps don't have a huge effect on the end result. However in Star Saber's case the lack is glaring (to me, anyway. Which I believe is a result of the colour combinations/ratios and why it is so noticable).

There is nothing in the transformation that makes me go "wow!" or even "cool." It just transforms exactly as you'd expect it to. Saber's transformation is simple. Like G1 simple. Pull off plane nose, expand shoulders, pull down wrists and hands, extend legs and fold up tail fins, insert breastmaster. Star Saber isn't much better. I guess I expected something that would amaze me, but maybe I've been spoiled by some of my recent 3rd party purchases.

On my copy, Saber's knees don't ratchet properly. It doesn't affect his transformation or posability, but one knee only ratchets one way and the other has no ratcheting clicks at all. Also, the sword/gun doesn't fit securely in Star Saber's hands. It reminds me of the V1 MP Rodimus in that the fingers are what is holding the gun in place and if you bump it, it comes loose.

On to the good:

He's huge! taller than Ultra Magnus, this guy only just fits in my cabinets and absolutely towers over MP-10. Posability is good, not as good as MP-10 but better than Magnus. Although the sword poses are somewhat limited due to the wide sword guard and his wrist flares. Head and face sculpt look like he fell out of the cartoon.

Overall, I really like the character so I bought this, but now I understand some peoples reaction to MP Ultra Magnus in that if you aren't a fanboy of that character, I can see how certain things would be disappointing. He still makes an impressive addition to my collection and I hope we get Victory Leo soon.

Iwould recommend him, but not at the AU$300 TrU will have it for.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Dam it! I can't get Saber to combine with his giant robot body.

EDIT: Ok, got it, didn't realize I had to just clip him in, not line up the clip.

Do the ratchets in his elbows not work for anyone else? Mine can't hold his shield up.Mine are a tad loose too. The sword and gun are fine, but the shield is a bit too heavy for him - he can hold it up, but you need to get the angle just right and if you so much as brush against his arm he lowers it again.

EDIT - has anyone managed to find a storage solution for his blue sword hilt parts in V-Star mode? I'm hoping for something a bit more elegant than 'just leave them to rattle around inside his calves'.

[DELTAprime]

I think I might display him in V-star mode cause I feel let down by the combined robot. Is there a storage place for his extended sword handle and shield handle?

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Yuki mentioned is a recent interview that the lack of paint apps on star Saber was being used to test the waters with MP collectors to see how they'd react and that if the reaction was favourable, then the reduced cost of not painting the figures could lead to an increased MP production schedule.
Hmm, that is interesting. The lack of paint apps on this guy don't bother me so much and I think the reason why is that is because he has an unrealistic vehicle mode and I only really know his model from the cartoon and Robot Master version, not the original toy.

If there's something I know (Like Wheeljack as an example) that has a more detailed paintjob, I'd feel a bit gipped to be honest. The reason I like the MPs is because they make a good jump between show and toy.

I see a reduced paint applications thing as making them less toy and more show. I think Wheeljack would probably look a bit plain and boring with just his show colours.

As much as I like SS, I think I would like him less if I had to pay TRUs $300. I see him as good value for money as I actually paid less than half that. Which is a bit of a shock!!:eek::D:cool:

[autobreadticon]

dont want to sound like 'one of those guys' but can someone please tell me the height of this toy from toy to bottom in robot mode, !cheers! :)

p.s measurement on first post but need exact measurements :)

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

I measure him as being 34.5 cm to the top of his shoulder lasers.

[drifand]

Here is where I read Trent's review and is where I have stated TT should not going to the direction of being cheap. And what I am more referring is the paint apps.

Where TT have saved cost on not using diecast and rubber wheels, paint should not be compromised. It is becoming a standard where mps do not match even alternators standard and binaltech is far miles above.

I Am still waiting for mine to arrive. I believe my review would be close to Trent's.

[Raptormesh]

Loving mine. Everything is tight, I especially love how you can store the blades in the ship.

http://i.imgur.com/YjvR8zJl.jpg

Thus ends a 20 year wait! Now on to Victory Leo...

[GoktimusPrime]

Got the Hasbro version today; so same toy, but translated/adapted booklet, and "Ages 15+" sticker in English stuck on the bottom of the front of the box, otherwise everything ought to be the same as the TakaraTOMY version. This toy is a phenomenal improvement over the original G1 figure, which, as many of you know, I just can't stand. IMHO G1 Star Sabre is a poor toy, even by 1989 standards (1988's Powermaster Optimus Prime & especially Super Ginrai were much better figures IMO). Sure, the colours are somewhat bland, but so is the original toy, and the cartoon model even moreso. So much like MP22 Ultra Magnus, it is quite show-accurately bland! :o I think that MP Star Sabre has done a reasonably good job in taking what was originally a really blocky G1 toy which was rendered as a slick Gundam-style robot (which is no accident, as the Star Sabre cartoon model was designed by Okawara Kunio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kunio_Okawara)) and then rendering that as a toy.

Some neat parts about this toy include:
* Sabre maintains the Motorovator/Brainmaster gimmick and manages to have head articulation! Okay sure, the gimmick is really a complete cheat, as the Energon Figure (Brain of Courage) doesn't actually transform into Sabre's face as they do on the G1 Motorvators/Brainmasters, but it's an understandably necessary cheat in order to allow the head to move. But yeah, the Energon Figure itself doesn't actually transform -- when you close the chest, it slides up the face which is already sitting behind the upper chest.
* I like how Star Sabre's helmet can attach and detach from the Victory Star's (V-Star's) claw arm, allowing it to free up head articulation but also allow the helmet to connect to the Victory Star in alt mode.
* The weapons can be held by both Sabre and Star Sabre despite Star Sabre's hands being much larger than Sabre's.

My main gripes with this toy are:
* The Great Sword (large); because just like the G1 toy, Star Sabre can only properly hold it with the blade oriented sideways, making it completely impractical to use as a weapon. I tried to get him to hold it properly, but I can only do it my having his fingers hold the hilt very, very loosely, so it's impossible to play with the toy with the sword in that orientation. Fortunately he can hold the Gladius Stellae ('Star Sabre' - small blade) in a proper position. Also that extra long hilt/handle for the Great Sword just doesn't work as well as the shorter default hilt. There are no tabs on it to clip into the hands, so Star Sabre just doesn't hold it as firmly. It's fine for display purposes and light fiddling/play, but it might get annoying during more rigorous play as the sword might be prone to falling out from the top of the fist.
* The back panel that folds up may inadvertently trigger the release switch for the smaller Sabre robot. I find that the main trick to get around this is to tab the panel from the top, and take care not to make the bottom part sit entirely flush.

Overall I'm quite happy with this figure. IMO an MISB MP Star Sabre presents superior value for money compared to purchasing an MISB G1 Star Sabre toy. :o

'Scuse my grainy phone pics. :p

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre01_zpsmfryahh9.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre02_zpszadahfyz.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre03_zpsirdregby.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre04_zpscs3pkfup.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre05_zps7ar0cws0.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre06_zpswslmqr91.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre07_zpsw9tvnspu.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre08_zpsowpktw9k.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre09_zpsscqljsdn.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre10_zpsn4ikrrry.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre11_zpsxmvfdeyg.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre12_zpsynhdb47c.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre13_zps9uqdaqiv.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre14_zpsrk38xgvl.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre14_zpsrk38xgvl.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre16_zpsqfzai9wo.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre17_zpsnzfqsipp.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre18_zpsehl44ldb.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre19_zpswwvv2oym.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre20_zpsxldcmkxc.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre21_zpseexis9eo.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre22_zpsfvktk6qt.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre23_zpswnrmewya.jpg


Loving mine. Everything is tight, I especially love how you can store the blades in the ship.
The G1 toy does this as well, but MP Star Sabre does it so much better! The G1 toy basically has a place for the blade to attach to, but it sticks out like a sore thumb and isn't really concealed well. I've seen someone rip the chrome right off their Star Sabre's blade while drawing it out. :eek: So I think this new design on the MP toy is a massive improvement over the original concept.

[drifand]

It better be as it is a mp. Still waiting on mine.

[GoktimusPrime]

BTW, this toy does have some die-cast metal; namely the afterburners on the V-Star which form Star Sabre's heels. This provides anchorage/stability for the toy in combined robot form. :) Speaking of the robot, I really quite like the "double Brainmaster" gimmick on Star Sabre -- when I first looked at the Brain of Courage, the following words popped in my head: "This is me, the irreducable me." ;)

Also, has anyone tried to transform the V-Star into base mode? Not sure if the toy can actually do it -- it's not officially shown as a mode in the instructions, but I'm tempted to try to see if it can be done (or at least approximated) when I get home. :o

[DarkHyren]

Dammit guys, I have little to no real connection to this character despite watching Victory (idk, I preferred the 'Cons in that particular series) but you're making it hard to not want Star Saber, he looks magnificent!
The possibility of Victory Leo is also exciting news.
Now where can I get SS and how much?!

[drifand]

A bit late as hlj and premium collectables have sold out

[gamblor916]

Plenty of places still have him. Chimungmung (http://chimungmung.com/product_info.php?cPath=31_69&products_id=2342)and Toywave (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/product.php?table=88)for example.

[drifand]

Plenty of places still have him. Chimungmung (http://chimungmung.com/product_info.php?cPath=31_69&products_id=2342)and Toywave (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/product.php?table=88)for example.

Yes I was trying to get low prices from jp sites.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

I really wish they'd given his great sword handle a swivel joint.

[GoktimusPrime]

Now where can I get SS and how much?!
If you can't get it online, remember that this toy will be coming out here at Toys R Us. :)

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

Alright, so I've tried to approximate the Battle Platform mode (戦闘基地モード). The tricky part was getting the legs apart, because MP Star Sabre can't actually do the full splits like G1 Star Sabre can, so this was as close as I could get it. :o

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre27_zpsce8rwftt.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre28_zpsf1npfia6.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre29_zpsfogonk7n.jpg

I don't own a G1 Star Sabre, so here's a 'mock up' comparison pic with a picture of the G1 toy.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre25_zpshatjuvqx.jpg

And the "actual size" pic on the box is pretty much the real size of the toy. :)
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Star%20Sabre/mp_starsabre30_zpsojbl5ytz.jpg

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Alright, so I've tried to approximate the Battle Platform mode (戦闘基地モード). The tricky part was getting the legs apart, because MP Star Sabre can't actually do the full splits like G1 Star Sabre can, so this was as close as I could get it. :o
I applaud your efforts Gok.

I will say this though. G1 Battle base looks like arse. I'm glad the MP wasn't sacrificed for that.:D

[GoktimusPrime]

My main gripes with this toy are:
* The Great Sword (large); because just like the G1 toy, Star Sabre can only properly hold it with the blade oriented sideways, making it completely impractical to use as a weapon.
Actually, the G1 toy appears to have the blade oriented correctly; although the hilt is sideways (making it less practical as a cross-guard※), whereas the MP toy's sword is entirely sideways. So technically the weapon on the G1 toy is more realistic than the MP one. :o

-------------------------------------------
※ Although the use of the cross-guard is less essential for MP Star Sabre since he is equipped with a shield. IRL many swords were designed without proper guards for soldiers who used shields (as the shield is the primary weapon); these "quasi-guards" were actually intended to stop the wielder's and from slipping onto blade rather than protect the hand from an opponent's sword. This design came after shields were abandoned (which also led to the advent of the gauntlet).
e.g.
Gladius (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/71/Uncrossed_gladius.jpg) (Roman sword); note the smaller guard which acts as a stop from cutting himself
Rapier (http://www.medievalcollectibles.com/images/PRODUCT/large/MA-803S_1_.png) (Renaissance sword); note the more developed true guard designed to protect the user's hand from an incoming blade

[BigTransformerTrev]

Took mine out and had a play with him today. My impressions:

I've never owned the G1 toy and Ive only watched the Victory series once (never even got around to watching Zone) and that was many years ago and I only half remember it so I dont have a big emotional connection to the character. I mainly got him as he looked big and cool in all the media about him.

The 3 robot modes all look quite cool. Im wondering if the little brainmaster dude is now the smallest TF I own? I like how the Sabre mode without the face really does give the impression that its a bigger mech suit for the little guy. Then put all together into Star Sabre he is very big and impressive looking indeed! The sword and shield are great, though I think he could have benefited from a bigger gun.

The vehicle modes? Hmmmm. Well the Sabre jet mode is ok, I like how the brainmaster can become the pilot and fits in there really well, unlike many TF toys where someone is a pilot.

The V-Star battle platform I found to be a real letdown. It may be correct in the way it reference the old cartoon and the original toy but I found for something so big it was woefully simplistic and really holds no appeal. They should have really beefed it up with... I dunno... a lot more little details or stickers or more weapons or something.

The jet combined to the V-Star - it just doesn't do it for me. Again, I know its technically correct, a platform that becomes a giant jet booster thing for the regular jet to fly into outer space- but it just seems plain and weird looking.

I found the transformation sequence for all this to be too simplistic for a Masterpiece, especially such a huge one. Oh there is lots to do with all the different modes, but transformation wise its not impressive and doesn't offer a helluva lot of play value.


Overall Im not sure he is worth the money I spent on him, especially since he would be in my top 10 most expensive single transformer toy purchases. I'll play around with him some more when time allows, I may grow to like him better. Until then he can be an impressively proportioned big bot sitting up on my shelves.

[kurdt_the_goat]

Dam it! I can't get Saber to combine with his giant robot body.

EDIT: Ok, got it, didn't realize I had to just clip him in, not line up the clip.

Do the ratchets in his elbows not work for anyone else? Mine can't hold his shield up.

The left elbow on mine was loose too. Take off the 2 screws on the grey part and wedge something in behind the red piece to push it closer to the teeth, making sure his elbow can still bend to a straight arm. I tried a foam wedge but it wasn't strong enough, ended up sacrificing a hard eraser with a sharp scalpel, but now he can hold the shield easily! Really shouldn't have to fix that, it's a weak design considering how big and heavy the shield is.

[willocrew]

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8698/17308467585_e824eace11_k_d.jpg

[willocrew]

This transformer toy is awesome. It is the star saber inwanted when I was a kid. I didn't really follow the cartoons back then but for some strange reason, I ended up having it as a toy..the G1 version. Big time nostalgia value for me.

I managed to track it down for $215 AUD.

Overall the quality and refinement of the piece is a little below masterpiece standard. Very few painted parts and some visible hollow parts that I thought could be better designed. The combination process is also a bit finicky; for example, yhe chest piece goes in with a plasticky click instead of a nice spring loaded click because they use plastic tabs to hold everything in place.


But daaam, when everything goes in olace it is a really nice looking figure and all is forgiven!! Check out the pic.

The only thing I would have liked is a stand alone saber than is nicely proportioned and is easier to grip. Hopefully someone makes a third party version.

[UltraMarginal]

Very nice picture, I'm continually impressed by the apparent articulation on this toy.

[GoktimusPrime]

Very few painted parts and some visible hollow parts that I thought could be better designed.
The colours are bland, but show-accurately bland! It's the same thing with MP22 Ultra Magnus, they've gone for the cartoon colours. :o Mind you, the original G1 toy wasn't much better; a rather dull figure even by 1989 standards IMHO. :rolleyes: So cool that you did get one at the time though! :D

[willocrew]

The colours are bland, but show-accurately bland! It's the same thing with MP22 Ultra Magnus, they've gone for the cartoon colours. :o Mind you, the original G1 toy wasn't much better; a rather dull figure even by 1989 standards IMHO. :rolleyes: So cool that you did get one at the time though! :D

Yeah! G1 Starsaber was a big and heavy toy. I must have been like 5 or 6 at the time and the weight is something I'll alwats remember.

The funny thing is that because the G1 toy was so heavy, I ended up spending more time playing with a small miniature Starsaber toy that I got from one kfnthose candy boxed toys you get back in the day. It was the exact replica of the G1 toy itself, but like Palm sized.

The really cool thing is that I was watching a YouTube video of the G1 toy and it is exactly as I remember it. So amazing some memories just stay with us and never fades.

[GoktimusPrime]

I never saw G1 Star Sabre until 2000 when I was a uni student (post grad at that). :p I thought (and still think) that the toy is rubbish, but of course, I have no childhood nostalgic attachment to it. :o ;) You should post some comparison photos with your G1 and MP Star Sabres. Very few people have both toys, and even fewer would own a G1 Star Sabre from their childhood! Cos to me, that's the best thing about G1 toys -- the utterly irreplacable childhood memories that they contain. :D

[drifand]

It is the save cost on white makes the toy looks cheap imo.
Some detailing would make this toy look great.

[GoktimusPrime]

Have you ever seen the G1 toy (http://www.tfw2005.com/resources/attach/4/0/5/9/7/Star_Saber_Robot_5_1233781201.jpg)? It's bland as! Okay, the toy does have some decos which the MP doesn't, but then look at the cartoon model:
http://images-mediawiki-sites.thefullwiki.org/11/2/2/8/70707234142890714.jpg
http://image.space.rakuten.co.jp/lg01/07/0000754507/19/img993a7ec2zik7zj.jpeg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/ak1127-srkon/imgs/7/9/792bb5a8.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bo-zbpLCEAArugp.jpg:medium
http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/2/28/Braveherooftheuniverse.jpg

MP Star Sabre is 'bland' looking for the same reason why MP22 Ultra Magnus is also lacking in additional detail -- because that's how they were drawn in the cartoon! The toys are trying to be show-accurate. If you want more details like the toy, then that's toy accuracy. I personally prefer toy-accuracy, but I understand that the MP line is geared towards show-accuracy, so that's what you get. The cartoon models were possibly simplified to make them easier (thus cheaper) to draw/animate. :o Either way, it's not really the fault of these MP toys which are attempting to emulate these show models, you can blame Sunbow and Toei for that. Adding the additional details would garner criticism from fans who dogmatically want their toys to be show-accurate, which is what the MP line is appealing towards.

[drifand]

Yeah I am not disagreeing here, just saying some bits and pieces could really make this a blast. I guess repolabels would do something?

[Trent]

Have you ever seen the G1 toy (http://www.tfw2005.com/resources/attach/4/0/5/9/7/Star_Saber_Robot_5_1233781201.jpg)? It's bland as! Okay, the toy does have some decos which the MP doesn't, but then look at the cartoon model:
http://images-mediawiki-sites.thefullwiki.org/11/2/2/8/70707234142890714.jpg
http://image.space.rakuten.co.jp/lg01/07/0000754507/19/img993a7ec2zik7zj.jpeg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/ak1127-srkon/imgs/7/9/792bb5a8.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bo-zbpLCEAArugp.jpg:medium
http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/2/28/Braveherooftheuniverse.jpg

MP Star Sabre is 'bland' looking for the same reason why MP22 Ultra Magnus is also lacking in additional detail -- because that's how they were drawn in the cartoon! The toys are trying to be show-accurate. If you want more details like the toy, then that's toy accuracy. I personally prefer toy-accuracy, but I understand that the MP line is geared towards show-accuracy, so that's what you get. The cartoon models were possibly simplified to make them easier (thus cheaper) to draw/animate. :o Either way, it's not really the fault of these MP toys which are attempting to emulate these show models, you can blame Sunbow and Toei for that. Adding the additional details would garner criticism from fans who dogmatically want their toys to be show-accurate, which is what the MP line is appealing towards.

I disagree. Look at the car bots, Optimus, Soundwave,. All feature way more detail than ever appeared in the cartoon. And Hasui himself has stated previously that the MP line is about creating the perfect blend of toon AND toy. I'm not too sure about Star Saber because I'm not familiar with the toy but MP Magnus was a dramatic departure from this philosophy. It almost completely, to its detriment, takes styling cues solely from the cartoon.

[GoktimusPrime]

Fair point. But as mentioned, the G1 Star Sabre toy isn't much more detailed than the show model; it's always been a rather dull looking figure. :o

I wonder if having real life alt modes has anything to do with it. Because the other MPs are all based on real life vehicles or objects, and as such, their alt modes are quite highly detailed -- details which can carry through to the robot mode. Ultra Magnus' truck cab is actually quite detailed; on par w/ MP10. But of course, it's a Freightliner FL86. Ultra Magnus' trailer and Star Sabre's everything are fictitious designs, so perhaps in the absence of having any realistic reference sources, they just went directly for the cartoon models. <shrugs> :confused:
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/masterpiece%20ultra%20magnus/mp_ultramagnus18_zpsab5d9946.jpg (http://forums.aths.org/InstantForum2010/Uploads/Images/8251ae9e-bbc3-42f6-ad3a-3963.jpg)

[Trent]

You're quite possibly right. However if that is the case it's kind of disappointing. Despite my initial thoughts on Star Saber, he has grown on me and I now am a fan. But imo both him and Magnus would have benefited greatly from some moulded detail being added and Magnus definitely should have had more paint apps.

But my theory is that these things were left out because they are trying to get the cost of the non-licenced MPs down to increase their appeal.

[GoktimusPrime]

You're quite possibly right. However if that is the case it's kind of disappointing. Despite my initial thoughts on Star Saber, he has grown on me and I now am a fan. But imo both him and Magnus would have benefited greatly from some moulded detail being added and Magnus definitely should have had more paint apps.
This time last year you and I could've logged onto TakaraTOMY's online survey site and indicated our concerns there... but not now since they've geoblocked it last November! (boo) :( I can only hope that fans in Japan might voice similar concerns.

[drifand]

I wished they would go all out on a masterpiece than save cost over paint apps.
I mean the fact that rubber wheels are taken off for cars and metal was reduced greatly.

I just want a proper well painted figure than relying on colour plastics

[drifand]

Finally transform this guy and I have to say I understand why some people won't like it.

It feels cheap, I like he gimmicks but I seriously wouldn't pay rrp for it.

However, I think it is still a considerably good effort.

I would buy Magnus over this figure if I have a choice.

[Handsprime]

So I grabbed him today and while he does look pretty awesome, he does suffer from a few flaws. His transformation does feel dull and his overall appearance doesn't feel like the other MP figures. But other than that he has more play value than some of the other MP figures and is much better version of the G1 toy.
If you are able to find him at Toys R Us, I recommend getting him now as I doubt he's gonna get any cheaper.

[drifand]

So I grabbed him today and while he does look pretty awesome, he does suffer from a few flaws. His transformation does feel dull and his overall appearance doesn't feel like the other MP figures. But other than that he has more play value than some of the other MP figures and is much better version of the G1 toy.
If you are able to find him at Toys R Us, I recommend getting him now as I doubt he's gonna get any cheaper.

I probably can get him cheaper.

For me, he is better than the G1 toy so I am quite please. But if I were to rate the transformation, is a simple or dull one as you stated.

[doublespy]

I got him for $175 from TRU. I think he's great value at this price point, and worth picking up eve if you have zero idea about who he is. It could be that I knew what to expect going in and didn't have a high expectation, but he actually is really nice figure, and I'd say, he measures up to the MP standards in every way.

He's bulky, hefty and has that heroic anime posture that make for an incredible displace piece. And he has surprisingly solid articulation and tons of accessories that offer a great range of display options. The transformation engineering is, at no fault on the designer's part, pretty G1. But, there're small bits that give you the modern engineering feel to it and showcase the designer's attention to detail (which is incredibly important to make a MP figure truly the definitive toy). The simplistic overall engineering actually plays well with the size of this thing, so that you can just pick it up and transform it with ease.


http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MASTERPIECE/01_zpspuyftowm.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MASTERPIECE/01_zpspuyftowm.jpg.html)
Combined jet mode looks imposing. Size does matter:D

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MASTERPIECE/02_zpsi4anpt1d.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MASTERPIECE/02_zpsi4anpt1d.jpg.html)
My biggest complaint with the figure is in Saber mode, his leg articulation is hopeless. The hip joint set up reminds me of some of the later Toybiz Marvel Legends figures, where there's no actual side to side movement on the hips. It looks like there's tons articulation there but really you can't get any dynamic poses out of these hips. There's plenty of room there and I don't see any reason why a dedicated lateral hip joint could not have been engineered. To think Yuki actually defied the Transformer myth that is "wrist swivels do not exist on fold out fists" and actually put mushroom peg on the wrist to facilitate better sward welding poses, this oversight is quite bizarre. To make matter worse, the feet can not bend further forward than the normal stance and have no extra movement whatsoever, so even if you managed to bend the legs to look semi dynamic, it's really hard for him to balance. So Saber ends up pretty much only looking good when standing still.

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MASTERPIECE/03_zpsfapsk83v.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MASTERPIECE/03_zpsfapsk83v.jpg.html)


http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MASTERPIECE/07_zpsmdmkrdfr.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MASTERPIECE/07_zpsmdmkrdfr.jpg.html)

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MASTERPIECE/09_zpsdubdjfgk.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MASTERPIECE/09_zpsdubdjfgk.jpg.html)
Star Saber bot mode is where it really shines imo. Yuki said something about "working really hard" to get most of the different color pieces in their molded color without pain apps. This effect actually looks really good on Star Saber and the bot mode shows the most (it probably won't look nearly as good for anything else with a realistic vehicle mode), and the nicely painted face and that bit of chrome detailing on the chest is just enough to make it not look cheap.

I voted only if....it's cheap. At $175, he's a great buy and when I got him on the last day of 2015, Star Saber became my favorite MP figure of the year.

[GoktimusPrime]

I think he's great value at this price point, and worth picking up eve if you have zero idea about who he is.
The excellently written bio and text blurbs in the instructions tells you all the basic information that you need to know about this character. :p :p </cheek> I totally agree that $175 is a fantastic price for this figure, making it even cheaper than paying Japanese RRP (18kJPY≈$205). :cool:

P.S.: Great photos!

[drifand]

The excellently written bio and text blurbs in the instructions tells you all the basic information that you need to know about this character. :p :p </cheek> I totally agree that $175 is a fantastic price for this figure, making it even cheaper than paying Japanese RRP (18kJPY≈$205). :cool:

P.S.: Great photos!

except most Japanese retail went for under 14,000 yen I got mine like $165 delivered. Granted $10 more for your work is worth it. :)

This toy isn't fantastic but is good enough to entertain.

[doublespy]

The excellently written bio and text blurbs in the instructions tells you all the basic information that you need to know about this character. :p :p </cheek> I totally agree that $175 is a fantastic price for this figure, making it even cheaper than paying Japanese RRP (18kJPY≈$205). :cool:

P.S.: Great photos!

Thank you and yes the English instruction booklet is fantastically done. It's a shame that the graphic person made a few typos:D At one point they were trying to fix the American spelling of Saber to Sabre, but ended up with "Sabrer".

[GoktimusPrime]

lol! :D

[doublespy]

At first I didn't know why Saber's thighs slide into the legs at an angle versus collapse in straight. Then I watched the stock transformation (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehTxWJRfQP8). So this is to make Saber's knee caps pop up when you extend the leg just like in the show. Great attention to detail right there.

[MrTrick]

so after having him in the super robot mode for most of the year, i'm now trying to separate Saber and man it's tough!! Pressing the little release catch on his back doesn't seem to release him much.

Any suggestions?

[kup]

Finally opened MP Star Saber. It is one of those toys that you will either like or won't depending on your Japanese G1 appreciation or for big imposing toys.

As we know the toy is divided into 3 figures - Brain (little bot), Star (Base ship and large body) and Saber (Mid size bot)

Engineering wise it looks to be a nearly straight adaptation of the G1 toy. If you have the Robot Masters release of the character, it is basically an upscale version with the inclusion of Brain. There is a bit of engineering on Saber, specially the legs but not a lot to differentiate. Basically, if you know the G1 and Robot Masters release, you know this.

The reason why the other takes on the toy have very much similar engineering despite size is because this is a very simplistic toy with a sci-fi mode. The original was also simplistic and the animation model transformation that is shown to us in detail reflects that. Adding any more engineering complexity would end up distancing the toy from its attempt to represent a Victory cartoon Star Saber, and as we know, cartoon accuracy is the main style focus of the MP line at present. Don't expect engineering innovation or anything of the sort here. This is a straight up animeish modular or 'Load-Bearer' super robot .

Having said that, this is just an alright toy at best and specially for the price point. Aesthetically, it does the job really well as it looks like Star Saber straight from the cartoon. The brain master gimmick on Saber is fun and Saber is also fun to transform if a bit simple. However the 'Star' part of the toy is kind of unwieldy and bulky in ship mode (but very cartoon accurate so displays well) and in super robot mode, Star Saber has loose elbow joints with poor weight tolerance, specially when holding his accessories due to less than adequate plastic than is not hard enough to apply the correct pressure on the ratcheting springs. This is specially noticeable when he wields the sword and and shield.

The accessories are alright, the shield works also as a stand for the Base ship which is pretty good. Both Star Saber and the Saber components get swords although unfortunately there is no where for the Saber sword hilt to go in Super robot mode but the blade stores fine. During transformation of Saber, Brain also pulls off the Brainmaster gimmick really well.

Overall: Worthwhile if you like the character and like the Victory cartoon. It is also a recreation of the original toy but with more modern looks and better aesthetics. Certainly a much cheaper alternative than tracking down the vintage G1 toy and it provides a similar experience. For people looking for innovation or a transformation challenge, look elsewhere. Also loose ratcheting joints on elbows is also disappointing.

[GoktimusPrime]

I think that it's a massive improvement over the G1 toy, although admittedly I consider the G1 toy to be pretty rubbish. I suppose many of the drawbacks of the toy are carried over from the fairly sub-par G1 design. JMHO. :o

Also, minor correction on nomenclature (TT = TakaraTOMY, HB = Hasbro)...
* The small brain unit is called "Brain of Courage" (勇気のブレイン; yuuki no burein) [TT] or "Energon Figure" [HB]
* The core robot/jet is called "Saber" (セイバー; seibaa) [TT] or "Sabre" [HB]
* The flying mobile battle platform is called "V-Star" (ブイ・スター; bui sutaa) [TT] or "Victory Star" [HB]
:)

[Ozgardian]

I have Saber next to generations Drift standing on the V-Star both with great swords drawn. Victory Saber was my favorite Japanese g1 toy, fantastic job; Star Saber 8/10 (9/10 if Victory Leo gets an MP release-assuming he joins with SS).:)