Unite Warriors Defensor

[griffin]

We only just had the Devastator teased (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=20831), and now we get Defensor teased with a silhouette... with a leg that looks like it could be a motorcycle (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/japanese-transformers-40/takaratomy-unite-warriors-defensor-teaser-deluxe-groove-incoming-182726/)(Groove).

As I had speculated in the UW Devastator topic...


if this gets numbered as UW-03 because it is being teased before Defensor, I wonder if TakaraTomy are pushing Devastator ahead of the release of Defensor, to give them more time to be able to use the rumoured Motorcycle mould for Groove (if the rumours are true about Technobots being one of the first of the second series of Combiners... which should be out by the end of the year by Hasbro).

Based on the timing of Superion and Menasor, by the time Defensor comes out in Japan, it should be close to the end of the year, and we should have the first wave of the second series of Hasbro combiners by then... which is rumoured to include Combaticons and Technobots.

[prjkt]

Interesting... already have the Hasbro W3, so like the other sets, not going to buy the whole lot, but'll be cool to see what this deluxe Groove looks like, and if Hasbro will pull a Quickslinger/Brake-Neck and release him too...

Also, is this (one of) the first time(s) Takara has revealed a classics-verse mould before Hasbro?

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

That does look like a new mold, rather than the Rook-wearing-Groove idea some people are speculating about elsewhere.

Assuming it is a new Deluxe Groove, there's a pretty good chance I'll be open for trading it for a Rook-and-Legends-Groove if anyone's interested. I actually prefer the vaguely-more-plausible-scale of the Hasbro version.

[Akky82]

That does look like a new mold, rather than the Rook-wearing-Groove idea some people are speculating about elsewhere.

Assuming it is a new Deluxe Groove, there's a pretty good chance I'll be open for trading it for a Rook-and-Legends-Groove if anyone's interested. I actually prefer the vaguely-more-plausible-scale of the Hasbro version.

I'd likely be keen for that, depends how long the wait is on the hasbro deluxe, but i couldnt keep them sealed, have to display! I understand about the scale, if it's a retool of Afterburner then I guess it'll be some kind of batman'ish bike with a cockpit etc, rather than a giants bike ala g1 (although... Scale already out the window woth blades vs streetwise).

I was originally happy to get the extra moulds like brake-neck, alpha-bravo, rook, to make galvatronus or go with the white prime. But I've passed on Cyclonus, unless I see him discounted at retail, and I'm actually happy with Off-road, then with prowl etc being released as limbs I'll be passing on extras now. With 3 combiners out now, I'm happy to wait for the TTUW sets of Bruticus, Computron and whatever follows... just wish I'd waited for the TTUW Defensor too.

[ampoldj]

Well from Hisashi Yuki he says it seems TT is pushing Defensor to be UW03. If Menasor is due August, this one may be October-December release enough for Hasbro to release some new Combiners possibly the Technobots.

[BigTransformerTrev]

Well there goes more of my money :p

Odds looking up and up for the Technobots, if they come to fruition I'll prob skip the TFCC Afterburner

[TAAUBlaster]

If Takara do release a deluxe size Groove, I think I might just give up on the Hasbro sets and get 2 sets of the Unite Warriors figs (one to open, one to keep sealed.) I'm over playing Hasbro's game.

[Sinnertwin]

I'm over playing Hasbro's game.

indeed

http://i1335.photobucket.com/albums/w661/sinnertwinsphotos/bush_zpshglkqavw.jpg (http://s1335.photobucket.com/user/sinnertwinsphotos/media/bush_zpshglkqavw.jpg.html)

[Zommael]

I'm over playing Hasbro's game.

I don't really think Hasbro are intentionally playing any sort of "game" with regard to the release of the G1 characters. They (rightly, IMO) decided it would be better to have a set of unique moulds make up each combiner, and so created new characters to take the spots of the two most redundant characters. Then, after Takara went a different direction and they were able to gauge fan demand, they decided to release redecos that would serve as those characters. It's not game playing or an attempt to trick anyone, it's just marketing.

[Akky82]

I don't really think Hasbro are intentionally playing any sort of "game" with regard to the release of the G1 characters. They (rightly, IMO) decided it would be better to have a set of unique moulds make up each combiner, and so created new characters to take the spots of the two most redundant characters. Then, after Takara went a different direction and they were able to gauge fan demand, they decided to release redecos that would serve as those characters. It's not game playing or an attempt to trick anyone, it's just marketing.

I was about to post saying I agree with the 'games' comment, but now I'll say I can see it both ways. Maybe thats why they're sticking to the original team for the combaticons? Either way, Defensor will be the last time I buy 5 deluxes for 1 combiner, and am leaning towards UW now. We'll see with Bruticus (and also depends how sexy the set packaging looks for the ones coming).

[Zommael]

I was about to post saying I agree with the 'games' comment, but now I'll say I can see it both ways. Maybe thats why they're sticking to the original team for the combaticons? Either way, Defensor will be the last time I buy 5 deluxes for 1 combiner, and am leaning towards UW now. We'll see with Bruticus (and also depends how sexy the set packaging looks for the ones coming).

Personally, I'm planning to shift Alpha Bravo over to the Protectobots anyway, since he's the same mould as Blades but the same primary colour (white) as the other limbs. I'm hoping to pick up a Quickslinger but have no interest in Brakeneck. I'll get a full set of Computron if it's released, newbies or no newbies, but I'm not going to go out of my way to replace Rook with an alternate version of Groove. As it stands my version of Defensor might end up being a total mess if Prowl and Ratchet are released, as I'd rather have them than First Aid and Streetwise.

But that kind of emphasises the point: Hasbro are giving fans options. For every fan who absolutely MUST have the G1 remakes, there's another who'd rather have a set of different moulds rather than a repaint. I'm glad they've decided to give us the choice rather than force us into one or the other, and I don't feel like I've been tricked into buying anything.

[ampoldj]

^yep the packaging will really do the talking for me :D
Hope the UW Series come in combined form in-package.

[griffin]

As noted, TakaraTomy are more focused on the smaller collector market because they don't have to produce as many units for their customers (Japanese Retailers), while Hasbro have a global marketing strategy that requires hundreds of thousands of units to be sold, via Retailers, who won't know if characters are "correct" to Gen1, but do have issue with a group of toys looking too similar if they are supposed to be different characters.


I love this toyline so much that I welcome the new characters and extra variety in the Hasbro line.... as we can't be 30 years and still have the same combiners and characters. I know it didn't quite work with the 4 Kreo Combiners that were released last year that were original characters, but there might be better reception for the regular toys, especially if it is a popular toyline. Already we have a couple of extra Voyagers and Deluxes, so I'd like to see more original characters in the mainline (if the fan-vote female combiner ends up being a limited edition exclusive).

[millhouse]

At the end of the day, they're not G1 accurate anyway. Not that that's a complaint, but it's worth noting.

Having an extra non-G1 limb might come in handy though, particularly with Cyclonus/Galvatronus and other potential future voyagers.

[Golden Phoenix]

C'mon 'newbie member of the Combaticons only to have the member the replaced also be released', papa wants a full set of spare limbs to form Rejector.

[TAAUBlaster]

I don't really think Hasbro are intentionally playing any sort of "game" with regard to the release of the G1 characters. They (rightly, IMO) decided it would be better to have a set of unique moulds make up each combiner, and so created new characters to take the spots of the two most redundant characters. Then, after Takara went a different direction and they were able to gauge fan demand, they decided to release redecos that would serve as those characters. It's not game playing or an attempt to trick anyone, it's just marketing.


I don't think Takara's version had much (if any) influence on Hasbro's decision to release the original team members. The first listings for Slingshot and Wildrider in the TRU computers came only a week or two from when the first silhouette teaser of UW Superion was shown. Hasbro has never (to my knowledge) buckled under to fan demand over something like this - especially in such a short time frame

If Hasbro never originally intended to release those two figures, I have a hard time believing they decided to change their minds just for some of us who prefer the original characters. When have they done anything like that in the past? And by making them "shared exclusives" their production run can't be that large, so it's not like Slingshot and Wildrider will become cash cows for them.

I don't have a problem with new molds or new characters. I might not like them, but I'm not having a go at the fans who do. However, I'm annoyed with original team members being replaced, and then suddenly announced/offered a short time after the new characters' figures have already been bought.

But it looks like I'm in the minority.

[Bidoofdude]

Deluxe motorcycle Groove could change my mind. It'd have to be pretty good though, Hasbro's legend class figure looks great.

[Mythirax]

indeed

It's a shame, the Combiner Wars look to be my favorite of the generation stuff out since the wfc/foc figures. Yet Hasbro releasing these random characters are killing me. I've deliberately held off buying any of hasbro figures for CWs so far. So I can't wait to get my hands on all this takara stuff.

[Starscream77]

C'mon 'newbie member of the Combaticons only to have the member the replaced also be released', papa wants a full set of spare limbs to form Rejector.

I love it!!!
I want a Rejector too :p

[griffin]

Well, the original characters can't be that bad, as I just noticed on BBTS (http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=3593&category=10375), that just like the first wave original figure Alpha Bravo, the third wave original figure Rook was also the first of the wave to sell out. So more people are buying them, than people only buying the Gen1 characters and holding out for the missing member.

I can't recall how Off-road did though as the second wave is listed for restocking.

[prjkt]

I think there's quite a few people buying just the original Hasbro characters, and holding out for the Takara "G1" releases based on what I've read on other sites

[Paulbot]

United Warriors Groove on twitte (https://twitter.com/tagoal/status/601215112502902784)r (via Jaydisc)

Edit: also on TFW (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/japanese-transformers-40/first-images-of-unite-warriors-groove-182786/) for those that have trouble with Twitter

[FruitBuyer]

United Warriors Groove on twitte (https://twitter.com/tagoal/status/601215112502902784)r (via Jaydisc)

Seeing Groove in his Leg-mode, he reminds me a bit of Sky Dive with his arms.

[Zommael]

Huh. All new mould. Wonder how Hasbro will handle that?

[Golden Phoenix]

Huh. All new mould. Wonder how Hasbro will handle that?

Maybe they will introduce a new member to the Combaticons, then release the missing original member with a deluxe Groove in another online wave.

[fatbot]

Huh. All new mould. Wonder how Hasbro will handle that?



Heavy remold into Wreck Gar & Afterburner

I'm not sure what I'm going to do, I really want Defensor now, he's my second favorite combiner, but I also really want deluxe Groove.

Bugger, something else to think about

[ampoldj]

It says UW-03 Guardian?

[Paulbot]

It says UW-03 Guardian?

That's Defensor's name in Japan

[ampoldj]

That's Defensor's name in Japan

I thought it was defensor in katakana like superion and menasor :)

[GoktimusPrime]

It says UW-03 Guardian?


That's Defensor's name in Japan


I thought it was defensor in katakana like superion and menasor :)
No, Paulbot is right, it's Guardian (ガーディアン). Also, Menasor is "Menazor" (メナゾール) in Japanese. And while Superion is 'superion' (スペリオン) in Japanese, the /u/ is devoiced, so it sounds like "Sperion" (similar to the 'u' in Japanese words like desu, sukoshi etc.).

http://blogs.c.yimg.jp/res/blog-08-40/thebisyamonten/folder/521937/75/9713775/img_11?1398697578
http://mandarake.co.jp/information/2009/05/20/21fko21/p1.jpg

[Bidoofdude]

Something's off on Groove. He's just goofy looking. Something doesn't fit with the look of CW figures, but I can't name it.

[TAAUBlaster]

Awesome... The set is a TakaraTomy Mall exclusive... :rolleyes:

[ampoldj]

Awesome... The set is a TakaraTomy Mall exclusive... :rolleyes:

And Groove won't be seing a Hasbro release. New mould for Takara only :D

http://www.taghobby.com/1-0/1-1/takaratomy-mailonline-shop-2015年5月25日-6月22日接受訂購，2015年11月28日發售-takaratomy-mail/

[Sinnertwin]

And Groove won't be seing a Hasbro release. New mould for Takara only :D

http://www.taghobby.com/1-0/1-1/takaratomy-mailonline-shop-2015年5月25日-6月22日接受訂購，2015年11月28日發售-takaratomy-mail/


money talks & with a world full of 30 something year olds reminiscing their childhoods with disposable incomes... well, we'll see ;) :p

[fatbot]

money talks & with a world full of 30 something year olds reminiscing their childhoods with disposable incomes... well, we'll see ;) :p

bullsh-t, 3 examples from the last few years? TFP Breakdown, TFP Unicron, TFP Jet Vehicon, none got a Hasbro release.

[GoktimusPrime]

bullsh-t, 3 examples from the last few years? TFP Breakdown, TFP Unicron, TFP Jet Vehicon, none got a Hasbro release.
Not to mention the unreleased Classicsverse Frumble. Hasbro would've made a motza had they'd bothered releasing those. The United versions were damn hard to track down, especially for a non-scalpery price.

[Zommael]

If that's actually the Afterburner mould, "unobtainable overseas" could just refer to the deco. Also, that it's "unobtainable overseas" could simply refer to "at the moment" rather than "forever".

[UltraMarginal]

bullsh-t, 3 examples from the last few years? TFP Breakdown, TFP Unicron, TFP Jet Vehicon, none got a Hasbro release.

well, the unicron did turn up here at myer albeit at a high price, until being eventually clearanced.

The difference with the combiners is the undisputable nostalgic kick as opposed to the essentially new characters in TF Prime.

besides your picking up an exclusive version of the breakdown mold in less than a month, you've got nothing to complain about :cool:;)

[griffin]

well, the unicron did turn up here at myer albeit at a high price, until being eventually clearanced.

That's not actually a "Hasbro" release in terms of the global Hasbro (America) that fatbot was referring to... that was an exclusive of just Hasbro Asia, which they do quite a few in recent years.

[Sinnertwin]

bullsh-t, 3 examples from the last few years? TFP Breakdown, TFP Unicron, TFP Jet Vehicon, none got a Hasbro release.

No, you're absolutely right. Hasbro would never release combiner wars figures previously only available in the UW01 and UW02 sets as online exclusives. Never... :p


Not to mention the unreleased Classicsverse Frumble. Hasbro would've made a motza had they'd bothered releasing those. The United versions were damn hard to track down, especially for a non-scalpery price.

My point, Goki, was don't be surprised if you see this mold appear down the track as another exclusive of some sort, not the availability of Hasbro v Takara product.

[fatbot]

BBTS has it up for preorder - $160 for it. A good place holder, but I don't think I'm going with them to get it

[MayzaPrime]

BBTS has it up for preorder - $160 for it. A good place holder, but I don't think I'm going with them to get it

I only want Groove... :(

I think that Defensor will be my only incomplete (G1 accurate) combiner. I guess I will have to live with the legends Groove and deluxe Rook. :p

[Zommael]

The thing that's bugging me about this, thinking about it, is that it would suit me to get Groove individually. I have a bit of an aversion to redecoes and even remoulds that aren't particularly extensive, and if I could somehow get deluxe Groove on his own then I could create a Defensor that didn't include Blades (as I already have Alpha Bravo). Of course that leaves all sorts of problems with Legends Groove, but I guess I could leave him out or just get whatever redeco he comes as.

Oh well. I don't have to make a decision until I see them in person anyway, whether at Aus retail or overseas later in the year.

[Golden Phoenix]

Does anyone know if they said a similar thing about Wildrider and Slingshot before Hasbro announced their own versions?

[UltraMarginal]

Does anyone know if they said a similar thing about Wildrider and Slingshot before Hasbro announced their own versions?

they did release info on their combiner sets prior to Hasbro releasing news on Wildrider and Slingshot but Takara never had any text saying this was an exclusive not to be available elsewhere, I still wouldn't be surprised if this turned up on a lot of Japanese retailer sites.

[Juggernaut]

Haven't been following this properly, but is the new mould of groove officially only available in the Takara box set of defensor?

[Sinnertwin]

Haven't been following this properly, but is the new mould of groove officially only available in the Takara box set of defensor?

for the time being, yes.

[DaptoDog]

Nippon-Yasan has just posted up their Defensor pre order for 17,200¥. That seems nuts compared to the 10,620¥ they charged for Menasor and Superion! HLJ doesn't have theirs up yet. I can only assume that because this is a TakaraTomy Mall Exclusive the price is going to be higher everywhere.

[TAAUBlaster]

Just a note, Premium Collectables has Defensor for pre-order at $169.95. I went with them just in case HLJ doesn't offer it. It's a pretty good price I think.

I sent HLJ a message about Defensor, and they replied with:


Thank you for writing. We are afraid we do not have any info about the UW-03 Guardian. If it will be available for us, we will be carrying it for sure. Your understanding is appreciated.

[Sinnertwin]

Nippon-Yasan has just posted up their Defensor pre order for 17,200¥. That seems nuts compared to the 10,620¥ they charged for Menasor and Superion! HLJ doesn't have theirs up yet. I can only assume that because this is a TakaraTomy Mall Exclusive the price is going to be higher everywhere.

Magic word "exclusive" that and it has a new groove so it's a double whammy on the wallet

[ampoldj]

NY has added 1000yen from RRP 16200yen...why does Takara have to make my fav combiner an exclusive ??? :confused:

I really want to go with Premium Collectibles but unfortunately I don't have funds to pay this soon:(

[DaptoDog]

Just a note, Premium Collectables has Defensor for pre-order at $169.95. I went with them just in case HLJ doesn't offer it. It's a pretty good price I

You're right, that is a good price. However, I'm averse to pre-ordering with full payment since it's 6 months away, which is why I've been placing all my pre-orders with NY. Guess I might wait to see what HLJ come up with, though from your feedback I won't get my hopes up.

[Sinnertwin]

You're right, that is a good price. However, I'm averse to pre-ordering with full payment since it's 6 months away, which is why I've been placing all my pre-orders with NY. Guess I might wait to see what HLJ come up with, though from your feedback I won't get my hopes up.

they said the same to me in regards to MP26 when i asked. I wouldn't be surprised if we see it in the next week or so

[TAAUBlaster]

You're right, that is a good price. However, I'm averse to pre-ordering with full payment since it's 6 months away, which is why I've been placing all my pre-orders with NY. Guess I might wait to see what HLJ come up with, though from your feedback I won't get my hopes up.


they said the same to me in regards to MP26 when i asked. I wouldn't be surprised if we see it in the next week or so

That's fair enough. I always have bad luck with these type of things, so I've learned to get them when I see them :p

[DaptoDog]

they said the same to me in regards to MP26 when i asked. I wouldn't be surprised if we see it in the next week or so

Thanks for the tip mate, I'll keep an eye out.

[Lint]

NY has added 1000yen from RRP 16200yen...why does Takara have to make my fav combiner an exclusive ??? :confused:


My feelings as well :(

[yoshi594]

premium collectables defensor now out of stock :O!!!

[ampoldj]

premium collectables defensor now out of stock :O!!!

So as Nippon Yasan :(:(

[DELTAprime]

Well I've just ordered from BBTS. I didn't realize Defensor was a retailer exclusive. Hope HLJ are able to secure some stock so I don't have to pay in USD (damn exchange rate).

[yoshi594]

So as Nippon Yasan :(:(

back in stock! but not at the discount price. Guess they finally fulfilled their 50 order quota.

It's still at a reasonable price of 184.95 with FREE shipping.

[ZoonMaster5000]

And I just spent $600 at premium collectables the other week
Then defensor pops up! Hope I can get in before it sells out again

[ampoldj]

And I just spent $600 at premium collectables the other week
Then defensor pops up! Hope I can get in before it sells out again

Well unfortunately mate it is already sold out. you should check their facebook page because i just noticed recently they are posting there how many preorder slots remaining...

Edit: looks like only the first 50 just got presold out and still available now for normal price 184.95

[griffin]

Another image of a grey-prototype Groove (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/japanese-transformers-40/new-official-image-of-takara-unite-warriors-groove-182911/) for the Japanese Defensor set.

I just can't imagine that it would be a Japanese exclusive... so maybe the claim of it being exclusive might just be for its initial release.

[spiderken17]

That is what I am thinking

[Mythirax]

I want that groove so badly. I been holding off on all combiner war figures, so I can burst buy the lot of them in a few months, "no matter the cost".

[BigTransformerTrev]

I want that groove so badly. I been holding off on all combiner war figures, so I can burst buy the lot of them in a few months, "no matter the cost".

I see what ya did there ;)

[Mythirax]

I see what ya did there ;)

:D

[DaptoDog]

It went out of stock on NY less than a day after it was posted. I emailed support to find out if it would come back and they said it would be back up soon. Well it's been a couple weeks and still not back up. Might message them again for an update.

I also questioned them on why it was such a premium to their pricing of Superion/Menasor. Off course they did not address that in their reply.

[kurdt_the_goat]

Via https://twitter.com/Daim_Choc/status/611377939805024257
http://i.imgur.com/C3Pph6Ql.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/kS3L8iZl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/db23oacl.jpg

[ampoldj]

Takara Tomy Mall has updated their listing with new images of each combiners specially groove in full color! :eek:

http://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810831747/

[spiderken17]

Jeez Defensors feet look tiny!

[prjkt]

must. resist. urge. to. buy. whole. defensor. just. for. Groove.....

[ampoldj]

must. resist. urge. to. buy. whole. defensor. just. for. Groove.....

Since Takara is sold as set it is cheaper for me to buy Takara Defensor and a Hasbro Rook :D

[prjkt]

I already have Hasbro's whole set... And my budget won't allow for double ups...

[griffin]

A couple more images of the team (http://news.tfw2005.com/2015/06/26/unite-warriors-protectobots-new-images-295017).
Streetwise is a completely different colour to the Hasbro version, which I think the Hasbro version is closer to the Gen1 toy colours.

I'm still surprised that the Hasbro version of Hotspot has more paint apps and is more Gen1 accurate than the JP version.

[Paulbot]

I'm still surprised that the Hasbro version of Hotspot has more paint apps and is more Gen1 accurate than the JP version.

I think you mean "more Gen1 toy accurate"? TakTom's Hot Spot is pretty similar to the cartoon colouring (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/File:G1_UltimateWeapon_HotSpotStreetwise_covering_ FirstAid.jpg), same with the not as white Streetwise, and that's inline with most of the Generation colouring to match the cartoon.

[DELTAprime]

@TFYUKI (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI) put this image out a couple of days ago of Hotspot. https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CIVV5JzUYAEdVEO.jpg

[GoktimusPrime]

Jeez Defensors feet look tiny!
You know what they say about 'bots with small feet...






...they leave small footprints. ;)

[k.wong23]

Anyone know of any pre orders still open?

[ZoonMaster5000]

My hasbro defensor hasn't arrived yet so I decided to put it away for
My sons Xmas present and I pre-ordered UW-03 guardian of bbts. Was only
Last week so I'm pretty sure they still have some left.

[UltraMarginal]

A couple more images of the team (http://news.tfw2005.com/2015/06/26/unite-warriors-protectobots-new-images-295017).
Streetwise is a completely different colour to the Hasbro version, which I think the Hasbro version is closer to the Gen1 toy colours.

I'm still surprised that the Hasbro version of Hotspot has more paint apps and is more Gen1 accurate than the JP version.

I think I prefer the Takara Hotspot as the combined mode colours are a little more broken up between the black and the blue.

[ampoldj]

Nice to see the in-package simulation (lay out) from TF Yuki

https://mobile.twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/617251360577187841

[Mythirax]

Nice to see the in-package simulation (lay out) from TF Yuki

https://mobile.twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/617251360577187841

http://forum.malazanempire.com/uploads/monthly_09_2014/post-3948-0-02129200-1410304547.jpg

[Akky82]

http://forum.malazanempire.com/uploads/monthly_09_2014/post-3948-0-02129200-1410304547.jpg

Yes, yes it is. I'm regretting hasbro now even more, firstly for streetwise's colour, second for groove, third for glorious japanese gift set!

[UltraMarginal]

Stupid Takara making beautiful boxes so I won't want to throw them out. I just got Takara Superion on the weekend and the box is something special.

this will be no different.

[Mythirax]

Stupid Takara making beautiful boxes so I won't want to throw them out. I just got Takara Superion on the weekend and the box is something special.

this will be no different.

^

[ampoldj]

Stupid Takara making beautiful boxes so I won't want to throw them out. I just got Takara Superion on the weekend and the box is something special.

this will be no different.

It is artwork I can even hang on our wall ;)

[UltraMarginal]

It is artwork I can even hang on our wall ;)

could get one of those big deep '3d' frames
:D

[griffin]

TFYuki on twitter with a couple of photos (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/633950428967735296) of the new Groove toy in pre-production testing phase, done in yellow plastic.

It's only three months away from release (November 28th), so is on track for full production and shipment to Japan and HK.

(I still find it strange that Defensor/Guardian comes out a month before Devastator in Japan, despite Guardian having a completely new toy from scratch... when Devastator only has a couple of remoulded parts and extra weapons to add to the Hasbro version.)

[drifand]

Christmas sale thingy? But that's my guess.

[BruiseLee]

Poweredconvoy from TFW has posted a link to a pic from TF Yuki showing a shot of the box. Fantastic artwork! Makes me want to get all 3 UW sets but my wallet just gave me a harsh reality check :rolleyes:

http://i58.tinypic.com/6h1gyc.jpg

[ampoldj]

And now I cant wait for my Birthday gift for myself this year :D

[UltraMarginal]

I wish they'd relase booring boxes so I could justify throwing them away. I have to keep them when they look this good. :p:o:(

[UltimateGalvatron]

IMO Defensor has the best looking box.

[griffin]

Images on twitter by tfyuki (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/642945887191171072) of TakaraTomy Streetwise next to Hasbro Streetwise.

The Hasbro version is on the right in robot mode (red arms), while the Hasbro version is on the left in car mode (blue front).

[ampoldj]

Takara does not look too grey-ish compared to the promo pics at Takara Tomy Mall

[Defcon]

I was happy to just buy the Hasbro versions at retail. Initially I was keen on the Takara version, but I'm glad retail came through for a change. I thought the Hasbro versions looked cheap, but in the end I just didn't care. Hopefully that deluxe Groove mold gets a Hasbro release next year.

[Raider]

Hopefully that deluxe Groove mold gets a Hasbro release next year.

That's what I'm hoping for too. If I recall correctly I think I read somewhere that when a Hasbro rep was asked about this at a convention they said "We will see." At least that is not a flat out "No".

[Zommael]

IF Takara come up with a new mould (or new remould - people seem to think the helicopter mould is ripe for it) for Blast-Off, I would expect to see an exclusive wave consisting of Blast-Off and Groove.

The other possibility is that Hasbro decide to do a box set of G2 Defensor (in line with the currently planned Superion and Menasor) and release deluxe Groove there.

Personally I would prefer G1 Groove as that would allow me to replace Blades in my Defensor line-up, who really is the odd one out with his primarily red colouration (all the others are white) and aerial alt mode (all the others are ground-based emergency vehicles).

[griffin]

Still almost two months away, another image of Guardian (Defensor) has been released by TFYuki on twitter (http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/inpackage-image-takara-transformers-unite-warriors-guardian-defensor-and-the-protectobots/34028/), showing the team in box, including the new Groove toy.

This is released November 28th, but is a TakaraTomyMall exclusive (and from Hasbro Asia like other TTM exclusives), so if you don't already have one lined up, it will probably be quite pricey to find one after it is released.

[DELTAprime]

This is released November 28th, but is a TakaraTomyMall exclusive (and from Hasbro Asia like other TTM exclusives), so if you don't already have one lined up, it will probably be quite pricey to find one after it is released.

BBTS is the only place I know of that still has stock. I didn't realise he was exclusive till the cheaper options sold out.:(

[griffin]

Since it is being released in Asia/HK, Ehobbybaseshop and Robotkingdom still had it in stock the other day, which should be cheaper than an American source like BBTS.

[griffin]

Another image tweeted by TFYuki (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/654618234025435136/photo/1), of the combined mode.


Streetwise is looking very grey... while Hasbro's was almost cream coloured.
Looking at the Gen1 set, I never really noticed the darker white on Streetwise, but the Hasbro and TakaraTomy versions are a lot more noticeably different.

[Krayt]

Another image tweeted by TFYuki (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/654618234025435136/photo/1), of the combined mode.


Streetwise is looking very grey... while Hasbro's was almost cream coloured.
Looking at the Gen1 set, I never really noticed the darker white on Streetwise, but the Hasbro and TakaraTomy versions are a lot more noticeably different.

http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/thumb/e/ee/Bot-episode-defensor1.jpg/170px-Bot-episode-defensor1.jpg

[griffin]

Hmmm... Paulbot pointed out before when I was commenting on Hotspot that this set is homaging the cartoon, so I guess it is something I was oblivious of since Defensor was the combiner that had the least amount of screentime.

[Krayt]

Hmmm... Paulbot pointed out before when I was commenting on Hotspot that this set is homaging the cartoon, so I guess it is something I was oblivious of since Defensor was the combiner that had the least amount of screentime.

Yet one of my fav episodes was "the ultimate weapon"... First aid goes AWOL leaving an armless combiner!!! Plus you could actually half transform your Metroplex, just like in the show!!!....

But how's defensor look?

http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/b/bc/G1_UltimateWeapon_Defensorcatchestrain.jpg

[kurdt_the_goat]

Another image tweeted by TFYuki (https://twitter.com/TFYUKI/status/654618234025435136/photo/1), of the combined mode.

Streetwise is looking very grey... while Hasbro's was almost cream coloured.
Looking at the Gen1 set, I never really noticed the darker white on Streetwise, but the Hasbro and TakaraTomy versions are a lot more noticeably different.

It might be cartoon accurate, but to me it clashes quite badly.. almost like they left a prototype limb on there!

Looks ok in car mode though

http://i.imgur.com/tNGvk0Pl.jpg

[UltraMarginal]

that motorbike is freaking massive. even the cars make the helicopter look really small.

Scale, schmaile:D

[griffin]

I sorta like the bright blue of Hotspot... as the Hasbro one was a paler blue that matched the colour of the original toy.

But despite all the colour issues, that Groove more than makes up for it.
I can't wait for this to be released.

[ampoldj]

well another delay... release has been moved a couple of weeks

from 28th November to 12th December :(

http://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810831747/

[griffin]

Some in-hand images (http://news.tfw2005.com/2015/12/01/unite-warriors-defensor-groove-hand-images-306346) now that it is little more than a week away from release.

[UltraMarginal]

I want it now. I don't need any more tease images. I just want the toy. now.

[ZoonMaster5000]

My wallet has been having counselling waiting for bbts to tear it a new one. But in my opinion worth every penny

[DELTAprime]

More images of Defensor over at Seibertron.

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/scrambled-images-takara-transformers-unite-warriors-uw04-guardia/34335/

[Lint]

Got my shipping notice from RK! Will it make it in time for Xmas?

[Megatran]

Got my shipping notice from RK! Will it make it in time for Xmas?
Definitely via EMS. RKs message board quotes HKpost deadline to ship to Ausralia is 11th December for standard air parcel. So yes!, baring any unexpected hold ups.

[UltraMarginal]

I'm excited! I got my RK shipping notice earlier today as well. it's going to be a fairly large sized package with several other transformers in it that I've been waiting for months for. Hopefully it turns up before I head off to the rallies for Christmas.

[ampoldj]

Asian retailers are posting theirs at ebay as well

http://m.ebay.com.au/itm/Transformers-Takara-Tomy-Unite-Warriors-UW-03-Guardian-Groove-TOLL-EXPRESS-NOW-/221958146870?nav=SEARCH

[BigTransformerTrev]

Asian retailers are posting theirs at ebay as well

http://m.ebay.com.au/itm/Transformers-Takara-Tomy-Unite-Warriors-UW-03-Guardian-Groove-TOLL-EXPRESS-NOW-/221958146870?nav=SEARCH

Holy crap! $338?!? I cancelled mine because it was going to cost $221

[Sinnertwin]

My wallet has been having counselling waiting for bbts to tear it a new one. But in my opinion worth every penny

I lol'd at that statement.
It was a good lol

[ampoldj]

Holy crap! $338?!? I cancelled mine because it was going to cost $221

Yep that is free shipping, there is one more seller same price but still charges shipping :eek:

[Zippo]

BBTS got my money today; shipping with equally expensive Wave 5 Legends and Deluxes (no Onslaught for me yet)

Probably going to get hit for customs charges as well when it arrives in New Zealand.

I hate Takara Tomy Mall exclusives!!

[DaptoDog]

Got my shipping notice from RK. December is really the motherload of Masterpiece and Unite Warriors releases.

[ampoldj]

Nippon Yasan is also instock for 24000yen plus 4700yen EMS (about 335 aud) :eek:

[DELTAprime]

I paid 186 USD shipped for my Defensor from RK a couple of months ago. Should show up tomorrow, glad it's coming by Auspost and not Fastway.:p

[DELTAprime]

Got Defensor on my shelf now. Since I never put much thought into it I'm little letdown on how many remould/redecos there are in this set. I guess we will start seeing a lot of them in future UW sets now that every CW/UW limb is on the market.

[ampoldj]

Asian retailers are posting theirs at ebay as well

http://m.ebay.com.au/itm/Transformers-Takara-Tomy-Unite-Warriors-UW-03-Guardian-Groove-TOLL-EXPRESS-NOW-/221958146870?nav=SEARCH

dropped price by about a 100 bucks :confused: no one biting the 330 mark

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

I love these vids!:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cr08CC6FE18

Makes me now wish I had bought Defensor though... :(

[BigTransformerTrev]

What do people think the chances are of this set getting a more general release at a cheaper price one day in the future? I got UW Superion, Menasor and Devastator but I just can't justify the cost of UW Defensor considering the price of the others (and the fact I have the CW version)

[UltraMarginal]

What do people think the chances are of this set getting a more general release at a cheaper price one day in the future? I got UW Superion, Menasor and Devastator but I just can't justify the cost of UW Defensor considering the price of the others (and the fact I have the CW version)

I kind of thought this was the more general release. I bought mine through Robot Kingdom.
I do expect Hasbro to do a G2 version, that might have the bike in it.

[Akky82]

I finally ordered mine yesterday, actionrobo turns out at $175usd, $5 cheaper than RK, which is $5 or so cheaper than ehobbynaseshop, which is a few bucks cheaper than chimungmung. If anyones wondering...

[ampoldj]

Finally mine arrived today from PC case fresh (well only 1 per case so we should all receive the same) but unfortunately though the case has no damage but the Defensor box itself has a crease at the back and double taped...sigh...nice one TT :mad: