Toy Review - POTP Predaking

[GoktimusPrime]

(Post comments, photos or even a fully comprehensive review - these are just some brief details to get the ball rolling)

PREDACONS
Series - Generations
Sub-line - Power of the Primes
Size/class - Titan (5 Voyagers + 1 Prime Master)
New/remould/redeco - New
Wave - N/A
Released here - Yes (time frame TBC)
Approximate Retail Price - $275
Approximate Size - 45cm
Allegiance - Decepticon
Sub-Group - Predacon
Alt-modes - 3 robotic predator animals, 2 robotic prey animals and 1 head
Main Features/Gimmicks - Come to form Predaking!
Main Colours - Black, purple, grey
Main Accessories - guns, cannons

Divebomb
https://image.ibb.co/mdviSJ/predaking_01_divebomb1.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/hv0iSJ/predaking_01_divebomb2.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/keMq7J/predaking_01_divebomb3.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/jLb7nJ/predaking_02_compare_divebomb.jpg

Headstrong
https://image.ibb.co/fnuXMd/predaking_01_headstrong1.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/nCC8uy/predaking_01_headstrong2.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/iVzouy/predaking_01_headstrong3.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/c8GU1d/predaking_02_compare_headstrong.jpg

Rampage
https://image.ibb.co/c7Gq7J/predaking_01_rampage1.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/hfUMEy/predaking_01_rampage2.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/d5DgEy/predaking_01_rampage3.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/b4JWEy/predaking_02_compare_rampage.jpg

Razorclaw
https://image.ibb.co/iO7mgd/predaking_01_razorclaw1.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/ntzMEy/predaking_01_razorclaw2.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/dPV6gd/predaking_01_razorclaw3.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/cGqiSJ/predaking_01_razorclaw3a.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/gWKtSJ/predaking_01_razorclaw5.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/cAyL7J/predaking_02_compare_razorclaw.jpg

Tantrum
https://image.ibb.co/kTCrEy/predaking_01_tantrum1.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/dm0NMd/predaking_01_tantrum2.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/i5kNMd/predaking_01_tantrum3.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/dhOnnJ/predaking_02_compare_tantrum.jpg

Onyx Prime
https://image.ibb.co/kZCV7J/predaking_01_onyxprime.jpg

Predaking
https://image.ibb.co/ibRJuy/predaking_03a.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/hu007J/predaking_03b.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/mosPZy/predaking_03c.jpg

https://image.ibb.co/fJKGgd/predaking_02_comparison_predaking.jpg

[SMHFConvoy]

Impressive. I don't get why people are miffed about the combined mode thighs hanging off the back of the leg bots, they're not too obtrusive.

[dirge]

Impressive. I don't get why people are miffed about the combined mode thighs hanging off the back of the leg bots, they're not too obtrusive.

Human nature. We become accustomed to a certain standard and forget how lucky we are.

The fact is these are poseable Predacons with legs that separate & yet they still combine... but we've become accustomed to less kibble nowadays.

I'm super impressed with this offering & can't wait for my set!

[CHILENO20]

That thing is massive!!!! :eek::eek::eek: Now have it fighting Sky Lynx Gok:D:D:D

[GoktimusPrime]

Predaking with stickers applied
https://image.ibb.co/iMd57J/predaking_05.jpg

Predaking's thighs are a bit obtrusive on Tantrum's and Headstrong's robot mode, but people also need to remember that Predaking is the same size as CW Devastator using only 5 Voyager size Transformers. Devastator is made up of 6. Basically the toy needs to do something to make up the additional bulk and size being literally one man shorter than the Constructicons. Because the alternative would be a smaller Predaking and people would still complain.

Aaahh, fans. :rolleyes:

[BigTransformerTrev]

I can’t say I’m too impressed with how the individual Predators look, though they stay pretty true to their original incarnations I guess. Predaking looks pretty good.

I look forward to picking this lot up to have a play :)

[graza78]

The individual bots are soo hollow and cheap looking. Combined mode looks ok. Will wait till its half price and shelfwarming.

[DELTAprime]

Predaking with stickers applied

~snip~

Predaking's thighs are a bit obtrusive on Tantrum's and Headstrong's robot mode, but people also need to remember that Predaking is the same size as CW Devastator using only 5 Voyager size Transformers. Devastator is made up of 6. Basically the toy needs to do something to make up the additional bulk and size being literally one man shorter than the Constructicons. Because the alternative would be a smaller Predaking and people would still complain.

Aaahh, fans. :rolleyes:

Firstly, I thought Hasbro was all about pre-applied stickers these days. So I'm actually surprised that they are customer applied.

As for the thighs. While I appreciate the attempt to minimise kibble by putting them on backs of Tantrum and Headstrong, ultimately I feel it only hurts the individual robot modes. If I were designing the set I would have actually rather gone with kibble over putting it on their backs. After all it wouldn't be the only kibble in the set.

[klystron]

Really disliked this set to start with, but after some photos/video, I've actually warmed to it a bit. Still not a fan of the thighs, nor the alt modes. Razorclaw is the individual figure highlight with Divebomb and Rampage bot modes looking pretty good. Predaking does look awesome though.
Am I going to get it? Nah, not at that price. ($275 is $55 per (flawed) voyager fig).
Fingers crossed for 2nd market or sales price...

[Maruten]

Like Devastator, there are compromises. The beast modes aren't great and the thigh backpacks are pretty awful, but on the whole I think these guys look great and I haven't regretted the purchase.

[GoktimusPrime]

The individual bots are soo hollow and cheap looking. Combined mode looks ok. Will wait till its half price and shelfwarming.
I don't find that at all. I find each of the Predacons to be quite hefty. People accused the CW Constructicons of being lightweight too, but an actual comparative weight analysis showed that they had more mass than some other Voyager class Transformers that people consider as being more solid.
e.g. CW Hook (unarmed) is actually heavier than Generations Springer (holding all weapons).
Looks can be deceiving. I was carrying Predaking around in public yesterday and on the way back to my car I felt my arm going numb from holding Predaking with one hand. I ended up just hugging the toy to my chest and holding it like an infant to relieve the pressure from my arm. Predaking is a more solid and stable gestalt than Combiner Wars Devastator.

The only really hollow part is Predaking's core, but that's because it's Divebomb's backpack expanded to help bulk up Predaking. As I mentioned before, Predaking is only 5 Voyagers making up the same size and bulk as CW Devastator which is comprised of 6 Voyagers. The fact is that they lack a counterpart for Long Haul, who is the largest/bulkiest of the Constructicons being the load-bearing centre of the gestalt's mass. The additional parts tacked onto Tantrum and Headstrong, as well as the expanding nature of Divebomb's backpack, basically all exist and combine to make up for the fact that there isn't a 6th core member of the team.

I think that HasTak made the right call here, because the alternatives are:

a/ Have a smaller gestalt with stumpier looking proportions, much like G1 Predaking (who has tiny, tiny thighs!)

b/ Create a 6th Predacon who is unfamiliar to fans, but would also jack up the cost of the box set because you're adding an additional Voyager Class figure into the pack. Some fans might grow to resent this 6th member, not just because s/he'd be unfamiliar, but because s/he also be irreplaceable and essential to the formation of Predaking. Other CHUG gestalt teams have seen new members added in, such as Alpha Bravo, Rook and Off-Road, but those members are replaceable. e.g. Alpha Bravo can be replaced by Quickslinger (Slingshot), Rook by Groove, Off-Road by Brake-Neck (Wildrider) etc. But a 6th Predacon would be irreplaceable. There would be no way to get rid of the team's new Poochie. :p

Go look at your Energon/Super Link gestalts. Take a good look. Heck, look at your Car Robot/RiD gestalts too. Now tell me again how POTP Predaking is inadequate. ;)

[hYpNoS]

Some thoughts

-Make the thigh pieces as kibble which can turn into weapons
-Make razorclaw slightly bigger to reduce the hollowness of predaking while making him look more leader like
-Still no individual weapons like cw devastator?
-Stickers on individual figures, even cw devastator had tampos, I can only excuse whole larger titans
-Why are the arms in opposite to the original g1 configurations, while it can be reworked it has compromises ie screw holes being visible and colors being lost
-Spiked hands on artwork but not on final figure?
-NO SWORD WHAT!?

Normally I'd wait on a takara version to fix these flaws yet here I am waiting on a clearance to help offset the inevitable 3p upgrade sets, that's...if it comes here

[GoktimusPrime]

Some thoughts

-Make the thigh pieces as kibble which can turn into weapons
^Not a bad idea. :) But I suppose the designers wanted to keep the parts as being self-contained in the figures as having detachable parts does feel like a cheat. The other issue with making them detachable weapons would be where they would go in Tantrum and Headstrong's beast modes. The feet already mount on the back as cannons. Big cannon on top of cannons?


-Make razorclaw slightly bigger to reduce the hollowness of predaking while making him look more leader like
Which would exceed the budget. Remember that every last drop of paint is painstakingly budgeted for. To crank a Voyager up 2 whole price points up to Leader would definitely exceed budget.


-Still no individual weapons like cw devastator?
All of them have weapons.
* Divebomb - two rifles
* Rampage - rifle
* Razorclaw - cannon
* Headstrong - dual-cannon
* Tantrum - dual-cannon

Yes, those weapons are all also part of Predaking, but the same happened with Combiner Wars Devastator! All of their weapons were parts for Devastator, and Devastator's gun split into two smaller guns. The same has happened for Predaking - the weapons are all parts or accessories for Predaking, and Predaking's gun splits into two smaller guns.
https://image.ibb.co/eyPm1o/cw_constructicons01.jpg
If it's good enough for Devastator then I'm not sure why it's not good enough for Predaking.


-Stickers on individual figures, even cw devastator had tampos, I can only excuse whole larger titans
This is an issue with the whole POTP line so I'm not sure why only Predaking would draw criticism for this. And stickers started creeping in from Titans Return. It's clearly a budgeting decision as stickers are significantly cheaper than tampographs. The increasing price of resources like oil/petrol (re: plastics manufacturing) is taking its toll. This is probably why the RRP for Deluxes has crept up to $35.

And it's not just stickers replacing tampographs, we've also seen fewer paint ops on these toys in recent years too. Look at your earlier CHUG figures. Painted hubcaps and tail lights used to be standard. Now it's a rarity if it even ever happens. And price creep is nothing new. Remember when Voyagers (previously known as Megas) used to be the price of Deluxes now? Cos I remember paying about that much for toys like Transmetal Optimus Primal etc.


-Why are the arms in opposite to the original g1 configurations, while it can be reworked it has compromises ie screw holes being visible and colors being lost
:confused: :confused: The G1 arms and legs are interchangeable. i.e. Divebomb and Rampage can be L or R arms and Tantrum and Headstrong can be either L or R legs. So the configuration is G1 accurate, but since they've lost the ability to interchange each limb has obviously had to choose a side.
https://preview.ibb.co/m5Ybgd/predaking_02_comparison_predaking.jpg
Also, it is accurate to the configuration seen in the G1 cartoon (https://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/6/6d/Predaking_primatives.jpg). The G1 comics had the same arm config but legs were the other way around. But as I said, G1 Predaking's are interchangeable, so it's all moot.


-Spiked hands on artwork but not on final figure?
A Transformer toy that differs from it's box art (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Vq-TjGDSdw/UKnCj9T9BZI/AAAAAAAAAvo/WPqxHoOesh8/s1600/2076903280100811158S500x500Q85.jpg)?! No way (https://vintageactionfigures.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/transformers-g1-cliffjumper-card-front.jpg)! :p Also, the unspiked fingers are more G1 accurate (https://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/8/87/NightmarePlanet_Predaking.jpg).

-NO SWORD WHAT!?
Firstly, name one G1 episode or comic issue where Predaking used his sword vs all the episodes and issues where he is carrying his big arm-mounted gun.
Secondly, CW Devastator only came with one main weapon too - his rifle. They've done the same with Predaking. Okay, I get that the G1 Predaking toy has a sword (well, actually he doesn't - he's just able to hold any of the Predacon's swords. He doesn't have a separate one for himself), but then again, G1 Devastator has a head-mounted rocket that's missing from the Combiner Wars figure.
"But Devastator never used that rocket in the cartoon."
And Predaking never used his sword in the cartoon. What's the difference?


Normally I'd wait on a takara version to fix these flaws yet here I am waiting on a clearance to help offset the inevitable 3p upgrade sets, that's...if it comes here
You do know that Predaking's not being released locally, right? Sure, online stores might have a clearance. But I hope you're not waiting for a local release. It's been confirmed that we are skipping this set.

[reillyd]

Wait, what now? Retailers passed on Predaking? Hasbro showed it off at toy fair too :(

That's going to be expensive to import. Fark gst changes and volumetric shipping!

I was on the fence on ordering,and so had been waiting for a local release (even if a high premium) or a decent review to shift me into impulse buying. I wondered about the heft and weight of it all, but you just talked me into a sale now Goktimus, gosh darn it.

Anyone know of a retailer with a cheap shipping option and guaranteed stock?

I have just looked up total cost, including shipping:

Ohmyprimus = 285 SGD = 282 AUD
Robotkingdom = 254 USD = 339 AUD
tfsource - 220 USD with shipping discount/ 295 AUD
big bad = 233 usd (over 22usd in gst)/ 312 AUD --- would have been cheapest if before July 1
Toydojo = 238 usd = 320 aud
Megalopolis toys won't provide shipping costs on preorder
eBay seller in hi 209 usd plus 19.99 shipping = 239usd / 320 aud
Little toy company - 200 aud, but no guarantee of stock but they claim they will refund if they cant deliver , est. September release, so will be sold out internationally
Amazon.com taunting me with 159 + 39 usd shipping to Australia.... but then cart says we don't ship to Australia

Can anyone point me to a cheaper option before I panic buy?
Oh and if Gerry Harvey dies under suspicious circumstances, I am going to need an alibi :mad:

[doublespy]

I honestly don't mind the thighs at all. imho Hasui did a wonder job incorporating combiner kibble into individual bots.



Wait, what now? Retailers passed on Predaking? Hasbro showed it off at toy fair too :(

That's going to be expensive to import. Fark gst changes and volumetric shipping!

I was on the fence on ordering,and so had been waiting for a local release (even if a high premium) or a decent review to shift me into impulse buying. I wondered about the heft and weight of it all, but you just talked me into a sale now Goktimus, gosh darn it.

Anyone know of a retailer with a cheap shipping option and guaranteed stock?

I have just looked up total cost, including shipping:

Ohmyprimus = 285 SGD = 282 AUD
Robotkingdom = 254 USD = 339 AUD
tfsource - 220 USD with shipping discount/ 295 AUD
big bad = 233 usd (over 22usd in gst)/ 312 AUD --- would have been cheapest if before July 1
Toydojo = 238 usd = 320 aud
Megalopolis toys won't provide shipping costs on preorder
eBay seller in hi 209 usd plus 19.99 shipping = 239usd / 320 aud
Little toy company - 200 aud, but no guarantee of stock but they claim they will refund if they cant deliver , est. September release, so will be sold out internationally
Amazon.com taunting me with 159 + 39 usd shipping to Australia.... but then cart says we don't ship to Australia

Can anyone point me to a cheaper option before I panic buy?
Oh and if Gerry Harvey dies under suspicious circumstances, I am going to need an alibi :mad:

I bit the bullet and ordered from Ohmyprimus last week. Am just waiting on the shipment now. It ended up being about $290 with Paypal's conversion rate, which is almost the same as the prices out of Taiwan/Hong Kong incl. shipping on ebay.

Toybotsimportz has their second batch of pre-order still open for $279.

[Galvatran]

You do know that Predaking's not being released locally, right? Sure, online stores might have a clearance. But I hope you're not waiting for a local release. It's been confirmed that we are skipping this set.
Please state your source.

[Magnus]

Firstly, name one G1 episode or comic issue where Predaking used his sword vs all the episodes and issues where he is carrying his big arm-mounted gun.
Secondly, CW Devastator only came with one main weapon too - his rifle. They've done the same with Predaking. Okay, I get that the G1 Predaking toy has a sword (well, actually he doesn't - he's just able to hold any of the Predacon's swords. He doesn't have a separate one for himself), but then again, G1 Devastator has a head-mounted rocket that's missing from the Combiner Wars figure.
"But Devastator never used that rocket in the cartoon."
And Predaking never used his sword in the cartoon. What's the difference?

Predaking used his sword a grand total of once in the cartoon, if I'm not mistaken - in his debut episode, Five Faces of Darkness part 5. He took a swing at Skylynx as he was flying past and missed, and then Skylynx wrapped his tail around Predaking's head. All up, it had maybe two seconds of screen time, if that.

In Chaos, he used a lightsabre to bring down a rock, but that doesn't count, does it?

Even so, I get your point; his sword was hardly an 'iconic' weapon; he used his forearm gun more frequently. At least Optimus Prime's axe and Megatron's flail had more screentime on the one occasion they were deployed.

[GoktimusPrime]

Stop motion showcase of POTP Predaking (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwTEdIKn1gI) (stickers unattached)

Please state your source.
Brad Towner, Armoured Heaven (https://www.armouredheaven.com.au/).

[DELTAprime]

Little toy company - 200 aud, but no guarantee of stock but they claim they will refund if they cant deliver , est. September release, so will be sold out internationally


TLTC do know how many they will be getting and stop taking orders once they reach their limit. The disclaimer on their pages is basically there because of people's fears since PC.

[reillyd]

That stop motion YouTube video is practically an advertisement- Predaking looks amazing.

Going to have to really think whether I want to pay a premium for in-stock, versus cheaper but potentially hypothetical September pre-order. When retailers can't guarantee stock, it is disconcerting.

[GoktimusPrime]

I'm more than happy to pay full price if it means definitely getting the toy vs paying discount prices for something that may never come. A hard lesson learnt from Voldemort Collectables. :/

Made a POTP Predaking photocomic thread here (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=591038#post591038) :)

[reillyd]

I'm more than happy to pay full price if it means definitely getting the toy vs paying discount prices for something that may never come. A hard lesson learnt from Voldemort Collectables. :/

Made a POTP Predaking photocomic thread here (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=591038#post591038) :)

Argh. That did it, I just ordered it from a retailer who has it in stock. I can't take the risk of it selling out or not being supplied. Victorion and Superion are going to have their work cut out

[philby]

That video is great, I love that drawn-out, dramatic combination haha

[doublespy]

https://preview.ibb.co/m5Ybgd/predaking_02_comparison_predaking.jpg


The instructions missed one step. Typical Hasblow.

There's a double hinge on the right arm that folds up and locks in between Divebomb's arms. It makes the arm solid and symmetrical with the left arm.

[Krayt]

Stop motion showcase of POTP Predaking (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwTEdIKn1gI) (stickers unattached)

Brad Towner, Armoured Heaven (https://www.armouredheaven.com.au/).

I call bull....

Your “source” who says we are not getting it is taking pre-orders for it.....

[Galvatran]

I call bull....

Your “source” who says we are not getting it is taking pre-orders for it.....
Bull what? :D

I'll have:
S for Sinnertwin
H for Horribull
T for Thundercracker

[dirge]

Well, I just put together my Predaking. I spaced out exploring the individual Predacons, too.

Thoughts: Overall, it's amazing. There are flaws across this set, but there's so much to like.

Predaking: solid enough, IMO. Good proportions, solid, poseable. A win.

Tantrum: That thigh needs to detach, it looks horrible underneath the rhino mode. Win otherwise.

Headstrong: That thigh needs to detach, it looks horrible underneath the bull mode. Win otherwise.

Rampage: The robot head can be tricky to get out during the transform, otherwise I have no complaints. The backpack thing isn't elegant but it's not in the way so I'm fine with it.

Razorclaw: A great toy.

Divebomb: He makes up so much of Predaking, relatively speaking, but is mostly kibble free thanks to clever use of the wingpack. The robot head on mode doesn't tab in firmly, though. Not sure if this is isolated to mine.

I feel this set is worth my $300.

[Deano85]

I'm more than happy to pay full price if it means definitely getting the toy vs paying discount prices for something that may never come. A hard lesson learnt from Voldemort Collectables. :/

Made a POTP Predaking photocomic thread here (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=591038#post591038) :)

The same reason I ordered blast off from robotkingdom. Yes he was a bit expensive but rather have him than miss out

[doublespy]

Just like Devastator before, this is a very fun set. The engineering is simple but effective, and has some really clever touches to put a big smile on any Shogo Hasui fanboy's face. There're some minor annoyances that stop me from thoroughly enjoying these figures, but overall well worth the retail price imo.

https://i.imgur.com/D3KcfF8l.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/XUpswNdl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/aUkTO6Nl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/vLdraCZl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/TqYSKT6l.jpg

Razorclaw is least effected by having to combine. It amazes me somewhat that he only makes up about only half of the mass in Predaking's chest. I get this feeling that making him roughly the same size as the other Predacons was a key design element Hasui was going for; he actually looks suitably smaller in beast mode compared with Tantrum and Headstrong. I also like his stocky proportions in both modes. Articulation is a bit limited in beast mode and the same can be said with the rest of the Predacons, especially some legs are tabbed in fixed positions. 'Bot mode articulation is quite good; on par with the Constructicons format we've seen, but he lacks a chest swivel due to housing Predaking's big noggin.

https://i.imgur.com/purCj5Tl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/hE9c5AJl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/WshS2EDl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/JUVV0Sul.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/8GG9aZll.jpg

Rampage has the combiner kibble integrated very well in tiger mode, but turns into complete stand alone backpack in 'bot mode. The plate his 'bot head sits on can't sit level with his body so Rampage's perpetually looking down a little bit. There are two tabs on the body that prevent the said plate from pulling all the way up, which I suspect might be a last minute change to the mold, as the official render shows this plate sitting flush against the body. Oh and, he's very red.

https://i.imgur.com/gfoa3QBl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/pEGyRRnl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ic9CZMKl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/TTtZJQvl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Ck5RHpNl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/xPZRYKGl.jpg

I can't say Divebomb is my favorite of the bunch, because he's inherently quite flawed. But design wise he has a lot going on and he is no doubt the Long Haul of Predacons. I like how he integrates the combiner piece in 'bot mode as well, although that backpack does look quite unwieldy in both modes. But I can look past it because this backpack does an awesome origami transformation to become Predaking's wings, abdomen and crotch piece. Especially love how the tail turns into the combiner crotch piece. His and Rampage's guns suffer from design oversight where the posts are not long enough, so they can't be held quite as securely. The majority and the stickers aren't really all that necessary (some of them go around corners or are on the edge of molded details and have already started to peel), but you'd want to spend some time and pimp up Divebomb's wings. Speaking of, this guy probably owns the record of having the most Decepticon symbols on one 'bot. Each feather on his wings has one tiny Decepticon symbols and on the wings only he has 20 of 'em! This is some hardcore loyalty right there. It's also worth mentioning that the Japanese G1 numbering stickers are a really nice touch.

https://i.imgur.com/wmUyjHVl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/wF4TBFnl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/7D3BKHml.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/3WIsHhjl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/fEOZnQrl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/3cstJizl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/aQTw9bml.jpg

Tantrum and Headstrong share the same engineering. They're suitably beefy and love the head sculpts. I don't mind the combiner kibble at all and it's integrated quite well in beast mode imo, giving them quite a thick and powerful looking profile. Them being able to hold the dual cannons like a rocket launcher is icing on the cake. Although I do wish these two have hip and knee ratchets in 'bot modeas well as they're quite top heavy, especially when the rocket launcher are mounted they now kinda want to tip over.

https://i.imgur.com/wiV8vunh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/nQ5CVJ7h.jpg

Whoever at Hasbro came up with the color scheme for Predacons was a freakin genius. Who would've thought different shades of red, yellow and orange, with lots of black thrown in the mix could create such perfect palette for 5 mechanical beasts? The Predacons look fantastic together. I didn't own any Predacon back in the days otherwise I would be throwing my fists at the sky right now in excitement, like I did 3 years ago when I took Devastator home.

https://i.imgur.com/RZVtA3vh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/38nAP9Rh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/f23yIn2h.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/8n0X4fXh.jpg

The combining engineering uses lots of sliding mechanism this time around compared to the clever interlocking systems found on Devastator. Big, chunky sliding pieces ensure lots of contact area to create friction to hold heavy pieces together, and allows even smoother, quicker transformation experience. The end result? Another win for Mr. Hasui.

Predaking comes in slightly shorter than Devastator but is every bit as awesome. Ratchet joints all over and thanks to his better proportions his poses just look more dynamic than ol' Devy. The dedicated foot pieces allow for a great range of ankle tilt, and the shoulder ratchets built into Divebomb and Rampage can hold the arms up with no problem. The minor picks I have are that the arm 'bots legs don't tab together quite securely especially when you're trying to twist all these chunky ratchet joints; The elbow range is very limited which I assume is for the sake of individual 'bot modes; and the shoulder cannons sometimes get in the way of the arms.

Overall, another great combiner set from HasTak. Captures the 80's feel perfectly. Solid engineering. Great for display but also fun to play with.

[Bemblebuu]

That's some nice photos and poses there, doublespy!

[Galvatran]

That's some nice photos and poses there, doublespy!
I second this comment. Always great pics & written reviews.

[griffin]

I really love all of the photos... this is definitely one of the best sets of toys since Devastator. I can't get enough of these Predacons.


You do know that Predaking's not being released locally, right? Sure, online stores might have a clearance. But I hope you're not waiting for a local release. It's been confirmed that we are skipping this set.


This isn't correct.
That being said, with the loss of ToysRUs, and not being included in the BigW June toy sale, it's release here may end up being limited, and expensive.

[Galvatran]

Soft...

[GoktimusPrime]

This isn't correct.
I was only going off information given to me by Armoured Heaven, which is what prompted me to preorder it online too (otherwise I might've waited for a local release).

updated release info on original post

[millhouse]

I've got to say, I just got Predaking and was surprised at just how much tabbing is required for combined mode, specifically around the torso/back.

Besides the fact that Hasbro's instructions are, as expected, terrible to read, I love it. It's big, hefty, solid and will stand next to Devy and the titans.

[M-bot]

I am a tad disappointed in this release. I was not as skeptical as some when the original pics came out with the limb parts sitting on the underside/backs of the leg-forming members, I was happy to give the toy the benefit of the doubt with regards to quality.

It’s not nearly as nice as I was expecting from some of the pictures I’ve seen and reviews I’ve read. Easily the poorest of the Titan-class releases of the last 5 years or so. Way more compromises for all 3 modes (robot/alt/combined) than Devastator. Gappy combined mode, especially Predaking’s body and lower back. Plastic feels a bit cheap.

He’ll sit up on a high shelf in the collection room, but I can’t see myself going back to him often.

[Bidoofdude]

Anywhere have this big boy? I was gonna go through TLTC but I put it off and missed the boat. :( I have a small POL coming at some point from BBTS, but I don't think the cost or shipping will be worth it.

[GoktimusPrime]

https://www.mrtoys.com.au/action-figures-collectable/transformers-toys/transformers-gen-prime-predaking-28815.html

[hYpNoS]

Anywhere have this big boy? I was gonna go through TLTC but I put it off and missed the boat. :( I have a small POL coming at some point from BBTS, but I don't think the cost or shipping will be worth it.

https://www.amazon.com.au/Transformers-Decepticon-Predaking-Gnerations-Collectors/dp/B079VNNGM5/ref=pd_sim_21_60?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B079VNNGM5&pd_rd_r=d46a35b8-a6e2-11e8-916c-9bdc4a2680a9&pd_rd_w=4QtbR&pd_rd_wg=74ds6&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ANEGB3WVEVKZB&pf_rd_p=099d9e8c-2145-4a01-aed2-8f1176c32667&pf_rd_r=Q63S65GE0H1VB4FBX1MD&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=Q63S65GE0H1VB4FBX1MD

Amazon has it the cheapest if you have prime, just use a trial.

Otherwise make sure you get the amazon au store listing for $293

[BigTransformerTrev]

https://www.amazon.com.au/Transformers-Decepticon-Predaking-Gnerations-Collectors/dp/B079VNNGM5/ref=pd_sim_21_60?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B079VNNGM5&pd_rd_r=d46a35b8-a6e2-11e8-916c-9bdc4a2680a9&pd_rd_w=4QtbR&pd_rd_wg=74ds6&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ANEGB3WVEVKZB&pf_rd_p=099d9e8c-2145-4a01-aed2-8f1176c32667&pf_rd_r=Q63S65GE0H1VB4FBX1MD&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=Q63S65GE0H1VB4FBX1MD

Amazon has it the cheapest if you have prime, just use a trial.

Otherwise make sure you get the amazon au store listing for $293

Thanks for the tip mate! Just grabbed one for me and another OzF for $250 each with the free trial - you just saved us fifty bucks a pop :)

[Fungal Infection]

Anyone still after one, try this link and use code POGOSTICK to grab one for $241 shipped:

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-HASBRO-TRANSFORMERS-POWER-OF-THE-PRIMES-TITAN-CLASS-PREDAKING-E0600/173553001578?_trkparms=%26rpp_cid%3D5bc49d3f8fa6f9 48a1e9003a%26rpp_icid%3D5bc49d1b03c9a71c0d225aaf

[DaptoDog]

Anyone still after one, try this link and use code POGOSTICK to grab one for $241 shipped:

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-HASBRO-TRANSFORMERS-POWER-OF-THE-PRIMES-TITAN-CLASS-PREDAKING-E0600/173553001578?_trkparms=%26rpp_cid%3D5bc49d3f8fa6f9 48a1e9003a%26rpp_icid%3D5bc49d1b03c9a71c0d225aaf

That's who I bought mine from. For those that care about box condition (like me) they just chuck it in a box so expect some dings.

[BigTransformerTrev]

I finally got mine for my birthday. My thoughts:

*Animal modes are pretty crap. Razorclaw isn't too bad and Rampage is passable but the other three really do suck. Very disappointing
*Robot modes aren't bad. Once again Razorclaw looks the best of the lot and Rampage is passable. The other three have too much kibble hanging down behind their legs and the shoulder cannons look frankly silly on Headstrong and Torox. All 5 really need swords as well.
*I'm really liking Predaking! His combined mode is definitely where you finally get to feel like you are getting some value for your money. I also like his difficulty level - more complicated to assemble than the smaller CW combiners but not as complicated to put together as Devestator.
*Putting on all the stickers is a real pain in the diodes, but the figures do look better with them on.

So overall I really like Predaking, but I find Divebomb, Torox and Headstrong to be severe disappointments considering their size and how much they cost. When it comes down to it, Devestator was better value for money.

[sideswipes brother]

Looks can be deceiving. I was carrying Predaking around in public yesterday and on the way back to my car I felt my arm going numb from holding Predaking with one hand.

Maybe go to the gym...

[shockNwave]

I can't believe I voted yes on the poll but I'm glad I didn't buy it.
Back in the 80's, the brick alt. modes would have been state of the art but these days it's a different story. The sight of carnivores like Razorclaw and Rampage with the bodies of herbivores is a joke these days. I agree that Devastator is where it's at.

[GoktimusPrime]

The sight of carnivores like Razorclaw and Rampage with the bodies of herbivores is a joke these days. I agree that Devastator is where it's.
To be fair, the movement towards a more slavish level of G1 accuracy has been a running theme in Titans Return in general so I don't think I could single out just Predaking for having this trait. Take a look at TR Sixshot - the level of G1 accuracy on that toy is insane. And of course, there is a real downside to being so G1 accurate, and that is inheriting the traits from toys that were designed in the 1980s. Now that can be a really good, bad or indifferent thing according to your tastes, but I wouldn't call it a design or engineering flaw but rather an aesthetic design choice. And I get it if it's not your thing, and as much as I looove TR Predaking, I totally get where you're coming from.

And this is why I'm skipping toys like Siege Optimus Prime, Sideswipe, Hound, Mirage and Springer. I already have pre-existing CHUG versions of these toys that employ greater originality in their aesthetic designs. They're not attempting to be as slavishly G1 accurate. I'm also skipping the new MP Convoy and Bumble for the same reasons (and price :p).

When Classics started it was never about simply emulating G1 toys with contemporary design/tech standards. It was more about re-imagining G1 characters with contemporary standards. It felt more like what if the G1 characters were made today, and not what if the G1 characters were remade today. Many of the original CHUG toys were more liberated from having to slavishly conform to 80s G1 designs. They only needed to be aesthetically recognisable enough that you could immediately tell who they were, and they did this well. Classics Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Starscream, Jetfire, Ramjet etc. - everyone can look at these toys and know straight away who they are. They didn't need to be so slavishly accurate to their G1 designs.

The one possible issue with a slimmer Razorclaw is that it may not have sufficient bulk to form the torso for Predaking. TR Razorclaw as it is doesn't have enough bulk and needs to be supplemented with Divebomb's backpack. And I don't know if having a skinnier Rampage and Divebomb would make Predaking's arms look thin in comparison with the rest of the body. Remember that Devastator does bulk out its arms with accessories - not just the hands but the entire forearms too. Bonecrusher and Scavenger only form the upper arms whereas Rampage and Divebomb have to form the entire arms at the same scale.

But yes, I take your point that there absolutely could've been more creativity in the design, but this seems to have been an overall design made with the entire Titans Return line and by no means isolated to the Predacons. Slash is so ridiculously G1 in design that when I posted comparison pics of the G1 and POTP Dinobots, I secretly sneaked Slash into the shot of the G1 Dinobots and nobody noticed. ;) And in my observation, most fans want a slavish level of G1 accuracy from their CHUGs and MPs. I personally don't care either way. Honestly, if I want to play with a super G1 accurate toy, I'll play with my G1 TFs! You literally cannot get anymore G1 accurate than that. ;) I would like to see CHUG return to their roots with greater originality in their conceptual designs.

Haaaaaaaving said that, the slavish G1 accuracy has really pleased me with G1 characters whose toys I don't own and will probably never own, like Overlord and Greatshot. :) :p I'm just personally chuffed that we have an excellent set of Classics Predacons, cos honestly, if they'd released this set back in 2006 I highly doubt any of us would complain one iota.

[Soundwarp]

If only I didn’t have kids to feed basically sums up this guy for me. I still buy Transformers but I have to justify them to myself.......
This guy is in the I wish colum.

[shockNwave]

To be fair, the movement towards a more slavish level of G1 accuracy has been a running theme in Titans Return in general so I don't think I could single out just Predaking for having this trait. Take a look at TR Sixshot - the level of G1 accuracy on that toy is insane. And of course, there is a real downside to being so G1 accurate, and that is inheriting the traits from toys that were designed in the 1980s. Now that can be a really good, bad or indifferent thing according to your tastes, but I wouldn't call it a design or engineering flaw but rather an aesthetic design choice. And I get it if it's not your thing, and as much as I looove TR Predaking, I totally get where you're coming from.

And this is why I'm skipping toys like Siege Optimus Prime, Sideswipe, Hound, Mirage and Springer. I already have pre-existing CHUG versions of these toys that employ greater originality in their aesthetic designs. They're not attempting to be as slavishly G1 accurate. I'm also skipping the new MP Convoy and Bumble for the same reasons (and price :p).

When Classics started it was never about simply emulating G1 toys with contemporary design/tech standards. It was more about re-imagining G1 characters with contemporary standards. It felt more like what if the G1 characters were made today, and not what if the G1 characters were remade today. Many of the original CHUG toys were more liberated from having to slavishly conform to 80s G1 designs. They only needed to be aesthetically recognisable enough that you could immediately tell who they were, and they did this well. Classics Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Starscream, Jetfire, Ramjet etc. - everyone can look at these toys and know straight away who they are. They didn't need to be so slavishly accurate to their G1 designs.

The one possible issue with a slimmer Razorclaw is that it may not have sufficient bulk to form the torso for Predaking. TR Razorclaw as it is doesn't have enough bulk and needs to be supplemented with Divebomb's backpack. And I don't know if having a skinnier Rampage and Divebomb would make Predaking's arms look thin in comparison with the rest of the body. Remember that Devastator does bulk out its arms with accessories - not just the hands but the entire forearms too. Bonecrusher and Scavenger only form the upper arms whereas Rampage and Divebomb have to form the entire arms at the same scale.

But yes, I take your point that there absolutely could've been more creativity in the design, but this seems to have been an overall design made with the entire Titans Return line and by no means isolated to the Predacons. Slash is so ridiculously G1 in design that when I posted comparison pics of the G1 and POTP Dinobots, I secretly sneaked Slash into the shot of the G1 Dinobots and nobody noticed. ;) And in my observation, most fans want a slavish level of G1 accuracy from their CHUGs and MPs. I personally don't care either way. Honestly, if I want to play with a super G1 accurate toy, I'll play with my G1 TFs! You literally cannot get anymore G1 accurate than that. ;) I would like to see CHUG return to their roots with greater originality in their conceptual designs.

Haaaaaaaving said that, the slavish G1 accuracy has really pleased me with G1 characters whose toys I don't own and will probably never own, like Overlord and Greatshot. :) :p I'm just personally chuffed that we have an excellent set of Classics Predacons, cos honestly, if they'd released this set back in 2006 I highly doubt any of us would complain one iota.

1.I regard G1 Sixshot as the most advanced G1 stand alone and wouldn't compare him with G1s like OP, PM OP and SC OP let alone a combiner. With all due respect it would be more balanced to compare combiners with combiners.

2. You make a good point about Razorclaw needing to be bulky in order to be the central combiner but take a look at BW Magnaboss where the central combiner (Ironhide) turns into an elephant while the lion (Prowl) is an add on. I guess Hasbro decided it's best to have the king of the beasts in charge instead of a rhino or bull.

[GoktimusPrime]

RE: Razorclaw

Also G1 bias. G1 Razorclaw formed the torso of G1 Predaking, so fans would fully expect POTP Razorclaw to form the torso of Predaking. I suspect that say switching Headstrong and Razorclaw around would likely enrage the fanbase.

Heck, look at how many fans were miffed over CW Defensor initially have Groove as a breastplate and newcomer Rook as a limb, and how many collectors then jumped on getting the new Deluxe CW Groove just so they could have a more G1 faithful limbforming Groove. Even though a Legends Class Groove objectively makes more sense as a freakin' motorcycle. No, screw that. Fans want their jumbo chunky motorcycle - realism be damned, G1 fidelity all the way! :)

Now I'm not saying that this sentimentality is good or bad, but it's something that undeniably exists in the fan base and is something that Hasbro is obviously catering for to optimise product appeal.

[shockNwave]

RE: Defensor

Glad to see Hasbro showing flexibility and variation on Groove. Would be more amazing if they did the same with the more prominent and popular Predaking or perhaps some risks are too great.

[GoktimusPrime]

Yeah... Deluxe Groove was a much safer bet because they're going with G1 accuracy whereas releasing alternative versions of Razorclaw as a limb and say Headstrong as a torso is more of a stretch as it would have far more limited appeal. TBH I personally wouldn't buy them (but I totally understand where you're coming from). :p