Masterpiece MPG Raiden

[DaptoDog]

Takara's posted a tweet on their official account about a Raiden to be shown at a train show on 3 December 2019.

https://mobile.twitter.com/TF_pr/status/1185042288549875712

Assuming it will be a Generations style release.

[Paulbot]

Possibly/probably an Encore release? That’d be great.

[Tha_Phantom]

The wording makes it seem more like an exhibit. Although it could be generating hype for a potential CHUG or reissue release.

[DaptoDog]

The translation mentions a new project. Would seem to indicate a new mold.

[DELTAprime]

If it's CHUG or Encore I'll be as hyped for it as I was for Unicron as I love trains and I've never had an opportunity to see Raiden in person.

If by chance it's an MP there is no way I'm getting it as I have zero faith in MP QC and they are incredibly overpriced these days.

[Sinnertwin]

5 alpha bravo's and a silverbolt! I'm pumped!

[Paulbot]

5 alpha bravo's and a silverbolt! I'm pumped!

Probably a Hot Spot not a Silverbolt (https://tformers.com/combiner-wars-and-titans-return-meet-in-fan-custom-unite-warriors-raiden-combiner/29805/news.html). How much will it be at Zing/EBgames?

[Sinnertwin]

$980 for the limbs and $1263 for the torso

[Defcon]

Lol. Hopefully if its a selects release they just do a box set. This one actually has more appeal for me.

[Tha_Phantom]

$980 for the limbs and $1263 for the torso

100% accurate, and probably $500 for the whole set elsewhere. :p

[Dimi194]

If it's Generations level design/molding trainbots I'll be sold so fast!

[drifand]

One of the odd tfs I be interested

[ChlorHex]

This will be something I'll be extremely keen on!

[DaptoDog]

Masterpiece hype train building steam, get on board!

https://news.tfw2005.com/2019/12/02/takara-tomy-raiden-project-announcement-masterpiece-raiden-in-the-works-401550

Trust Takara to make their first MP Combiner something as left field as Raiden!

[Tha_Phantom]

Masterpiece hype train building steam, get on board!

https://news.tfw2005.com/2019/12/02/takara-tomy-raiden-project-announcement-masterpiece-raiden-in-the-works-401550

Trust Takara to make their first MP Combiner something as left field as Raiden!

This is probably going to cost more than a vintage Raiden, but I'm on board.
Choo choo!

[drifand]

If its masterpiece, is definitely a move against 3p competition which they know they are way behind and this is one of the only ones the 3p has not really touched. Is funny because they didn't bothered about this character in any of their lines like Generations or Siege and yet this is the first Masterpiece combiner.

I only worried about the price after knowing how much Bumblebee cost I say we be looking at $200 per train. Still early days.

Is ironic for me, I wanted to be out of Masterpiece line but I had interest in this character for my personal robot train collection. For the record, I would be interested even if it wasn't a masterpiece.

[1AZRAEL1]

I'll see if Zing decides to put up orders. He's gonna be an expensive bot. I'm leaning towards collecting MP so this ticks all the boxes.

[Sinnertwin]

Mehhhh now... I really wanted a CW Raiden.

[drifand]

Mehhhh now... I really wanted a CW Raiden.

I don?t mind this. Saves me money and I thought it was a good choice.

[Defcon]

It actually makes sense as a masterpiece, because the aesthetic can be more real to life, and also will go well into a vintage G1 collection, and also will appeal to train collectors. A combiner wars version would look less realistic because of the style, while would be still welcome. We may get one later on.

[Paulbot]

I believe in Japan trains always run on time. So maybe this will be the first Masterpiece in a while that isn't delayed several weeks.

I assume it will be a single release, and more inline with CW Devastator in complexity (than PoTP Predaking).

[Dimi194]

I actually hope it's not MP, because as much as I would love to get this set that would be out of my price range (I was thinking something like the Seacons set prices tbh)...

[BigTransformerTrev]

I believe in Japan trains always run on time. So maybe this will be the first Masterpiece in a while that isn't delayed several weeks.

I assume it will be a single release, and more inline with CW Devastator in complexity (than PoTP Predaking).

That would make sense - not sure I could be arsed collecting all the individual trains. Prob won’t be cheap either way but shall see. Maybe it’ll have less fine detail along the lines of Star Sabre so won’t be as expensive.

[hYpNoS]

If they release this as a set and he's in scale with other mp's (as he should) this will be most costly than unicron.

I'd rather he be a legends figure done cw style or least just using the connector pegs but this could make me swing back into mp's...

[Raider]

I believe in Japan trains always run on time. So maybe this will be the first Masterpiece in a while that isn't delayed several weeks.

I assume it will be a single release, and more inline with CW Devastator in complexity (than PoTP Predaking).

Yeah I agree. I think it will be very similar to CW Devi. Otherwise, as Hypnos points out, it is going to cost a bomb.

My hope is that they reissue the G1 mold too. That is what I would really want.

[Tha_Phantom]

Tiny bit of new info on Raiden:
https://news.tfw2005.com/2019/12/12/takara-tomy-designer-team-about-the-raiden-project-402042?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook&fbclid=IwAR0H7TX_HyMH7CXs6Cf5basvS-bcLMES-4xliyf2MQ6MlCWc3mwsUrF0okE

Most exciting for me is that the design team working on it have all been at Takara for a long time, including one person who worked on G1 stuff. Perhaps Gok can tell us more about Kojin Ono? :p

[griffin]

Over a year since the last bit of info, the MP Raiden project appears to still be on the table at TakaraTomy, as the latest issue of the Japanese Figure King magazine apparently has text (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/03/25/possible-new-masterpiece-skyfire-in-the-works-masterpiece-raiden-new-information-430405) that translates to saying that the combined form of Raiden will be about the same size as the main Combiner Wars/Unite Warriors combiners.

[Thurmus]

I am so keen on this. I don't see how they can do a Masterpiece, I think it will be closer to Devastator level. Priced between a Masterpiece and standard figures. Maybe they will all be leader class size.

[Omega Metro]

I had to Google what a Raiden TF was. Assumed it was another cross over with Mortal Kombat:rolleyes:

[High_Q]

the combined form of Raiden will be about the same size as the main Combiner Wars/Unite Warriors combiners. That makes sense. The G1 MPs have generally followed the robot mode scale charts, so if the designers use those charts as reference, then the individual trainbots should be around MP-28's height, which i think the individual CW Constructicons are as well. I can't wait to see how the weapons and accessories integrate with the figures.

[DELTAprime]

I had to Google what a Raiden TF was. Assumed it was another cross over with Mortal Kombat:rolleyes:

I'm not 100% sure, but given the fact that the TF Raiden is a Japanese only character, the name is probably actually the same as Raiden from Metal Gear Solid 2 (https://metalgear.fandom.com/wiki/Raiden), not Raiden from Mortal Kombat (https://mortalkombat.fandom.com/wiki/Raiden).

[High_Q]

I'm not 100% sure, but given the fact that the TF Raiden is a Japanese only character, the name is probably actually the same as Raiden from Metal Gear Solid 2 (https://metalgear.fandom.com/wiki/Raiden), not Raiden from Mortal Kombat (https://mortalkombat.fandom.com/wiki/Raiden).

In all these three instances, 'Raiden' is Japanese for 'thunder, lightning', first and second syllable respectively.

[DELTAprime]

In all these three instances, 'Raiden' is Japanese for 'thunder, lightning', first and second syllable respectively.

Yes, in Japanese that is correct. But in Mortal Kombat, a game made by Americans, Raiden is said completely differently than how the Japanese say it. That was my point.

It would be more correct to point at Metal Gear's Raiden as a counterpart to TF Raiden, rather than Mortal Kombat's Raiden.

[Tha_Phantom]

Wonder if they will end up doing this alternate Diaclone deco too.

https://i.ibb.co/qCRVvPS/76778227-443438229702329-3120115984732520448-n.png (https://imgbb.com/)

[drifand]

This has went back stone cold. I heard zip, and is all again just trying to hype up something. Disappointed.

[High_Q]

Here's our first look at what MP Trainbot Shouki (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/05/13/takara-tomy-masterpiece-shouki-sketches-433265) might look like, from the upcoming TF Generations Book 2021.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2021/051409.jpg

[Thurmus]

I think I prefer the alternate colour scheme.

[griffin]

Leaks of TakaraTomy toys used to be quite rare, but now we've had a second possible Masterpiece leaked in just one week... so, could this be one of the mythical Masterpiece Trainbots (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/08/16/possible-first-look-at-transformers-masterpiece-shouki-test-shots-439493)? (it would be Shouki if it is legit)

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2021/081701.jpg

The source is said to be from China, so if it is from one of the factories, they would also be doing test shots of Transformers for the Japanese market as well as the Hasbro market... but TakaraTomy are usually pretty good at making sure that the factories don't leak anything, as I don't recall offhand any Masterpiece leaks that weren't from TakaraTomy officially.

[dirge]

Yes, this is Shouki. I know the Trainbot names by heart... although I only know the meaning of one of their names (Yukikaze means "blizzard").

I'm really keen to see more of this team & very interested to see what they do with a Masterpiece combiner team.

[griffin]

Some more leaked images (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/10/01/takara-tomy-transformers-mpg-collection-masterpiece-shouki-color-images-442058) and a mysterious tweet by TakaraTomy (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/09/30/takara-tomy-new-mpg-transformers-project-442044) suggests that the Masterpiece Trainbots will be under a new sub-line called MPG - Masterpiece Gattai (which roughly translates to Combine or Union).
Since the Trainbots are a Combiner, and the first Combiner Team to be released in the Masterpiece line, it makes sense that TakaraTomy would make a big deal over it, and package them in a special way to make it obvious that you need to collect the set to complete the combiner.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2021/100306.jpg

It apparently also says that the official reveal will be done very soon.

[1AZRAEL1]

So creating a new sub-line, makes me think this combiner won't be a one off then.

[philby]

Since the Trainbots are a Combiner, and the first Combiner Team to be released in the Masterpiece line, it makes sense that TakaraTomy would make a big deal over it, and package them in a special way to make it obvious that you need to collect the set to complete the combiner.





Does that mean it's going to be individual releases?

[valkyrie_76]

http://figure.rash.jp/amazon_gallery.php?asin=B09HQPF13X

Some pictures now of the bot and whats included.

Word is its going to be 18K yen.

[High_Q]

http://figure.rash.jp/amazon_gallery.php?asin=B09HQPF13X

Some pictures now of the bot and whats included.

You beat the major TF new sites to this news. :)

I'm very impressed by details on the altmode, and it even includes the track. I wonder how many train enthusiasts who aren't TF fans will buy this.
The bot mode resembles the animation model too, though a little busy with the detailing.

[Jaxius._]

Hope it’ll be like cw Devastator and can scale with both mp and mainline as a combiner

Mainly because we will never see a chug raiden i reckon

[High_Q]

Hope it’ll be like cw Devastator and can scale with both mp and mainline as a combiner

The individual trainbots are somewhere between Ironhide and Sideswipe's height, based on the G1 charts i've seen.

I think MP trainbots will scale with the existing MPs in individual bot mode. This should make the trainbots around a CW Constructicon's height.

I doubt the combined MP Raiden will 'scale' at all, understandably, but most fans will be OK as long as the individual bots scale with MPs.

Perhaps their train modes will be in a popular train model scale to appeal to train enthusiasts.

[JJJ]

Hope it’ll be like cw Devastator and can scale with both mp and mainline as a combiner

Mainly because we will never see a chug raiden i reckon

Before Haslab Star Saber I might have agreed.

Now... Just seems like (with several JG1 toys from the past couple of years, and more coming) all sorts of things like this might be possible.

[Dimi194]

I do not collect masterpiece, but as a train fan these are looking like instant buys! Glad that next year's Legacy line doesn't pull me like WFC ... going to be expensive!

[drifand]

Hope it’ll be like cw Devastator and can scale with both mp and mainline as a combiner

Mainly because we will never see a chug raiden i reckon

Please No CW Dev is so lousy quality.

[valkyrie_76]

Preorder up on AmiAmi (https://www.amiami.com/eng/detail?gcode=FIGURE-132349) for 15800yen.

[Tha_Phantom]

Preorder up on AmiAmi (https://www.amiami.com/eng/detail?gcode=FIGURE-132349) for 15800yen.

Thanks, ordered. So keen on this!

[Dimi194]

Preorder up on AmiAmi (https://www.amiami.com/eng/detail?gcode=FIGURE-132349) for 15800yen.

Cheers! Pre-ordered!

[DELTAprime]

I have to wonder how soon they will use lessons from engineering these MPs to make a Gen Select or HasLab version of Raiden?

[Sinnertwin]

The single robot and train modes of Shouki, I really like. The combined mode silhouette I find a bit how ya goin'?

[Thurmus]

Will these be available at other stores or is AmiAmi the only place to be sure of getting them?

[Skyfire]

HobbyLink Japan (https://www.hlj.com/mpg-01-transformers-mpg-trainbot-shouki-tkt14047) 16,200 Yen.

The Falcon's Hangar (http://www.tfh.com.sg/product-details.php?p=28248) SGD$200.

Edit: the TFH listing has goine MIA. But here's another Japan listing: Luna Park (https://www.lunapark.store/product-page/takara-tomy-transformers-mpg-01-trainbots-shouki-japan-version) 16,800 Yen.

Edit2: TFH is back again but now SGD$220. And Anime Export (https://www.anime-export.com/index.php?product=54133) 14,400 Yen.

[griffin]

The promo video on youtube by TakaraTomy...
(some screenshots here (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/10/06/transformers-mpg-01-trainbot-shouki-new-promotional-video-images-442481) for those who can't watch it or don't want to watch it)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJ0qToOT9e0

From the official images at TakaraTomyMall (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810140474/), we get a piece of train-track with connectors, so I wonder if the other five parts will also be straight, or some curved bits to make a loop (if the wheels underneath each train can turn).
So... we have to wait until June next year just to get the first one, but at almost au$250 (at full retail), it will either suck having the six trains released too quickly (at least au$1200 for the entire combiner at the cheapest sources), or suck at having them spaced out to make it more affordable to the wallet.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2021/100801.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2021/100802.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2021/100803.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2021/100804.jpg

[Nevac]

Does this fit any model train scales like HO? Anyone here collect model trains and know?

[DELTAprime]

Does this fit any model train scales like HO? Anyone here collect model trains and know?

I thought they said a really long time ago it was not going to scale to model trains. But given it has been so long since the original announcement, who knows. ¯\_(?)_/¯

[Paulbot]

Seen a couple of mentions of it being HO scale track compatible

https://twitter.com/vf5ss/status/1446173448854810632?s=21

[JJJ]

Hmmm. Well that's turned out to be kinda interesting.

So Raiden as a whole will be the same height as the CW/UW combiners, and Shouki is roughly around the usual voyager size. And has quite a bit of visual similarity to CHUG toys - lots of gaps and hollows (especially from the side, and look at those leg flaps), and has a whole bunch of kibble hanging off the back (which has been very carefully placed to resemble a cool cape in the official pics, quite clever that :) ).

[drifand]

I bailed on this, it wasn't the price but more on the design that didn't suit my taste. All the best to those who wants it.

[griffin]

From the latest issue of Figure King magazine in Japan, a translation of an interview with the Raiden development team (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/10/28/figure-king-285-interview-with-mpg-01-raiden-development-team-english-translation-443964)...


This 2-page interview collects the impressions and comments of Takara Tomy x Tomytec Shouki Developer team which consists of: Kojin Ono (Takara Tomy / Transformers Team), Dai Ono (Tomytec / Development) and Hideki Shimanuki (Tomytec / Marketing). Since Shouki is a realistic train, the Transformers staff teamed with Takara Tomy’s train brand: Tomytec.

We have some interesting details about how the train mode was worked and the decisions made to create a realistic Shinkansen mode while make it still transformable.


Ohno: At a meeting, a young staff member suggested the name “Raiden”. However, the idea was put on hold due to various problems, not least of which was the fact that once we started, it would be very difficult to make six in a row. On the other hand, it would be the first time in a long time that we were able to realize 5, and it would be the first time in a long time that we were able to combine them in a master beast. Also, if we could make model railroad fans happy, we would be able to develop a new fan base. So we decided to do it. So the licensing team and I took the old G1 toys and visited the JR companies that had jurisdiction over each of them.

**How did the cooperation with TOMIX come about?**
Ohno: We started out just consulting with them since we were in the same group, but then we started thinking that it would be beneficial for both of us if we worked together, including marketing. When I talked to him again, he said, “I know someone who used to play TOMY TRANSFORMERS,” and I thought that was reassuring. Ono: At the time, one of the toys my younger brother bought me was a Raiden, and since I was also involved with railroads, I was playing with it without telling him (laughs).


**What do you think of the idea of turning so-called railroad cars into robots?**
Shimanuki: This year marks the fifth anniversary of TOMIX, and the Shinkansen and Blue Train are among the most familiar railcars. When we heard that they could be transformed, we were very excited about the idea.


**I heard that this time the product will be in HO gauge.**
Ono: Model railroad standards are based on overseas standards, but the Shinkansen is standard scale, so it will be HO scale.

Osaki: I also created the PJPJ Diaclone version of the Train Robot, and at the time, I was responsible for turning the prefecture around in a way that was closer to N gauge. This time, since it’s MPG, I wanted to recreate the realism of the cars that were unavailable in the modern era, which is why I made it SD6. That’s why I stuck with this size from the beginning. It was only later that I matched the robot’s height to the other Masterpieces (laughs).
Shimanuki: TOMIX hasn’t released an HO gauge Series 0 yet (laughs).

**What is the point of TOMIX’s supervision? Since the model is made by a railroad company, the model will be based on the real thing, right?**
Ono: We are particular about the shape of the vehicle, but we don’t have a chance to get to know SJJ any better than that, so I’m surprised how the robot fits inside.

Shimanuki: We were talking internally about how nice it would be to have TOMIX fans say, “Only T0MIX supervised SJJBS.

**What kind of communication did you actually have with them?**

Ono: Tomix has a stock of actual photographs and other materials taken for product development that have never been seen outside of the company, so I used these assets to check every little detail. When we were working on the appearance and material, we would thoroughly compare the color of the material with the color chips and faithfully match the colors. Using this material, we were able to recreate the three books in a way that is far more accurate than TOMIX products.

**What exactly did you have to modify?**
Ohno: The size of the windows and the number of rivets on the vanels.

Ohno: I thought about what to do about the windows (laughs). (laughs) There are differences in the size of the windows between the cars built in 1934 and the cars built in the Showa era. This time, I used the large windows (from when the train first opened).
Ohno: Mr. Ono pointed out the difference in the couplers between the Shinkansen and conventional trains, but the TF is the same for all six models because of the six-car coupling (laughs).


**What is the appeal of this product from everyone’s point of view? What is the appeal of this product in your opinion?**
I was also particular about the body’s appearance. I also aimed to make it poseable. I’d be happy if people could enjoy that, and I thought it was a must that it came with an oP°D-ni. The fact that it can be displayed on Ono’s rail is in itself an oJSU time shape. It’s actually very difficult to make a proper railroad model of this size. Even the detailed markings and antennas are made with the same attention to detail as a model railroad, and that’s what I want people to pay attention to.

Shimanuki: Actually, the articulation is very well done. In the case of TOMIX, the connecting part is not sculpted because it is reproduced with the cover on.
Daishi: JUPO was able to create JNS products because TOMIX was a brand within the TOMY Group.



And tweeted by Takaratomy, a look at the backside of the robot mode of Shouki (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/10/21/takara-tomy-transformers-mpg-01-trainbot-shouki-additional-official-in-hand-images-443318).

[griffin]

More train mode pics tweeted out by TakaraTomy (https://news.tfw2005.com/2021/11/09/takara-tomy-transformers-mpg-01-trainbot-shouki-alt-mode-official-in-hand-images-444579).

[JJJ]

Now being offered for order by EB for $298.

[griffin]

Now being offered for order by EB for $298.

Listed for au$298, for release in June 2022 (https://www.ebgames.com.au/product/toys-and-collectibles/279868-transformers-the-headmasters-mpg-01-trainbot-shouki).

It seems that no matter where you go, it will be almost 2 Grand for the entire team of six.

(I think I'll stick with my HLJ order for now, as it will still be about au$250 with shipping and GST, but is more reliable than a non-Japanese source).

At least the total cost of Raiden will be spread over a very long time, because this first part was officially announced March 2021 for release 15 months later... and since we haven't seen or heard about the second part yet after 8 months later, it's at least 8 months apart with its release, suggesting that these six Trainbots would be released at least a year apart.

[christalcase]

I would love to grab him and the rest, since I really like train Transformers and combiners, but at $300 a bot, and that's assuming no price rises for future ones, it's too pricey and out of reach for me :(

[High_Q]

We now have the first official box image (https://twitter.com/TF_pr/status/1480819268832817152) of MPG-01 Shouki. The box design style is different from that of regular MP box art.

[Dimi194]

I am so keen for these - as a huge train fan, and with my first TF series as a kid including Rail Racer from RID (2001), have really missed train TFs! Bonus points that they're an awesome combiner (and that I have the mini-bots Universe version).

[High_Q]

MPG-02 Trainbot Getsuei has been officially revealed (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810140481/). The detailing on the licensed locomotive is impressive. Unlike Shouki, i don't see any spot for a driver figure to fit into the alt mode. The bot mode aesthetics follows Shouki's, not being animation model accurate to high degree by sacrificing other considerations.

[Dimi194]

Still SUPER keen - immediate pre-order :D

[Sinnertwin]

So, what are people's thoughts on dropping the big bucks for a 30cm combiner?

[Dimi194]

So, what are people's thoughts on dropping the big bucks for a 30cm combiner?

To me the combined mode is a bonus - I'm here for the train modes and individual bot modes. So all this back and forth about the combined form - could not really care haah!

[dirge]

So, what are people's thoughts on dropping the big bucks for a 30cm combiner?

I'll probably never combine them. I have love for the Trainbots (I have the originals), but especially Getsuei, Yukikaze & Seizan. So I'm getting the set for the individual bots. Couldn't care less about Raiden, though.

[griffin]

Considering the "price per centimeter" of a number of recent MPs (especially some of the Beast Wars ones), these might not be too bad on their own, as I expect that TT are doing a smaller production run than they do for Gen1 MPs, due to a similar lower demand for these obscure Japanese character from the 1980s (they were never released by Hasbro, or re-homaged in the 40 years since).
With the majority of current fans being from the last 15 years of the Movie universe surge, the Trainbots would be very niche market, but I'm one of the rare fans who would want these more than the BW MPs, because of the memories I have of the Trainbots over the years, and because I do not recommend playing with the original Trainbot toys, so without a reissue of them ever being likely, these MPs could be played with a little more than I normally do with MPs.

And unlike Gen1 MPs that were often more playable than the plastic bricks of the originals, I'm not expecting these to be more playable... just safer to play with than the originals, which will be very expensive to replace now if broken.
(saying that, the BW MPs didn't interest me because they were not improving on the originals that were already great toys, by unnecessarily complicating them and being less playable)

[griffin]

Official images of MPG-02 Getsuei from the TakaraTomyMall listing (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810140481/)...
(a lot more images and info on their toyline info page here (https://tf.takaratomy.co.jp/products-lineup/tf_mpg/mpg-02) and feature page here (https://tf.takaratomy.co.jp/tf_mpg/mpg-02/), showing comparisons to the original 80s toy)

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/011301.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/011302.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/011303.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/011304.jpg

[griffin]

We now have the first official box image (https://twitter.com/TF_pr/status/1480819268832817152) of MPG-01 Shouki. The box design style is different from that of regular MP box art.

The box image...

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/011305.jpg

[Skyfire]

As impressive as this set will look once complete, in my mind it's a risk problem. MPs can be hit and miss in terms of quality. And the more figures in a set, the more chance for one of them to be bad in some way and cause disappointment that tarnishes the rest, especially for a large combiner that will need strong legs. If Getsuei's joints are loose, and you want Raiden, it'll be sadness at ~$200 each. And with so many to collect, and collecting all is a must, missing out on one is a worry. I'd hate to think about preorders, missed preorders, getting a decent price and so on.

[Dogboy]

I've been sitting on this set far too long.. it's already getting harder to find. I just wish we had more prototype photos of Raiden, as if I were buying him, that would be how I wanted to display him.

Everything so far looks fantastic, the price is the only thing holding me back right now.

[Skyfire]

Some Singapore options for Getsuei preorders ($SGD):

Robo Robo (https://roborobo.com.sg/shop/hasbro/preorder-takaratomy-transformers-mpg-02-masterpiece-trainbot-getsuei/) $170.
The Falcon's Hangar (https://www.tfh.com.sg/product-details.php?p=29309) $160.
Ohmyprimus (https://ohmyprimus.com/ttmpg02.html) $160.

[High_Q]

We have more images (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/05/25/transformers-masterpiece-mpg-01-trainbot-shouki-on-exhibit-at-the-japan-toy-awards-2022-457112) of MPG-01, and also silhouettes of all the other MPG trainbots.

[High_Q]

TakaraTomy Mall has the first official images (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810149316/) of MPG-03 Yukikaze, listed for 19,800Y, with release planned for late FEB 2023.

We have our first official view of the gestalt Raiden's head. It's much more a compromise between the animation model and the original toy design than I expected.

[griffin]

TakaraTomy Mall has the first official images (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810149316/) of MPG-03 Yukikaze, listed for 19,800Y, with release planned for late FEB 2023.

We have our first official view of the gestalt Raiden's head. It's much more a compromise between the animation model and the original toy design than I expected.

The release in America through Hasbro (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/06/08/hot-pre-order-transformers-mpg-03-yukikaze-raiden-combiner-458038), has it for about us$145 in April 2023.

It should show up here at the same sources as the first two. (at EBGames, if not already)

Official images...

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060801.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060802.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060803.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060804.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060805.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060806.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060807.jpg

The group shot of three bots and trains looks really nice, so I think the full set of six will be magnificent... albeit very expensive.

[Autocon]

So one and three are repaints?

[Tha_Phantom]

So one and three are repaints?

No, they form different parts of the combiner so definitely aren't repaints. 1 (aka Shouki) becomes the torso and 3 (aka Yukikaze) becomes a leg.
The kibble ends up in different areas on the bot modes and the train models are different (granted they do appear similar at a glance).

[High_Q]

So one and three are repaints?

IRL, 0 Series Shinkansen (MPG-01 alt mode) and 200 Series Shinkansen (MPG-03 alt mode) appear identical but have different technical specs.

So, 01 and 03 share the same alt mode. However, they have different transformation schemes and bot modes (01 is stocky and 03 not so). For gestalt Raiden mode, 01 forms the torso and 03 the left leg.

[GoktimusPrime]

From Wikipedia:
"The 200 Series Shinkansen trains resembled the earlier 0 series trains in styling (some later units had the pointed 'shark nose' of the 100 series), but were lighter and more powerful, since these two lines are mountain routes and have steeper gradients."

As Tha_Phantom correctly pointed out, Shouki and Yukikaze form different parts of Raiden's body. Also, their individual robot modes look quite different, so even if they were non-combining, they would still end up being different toys. At least by MP standards; just as MP Sideswipe and Sunstreaker are entirely different moulds. I was gonna say that you might get away with shared parts/engineering at CHUG level (e.g. Universe Sideswipe/Sunstreaker), but Univ. Sideswipe and Sunstreaker don't combine. At most you could do it if they were all limbs, but not when one is a torso component and the other is a limb.

Glad to see that progress on the MP Trainbots remain on track.

[Autocon]

Glad to see that progress on the MP Trainbots remain on track.

That it hasnt derailed is a good sign

[KELPIE]

That it hasnt derailed is a good sign

pun intended?

[griffin]

This is a really nicely done promo clip from Japan, of the first three Trainbots in stunning CG animation.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWXJC2-Ar0Q

[griffin]

Looks like the first Trainbot (Shouki) isn't going to be delayed (like most of this year's JP toys so far), as it looks to be out in Asia now, and someone has posted up some first photos of the toy (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/06/18/transformers-masterpiece-mpg-01-shouki-in-hand-images-458739), with some other recent Masterpiece toys.

[GoktimusPrime]

I just paid for my MP Shouki yesterday (via Amiami). Currently processing for shipping. Can't wait! :)

[griffin]

Posted to twitter the other day was some scans (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/07/29/transformers-masterpiece-mpg-raiden-gray-prototype-image-462229) from the newly released 2022 Generations book (in Japan) that had some pages covering the MPG Raiden set, and had an image of a grey prototype of the combined mode.
I hope there is something missing on the front of the abs, as it looks wrong having a gap in there, while the original toy didn't.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/072901.jpg

[griffin]

The second MP Trainbot Getsuei is out in a month's time, but someone has managed to get their hands on several boxed samples (maybe a wholesaler?)... showing us the different modes (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/08/24/transformers-masterpiece-mpg-02-getsuei-in-hand-images-464208) and some comparisons to some other MP toys.

[griffin]

TakaraTomy have just teased us with the final three Trainbots - Suiken in full, while the last two are just silhouettes.
Suiken is to be officially revealed in October (for release in June 2023), while Seizan will be revealed in January next year, and Kaen will be revealed in April.
(screenshot is from tfw2005)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qfq3uqqQ3pI

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/090808.jpg

[griffin]

Official images and listing for the 4th Trainbot (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810149330/) - Suiken, which forms the left arm of Raiden.
It is being released in June 2023 in Japan, for 19,800yen (about au$220).

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/101101.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/101102.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/101103.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/101104.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/101105.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/101106.jpg

Also a promo video shows off the Raiden modes of the MPG-03 (left leg) & MPG-04 (left arm), plus the top torso of Raiden for Suiken to attach to, showing a nice size to the combined mode in the hands of the person combining them.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKPWZDzJ3kU

And from the screenshots (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/10/10/transformers-masterpiece-mpg-03-yukikaze-mpg-04-suiken-promotional-video-combiner-mode-and-more-467706), I put together this combined image, showing the first four Trainbots...

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/101107.jpg

[Shadowgeist]

So I've been patiently waiting for my Shouki pre-order from Mighty Ape and woke up to the below email this morning:



Our supplier has advised us today that they are unable to supply Transformers: Masterpiece - MPG-01 Trainbot Shouki as the product has not been made available within the ANZ territory at Hasbro's decision.

Unfortunately, this means we are currently unable to supply your order(s). This product has been removed from your order(s), and if any payments have been made they will be refunded to the payment method used.

Furthermore, Hasbro has offered all affected customers with $50.00 Account Credit as an apology for the issues surrounding this product's cancellations in this region. Account Credit will be applied directly to each customer account within the next 2-3 business days.

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused.

Kind regards,

From the team at Mighty Ape & Hasbro ANZ.


I'm assuming other retailers are going to have the same issue? Any why so late after release? Makes me wonder about the status of pre-orders for the other 3 Trainbots that have been announced so far.

[griffin]

Did anyone pre-order Shouki through EBGames or Amazon Australia?
This was a toy that was released in Japan in June (2022), and was listed for the same month at EBGames (the product page is gone, so I can't see anything on it).

If it really has failed to come here, perhaps check some of the more regular Asian outlets or HLJ... or America as a last resort, as they were supposed to get it as well.

That will impact future pre-orders of the Trainbots from Australian sources, not only by people who won't trust an Australian release, but also from people who will need to find a foreign source for the first one and stick with them if they definitely want the full set of six.

[griffin]

The ironic thing is that with the removal of the Australian listing for Shouki on Amazon Australia, the new default listing goes to the American stock (https://www.amazon.com.au/Shouki-Trainbot-Transformers-Masterpiece-MPG-01/dp/B0BF3V428J/), which is about $50 cheaper, at about au$248 (price will change as the exchange rate changes) with free shipping for Prime members.
But be quick, as it says that there are only 4 left from Amazon US, and once they are gone, the price will change to reflect the next cheapest 3rd party seller.

[griffin]

The third Trainbot (Yukikaze) is still a couple months away from release, but someone has obtained a promo flyer that they said is with Yukikaze, which shows off Raiden and the six Trainbots... using some artwork and grey prototypes as stand-ins for the final two Trainbots.
https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/12/24/transformers-masterpiece-mpg-03-trainbot-yukikaze-promotional-booklet-images-472837

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/122616.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/122617.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/122618.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/122619.jpg

[High_Q]

First images (https://news.tfw2005.com/2023/05/27/transformers-masterpiece-mpg-06-trainbot-kaen-color-image-484836) of MPG-06 Kaen.

[GoktimusPrime]

Pronunciation tip for Kaen's name: say KA as in karate and EN as in engine.

KAH-EN :)
Avoid mispronouncing it as "Cane."

Kaen means "blaze" in Japanese.

[Ottomatic Transporter]

Is anyone getting MPG-06S? https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810914846/

I'm tempted but don't know where the best place to order it would be.

[Thurmus]

I am tempted. Not sure whether to get them separately locally or as the set from wherever I can.

[Seraphim Prime]

Is anyone getting MPG-06S? https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810914846/

I'm tempted but don't know where the best place to order it would be.

Just be careful - this doesn't actually appear to be a Raiden box set, but rather a set of just Kaen with additional display stands for the other trains

[Ottomatic Transporter]

Just be careful - this doesn't actually appear to be a Raiden box set, but rather a set of just Kaen with additional display stands for the other trains

Haha TT would be losing so much money if they sold the set of six at that price.

[Shadowgeist]

Unless I’ve totally missed it, I haven’t seen Kaen come up for preorder at EB yet. Anyone know whether they’ll be getting Kaen in stock or are they skipping this one after offering all the others previously?

[griffin]

Maybe there wasn't enough demand after the first few to ask Hasbro for the last one.
At least there are much cheaper options if you are okay with importing.

I want to get the boxset version of the sixth Trainbot, but it isn't a general release in Japan so it is a little trickier to secure without having to prepay it in advance.