MP-57 Masterpiece Skyfire Soars Supreme

[GoktimusPrime]

TakaraTOMY have released a teaser image for MP Skyfire:
https://twitter.com/TF_pr/status/1532195302895067137

Speculation: While they haven't revealed the name of the toy, it should be called "Skyfire," not Jetfire, because Jetfire was never called 'Jetfire' in Japan, only Skyfire. The original Jetfire toy was never released in Japan (for obvious reasons); and so the character only existed in the cartoon series in Japan, where he was called "Skyfire." Until the recent brand unification thing, G1 Jetfire has been consistently called "Skyfire" in Japan (e.g. Henkei Skyfire etc.). Masterpiece is a line that appears to be exempt from the brand unification rule; as TakaraTOMY continues to use the Japanese G1 names instead of Anglophone names (e.g. MP Convoy, Bumble etc.); so I would expect that this toy will be called "Skyfire." This will make it the first Transformer toy to be directly modelled after the G1 Skyfire cartoon model and bear the name "Skyfire." Not a Jetfire/Skyfire hybrid like Classics/Henkei or T30, and not called "Jetfire" like Siege.

[DELTAprime]

I can't see much demand for a massively expensive MP Skyfire/Jetfire because of both the decline in the MP line and the already amazing Commander Class Jetfire.

[High_Q]

I can't see much demand for a massively expensive MP Skyfire/Jetfire because of both the decline in the MP line and the already amazing Commander Class Jetfire.

In what ways is the Takara MP line declining, in your view? Is it their design, QC, price?

I might get this since I didn't get the Siege one and, side by side, this MP is much more Sunbow accurate than Siege Jetfire in design and bot mode scale.

I just hope it doesn't include stupid electronic gimmicks like MP-44 and MP-36 did, which i don't think any MP collector wants.

[GoktimusPrime]

I just hope it doesn't include stupid electronic gimmicks like MP-44 and MP-36 did, which i don't think any MP collector wants.
Those sound gimmicks are surprisingly unobtrusive though. :)

[Skyfire]

I guess I have to get this - he's my namesake ;). But I'm expecting some disappointment to go along with my elation. I'm glad I bought the MP-52 trio but they were really expensive and, after getting 3 for 3 cracks in the tailfins (and saying to myself, "The next one will be fine"), as well as some minor cosmetic issues, I am almost expecting some love-hate with the MP-57 I receive. Sigh... and yay at the same time!

I collected a bunch of Bandai Origin of Valkyrie Macross toys to fill my 1980s Jetfire hole (good thing I also like Robotech), but it was my Siege toy that really cured the problem. But having MP-57 would be like reaching back in time and patting a sad little boy on the back and saying, "Hey, look what I got you."

[DELTAprime]

Is it their design, QC, price?


Yes, overly complex design, poor QC and insane prices. Also, their popularity seems to have dropped over the years. A decade ago people on the TF forums seemed much more into MP figures.

[Tha_Phantom]

Also, their popularity seems to have dropped over the years. A decade ago people on the TF forums seemed much more into MP figures.

I'm noticing less sooking lately with things like Skids and Trailbreaker which means less chatter overall. Don't know if that means the popularity has dropped.

[Ralph Wiggum]

Probably opening a can of worms here but how much does TT actually care about the English forums chatter? I mean their marketing and products aren?t exactly prioritising Western audiences. For all I know the Japanese / Asian fans are crying puy for a Skyfire/Jetfire.

[danny-boy]

It?s a TT Mall exclusive. I don?t understand the reasoning behind that.

[High_Q]

Official Takara Tomy Twitter (https://twitter.com/TF_pr) and Taraktomymall (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810133452/) have the first official images in bot, alt and 'GERWALK' modes. Nice detailed (articulated??) minifigs of OP, Jazz and Wheeljack.

Yay! No battery operated gimmicks. 38,500Y.

[Ralph Wiggum]

At 35cm tall, with a very slight bend in the knee he?ll just fit in my display case. Really hoping he?ll be relatively easy to purchase without going through some convoluted price gougy method.

[tinyJazz]

G1 Jazz in the MP line finally

https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/946192044680957952/982149774599946260/IMG_4829.jpg

[KELPIE]

Oh wow, this'll test my resolve.

I'm been keeping an eye on eBay prices for Siege Jetfire... Maybe I just wait for this?

[Ralph Wiggum]

Preordered at Oh My Primus - $320. Not too bad considering the size. At the same time, shipping costs really sucked.

[Skyfire]

G1 Jazz in the MP line finally

https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/946192044680957952/982149774599946260/IMG_4829.jpg

Tiny Jazz for tinyJazz. Ha ha!

[GoktimusPrime]

Official page is up (https://tf.takaratomy.co.jp/products-lineup/tf_mp/mp-57).
Wow... 38.5k JPY = $410 ... this is going to be my single most expensive toy purchase. :o

[Dkaris]

https://www.bigbadtoystore.com/Product/VariationDetails/208223

[griffin]

Mirrored images (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810133452/) and details (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/06/03/transformers-masterpiece-mp-57-skyfire-official-reveal-images-457684)...

The release date is noted as being January 2023, for 38,500yen (currently about au$430)... exclusive to TakaraTomyMall in Japan.
(just noting that this Masterpiece toy is said to be 35cm tall, while the Siege toy was 32cm and had a lot of panel detailing (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php/26562) - the MP toy is mostly flat panels, which does make it look more cartoon accurate)




Design inspired by the G1 cartoon.
35 cm tall. We have comparison shots next to Masterpiece MP-44 Optimus Prime, MP-27 Ironhide and MP-45 Bumblebee 2.0 and MP-52 Starscream 2.0. Quite a tall figure for sure.
Designed by veteran Takara Tomy designer Kojin Ono.
Includes a rifle, stand, 3 interchangeable faces (one of them, G1 toy inspired mask), two big blast effects, Autobot and Decepticon plates (inspired by the classic scene in the “Fire In The Sky” episode) and three mini-figures of Optimus Prime, Wheeljack and Jazz.
The aforementioned mini-figures are articulated and planned to work in the right scale for Skyfire’s jet mode. They fit inside the cockpit and other section of the jet.
Alt mode can still extend the robot arms and legs while transformed as seen in the G1 cartoon.



http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060302.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060303.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060304.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060305.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060306.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060307.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/060308.jpg

[DELTAprime]

I think MP fans will be very happy, provided the QC is actually decent.

[Sinnertwin]

An extra $20 ($300 v $320 at OMP) for almost double the height.. seems like a much simpler design philosophy than MP52.

[GoktimusPrime]

The release date is noted as being January 2023, for 38,500yen (currently about au$430)... exclusive to TakaraTomyMall in Japan.
(just noting that this Masterpiece toy is said to be 35cm tall, while the Siege toy was 32cm and had a lot of panel detailing (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php/26562) - the MP toy is mostly flat panels, which does make it look more cartoon accurate)
Yeah, I wouldn't blame anyone for just hanging onto Siege Jetfire and skipping MP Skyfire entirely. I've pre-ordered this toy, but totally understand others who won't. This must be the second most expensive TF ever other than HasLab Unicron (that toy's RRP is likely to be unbeaten for quite some time (if ever) ;)).


An extra $20 ($300 v $320 at OMP) for almost double the height.. seems like a much simpler design philosophy than MP52.
Most likely because Skyfire's design is 100% Floro Dery Sunbow cartoon, whereas MP52 also has to resemble a real-world F15 Eagle; so it's got all those real-life panel lines etc. Since Skyfire's design is entirely fictitious, it's gonna be plain as Jane. Also, they want to offer something different; if you want a more detailed looking Skyfire toy, then Siege Jetfire has you covered (and for a fraction of the price). :) I must say that I'm not a big fan of the pouty lips on MP Skyfire's face. Hopefully it will look better IRL.

[High_Q]

This must be the second most expensive TF ever other than HasLab Unicron (that toy's RRP is likely to be unbeaten for quite some time (if ever) ;)).

Didn't MP-44 Convoy retail for higher than what MP Skyfire will?

[Tha_Phantom]

Most likely because Skyfire's design is 100% Floro Dery Sunbow cartoon, whereas MP52 also has to resemble a real-world F15 Eagle; so it's got all those real-life panel lines etc. Since Skyfire's design is entirely fictitious, it's gonna be plain as Jane.

Plus the Seekers look more complex than Skyfire appears to be. Parts count affects price too.


Didn't MP-44 Convoy retail for higher than what MP Skyfire will?

Correct. Worth noting that even the Nemesis version of MP44 is close in price to Skyfire and that's without a trailer, so it must have a fairly high parts count by comparison.

[Defcon]

The clean aesthetics really appeals for the classic character. The siege version is really amazing, but has a few extra details on panels. If I?m wanting a pure classic look, this masterpiece really hits the mark.

[griffin]

MP Skyfire is likely to have harder plastic too, for greater durability and appearance of greater quality (it's like comparing Siege Hound with MP Hound, the type of plastics used is completely different)... which is probably another reason why there is limited detailing on the panels. It might also lead to it being less flexible on any really tight joints, and this is a big toy, which will increase the load-bearing requirement of joints and transformation panels.

[Jetfire in the sky]

I guess I have to get this - he's my namesake ;). But I'm expecting some disappointment to go along with my elation. I'm glad I bought the MP-52 trio but they were really expensive and, after getting 3 for 3 cracks in the tailfins (and saying to myself, "The next one will be fine"), as well as some minor cosmetic issues, I am almost expecting some love-hate with the MP-57 I receive. Sigh... and yay at the same time!

I collected a bunch of Bandai Origin of Valkyrie Macross toys to fill my 1980s Jetfire hole (good thing I also like Robotech), but it was my Siege toy that really cured the problem. But having MP-57 would be like reaching back in time and patting a sad little boy on the back and saying, "Hey, look what I got you."

Just being immature here but I'm glad you filled your 1980's Jetfire hole. I never managed that

[drifand]

While I do have Fanstoys, I would recommend this piece over Fanstoys these days.

The only thing I wished this piece had the anime toon face plate instead of just the silver options.

[Kranix]

I'm sticking with my Siege Skyfire (only non MP in my collection) as he fits my collection a bit better and looks incredible to me, but this guy looks fantastic too Will be an amazing addition to modern MP collections.

[GoktimusPrime]

Didn't MP-44 Convoy retail for higher than what MP Skyfire will?
I sit corrected. :)

[High_Q]

Here's a new video of MP Skyfire (https://youtu.be/PuCj45VzpKQ) with brief segments of it being transformed, especially between 0:29 to 0:50. Slowing the playback speed to x0.5 helps improve viewing experience.

MP Skyfire has a long face compared to how he appeared in the cartoon most of the time.
http://i.imgur.com/0ltc70Em.png (https://imgur.com/0ltc70E)

I would have preferred if they shortened it a bit like this. Maybe a 3rd party can make these:
http://i.imgur.com/Q1MHsHAm.png (https://imgur.com/Q1MHsHA)

[Deano85]

MP Skyfire is likely to have harder plastic too, for greater durability and appearance of greater quality (it's like comparing Siege Hound with MP Hound, the type of plastics used is completely different)... which is probably another reason why there is limited detailing on the panels. It might also lead to it being less flexible on any really tight joints, and this is a big toy, which will increase the load-bearing requirement of joints and transformation panels.

Didn't a lot of people have issues with their MP Hound breaking ?

[Omega Metro]

I haven’t bought a proper Masterpiece in years but this does tickle my fancy as he is my favourite Transformer. The AU price is ridiculous though

[Sinnertwin]

https://mobile.twitter.com/ArrvlFrmCybrtrn/status/1537038093756387328

Transformation vid

[GoktimusPrime]

MP Skyfire has a long face compared to how he appeared in the cartoon most of the time.
http://i.imgur.com/0ltc70Em.png (https://imgur.com/0ltc70E)
<insert obligatory "Why the long face?" joke here> :p

The face seems to be proportionately the same as the cartoon model; between 2.5 nose lengths from brow to chin.
https://i.ibb.co/h760zZ4/mp-skyfire-face.jpg
Bear in mind that the cartoon model here is show from a low angle vs the toy photo being taken from a front angle. Skyfire is often drawn from a low angle to emphasise how much larger he is compared to other Cybertronians. As such, his chin is often obscured by the top of the chest. I've taken the cartoon model and drawn it in to show how long it should be. The long face is the result of Jet/Skyfire's cartoon/comic model being derived from the Macross VF-1S Valkyrie. If you look at earlier versions of Skyfire's cartoon model (https://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/9/9b/EvolutionSkyfire.jpg), you can see how it evolved from the Macross Valkyrie to the final image. While many features were drastically changed, Jet/Skyfire's proportions are basically the same as the Macross Valkyrie, including the longish head. The TV commercial for G1 Jetfire uses the Mk I design for Jetfire's media model. AFAIK, Mk II and III have never made any media appearance; and obviously Mk IV is what Marvel and Sunbow ran with in the G1 comics and cartoon respectively.

Also, 2 dimensional images often look different in 3D. It's the reason why no 2D map of Earth can ever be as accurate as a globe (any more than a 2D map of a human face can look as realistic as a 3D sculpture; just ask G1 Ratchet and Ironhide :p).

[griffin]

Here's a new video of MP Skyfire (https://youtu.be/PuCj45VzpKQ) with brief segments of it being transformed, especially between 0:29 to 0:50. Slowing the playback speed to x0.5 helps improve viewing experience.

The video wasn't there (for me)... was it the same as the one from twitter a few posts up?


This was an official video from TakaraTomy, but doesn't have the transformation in the twitter video...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prx5W5_uyvk

[Magnus]

Didn't a lot of people have issues with their MP Hound breaking ?

Yes, and TakaraTOMY's response was that a different plastic was used at the factory when Hound was mass-produced.

https://news.tfw2005.com/2020/02/09/tfw2005-reports-from-wonderfest-takara-tomy-representatives-declarations-extra-images-from-the-event-404884

Not that I've been paying close attention to news about subsequent Masterpiece figures, but I understand that since then, the only instances of of plastic cracking was on some joints on MP-52, so it seems that they're being careful with the plastic they're selecting.

[High_Q]

The video wasn't there (for me)... was it the same as the one from twitter a few posts up?


It's not the same one as Twitter's. It has since been removed but someone uploaded again here (https://youtu.be/dfPqzBri6Ms).

[GoktimusPrime]

Didn't a lot of people have issues with their MP Hound breaking ?
Yes, although there have been no reports about this issue with any subsequent MPs, so it does appear that TakaraTOMY has addressed the issue since Hound.

[Skyfire]

Just being immature here but I'm glad you filled your 1980's Jetfire hole. I never managed that

Don't worry JITS, MP-57 should be plenty for you! Ha ha!

After watching the video, it looks like a straight forward transformation. I'm loving it, loving the minifigs (Wheeljack has his hypnochip disrupter from The Ultimate Doom) and also loving the lower-than-expected price - I really thought he'd be above $600.

[High_Q]

A 30min review (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0Uuf5n3-ww) of MP-57 Skyfire by a Japanese reviewer. I wasn't expecting a review this early.

[danny-boy]

10 out of 10. That’s perfection.

[Ralph Wiggum]

A 30min review (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0Uuf5n3-ww) of MP-57 Skyfire by a Japanese reviewer. I wasn't expecting a review this early.

No box or manual in the review makes me think it was a factory leak. I recall around the time of the announcement there were already pics of Skyfire in-hand. There must be some real issues with leaks in those Chinese factories.

[GoktimusPrime]

No box or manual in the review makes me think it was a factory leak. I recall around the time of the announcement there were already pics of Skyfire in-hand. There must be some real issues with leaks in those Chinese factories.
Yeah, for this reason I deliberately have not clicked on that link. Besides, TakaraTOMY already released photos and an official showcase video. I refuse to give views to people who support thieves.

[reillyd]

No box or manual in the review makes me think it was a factory leak. I recall around the time of the announcement there were already pics of Skyfire in-hand. There must be some real issues with leaks in those Chinese factories.

For a small toy, like a legends, or MAYBE even a deluxe I can understand someone slipping it under their clothing, or carrying it out in their prison pocket. But for a masterpiece size Jetfire, which is hulking huge relative to your typical masterpiece car, I can’t see how someone doesn’t notice that walking out the door. The official Takara video and pictures are enough without rewarding outright theft.

[Sinnertwin]

For a small toy, like a legends, or MAYBE even a deluxe I can understand someone slipping it under their clothing, or carrying it out in their prison pocket. But for a masterpiece size Jetfire, which is hulking huge relative to your typical masterpiece car, I can�t see how someone doesn�t notice that walking out the door. The official Takara video and pictures are enough without rewarding outright theft.

Slip a few dollars into the right hands at lunch time & selective blindness is real..

I like to the think they Shawshank Redemptioned it and dug a hole.in the wall while taking a piece out daily.

[Dangermot]

No box or manual in the review makes me think it was a factory leak. I recall around the time of the announcement there were already pics of Skyfire in-hand. There must be some real issues with leaks in those Chinese factories.

The scuttlebutt on TFW2005 is that Takara sent him a prototype for review, hence why no box or manual. Nothing to do with "supporting thievery" or other wild conspiracy theories. Sheesh!

[High_Q]

The reviewer's pinned first comment on this video indicates that the reviewer received permission from Takara Tomy to publish this review using an MP-57 sample. (This is based off Google Translate since i don't read Japanese.)

Also, this review is approvingly linked from Takara Tomy's official Twitter account.

[valkyrie_76]

So no pitchforks then?

And no to tinfoil hats?

Man thats boring.

:rolleyes:

[Ralph Wiggum]

Nah, I’m going with the narrative that Skyfire was smuggled out of a Chinese factory in someone’s butthole and TakaraTomy were so impressed that they officially endorsed the review as a sign of reverence.

[Magnus]

The reviewer's pinned first comment on this video indicates that the reviewer received permission from Takara Tomy to publish this review using an MP-57 sample. (This is based off Google Translate since i don't read Japanese.)

Also, this review is approvingly linked from Takara Tomy's official Twitter account.

Yes, and the same thing was typed in the video's description - that this video was a 'tie-up' with TakaraTOMY and that he had access to a development sample for the video.

[GoktimusPrime]

I would be surprised if a Japanese reviewer had a stolen sample, given:
a/ how tightly enforced IP laws are in Japan, and...
b/ the general attitude from Japanese fans towards intellectual property
c/ how strict TakaraTOMY are towards any potential IP infringement

I've seen Japanese fans criticise people if they so much as fail to give proper credit for the source of images.
Glad to hear that the toy was legitimately obtained. :)

[Sinnertwin]

So no pitchforks then?

And no to tinfoil hats?

Man thats boring.

:rolleyes:

IKR?
I'm off to support legitimate YouTube criminals like Prime v Prime...

[griffin]

A 30min review (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0Uuf5n3-ww) of MP-57 Skyfire by a Japanese reviewer. I wasn't expecting a review this early.

As noted, it is said to be an official loaning out of the toy to a fan reviewer... like Hasbro did with us 2 years ago with Studio Series Starscream.

Some screenshots from here (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/07/02/transformers-masterpiece-mp-57-skyfire-in-hand-images-459795)...

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/070201.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/070202.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/070203.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/070204.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2022/070205.jpg

That is a BIG toy... but I think it is going to be very hollow for stability of the joints and to hold together in jet mode, which might make it feel a little cheap.

The figurines have moving arms and legs, which is amazing for their size.

[High_Q]

The figurines have moving arms and legs, which is amazing for their size.

I want TakaraTOMY to sell a line of just the mini articulated but non-transformable MP figurines to go with their MPG 'Giant' line.

[Kranix]

It's interesting looking at that picture, MP-36 Megatron now looks more like the earlier Masterpiece figures than the newer figures. They really have nailed that toon aesthetic with the newer figures, including Skyfire.

[High_Q]

It's interesting looking at that picture, MP-36 Megatron now looks more like the earlier Masterpiece figures than the newer figures. They really have nailed that toon aesthetic with the newer figures, including Skyfire.

Give it two or three years before we see G1 Masterpieces that look like Super 7 Ultimates figures. lol Not that i would mind that. As for Megatron, please give us MP Soundwave v2 before giving us MP Megs v3.

[GoktimusPrime]

As for Megatron, please give us MP Soundwave v2 before giving us MP Megs v3.
Please give us MP any other G1 before revisiting already MPed G1 TFs (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php/21428-The-Random-Transformers-Thoughts-Thread?p=653288#post653288)! Especially finishing off the first year of Autobots!

[Sinnertwin]

Please give us MP any other G1 before revisiting already MPed G1 TFs (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php/21428-The-Random-Transformers-Thoughts-Thread?p=653288#post653288)! Especially finishing off the first year of Autobots!

Yes. So much yes.

[Magnus]

In his review, Wotafa said that Skyfire was 35cm tall in robot mode, 41cm long in jet mode, and has a wingspan of 42cm. For comparison, War for Cybertron: Siege Jetfire is 30.6cm tall, 37cm long in jet mode, and has a wing span of 33cm.

Until we see MP-57 next to Siege Jetfire, we won't know how much bigger he ends up looking, but we can make some indirect comparisons. A few years ago, I took a photo of Siege Jetfire next to some MP Autobots, including MP-10, who stands at about the same height as MP-44.

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

At a glance, it looks like the top of Siege Jetfire's head will come up to the bottom of MP-57's nose.

[Other]

Here we go, a pic of the two Jetfires side by side, not straight on or ideal lighting conditions but it'll do
https://i.imgur.com/sPVUMin.jpg
https://www.taghobby.com/archives/639397

[griffin]

More photos from that HK exhibition (https://news.tfw2005.com/2022/07/30/acghk-2022-hasbro-booth-images-haslab-victory-saber-masterpiece-legacy-more-462350), of Skyfire and various other toys from this year.

[Jetfire in the sky]

I guess I have to get this - he's my namesake ;). But I'm expecting some disappointment to go along with my elation. I'm glad I bought the MP-52 trio but they were really expensive and, after getting 3 for 3 cracks in the tailfins (and saying to myself, "The next one will be fine"), as well as some minor cosmetic issues, I am almost expecting some love-hate with the MP-57 I receive. Sigh... and yay at the same time!

I collected a bunch of Bandai Origin of Valkyrie Macross toys to fill my 1980s Jetfire hole (good thing I also like Robotech), but it was my Siege toy that really cured the problem. But having MP-57 would be like reaching back in time and patting a sad little boy on the back and saying, "Hey, look what I got you."

LOL, despite my name, Skyfire is close to my heart, this is a definite Skyfire figure and a brilliant one at that.

[Kranix]

I'm a huge Jetfire fan. He is the only second hand Transformer in my collection because I didn't get him as a child and no reissue options obviously. He is one figure I would not sell. I also really liked the Skyfire character from the cartoon. He was a grail MP for me for a long time. However, looking at that picture of Seige version next to the MP, I'm comfortable with my decision to keep Seige Jetfire as my only non MP in my masterpiece collection. Something I never thought I would do! He fits and has the look I personally like. I understand that would not be the case for others of course. Purely a personal thing.

[Seraphim Prime]

It's an interesting one.

Seeing the two side by side shows that the MP line is increasingly focusing on toon accuracy (although trying to set a "rule" for Masterpiece seems like a fools errand at this point). The face is definitely more 80's cartoon vibe and more solid block colour and shiny finish.

The Siege one is more in line with with what MP10 was promising - the pinnacle hybrid release of realistic vehicle, intuitive transformation, and show-like figure

[Autocon]

Going to say it..... MP looks like an upscale kiddy version of seige. Like lego and duplo.

[griffin]

The long awaited Masterpiece, Skyfire, has now been released in Japan this week, and some in-hand images have been posted up already...
https://news.tfw2005.com/2023/01/28/transformers-masterpiece-mp-57-skyfire-in-hands-images-474118

The box looks to be a fair bit bigger than MP-44 Optimus version 3, but significantly cheaper. Optimus was 50,000yen, while Skyfire was 38,000yen.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013004.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013005.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013006.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013007.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013008.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013009.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013010.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013011.jpg

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013012.jpg

[Ralph Wiggum]

Mag-goddamn-nificent. Hopefully this pays off for TT and they will continue to make some bolder choices in character releases.

[Skyfire]

Official Takara Tomy transformation video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVMzXfAxPH0).

[Skyfire]

The official nett weight on the factory carton says 4.11kg for 2 pieces, so one weighs just over 2kg. It's something to bear in mind when buying from overseas. It makes the Popcultcha (https://www.popcultcha.com.au/transformers-generation-1-autobot-skyfire-masterpiece-edition-mp-57-action-figure.html) price pretty good when they have their occasional 20% off action figures sales as shipping is free, but the release date is May and you would have to wait until a sale comes around once it's in stock (fortunately their MPs tend to shelfwarm).

[Tha_Phantom]

The box looks to be a fair bit bigger than MP-44 Optimus version 3, but significantly cheaper. Optimus was 50,000yen, while Skyfire was 38,000yen.

The figure looks much simpler than MP-44 though, so it would have a lower parts count overall. I also note it does not have as many accessories as MP-44 had.
We saw too that the Skids mould was cheaper than previous MP cars due to being simpler in engineering - it was half the price of Hound for instance. I'm glad that Takara have gone in this direction though. :)

[Paulbot]

The box looks to be a fair bit bigger than MP-44 Optimus version 3, but significantly cheaper. Optimus was 50,000yen, while Skyfire was 38,000yen.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/news/2023/013006.jpg

I am happy with the Siege toy, but looking at the smoother MP without all that extra WFC panel detailing does make him look quite good



The figure looks much simpler than MP-44 though, so it would have a lower parts count overall. I also note it does not have as many accessories as MP-44 had.
We saw too that the Skids mould was cheaper than previous MP cars due to being simpler in engineering - it was half the price of Hound for instance. I'm glad that Takara have gone in this direction though. :)

I am still crossing my fingers for a new release of MP-44 without the trailer and Roller and all that to bring the price down to something I want to pay.

[GoktimusPrime]

Mag-goddamn-nificent. Hopefully this pays off for TT and they will continue to make some bolder choices in character releases.
TakaraTOMY have made bold MP choices before; some arguably too bold, as those toys weren't very commercially successful.
e.g. MP Road Rage (as a mass store release), MP Star Sabre etc.
Even the MP Trainbots are a risk being based on 1987 Middle-G1 characters, not to mention the long term investment from collectors in collecting the whole set over an extended period (which HasTak have previously done with Studio Series ROTF Devastator).

At the end of the day, it's up to us fans. We all vote with our wallets. :)

[danny-boy]

I pre-ordered MP-57 but I’m worried about yellowing. My MP-30 Ratchet has yellowed badly. MP-17+ Prowl and MP-20+ Wheeljack are still holding up fine though.

[High_Q]

I pre-ordered MP-57 but I�m worried about yellowing. My MP-30 Ratchet has yellowed badly. MP-17+ Prowl and MP-20+ Wheeljack are still holding up fine though.

Are your TFs under prolonged exposure to direct sunlight?

[danny-boy]

Are your TFs under prolonged exposure to direct sunlight?

Not even close to sunlight. It’s strange, never had a figure go yellow in all my years of collecting except MP-30 Ratchet. It has to be something with the finishing as different parts are yellowing. Never liked TT’s effort so happy to get rid of it as soon as a good 3rd party offering comes along.

[Skyfire]

I guess I have to get this - he's my namesake ;). But I'm expecting some disappointment to go along with my elation... I am almost expecting some love-hate with the MP-57 I receive. Sigh... and yay at the same time!... having MP-57 would be like reaching back in time and patting a sad little boy on the back and saying, "Hey, look what I got you."

I got my copy and have not transformed him yet, but first impressions:

All love and no hate! He's immense. I've had so much fun flying him around. The cosmetic finish is great. Just a faintness of red paint transfer from the "backpack" onto the forward fuselage. But the faces and insignia are perfect and the minifigures are painted impossibly well. The flight stand connector obstructs side tilting as Skyfire is too heavy; he can only pitch up or down slightly and is really meant to be level. My only issue so far is a bit of warping of the starboard flap, exactly the same as the model in the Takara Tomy transformation video. Also Wheeljack's hip and shoulder joints are a little loose/dislocatable (like some previous MP humans) but the other two minifigures are good and the elbows on these minifigures are super solid.

Speaking of the video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVMzXfAxPH0), the manual and video say to unfold the wings and vertical stabilisers out of the box, but the video also points out at 30sec to clip a bottom tab through a hole at the bottom of the jet. I can't remember if mine was untabbed out of the box (I noticed it when fiddling with the nose in order to inspect Skyfire's head), but after tabbing it in, the side profile looked more in line. I watched a youtube unboxing and that copy was untabbed.

I'm having so much fun that I think this is going to be my 2nd or 3rd favourite TF I own (the top being MP-36 Megatron, and the other MP-44 Optimus). That little boy who was disappointed G1 toy Jetfire didn't look like TV Jetfire is truly at peace.

[griffin]

I am happy with the Siege toy, but looking at the smoother MP without all that extra WFC panel detailing does make him look quite good


This is why I would like to have both, because I love the detailing on the Seige toy as it would have looked cheap without it... but on the other hand, I love the simple flatness of the Masterpiece toy because it looks like it has come straight out of the TV screen.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

I prefer the Siege version personally. Glad there's a cartoon-y version for those that want it though. :)

[GoktimusPrime]

Not even close to sunlight. It’s strange, never had a figure go yellow in all my years of collecting except MP-30 Ratchet. It has to be something with the finishing as different parts are yellowing.
Is there any sunlight that gets in at all? Because in my experience, even the tiniest sliver of sunlight can photodegrade toys. In 2016 I moved my toys to a new TF room where 99% of incoming sunlight is blocked out. But just recently I looked at my Jetwing Optimus Prime toy, which was standing near where a tiny sliver of light comes in and doesn't even directly hit any toys... and his smokestacks were yellowed. If you look at my Bayformers Optimus Prime vs Megatron TFTM re-enactment (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php/29511-TFTM-Optimus-Prime-vs-Megatron-re-enactments), you can see his yellowed smokestacks. Since then not only have I painted the smokestacks silver, but I've also added an extra layer of brown paper over that small gap where that sliver of light gets in. Note that this sliver was still obstructed by a closed blind and drape, but there was light bleeding from the very top near the ceiling that would bounce off the ceiling and onto the toy. I've blu-tacked the top of the brown paper onto the ceiling so that it now covers that offending top gap. In short, your toy room should be like a dark room... and then even darker. :) Dark enough to develop film.

I have learnt the hard way that any amount of sunlight that creeps into a toy room, no matter how small, can discolour toys. Now I got MP Ratchet after I moved, and that toy has never yellowed at all. Only DOTM Optimus Prime had some yellowing, but only because that toy sits on a ceiling high top shelf near where the light was leaking in from. And even then, only the rubber smoke stacks yellowed; no other part, and no other toys. Not even my CHUG Sixshot and Horrorcons who have white and light-grey coloured parts and are also near that ceiling corner. I'm going to add another layer of paper over that existing layer just to make it even darker.

If you can, consider UV tinting your room windows, but yeah, definitely block out all incoming sunlight from any windows. Aside from DOTM OP's smokestacks, I have experienced zero photodegradation since 2016.

[Cat]

This is why I would like to have both, because I love the detailing on the Seige toy as it would have looked cheap without it... but on the other hand, I love the simple flatness of the Masterpiece toy because it looks like it has come straight out of the TV screen.

I agree, I'm going to be glad to have both. They fill different niches for me, and I honestly never thought we'd have an official Masterpiece version, so I'm beyond the moon at where we are right now. Conversely the Siege Leader is a great figure and really sets off my Trilogy figures. It's a show piece of its own.

[danny-boy]

Is there any sunlight that gets in at all? Because in my experience, even the tiniest sliver of sunlight can photodegrade toys. In 2016 I moved my toys to a new TF room where 99% of incoming sunlight is blocked out. But just recently I looked at my Jetwing Optimus Prime toy, which was standing near where a tiny sliver of light comes in and doesn't even directly hit any toys... and his smokestacks were yellowed. If you look at my Bayformers Optimus Prime vs Megatron TFTM re-enactment (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php/29511-TFTM-Optimus-Prime-vs-Megatron-re-enactments), you can see his yellowed smokestacks. Since then not only have I painted the smokestacks silver, but I've also added an extra layer of brown paper over that small gap where that sliver of light gets in. Note that this sliver was still obstructed by a closed blind and drape, but there was light bleeding from the very top near the ceiling that would bounce off the ceiling and onto the toy. I've blu-tacked the top of the brown paper onto the ceiling so that it now covers that offending top gap. In short, your toy room should be like a dark room... and then even darker. :) Dark enough to develop film.

I have learnt the hard way that any amount of sunlight that creeps into a toy room, no matter how small, can discolour toys. Now I got MP Ratchet after I moved, and that toy has never yellowed at all. Only DOTM Optimus Prime had some yellowing, but only because that toy sits on a ceiling high top shelf near where the light was leaking in from. And even then, only the rubber smoke stacks yellowed; no other part, and no other toys. Not even my CHUG Sixshot and Horrorcons who have white and light-grey coloured parts and are also near that ceiling corner. I'm going to add another layer of paper over that existing layer just to make it even darker.

If you can, consider UV tinting your room windows, but yeah, definitely block out all incoming sunlight from any windows. Aside from DOTM OP's smokestacks, I have experienced zero photodegradation since 2016.

Do you mean natural day light entering the room? Because directly opposite the display there’s a window about 6 metres away. Direct sunlight only gets as far as 1 metre in.

[GoktimusPrime]

Do you mean natural day light entering the room? Because directly opposite the display there’s a window about 6 metres away. Direct sunlight only gets as far as 1 metre in.
Believe me, that's more than enough to photodegrade your toys, even if they're not in the direct path of the sunlight. The sunlight was only getting a few cm and it was enough to yellow the smokestacks on my Jetwing OP.

Here is what the window looks like...
https://i.ibb.co/fG406cp/window-uv.jpg
Left: Window's location in my TF room with the semi-exposed part circled. It's really small and tucked into that corner, and yet it was still enough to do some damage, but only to the toy sitting right next to it. None of my other toys have been affected.
Centre: Close-up of the semi-exposed area. As you can see, I've covered it up with a cloth-wall hanging poster and even stuck some pieces of cardboard on the top to shield light from coming through the top gap. You can also see the brown paper sheet that I've recently added; that's attached to the ceiling's skirting. I'm going to attach a second sheet of brown paper to cover that remaining gap and produce complete darkness.
Right: This is a window in a different room, but it's the exact same style and size as the one in my TF room. It comes with a solid roller-blind which works well in blocking out sunlight, but as you can see, without any additional obstructions, the sunlight still shines through around the edges, creating a rectangular halo. It's the upper halo (highlighted in yellow) that I hadn't adequately blocked off before and caused yellowing.

So in my experience, you need to block out ALL sunlight, because even indirect ambient natural sunlight that gets into the room can still yellow plastic. It should be blocked out so well that if you walk into the room in the middle of a sunny day with the lights off, it should be pitch dark as if it's midnight. This is what I had achieved except for that tiny top corner, but that little corner with just a limited amount of soft ambient sunlight was still enough to cause damage! You've gotta treat your toys as if they're even more heliophobic than vampires! ;)

[danny-boy]

So in my experience, you need to block out ALL sunlight, because even indirect ambient natural sunlight that gets into the room can still yellow plastic. It should be blocked out so well that if you walk into the room in the middle of a sunny day with the lights off, it should be pitch dark as if it's midnight. This is what I had achieved except for that tiny top corner, but that little corner with just a limited amount of soft ambient sunlight was still enough to cause damage! You've gotta treat your toys as if they're even more heliophobic than vampires! ;)

Thanks for the detailed info. I had no idea. This makes me even more nervous for MP-57 Skyfire but I know now I’ll need to take the necessary precautions to avoid yellowing.

[Skyfire]

I transformed him to robot and it's quite straightforward but there are some (particularly one) troublesome areas.

1. If you find the heels aren't going straight (flat), then the heel edge is hitting the lower edge of a circular part. To get beyond it, you have to angle the forefoot (toes) up, while keeping the heel steady, which will angle the circular part upwards and out of the way. Then you can complete rotating the heel.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52684397253_83d056c253_k.jpg


2. There is zero clearance when rotating the forward fuselage toward the chest. You lower the part surrounding the head as much as possible then the cockpit/nose part seems obstructed. If you push down on the nose towards the chest, it will rotate at exactly the area where parts are touching - like a hinge joint.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52684397503_e7b46c18cb_k.jpg


3. When folding back the flap between the backpack halves, it seems impossible due to the tabs obstructing. Push each half apart with a thumb simultaneously to get the tabs out of the way, then guide the flap down with your index fingers.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52684183409_003a595a14_k.jpg


4a. Compressing the two halves of the backpack together was frustrating and worrying. For ages, I couldn't get the two to join. Firstly, follow the Takara Tomy video, as some youtubers e.g. EmGo have mistransformed this section - the bottom of the backpack (the exhausts part) must be pushed up first before the halves are joined. Otherwise a gap is left at the bottom as the "sliding door" (see below) prevents further upwards movement. In the picture, the left half side is how it should be - the halves should be touching the white stem i.e. fully in the midline.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52684325325_c2cd843a71_k.jpg


4b. A word of warning - as I was fiddling with this area a lot, I pushed down the bottom backpack section on a seam, which broke the glue. I suggest pulling on the corners of the rectangular areas (not sure I would pull forcefully and repeatedly on the exhausts).

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52684325560_0b943eb87f_h.jpg


4c. The problem I had with joining the backpack halves was I felt something obstructing the bottom of the backpack, stopping the halves from reaching the midline. It was a squishy but definite blocking sensation. So I opened one wing side to see what the obstruction was, which you might want to do. I noticed that when the bottom section was not pushed up, the halves came together easily. So something about the bottom part was obstructing - the "sliding door".

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52684398823_1c7aa6c22e_h.jpg


4d. When the backpack halves are pushed together, there is a piece at the exhaust assembly that becomes exposed like a "sliding door". This strikes the edge of a rectangular hole in the swinging wing assembly, giving that squishy block when the halves move to the midline. To get past this, you have to push the two halves together where that obstruction occurs EXTREMELY hard. I felt I was going to break something. I suggest opening one wing assembly and looking at how the parts move - At first, join the halves with the bottom section down (mistransformed like EmGo) to see how they come together. Then try transforming correctly but just pushing one half in forcefully while seeing what this sliding door is doing. Basically, it's poor clearance. But thankfully, separating the backpack halves (transforming back) requires not much force. I think with repeated transforming, the clearance will improve (or something breaks). This sliding door is also the reason why you can't join the halves then push the bottom up - the sliding door obstructs full movement.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52683902146_7d608e6738_h.jpg


4e. If you feel a rock hard obstruction when joining the halves, check that the edges of the top of the backpack halves aren't hitting the white stem.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52683536407_b9819a097a_h.jpg

[Jetfire in the sky]

Do you mean natural day light entering the room? Because directly opposite the display there�s a window about 6 metres away. Direct sunlight only gets as far as 1 metre in.

I can tell you hand to heart, ANY natural light direct or indirect will F-up the colour of your toys eventually, grey around 1986 onwards and almost any white will degrade. There is a temperature/humidity factor in a darkened room as well.

[KELPIE]

I transformed him to robot and it's quite straightforward but there are some (particularly one) troublesome areas.

This is an awesome post. Thanks for the details....


.... I might leave mine in box :P

[danny-boy]

Received mine. The jet mode is absolutely gorgeous. I want to buy another copy but these MP’s are so damn expensive.

[GoktimusPrime]

Just FYI there is an MP-57 Skyfire review thread here (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php/29539-Toy-Review-SKYFIRE-(Masterpiece)). :)