FP Crossfire Side Story - Causality

[kaiden]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs058.snc6/168867_154712637912840_100001223132070_326861_1090 48_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1355.snc4/162749_154727734577997_100001223132070_326938_6944 62_n.jpghttp://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs006.snc6/165634_154727744577996_100001223132070_326939_2893 779_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs071.snc6/168114_154727857911318_100001223132070_326945_8062 932_n.jpghttp://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs762.ash1/165384_154727704578000_100001223132070_326937_3029 004_n.jpg

CA-01 Warcry [Munitioner repaint/redeco - March Release]
CA-02 Flameblast [Explorer repaint/redeco - April]
CA-03 Stormshred [NEW - May]
CA-04 Thunderbomb [NEW - June]
CA-05 Backfire [NEW - July]
CA-06 [NEW]
CA-07 [NEW]

Comparison Photos:

Warcry/Munitioner

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs744.ash1/163651_154727824577988_100001223132070_326943_6636 405_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs036.snc6/166609_154727774577993_100001223132070_326940_2185 491_n.jpg

Flameblast/Explorer

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs756.ash1/164752_154727844577986_100001223132070_326944_3535 364_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs012.snc6/166289_154727794577991_100001223132070_326941_7773 530_n.jpg

NEW 22/02/11

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/181939_166966713354099_100001223132070_396991_3999 463_n.jpghttp://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/183822_166966680020769_100001223132070_396989_1198 921_n.jpg

*will update as more information is revealed

[Tallestblue]

I wonder what this is. And if FP is gonna realise they spelled "Causality" wrong. Or "Casualty."?

[FFN]

Venksta mentioned awhile back that their original-design animal combiner had been shelved for "something cooler". I think they realised that few would care about their original designs compared to people's desire for them to plug gaps into their Classics collections.

Which is probably why Munitioner and Explorer here are decoed after Leyland and Shuttle Gunner from Operation: Combination.


I wonder what this is. And if FP is gonna realise they spelled "Causality" wrong. Or "Casualty."? Yeah, that was the first thing I noticed. Unless it's intentional engrish.

[spooniebeard]

The more I look at it the more I'm convinced it's not a combiner but a series of 5 stand alone figures. The Knee on Warcry is flat, without the peg that attached to the foot piece.
The easiest way to release a repaint of the figures without the hassle of the rest of the combiner.

I'm going with causality since they got so close to it.
cause and effect. Very interesting.

[liegeprime]

Hmm seems to me that the 3 more blackened figures kinda look like ... insecticons:). I dont think this will be a combiner group....

[FFN]

Might just be artists' choice because the pegs looked a little dorky. Flameblast there seems to be missing the pin that holds the feet together in vehicle/arm mode.

Then again you may be right. I recall Venksta or somebody saying "Crossfire" referred to people outside of FansProject designing certain figures, not combiners exclusively.

[Hursticon]

Hmm seems to me that the 3 more blackened figures kinda look like ... insecticons:). I dont think this will be a combiner group....

I reckon your spot on there Liege, I too think they look like the silhouettes of some updated Insecticons! :D - which would be incredibly awesome as they'll no doubt be of top quality and design and I agree that I don't think these figures are going to be combiners either as the Munitioner and Explorer look slightly retooled as well as repainted in that artist impression. :cool:
(Note: The head of Explorer, his sword and Munitioner's cannon wrists ;):))

[kup]

I also don't think these guys will combine. However I am pretty sure the silhouettes are Insecticons as in Bombshell, Shrapnel and Kickback. Who else could they be?

[jaydisc]

No matter who or what they are, color me excited.

[Tallestblue]

...Fansproject Insecticons? Win.

[Hursticon]

Hmm...

I dunno about you guys, but the Munitioner Retool/paint sort-of also looks like G1 Micromaster Growl (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Growl_%28G1%29).
Whilst the Explorer Retool/paint also looks like a mixed combination of G1 Micromaster Fireshot (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Fireshot_%28G1%29) and Vanquish (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Vanquish_%28G1%29).

Could it be possible that these 2 are based on Micromasters you think? :confused:

[kup]

Hmm...

I dunno about you guys, but the Munitioner Retool/paint sort-of also looks like G1 Micromaster Growl (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Growl_%28G1%29).
Whilst the Explorer Retool/paint also looks like a mixed combination of G1 Micromaster Fireshot (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Fireshot_%28G1%29) and Vanquish (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Vanquish_%28G1%29).

Could it be possible that these 2 are based on Micromasters you think? :confused:

They are clearly meant to be Leyland (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Leyland) and Shuttle Gunner (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Shuttle_Gunner) from Operation Combination.

Very obscure tributes but not bad I guess.

[Oilspill]

They are clearly meant to be Leyland (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Leyland) and Shuttle Gunner (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Shuttle_Gunner) from Operation Combination.

Very obscure tributes but not bad I guess.

I disagree. They're clearly meant to be Growl & Fireshot (maybe with some Vanquish thrown in) :p. Allow me to do some cut and pasting from another site...

[Oilspill]

I don't know my Micromasters (bar a couple), but for the Swindle repaint, the colour scheme and name is clearly referencing Growl (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Growl_(G1)) - even the new weapons match his.
http://tfwiki.net/w2/images2/9/99/G1-toy_Growl.jpg

And Fireshot (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Fireshot) is probably correct too. Definitely looks like (a great improvement to) his headsculpt. Strange that they gave a Decepticon blue eyes though, but it probably looks better than red eyes on a pink face from an aesthetic viewpoint.
http://tfwiki.net/w2/images2/1/14/G1-ROC-toy_Fireshot.jpg

http://www.fansproject.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/2011_Causailty.png

If they were original characters I may have passed them up, but I'm more interested now that they have pre-existing characters.

What will the other three be though? I don't recall any insectoid Micromasters, so perhaps the Micromaster theme will not apply at all 5 figures?

[Oilspill]

And sorry for the triple post... but I'm doubting they're 3 Insecticons either. Fans Project do a very good job of homaging the original characters. If they did Kickback or Shrapnel, there's be Kickback's signature wings or Shrapnel's lightning-attractor thingos in silhouette.

I don't have any better suggestions though.

[gdmetro]

Hmm..

Don't know what to think of these. If they are insecticons I'll definitely get them- but why pair them with the repainted blast off and swindle?

So far, haven't got any repaints of FP stuff- dunno whether I would get the repaints- are the heads remoulded? $100 for a pair of repainted figs is a bit steep.

There is just too much awesome stuff coming out next year with all the united/generations stuff, TFC devy, PE Reflector and other potential FP stuff, worried that I may not be able to get all of em. Hopefully they are spaced out through the whole year.

[Oilspill]

So far, haven't got any repaints of FP stuff- dunno whether I would get the repaints- are the heads remoulded? $100 for a pair of repainted figs is a bit steep.

Yeah, it looks like both heads are remoulded (and the Flameblast headsculpt is particularly cool). Also they have new weapons and possibly some further remoulding.

I'm hoping these might be a bit cheaper than Munitioner & Explorer, since if they don't combine then they won't need all those extra parts. So I wouldn't expect them to cost $50 each.

[Hursticon]

I disagree. They're clearly meant to be Growl & Fireshot (maybe with some Vanquish thrown in) :p. Allow me to do some cut and pasting from another site...

Thank you Oilspill, I knew I wasn't crazy! ;):p
I looked at Warcry, with his colour scheme and that gun on his wrist, thinking: "Where have I seen this before?".
I then looked at Flameblast and I thought: "There's got to be a connection here...".
Sure enough, Warcry was a dead ringer for Growl and Flameblast's colour scheme matched Fireblast and Vanquish perfectly and since you've pointed out Fireshot's Headsculpt, there really is no other explanation huh? :D


Yeah, it looks like both heads are remoulded (and the Flameblast headsculpt is particularly cool). Also they have new weapons and possibly some further remoulding.

I'm hoping these might be a bit cheaper than Munitioner & Explorer, since if they don't combine then they won't need all those extra parts. So I wouldn't expect them to cost $50 each.

I too reckon that there will be further remolding and refinements apart from just straight repaints, after all FansProject are fans by name and I don't believe they would take the HasTakTom approach as that is what they've built a market with - doing the opposite. :cool:

I also expect these guys to be a little cheaper as there really isn't a need for all the extra kibble, but I do hope that you're wrong on the Insecticon front :o - I reckon they could do an awesome interpretation of those characters but you do have a good argument, but maybe they're transformed in such a manner so as to not infringe?, maybe they have a transformation that 'officially' looks different enough but when conveniently mis-transformed they look exactly like who they're supposed to invoke? :D
(A Bot can only dream... :p)

[kaiden]

CA-03 doesnt look like an insecticon. it has 2 claw blades on each arm - kinda like wolverine.

i initially thought it would be a combiner but after seeing the pics of growl and fireshot - i'd have to agree there.

[kup]

I don't know my Micromasters (bar a couple), but for the Swindle repaint, the colour scheme and name is clearly referencing Growl (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Growl_(G1)) - even the new weapons match his.
http://tfwiki.net/w2/images2/9/99/G1-toy_Growl.jpg

And Fireshot (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Fireshot) is probably correct too. Definitely looks like (a great improvement to) his headsculpt. Strange that they gave a Decepticon blue eyes though, but it probably looks better than red eyes on a pink face from an aesthetic viewpoint.
http://tfwiki.net/w2/images2/1/14/G1-ROC-toy_Fireshot.jpg

http://www.fansproject.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/2011_Causailty.png

If they were original characters I may have passed them up, but I'm more interested now that they have pre-existing characters.

What will the other three be though? I don't recall any insectoid Micromasters, so perhaps the Micromaster theme will not apply at all 5 figures?

Yeah, I stand corrected, I believe you are indeed correct. However it is still somewhat funny that they chose to do Micromasters rather than those 'Combination characters which use the same molds they were originally tributing.

However this somewhat makes it cooler for me so I may actually get them.

The MTMTE Character model here helps to make the tribute more clear:

http://tfwiki.net/w2/images2/7/7f/G1_Growl_Decepticon_MTMTE.jpg

[Lord_Zed]

Certainly some interesting developments here, but I'm not going to get to excited yet, at least not until I see some actual mock ups.

[liegeprime]

Hmmm yeah. Well I do see it now. I was only making a guess though with the Insecticon comment coz I couldnt figure it out what with all the shadow kibble Im seeing heheheh

Growl = Warcry - both being shouting utter horrific stuff like I'll mutilate you, youuuuu!!!

Flameblast a literal allusion to the name for Fireshot so with those remaining three then if not Insecticons, what the heck could they be?:confused::confused:

[Sam]

I wonder what this is. And if FP is gonna realise they spelled "Causality" wrong. Or "Casualty."?

I wonder if someone else also told them they misspelled the word (I sent FP a message about the misspelling last night).

[kup]

I think that it's just FP's style of weird Engrish. All of their written material seem to have a bit of it like "evil clone. OF YOU!!!" and so forth. I am not sure if they do it on purpose for fun or what.

[Sky Shadow]

I wonder if someone else also told them they misspelled the word (I sent FP a message about the misspelling last night).

They'd already fixed it by this morning - that's pretty efficient.

[Tallestblue]

I think that it's just FP's style of weird Engrish. All of their written material seem to have a bit of it like "evil clone. OF YOU!!!" and so forth. I am not sure if they do it on purpose for fun or what.

lol. I am now going to have to resist the urge to yell "Evil clone, OF YOU!!" all the time.

[kup]

lol. I am now going to have to resist the urge to yell "Evil clone, OF YOU!!" all the time.

I have been doing that every single morning since I got Warbot Defender! :eek:

Help me...

[Tallestblue]

I have been doing that every single morning since I got Warbot Defender! :eek:

Help me...

There,There. *Shoulder Pat.*

[liegeprime]

I have been doing that every single morning since I got Warbot Defender! :eek:

Help me...

Well at least you already got yours :( Xmas is near and still no Warbot boohooo!!!

[kaiden]

Fansproject have revealed the last 3 Transformers names (see first post (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showpost.php?p=208581&postcount=1))

-Stormshred
-Thunderbomb
-Backfire

which do strike a resemblance to G1 Insecticon names

-Shrapnel
-Bombshell
-Kickback

and the new surprise is they've added 2 more unknown Transformers to the line

(could a mod correct the spelling in the title please?)

[Oilspill]

Very cool. It appears they are not the geewuniest of designs then, they seem to be fairly new takes on the 3 Insecticons.

I wonder if they'll be Cybertronian bug-mosterish designs (I don't see any wheels so I don't think they're Cybertronian vehicles).

Looks like Kickback's wings are now going to be swords.


Warcry & Flameblast are looking cool.
http://www.fansproject.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/FG_35.jpg

[kaiden]

Very cool. It appears they are not the geewuniest of designs then, they seem to be fairly new takes on the 3 Insecticons.

I wonder if they'll be Cybertronian bug-mosterish designs (I don't see any wheels so I don't think they're Cybertronian vehicles).

Looks like Kickback's wings are now going to be swords.

Originally i did think those were swords and so dismissed them as being insecticons as well as Stormshred having 'wolverine-like' claws which didn't look like beetle antlers/claws.

also FP have revealed some new projects
-WB-002
-Crossfire-03
-(Audacity) Amelioration of Novel form
-HeartMaster — HM-001
-and much more….?

I'm going to guess from 'HeartMaster' that FP are going to take a stab at 'Hearts of Steel' as I can honestly say that i disliked Mastermind Creations Knight Morpher Commander. With the upcoming Shockwave and Insecticon versions - whoever makes the better version will be rolling in the bank :)

I'm actually looking at my KM-01 and Protector now, and i already want a refund on my KM - I'd even exchange it for a 2nd Protector.

KM is poorly designed, and doesn't show any creativity like the Protector does - but granted one is a trailer/power armour/battle station/roller clone, but I really like how Protector was designed to enhance playability. I really do have fun transforming protector that it makes having more than one redundant (cause i know quite a few people like to have 2 to display in both modes) because you are not making the most of your purchase if you dont sit down and transform him back and forth.

I transformed KM (didnt bother with trailer) and already i want to throw him in the bin. Its not even a decent toy to give to a kid.

/end rant.

but yes, i'm really looking forward to Causality and its 7 bots (maybe gestalt?)

[Hursticon]

FP have revealed some new projects
-WB-002
-Crossfire-03
-(Audacity) Amelioration of Novel form
-HeartMaster — HM-001
-and much more….?


Awesome news indeed and the above 2, Warcry and Flameblast, look to be quite interesting Repaint/Remolds that I am sure will end up costing less due to the lack of the 'Bruticus Upgrade' kibble. ;)
The 'Insecticons' certainly do look to be quite interesting interpretations, I like the idea of 'Cybertronian' Monster-Bugs proposed by Oilspill as that makes a lot more sense than 'Mass-Shifting' earth-like bugs :rolleyes:, quite cool though none the less. :cool:

The newly announced, upcoming figures are sure to be quite sort after, here's my interpretation of their production designations:

WB-002 - Warbot 2 aka Broadside. ;):D
Crossfire-03 - Classicsverse Devastator Upgrade (Can't remember where I read it but I'm sure FP said that 1. Crossfire is a joint design initiative and 2. Complete original works will be named differently). :confused:
Amelioration of Novel Form (Audacity) - A new upgrade set that seems to be based on a literary source (Hence why it's not Parallax) as opposed to televised media. :o
HeartMaster — HM-001 - This is easily going to be a Powermaster/Godmaster attempt which I'm SO hoping is a Classicsverse Optimus Prime upgrade kit! :D:D:D
(Though, it could also be a brand new Overlord armage figure? :eek:)

Looks like FansProject have realised they've got quite a following behind them and are looking to capitalise on their recent successes, good on them and Anubis speed as they've earnt their credit, money and respect so I look forward to seeing their continued success!... and some production shots. ;):p

[spooniebeard]

I'm actually looking at my KM-01 and Protector now, and i already want a refund on my KM - I'd even exchange it for a 2nd Protector.

KM is poorly designed, and doesn't show any creativity like the Protector does - but granted one is a trailer/power armour/battle station/roller clone, but I really like how Protector was designed to enhance playability. I really do have fun transforming protector that it makes having more than one redundant (cause i know quite a few people like to have 2 to display in both modes) because you are not making the most of your purchase if you dont sit down and transform him back and forth.

I transformed KM (didnt bother with trailer) and already i want to throw him in the bin. Its not even a decent toy to give to a kid.

/end rant.


I know exactly what you mean. I feel like KM-01 will break the moment I pick him up again, so I don't. Now I know this won't help but MMC really learned something from it and fixed almost everything wrong with KM01 with the Annihilator. See Vangelus' KM02 review. (http://www.youtube.com/user/Vange1us#p/u/5/MRRwNJEL6t8)

I know that's no help to people who can't get or don't want the Annihilator, but it really is a tremendous improvement. Plus the new sword looks awesome :D
Though I agree, I wouldn't give these two to kids. Too many small pointy and breakable bits.

Anyway, I'm loving these new shots. Though I would rather see the next Warbot.

[1AZRAEL1]

Really digging the look of these guys. Can't wait to see the others.

[Sky Shadow]

HeartMaster — HM-001 - This is easily going to be a Powermaster/Godmaster attempt which I'm SO hoping is a Classicsverse Optimus Prime upgrade kit! :D:D:D
(Though, it could also be a brand new Overlord armage figure? :eek:)

It could be a Breastmaster. Since hearts are under the breastbone.

[1AZRAEL1]

It could be a Breastmaster. Since hearts are under the breastbone.

I say Deszarus :p (hey I can dream can't I? :D)

[Hursticon]

It could be a Breastmaster. Since hearts are under the breastbone.

Sternum/Solar-plexus, indeed it certainly could be dude ;):)
Is there a difference between Breast and God Masters?
(I thought they were the same? :confused:)


I say Deszarus :p (hey I can dream can't I? :D)

OH *Beep* Yeah Man!!! :D
I hope that 'Heartmasters' are a new Powermaster type figure/kit because I love my PM Prime and would direly love to see what FP could do with the concept. :cool:

[Sky Shadow]

Sternum/Solar-plexus, indeed it certainly could be dude ;):)
Is there a difference between Breast and God Masters?
(I thought they were the same? :confused:)

The Breastmasters have breasts that turn into animals, Godmasters have engines that turn into people (the Destron version of Skar was Clouder and although he looks like a bat he was a human too.)

[Hursticon]

The Breastmasters have breasts that turn into animals, Godmasters have engines that turn into people (the Destron version of Skar was Clouder and although he looks like a bat he was a human too.)

Ah!
So for the US continuity they're all lumped under 'Powermasters' whereas in the Japanese continuity Animals are 'Breastmasters' and Humanoids are 'Godmasters' bar that one exception? :eek:

Cheers dude, now I know... ;)

[1AZRAEL1]

Cheers dude, now I know... ;)

And knowing is half the battle!

What? :p

[kaiden]

New images of Stormshred and Thunderbomb.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/181939_166966713354099_100001223132070_396991_3999 463_n.jpghttp://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/183822_166966680020769_100001223132070_396989_1198 921_n.jpg

I quite like Stormshred - the claws are awesome.

[Tallestblue]

Well. I just covered my keyboard in drool.

[kup]

FansProject are the FREAKING KINGS of the 3rd party world!! They are awesome!

Does anyone know what is going on with the Crossfire repainted Causality figures? They are due in March but I am yet to see any pre-orders open.

[Oilspill]

FansProject are the FREAKING KINGS of the 3rd party world!! They are awesome!

Does anyone know what is going on with the Crossfire repainted Causality figures? They are due in March but I am yet to see any pre-orders open.

I was wondering that myself a couple of nights ago. I think we will suddenly see some finalised photos and then preorders will go up for late March.

I would have liked to see Bombshell's iconic cerebral parasite thingy, but they both still look very cool. I love the Insecticons colours too, so I can't wait to see these guys in colour.

[Oilspill]

There's Backfire (Kickback) too!

http://www.fansproject.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Backfire-%e9%80%86%e7%81%ab-680x1024.jpg

He has kunai (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kunai)!! :D

[swoop]

Oilspill beat me to it by a minute.

All three look great, I cant wait to see the rest of their causality line

[Tallestblue]

Wow. even more drool. I'm guessing the heads are based on how the G1 figures looked?

[Oilspill]

Wow. even more drool. I'm guessing the heads are based on how the G1 figures looked?

I haven't gone and double checked, but I know Kickback did have the big ears/antennae on the sides of his head and Bombshell had the grill style faceplate, I don't recall G1 Shrapnel's face that well but looking at the artwork it feels right.

So yeah, some liberties have been taken, like with most of the headsculpts on FPs stuff, but they are definitely G1ish.

[Paulbot]

While it looks like they've designed some more good converting figures, each is lacking what I'd consider key (probaby the key) defining elements of the Insecticons' robot modes. It seems really odd to me as it kinda ruins the homage. Are they worried about being sued? Perhaps you can convert them or arrange their weapons/accessories somehow to improve the look? The lack of colour combined with the more realistic insect modes make them look slightly more like their Deluxe Insecticon brothers at first glance.

[liegeprime]

Sweeeet!! an instant must get!! These insecticons would be really awesome as a swarm, bar pricing issues of course:D I dgging the new more improved altmodes - as Paulbot says "deluxe insecticons".... Hope they dont mess up the color scheme patterns:o

[Paulbot]

dgging the new more improved altmodes - as Paulbot says "deluxe insecticons"....
I meant in insect mode they look more like Barrage, Chop Shop and Ransack :o but maybe those will be the repaints.

[liegeprime]

I meant in insect mode they look more like Barrage, Chop Shop and Ransack :o but maybe those will be the repaints.


ooooh you just gave em more ideas so the mold can be reused with prolly a slight head remold:D:D you sure your not a stockholder with them Paulbot?...

[gdmetro]

Damn!!!

We are too spoilt :D

Pre-ordered as soon as the links come up.

[kup]

While it looks like they've designed some more good converting figures, each is lacking what I'd consider key (probaby the key) defining elements of the Insecticons' robot modes. It seems really odd to me as it kinda ruins the homage. Are they worried about being sued? Perhaps you can convert them or arrange their weapons/accessories somehow to improve the look? The lack of colour combined with the more realistic insect modes make them look slightly more like their Deluxe Insecticon brothers at first glance.

I believe that you can re-arrange weapons/antennae for a more 'G1' look but we can't be sure until more pics appear. When it comes to the Deluxe Insecticon look, I do agree completely, specially when it comes to Kickback who has a very close similarity to Ransack. However I don't mind that at all and the colors may make all the difference in the final version.

[UltraMagnus]

Fansproject are awesome. Again blow everyone away. They should keep it up! :)

[Oilspill]

While it looks like they've designed some more good converting figures, each is lacking what I'd consider key (probaby the key) defining elements of the Insecticons' robot modes. It seems really odd to me as it kinda ruins the homage. Are they worried about being sued? Perhaps you can convert them or arrange their weapons/accessories somehow to improve the look? The lack of colour combined with the more realistic insect modes make them look slightly more like their Deluxe Insecticon brothers at first glance.

I agree about the defining characteristics, but I just realised that for Stormshred, you could not attach the claws to the arms, and leave them where they attach in insect mode, which would give him the G1 silhouette in bot mode. I'm also wondering if Backfire's wings can be rotated up in bot mode for the G1 look.

It's strange that they missed the iconic features, specially since the shoulders/chest for all three have heavy G1 cues. Maybe it's like you say, and they plan to redeco them all as the G1 deluxe insecticons - I had forgotten that they all had essentially the same alt modes as the main insecticons.

[Paulbot]

It's strange that they missed the iconic features, specially since the shoulders/chest for all three have heavy G1 cues.

It's so strange that it makes me think there must be a way to achieve a more G1 accurate look but they've kept it out of this early marketing for unknown reasons.

[Lord_Zed]

Pretty awesome, they look like the standard establsihed FP style, of able to fit in eith classics, yet having their own distinct blocky FP atributes like Defender, Protector etc.

Based on the awesomeness of recent FP toys I will most likely be after these guys, can't wait to see them in colour, Always loved the Insecticons uniformed colour scheme.

Particularly digging Ninja Not-Kickback.

[1AZRAEL1]

I want these, they look cool so far. Want to see colour on them soon.

[primatives]

those look insane!! hehe i ask them on FB if they will make it look more like G1 look like the horn over bombshell etc

like it on FB or comment on it so they know what we want :) might work might not here's the link

http://www.facebook.com/pages/FansProject/108855295818799

but u have to click on "Just Others" to see posts by other people :)

[Hursticon]

Bought, on sight, nuff said. ;):p

[primatives]

man i am soo excited and can't wait for these to come out! upon looking closely at the high res pics of these guys i think at least for kickback and bombshell that you can move the wings and that horn thing so it resembles their G1 counterpart. Kickbacks wings are on balljoints so i think you can move that around and bombshells horn thing is very similar to the way you transform him in that the head is just covered by that horn thing. I'm happy!! Fingers crossed!

[Sam]

These figures look really cool! :)

Need money....

[kaiden]

Pre orders are up for Warcry (http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=FPCA01&lang=us) & Flameblast (http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=FPCA02&lang=us) $44.99ea which seems a little expensive (to me) compared to Munitioner & Explorer (originally $52ea?)

As far as I'm aware, you do not get the bruticus parts with these figures which sucks, as I really would have like those.

The annoying thing is there doesnt seem to a combined 2 pack option for them from RK. I'm going to send them an email about it.

[gdmetro]

Hmm.. didn't RK charge significantly cheaper prices than U.S. online stores such as TFSource and BBTS for previous FP stuff?

How can RK charge $45 when BBTS charge the same? Doesn't make sense to me...

Anyhow if these are $45 a pop, I think I will pass. They are tempting, but I already have the originals- the remoulding is nice but unnecessary for my collection as they are minor characters I have no care for.

I might be tempted if they were $40 or under- but Ill just save for insecticons/ TFC Devy instead.

[Oilspill]

They're $45 at BBTS & TFSource too.

Let me know if RK get back to you regarding the 2 pack. I'd be keen on that and will probably hold off ordering until you find out.

[kaiden]

They're $45 at BBTS & TFSource too.

Let me know if RK get back to you regarding the 2 pack. I'd be keen on that and will probably hold off ordering until you find out.

sure.

im also waiting on it since i want to get the PE Ultimate Pack which they just restocked and didnt have any when i ordered the PE Reflector. I wish they'd just let me add to existing orders (lazy bastards)

[liegeprime]

sure.

im also waiting on it since i want to get the PE Ultimate Pack which they just restocked and didnt have any when i ordered the PE Reflector. I wish they'd just let me add to existing orders (lazy bastards)

that's one good thing about BBTS's pile of loot ei? Query though Kaiden - when you buy pre ordered items and non pre ordered items in RK do you get charged immediately or separately like in BBTS where they put it on record first you put an order for a preorder item and charge you later when item arrives... or do you get charged all in one go in RK and they deliver separately when time comes ( a whole different charge for shipping for the pre-order items then??)

[kup]

I was expecting and hoping these to be cheaper since they come with less accessories. I am not sure if I want to get them now.


Hmm.. didn't RK charge significantly cheaper prices than U.S. online stores such as TFSource and BBTS for previous FP stuff?

How can RK charge $45 when BBTS charge the same? Doesn't make sense to me...

Anyhow if these are $45 a pop, I think I will pass. They are tempting, but I already have the originals- the remoulding is nice but unnecessary for my collection as they are minor characters I have no care for.

I might be tempted if they were $40 or under- but Ill just save for insecticons/ TFC Devy instead.

I was also hoping for RK to be cheaper as TFsource and BBTS usually have considerably inflated prices.

[kaiden]

that's one good thing about BBTS's pile of loot ei? Query though Kaiden - when you buy pre ordered items and non pre ordered items in RK do you get charged immediately or separately like in BBTS where they put it on record first you put an order for a preorder item and charge you later when item arrives... or do you get charged all in one go in RK and they deliver separately when time comes ( a whole different charge for shipping for the pre-order items then??)

RK charge you for the complete order as soon as you checkout. They wont split your order up and won't make changes unless their inventory oversold you. They wont ship your order until every item is available :/

[kaiden]

Added a new poll regarding price for these figures.

[Hursticon]

As I already own both Munitioner and Explorer, I can quite easily say that Warcry and Flameblast are easily worth $45 each even without the Bruticus Addons because these 2 molds, just on their own, are thoroughly incredible! ;):cool::D

[kaiden]

As I already own both Munitioner and Explorer, I can quite easily say that Warcry and Flameblast are easily worth $45 each even without the Bruticus Addons because these 2 molds, just on their own, are thoroughly incredible! ;):cool::D

then you can buy me a pair ;)

[Oilspill]

While I'd rather pay $35, $40 seems reasonable given that Munitioner was $52, and I don't see the accessories that have been removed costing more than $12. So $40 for me.

$90 + shipping is a little tough to swallow for these two guys. Having said that, I don't think FP tend to overprice their products, so maybe it does cost them closer to $45?

Anyway, I'm not preordering at this point. I would if I saw a "$80 for the two of them" package from RK though.

[jaydisc]

Price doesn't phase me. My supplier told me these are considerably more constrained then their predecessors. It's again just an issue of a smaller production run. The consistent price across the 3 makes me wonder if FP dictated it.

[Hursticon]

Price doesn't phase me. My supplier told me these are considerably more constrained then their predecessors. It's again just an issue of a smaller production run. The consistent price across the 3 makes me wonder if FP dictated it.

Given the debacle over Shadow Scyther, I don't blame them for wanting to dictate the prices. ;)

[kaiden]

Price doesn't phase me. My supplier told me these are considerably more constrained then their predecessors. It's again just an issue of a smaller production run. The consistent price across the 3 makes me wonder if FP dictated it.

I didn't think they'd be able to dictate the prices. Seems a bit weird if they did as RK, TFS and BBTS might throw a tantrum if that came to pass.

The annoying thing is, I haven't received any reply from RK regarding CA-01+02 being sold as a set. I also posted on their facebook page, and the same no response.

[jaydisc]

They can likely negotiate any deal they want with a reseller. It's a completely different industry, but Apple does this. They have a M.A.P. - Minimum Advertised Price. Resellers are not allowed to advertise below it.

If I'm not mistaken, the price of Protector was the same across the three as well:

$83 Protector
$10 Sidearm
$90 Both

[kaiden]

BBTS has put CA-03 Thundershred up for pre order for $47.99 (http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=FPJ10023&mode=retail&picture=aux2)
Release date is June

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/prettyduck/3rd%20Party/1305150894_ss4.jpg

now to speculate on what RK's price will be.

[gdmetro]

Definite buy. Hopefully RK does not drop the ball this time and has it for slightly less than the U.S prices...

Either way.. I will buy this. Slightly annoyed for the separate releases...having to pay shipping for each item sucks. RK really need a POL system.

[KillinSpoon]

Definite buy. Hopefully RK does not drop the ball this time and has it for slightly less than the U.S prices...

Either way.. I will buy this. Slightly annoyed for the separate releases...having to pay shipping for each item sucks. RK really need a POL system.

They will actually do this if you ask them. I had a box in their warehouse for months that I asked them to hold while continuously adding new releases to it (also, they only asked for payment of the new TF and forgot about the added shipping)

[Hursticon]

Instabuy! :D:cool:

I'll be getting each one of these and I too hope that RK gets them for a price equal to or less than BBTS's. ;)
On the POL front, whilst it would be really awesome if they did, I don't see it happening any time soon considering they're having a hard enough time coping with the sheer amount of orders they've got now. :o

I can't wait to see some coloured pics of these guys, I presume they'll be shown off at Botcon as like the Not-Rodimus Prime 'Protector' upgrade set was last year. :)

[kaiden]

http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType&II=FPCA03&lang=us&CatID

they have it for $46.99 wow a whole dollar less!

what is up with the price difference? I thought it was supposed to be much cheaper from RK because of being situated in HK and therefore less expensive to stock.

[jaydisc]

I firmly believe that FP is setting, if not heavily influencing, the price.

[Hursticon]

I firmly believe that FP is setting, if not heavily influencing, the price.

Hasn't that always been the case though?

[kristofferrer]

whilst i love fansproject to bits It's not really an official product and kinda makes me cringe (a little) that they charge above hasbro's price ceiling.
to be fair though, hasbro probably leverages off its economies of scale (producing and selling more items) hence why they can charge less.

i suppose as long as they dont charge more than the production value of this sucker... i'd be content.

[jaydisc]

Hasn't that always been the case though?

I first noticed it with Protector. I didn't notice it with Magnus, DIA, Aerial Appendage Kit.

[Hursticon]

I first noticed it with Protector. I didn't notice it with Magnus, DIA, Aerial Appendage Kit.

Ah ok, it seemed like they were with Warbot to me as the price difference between TFsource and RobotKingdom was very negligible but I cant say that I noticed with the previous releases you've mentioned.

New HI-Res Prototype pics guys:



http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FPInsecticon1-01.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FPInsecticon1-02.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FPInsecticon1-03.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FPInsecticon1-04.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FPInsecticon1-05.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FPInsecticon1-06.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FPInsecticon1-07.jpg

[Fonecrusher]

Pretty sure it's a photoshop but looks cool none the less.
http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/9954/fpinsecticons.jpg

[kup]

Ah ok, it seemed like they were with Warbot to me as the price difference between TFsource and RobotKingdom was very negligible but I cant say that I noticed with the previous releases you've mentioned.


I only noticed a uniform price with the Crossfire repaints. I got my Protector armor from Robotkingdom because they had the best price, same with the Bruticus Crossfires and Protector.

[kaiden]

Pretty sure it's a photoshop but looks cool none the less.
http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/9954/fpinsecticons.jpg

*throws money at it*

[gamblor916]

They look awesome! There needs to be more insect bots.

[gdmetro]

Wow those hi res pics!!! :eek: :D

When will these be released?

I need them... NOW!

[Hursticon]

*throws money at it*

F 'n' A Man! :D


They look awesome! There needs to be more insect bots.

I concur because Straxus needs his Insecticon Minions! :cool:


Wow those hi res pics!!! :eek: :D

When will these be released?

I need them... NOW!

GD, I hear you man and even louder after these:
(Courtesy of Seibertron.com (http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/revised-names-for-fansproject-causality-series/21612/) ;))



http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FansprojectInsecticon-Thundershred.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FansprojectInsecticon-Stormbomb.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/FansprojectInsecticon-Backfiery.jpg

[kaiden]

They changed the names!

Stormshred > Thundershred
Thunderbomb > Stormbomb
Backfire > Backfiery

[primatives]

Hmm I hope these are early prototypes. The plastic to me looks like its not very clean cut and the plastic looks very translucent not not very solid colors. Compared with that crystal Rodimus add on the plastic and quality on that one looks awesome. Fingers crossed FP doesn't stuff up on this one, cos they look hot!

P.S Oh I am refering to the photos posted from Botcon at the TFSource stand

[Hursticon]

Hmm I hope these are early prototypes. The plastic to me looks like its not very clean cut and the plastic looks very translucent not not very solid colors. Compared with that crystal Rodimus add on the plastic and quality on that one looks awesome. Fingers crossed FP doesn't stuff up on this one, cos they look hot!

P.S Oh I am refering to the photos posted from Botcon at the TFSource stand

I reckon they'd be probable mock-ups just for Botcon dude, FP wouldn't let us down IMO. ;):)

Courtesy of TFW2005, for more posterity:


http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/BotconFPInsecticons01.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/BotconFPInsecticons02.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/BotconFPInsecticons03.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/BotconFPInsecticons04.jpg


I want, I want, I want, I want... :eek::D:cool:

[1AZRAEL1]

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Webpics/BotconFPInsecticons03.jpg

I want, I want, I want, I want... :eek::D:cool:

Yes me too :D

Does Not Bombshell look like something out of a MacFarlane comic with those chains and spikes? :p

[Hursticon]

Does Not Bombshell look like something out of a MacFarlane comic with those chains and spikes? :p

I, am not against this. ;):D

[gamblor916]

Where's the chrome? I hope these are early mockups.

[King Atlas]

Awesome. I never noticed this before, but the kunais are used as leg spikes on Backfiery's hind legs. Pretty clever :)

[bruticus]

definite buy for me!
is RK the cheapest so far?

[kaiden]

definite buy for me!
is RK the cheapest so far?

http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=FPCA03&lang=us
http://tfsource.com/products/view/product_id/2615/
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=FPJ10023&mode=retail

by $1. I can only think of 3 places RK,TFsource & BBTS. and since the last 2 are in america RK is most likely the cheapest option for Australians.

[bruticus]

http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=FPCA03&lang=us
http://tfsource.com/products/view/product_id/2615/
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=FPJ10023&mode=retail

by $1. I can only think of 3 places RK,TFsource & BBTS. and since the last 2 are in america RK is most likely the cheapest option for Australians.
thanks buddy!
dealt with TFsource in the past. great packaging but it costs an arm and a leg.

hmm...might try BBTS as they have the "pile of loot" option which is handy if you want to wait for the others to pop up for ordering as well.

[jaydisc]

They look like hand-painted prototypes to me. I expect a flashier final product.

[Hursticon]

They look like hand-painted prototypes to me. I expect a flashier final product.

+1

[primatives]

pre-orders are up for the other 2 as well. hmm these for some reason dont look as good as the grey prototypes when coloured, must be cos its missing the chrome will wait and see final pics!

[gamblor916]

Does RK have a pre order for all three insecticons?

Toywave have all three up but CA4 (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/detail.php?id=14830&table=413)/CA5 (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/detail.php?id=14831&table=413) for $53 and CA3 (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/detail.php?id=14761&table=413) for $57

[Hursticon]

Does RK have a pre order for all three insecticons?

Toywave have all three up but CA4 (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/detail.php?id=14830&table=413)/CA5 (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/detail.php?id=14831&table=413) for $53 and CA3 (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/detail.php?id=14761&table=413) for $57

I've been checking RK daily since Botcon and they've not even listed the final 2 at all, let alone a pre-order for the lot which is quite disappointing. :(

[1AZRAEL1]

BBTS (http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=Causality) have all 3 up for preorder for $47.99 each.

[Hursticon]

BBTS (http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=Causality) have all 3 up for preorder for $47.99 each.

Where the hell is RobotKingdom on this? - Have they fallen asleep or something? :mad:
I want these figures, like many do, ridiculously but I hate North American postage prices! :(

[gdmetro]

Where the hell is RobotKingdom on this? - Have they fallen asleep or something? :mad:
I want these figures, like many do, ridiculously but I hate North American postage prices! :(

Ditto.

To me, these are already bought, just waiting for RK to have em' all up so I can ship em' all in one go and save on shipping.

[kaiden]

http://i1210.photobucket.com/albums/cc410/LamDX/Transformers/3rd%20Party/1309532149_advertise-thundershred.jpg

http://i1210.photobucket.com/albums/cc410/LamDX/Transformers/3rd%20Party/1309532150_advertise-stormbomb.jpg

http://i1210.photobucket.com/albums/cc410/LamDX/Transformers/3rd%20Party/1309532151_advertise-Backfiery.jpg

[Hursticon]

Man you're on the ball Kaiden - You've saved me the hassle! :D
Why the hell have RK not done anything yet? - These things just look more and more sexy each time they release new pics! :eek::cool:

[kaiden]

Man you're on the ball Kaiden - You've saved me the hassle! :D
Why the hell have RK not done anything yet? - These things just look more and more sexy each time they release new pics! :eek::cool:

haha when I'm too tired to do it - I know you pick up the slack :P

[loophole]

crap!!..... i think i have to buy these now they look wicked!!

[Sky Shadow]

I'm disappointed by Thundershred (although the nigh-inevitable not-Chop-Shop recolour should look better to my eyes), but Stormbomb and Backfiery are very strong.

[TheFallen]

Backfiery is easily the best of the three. But that just may be my bias because Kickback has always been my favourite Insecticon.

I am not much of a Transformers collector, especially now that CHUG has been postponed, but I am completely a Fansproject/3rd Party collector

[kaiden]

RK finally has preorders for stormbomb (http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=FPCA04&lang=us&CatID=) and backfiery (http://www.robotkingdom.com/services/eshop/main.php?action=details&CatType=&II=FPCA05&lang=us&CatID=)

[kup]

Yeah noticed this today. I will be ordering sometime next week

[gamblor916]

About time. Do you reckon if there'll be a decent saving on a small group order?

[kaiden]

About time. Do you reckon if there'll be a decent saving on a small group order?

CA-05 Backfiery. $46.90
CA-04 Stormbomb. $46.90
Sub Total : $93.80
Shipping Charge (Australia) : $24.98
Insurance : $0.70
Grand Total : US$ 119.48

5x CA-05 Backfiery. $234.50
5x CA-04 Stormbomb. $234.50
Sub Total : $469.00
Shipping Charge (Australia) : $81.01
Insurance : $2.80
Grand Total : US$ 552.81

so a saving of $4.40 per figure if you go by that quantity.

[TheFallen]

I just read that these have been delayed;

CA-03 THUNDERSHRED - early August
CA-04 STORMBOMB - end August
CA-05 BACKFIERY - mid September

[kup]

I just read that these have been delayed;

CA-03 THUNDERSHRED - early August
CA-04 STORMBOMB - end August
CA-05 BACKFIERY - mid September

That is to be expected. I think all first release FP toys were delayed.

[TheFallen]

It doesn't affect me because these will be in my PoL anyway. I am just eager to see the reviews

[kup]

RK just notified me that Thundershred has shipped. Can't wait!

[TheFallen]

I saw the TFsource review and the figure looks pretty damn cool. I will wait until all 3 are in my PoL because for some reason I want all 3 together at once

[kaiden]

got my thundershred today.

[Oilspill]

got my thundershred today.

and...???

How is he? Does he make a good Shrapnel update? The anticipation is killing me :D

[fatbot]

and...???

How is he? Does he make a good Shrapnel update? The anticipation is killing me :D

http://i370.photobucket.com/albums/oo146/fatbot/August%202011/Thundershred.jpg
He's great, looks good, fun to play with. highly recommended

[gdmetro]

He looks badass!!

I am waiting for all 3 to be in stock before I commit to purchasing. One at a time is just too painful. :p

[kaiden]

and...???

How is he? Does he make a good Shrapnel update? The anticipation is killing me :D

I wanted to play with him a bit more before committing to a proper review...

the first thing i noticed was that his head seem a tad bit too small for his body. the neck is a normal balljoint and because of the shrunken head makes it look longer (hopefully igear will make a 3rd party head to fix this like they did with kup... j/k :P) i don't have the original/reissue insecticons so would not know if they're compatible enough to swap heads.

its hard to say if the head is bad or not without the other 2 insecticons to compare to - as thundershred looks to be the big badass close-combat ninja which would explain the small head big chest+shoulders design.

the shoulders are an interesting new design. connected to a balljoint to allow 360 rotation but the shoulder is actually split in half and hinged together to allow almost 90 of movement. it does looks a little odd at first.

there's hip swivel and all-round excellent articulation in the legs.

the weapons are nice. a pair of claws for both arms which can be taken apart and made into a giant shuriken. the only problem is its really tedious to change it back and forth between the weapon modes.

alt mode is where the toy fails. the insect head looks really stupid and the arms are a pain to fold into the legs and the right leg wont tab correctly into the pelvis during transformation as well. i dislike the alt mode.

its a good toy marred by design and maybe a little QC but i give it a 7/10.

[1AZRAEL1]

the first thing i noticed was that his head seem a tad bit too small for his body. the neck is a normal balljoint and because of the shrunken head makes it look longer (hopefully igear will make a 3rd party head to fix this like they did with kup... j/k :P) i don't have the original/reissue insecticons so would not know if they're compatible enough to swap heads.

Funny you should mention that...

http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/radicons-customs/444225-classics-fansproject-shrapnel.html :p

[kaiden]

Funny you should mention that...

http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/radicons-customs/444225-classics-fansproject-shrapnel.html :p

bleh i need to register to that forum to see the pics. i also forgot to mention that the shuriken can be stored on his back and if you take 2 of the blades off and turn 1 of the remaining blades around you can make it sorta look like a g1 shrapnel.

[1AZRAEL1]

Sorry, I forgot that as well, here's a pic of what he will look like.

[Lint]

Oooh glossy plastic and rich colours, i LIKE

[kup]

Got Thundershred!

http://kupscigar.com/2011/170811.JPG

As we all know, this is FansProject's take on the Insecticons. The first release of this trio is Thundershred which is loosely based on G1 Shrapnel. I must confess that from the pictures that we have been shown from FP in the last few months, Thundershred was my least favorite of the team but after opening him he is certainly a very nifty figure and well worth his cost although he is not without flaws.

The plastic quality is good and certainly above that of Hasbro's when it comes to the body, although that of the claws are somewhat thin at the connecting socket tip so one has to be careful (I had a mishap on mine and there are very minuscule stress marks on one claw socket).

Although the plastic quality on the figure is certainly high, it is different from what we have seen in previous FP releases. It is no longer the same 'mat' type plastic but with a more 'mainstream' glossy look with a smooth surface which allows Thundershred to fit in more with the regular Hasbro/Japanese Classics without standing out too much. This can be a positive or negative depending on preference as for myself, I believe Defender stands out too much from the official figures because he frankly looks much better than them :)

As expected, the painted detailing is superbly applied and of very good quality but there is something that I feel obligated to nitpick about: At the front of the arms, just above the wrist a part of the sculpt is highlighted by black paint - Unfortunately this same part is not painted on the back of the arms :confused: It is a tiny, tiny oversight though.

The engineering of the figure is nicely refined as we have come to expect from FansProject. The transformation sequence is not too difficult but satisfyingly complex enough to justify the cost of the figure and it is effective.

Robot Mode

The robot mode offers a wide range of articulation, he can even scratch the top of his head! This wide range of arm movement is mostly due to a somewhat odd but innovative shoulder joint. The shoulder joint can be hard to get used to as it has a 'split' motion that breaks up the sculpt a bit when it moves. At first I was disliking this shoulder design but it has begun to grow on me as the range of movement gained by the shoulder is significant. My biggest complain about the shoulder design is that the pin used on the joint has the potential to become loose over time.

Some people have complained that the head is a bit small but I don't mind it, I think that it fits the overall sculpt design just fine. Thundershred appears to be the 'Heavy' of the Insecticon team so his appearance appears suitable to me.

The legs also have a large amount of articulation but out of the box, the joints are like mega stiff! I am sure that they will loosen up a bit more in time but it is a bit jarring when you first try to move them. However the benefit of this is that he can hold a lot of dynamic poses as the legs offer a lot of range and his ankles are also articulated allowing for many stable stances. Unfortunately the legs don't allow for a too wide leg stance so he is unable to do a 'legs split' but this is very minor, at least for me.

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel1.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel2.JPG

I am personally not a big fan of the giant shuriken weapon mode as I prefer the longer claws, but it has begun to grow on me:

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel3.JPG

You can also place the arm claws in a more traditional 'G1' arrangement but I don't like this much so I won't be displaying the figure this way. For me, the top back Insect legs sustain the 'G1 Shrapnel' kibble effect well enough to tribute the character:

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel4.JPG

Also note that the claw attachments are on C joints just like those that Hasbro/Takara-Tomy has been using on several Generations/United figures such as Straxus, Warpath and Jazz. This suggests that the FP Insecticons will have interchangeable weapons which in turn are also compatible with several official figures.

Insect Mode:

Although by design (From the Pre-TF Diaclone era) the G1 Insecticons transformed into 'Insect themed' vehicles more than actual Insect modes (that's why they had a pilot cockpit and wheels instead of proper legs), Thundershred has a more defined Insect mode.

Like G1 Shrapnel, Thundershred transforms into a Stag beetle only that this time, he is less vehicle and more insect with 6 individually articulated legs with no wheels. The awesome part about this is that unlike several other Transformer Insect modes, this one can actually support itself on his legs without dropping to it's belly. The legs are also very stable to the point that the body can sustain itself even if some legs are not touching the ground.

Another big change on this beetle mode is that the head is much more defined with what looks like a painted red 'cockpit'. This looks rather cool and much better than the undefined G1 Insect head.

All accessories can be applied or stored into this insect mode. The claws are obviously the jaws of the beetle mode but the center of the shuriken is stored between the seams of the abdomen. I personally feel that the shuriken center could have been better stored as it can look a little odd on the Insect mode.

The chest of the robot becomes the Thorax of the beetle which represents the old clear yellow cockpit on the G1 figure only that this time it doesn't open to place a driver.

This is an excellent insect mode with a lot of stability and some articulation on the head. The legs are not as articulated as Beast Wars Insect modes but this could be for the better as it allows the figure to properly support itself without falling flat. There is also some light articulation on the insect head and the ball joints on the jaws allow for a fair bit of movement like 'open' and 'closed' poses.

The only real flaw that I can see is that the robot mode hands are visible from the back of the Insect mode. This is a legitimate complaint as I don't see why this was left as such as it could have been easily rectified with a minor wrist joint to allow the hand to fold in. However the hands are not that noticeable and chances are that someone would not notice them unless it's pointed out. Due to their color, the hands blend well enough into the sculpt so it's not that noticeable or jarring like in some Hasbro figures (eg ROTF Starscream).

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel5.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel6.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel7.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel8.JPG

Comparisons with the G1 figure:

Out of all the FP 'Unofficial' tribute figures so far, this 'Not-Shrapnel' is actually more different in overall design than any other FP 'G1 tribute' figures.
The biggest differences are the totally redesigned head with a face plate instead of a face and insect mode legs instead of wheels.

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel9.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel10.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel11.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/fpshrapnel12.JPG

These considerable differences have annoyed some but it doesn't bother me as I feel that the G1 chracter tribute still works superbly but in a more modernized 'Classics' style. Also anyone who was buying this figure should have been aware of the differences as the preview pictures are very clear about the differences between this figure and G1.

Conclusion

Overall, this is a fine figure and well worth the price with satisfying engineering, a nice color scheme that nails the Insecticon character tribute despite several original sculpt elements. Although I am enjoying Thundershred, I must admit that he is not as impressive as previous FP releases and as mentioned my least favorite of the FP Insecticon trio. Despite that, I am very happy with Thundershred and it has certainly motivated me to buy the other two in the coming few months.

Certainly these figures are turning out to be fantastic additions to your 'Classics' collection. However due to the more 'sci-fi' robotic insect mode, this figure may not be for everyone so it's mostly for those who are fans of the G1 Insecticon characters...well assuming that you accept the creative liberties taken for this 'Shrapnel' tribute.

[kup]

More Pics!

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/1-2.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/1-1.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/2-1.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/2-2.JPG

[Hursticon]

Aww Kup! - You're not making my inability to obtain one of these figures any easier dude, what with that great review and sweet pics man! :o:p

Man I want these figures... Stupid finances. :(

[kup]

Aww Kup! - You're not making my inability to obtain one of these figures any easier dude, what with that great review and sweet pics man! :o:p

Man I want these figures... Stupid finances. :(

Don't worry, Hursty. Based on the longer time it took for the last FP releases to sell out from online stores despite demand, I would guess that their production runs have increased considerably. There is a chance that it may still be available by the time your finances ease up a bit.

[Hursticon]

Don't worry, Hursty. Based on the longer time it took for the last FP releases to sell out from online stores despite demand, I would guess that their production runs have increased considerably. There is a chance that it may still be available by the time your finances ease up a bit.

I certainly hope that to be the case, Straxus needs his minions! :D
Speaking of which, would it be possible for you to take a photo of Not-Shrapnel next to (Darkmount) Straxus for me when you've got the time? :)

[mentok27]

I certainly hope that to be the case, Straxus needs his minions! :D
Speaking of which, would it be possible for you to take a photo of Not-Shrapnel next to (Darkmount) Straxus for me when you've got the time? :)

bbts still had like 850pcs instock last week and im sure other retailers would be sitting on similar amounts... thats after all preorders have been deducted! yeah.... aftermarket on these wont skyrocket since theres more product than demand for sure.

[Hursticon]

bbts still had like 850pcs instock last week and im sure other retailers would be sitting on similar amounts... thats after all preorders have been deducted! yeah.... aftermarket on these wont skyrocket since theres more product than demand for sure.

Oh yeah my demand is high it's just my bank balance that isn't willing at the moment. :o
Well if BBTS still has that many in-stock, then I hope RK is in a similar boat too. :cool:

[kup]

Oh yeah my demand is high it's just my bank balance that isn't willing at the moment. :o
Well if BBTS still has that many in-stock, then I hope RK is in a similar boat too. :cool:

They will. Protector and Defender took months to sell out due to stocked quantity. Price usually hikes once the stores have ran out of their initial stock and the after market becomes the the only option. Based on those last few releases, stock should remain for at least a couple of months.

I like this better as it's not like City Commander days where it had relatively low production runs and stock ran out within a couple of weeks. Back then, if you had missed out, you were screwed as your only option was the after market or the hope for a re-release (which is always unknown) - I don't think this is the case now due to larger stock quantities.

[mentok27]

They will. Protector and Defender took months to sell out due to stocked quantity. Price usually hikes once the stores have ran out of their initial stock and the after market becomes the the only option. Based on those last few releases, stock should remain for at least a couple of months.

I like this better as it's not like City Commander days where it had relatively low production runs and stock ran out within a couple of weeks. Back then, if you had missed out, you were screwed as your only option was the after market or the hope for a re-release (which is always unknown) - I don't think this is the case now due to larger stock quantities.

yeah... these figs are pricey enough on release.... aftermarket is just insane! RK is always the best option if given the choice but i always like the versatility of bbts POL system.... i was lucky enough to snag both CC($130) and SC($95) on the recent limited restock, i still smile thinking about it.

[kup]

I certainly hope that to be the case, Straxus needs his minions! :D
Speaking of which, would it be possible for you to take a photo of Not-Shrapnel next to (Darkmount) Straxus for me when you've got the time? :)

As requested :)


http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/thunderstrax2.JPG

http://kupscigar.com/collection2011/thunder/thunderstrax1.JPG

Straxus is taller but it would have worked better if he were a Voyager. I wish Hasbro had released 'leader' characters as Voyagers instead of deluxes; for me they are better in Voyager size even if it's got identical engineering as it's already complex enough to justify the size.

...Plus the FP Shrapnel will look better overall than Straxus since it has superior plastic and paint finish.

[Hursticon]

Oh hell yeah man, thanks Kup - I was really hoping that they'd be just a smidgen shorter than Straxus as the Conehead seekers are slightly smaller than he is also. :D
I can't wait to reconstruct a Marvel G1 scene of Blaster being interrogated by Lord Straxus and his henchman within Darkmount! ;):cool:

[kup]

Oh hell yeah man, thanks Kup - I was really hoping that they'd be just a smidgen shorter than Straxus as the Conehead seekers are slightly smaller than he is also. :D
I can't wait to reconstruct a Marvel G1 scene of Blaster being interrogated by Lord Straxus and his henchman within Darkmount! ;):cool:

So far that scene in toy form only works with the Action Master Blaster release as all the other Blasters are way too tall!

http://kupscigar.com/fun/straxus2.JPG

[Hursticon]

Haha! - That's a very good point, I like that shot though dude! :D:cool:

[primatives]

Cool I managed to get as close as possible to the G1 look. Looks ok, what do you guys think?

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j50/primatives/IMAG0120.jpg

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j50/primatives/IMAG0119.jpg

[kup]

Cool I managed to get as close as possible to the G1 look. Looks ok, what do you guys think?



Yeah that's a lot better than how others have done it (including myself).

[1AZRAEL1]

And it was only a matter of time before there would be stickers for him (http://reprolabels.com/Classics/shrapnel.php).

[kup]

And it was only a matter of time before there would be stickers for him (http://reprolabels.com/Classics/shrapnel.php).

I have noticed the Reprolabels stickers have become a bit thicker recently and in photos, the flash brings out this horrible white outline which is invisible in real life. I hope they fix that as otherwise they are pretty good.

[Autocon]

The three insecticons remind me of ninja warriors!:D:cool:

[kup]

The three insecticons remind me of ninja warriors!:D:cool:

That's the point? :confused:

[Hursticon]

That's the point? :confused:

I think Auto was being sarcastic, but he may not be aware that sarcasm doesn't usually translate well via text, over the internet. ;):p

[kaiden]

i think the first reaction to these toys would be 'hey, they look like ninjas!'

can't wait to get bombshell and kickback later this month - then we can all do reviews! :p

so whats next for FP?

[Hursticon]

Thanks to RobotKingdom, my Not-Insecticons arrived today and man, can I not wait for Backfiery! :eek::D:cool:


http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/2011%20Acquisitions/SEP-20-ACQ-02.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Crap/FP-ThundershredBotMode.jpg

http://i1032.photobucket.com/albums/a409/Darkone666au/Crap/FP-StormbombBotMode.jpg



*No Alt-Mode pics at this time... Ran out of light. :o

[iceburn]

if only someone could chrome those gray parts now...lol

[kup]

if only someone could chrome those gray parts now...lol

Reprolabels to the rescue!

http://reprolabels.com/Classics/Classics/Mapcshrapnel.jpg

http://reprolabels.com/Classics/

[iceburn]

i think i'll go for chroming like what albie is doing but first.. i've got to save up for these fellows and before the 3rd one comes out

[Lord_Zed]

Yeah chrome would have been nice, not that I've had a chance to have a close look at Stormshred yet. I wonder if they will ever do a "Special" version or upgrade kit?

I don't much care for the sticker options though, While they were kinda cool in the day I tend to find foil stickers on modern toys tacky looking.

[gdmetro]

Arghh... damn myself for not jumping on pre-orders and wanting to order all 3 from RK. Now I go there and Thundershred's all gone. I emailed RK and doesnt seem like there will be a restock- so probably have to bite the rip-off bullet and get one from BBTS...

Anyone know any other option?

[gamblor916]

Toy-wave have some with a bit of a mark up. (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/product.php?table=426)

[gdmetro]

Toy-wave have some with a bit of a mark up. (http://www.toy-wave.com/eng/product.php?table=426)

Thanks mate- I already considered toy-wave but their price is even more ridiculous than BBTS. I eventually ordered all 3 insecticons from BBTS along with other stuff they have the clear protector trailer for $80- which toy-wave has for $120 :eek:

[King Atlas]

Just as I checked hoping to order all 3 from Rk (like you) thundeshred is back in stock.

[gdmetro]

Just as I checked hoping to order all 3 from Rk (like you) thundeshred is back in stock.

I was about to chuck a hissy fit, but there was only 1 left and now its gone.

BBTS worked out okay for me in the end since I bought other stuff.

It surprised me since in the past FP stuff didn't go out of stock that quickly- these insecticons seem hotter than past FP merch...

[King Atlas]

Oh, yeah that was me :o

I had no idea that was the only one.

[kaiden]

well the backfiery preorders had been up for a while now so im not surprised they're all gone.

i know protector didn't sell as fast but the bruticus set was gone really quickly.

[Lord_Zed]

I was about to chuck a hissy fit, but there was only 1 left and now its gone.

BBTS worked out okay for me in the end since I bought other stuff.

It surprised me since in the past FP stuff didn't go out of stock that quickly- these insecticons seem hotter than past FP merch...

Perhaps its because the word is out now, and FP are better known. If they do sell more hopefully FP will produce future toys in greater quantities.

[maxirod]

Arghh... damn myself for not jumping on pre-orders and wanting to order all 3 from RK. Now I go there and Thundershred's all gone. I emailed RK and doesnt seem like there will be a restock- so probably have to bite the rip-off bullet and get one from BBTS...

Anyone know any other option?

Same dilemma here. Now it's Stormbomb that is not in stock, Thundershred's price just increased as well and in stock. Anyway hi everyone.

I'm buying it from an overseas toyshop which was recommended to me by my local forum - Transmy. Only thing is that I have to pay for shipping. It's RM140 each - works out to be $46 a pop.

[primatives]

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j50/primatives/IMAG0130.jpg

Just put G1 Bombshells gun on the FP version and damn it looks awesome!!! Makes me wonder had FP chromed the other parts like the G1 version it would make an already insane set of figures even more awesome!!!!

if only electroplating was cheaper, i'd get it done

Can't wait till I get the FP kickback version and I MUST find a way to rotate those wings up!!! Its just not right imo if its pointed down. must also remove those crappy symbols!! or sticker over it

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j50/primatives/IMAG0135.jpg

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j50/primatives/IMAG0134.jpg

Cool managed to get those ugly symbols off and add some faction symbols on it and makes it look a million bucks i say!! Very happy :) Makes it look so authentic! Im very happy!