DotM Voyager SKYHAMMER Review

Printable View

15th May 2011, 10:32 PM
Stompy

DotM Voyager SKYHAMMER Review

DotM Voyager Autobot
SKYHAMMER

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0107.jpg

Official Bio:
"Back on Cybertron, Skyhammer was a highly decorated Autobot Aerial Assault Commander. He was tasked with personally advising Optimus Prime in countless skirmishes with the Decepticons. Skyhammer is surprisingly nimble given his size and weapon payload. He is an expert with projectile weapons, but also excels in hand-to-hand combat. He carries an Energon Blade bestowed on him by Optimus Prime as recognition of extraordinary courage and heroism in battle."

TechSpecs:
Strength: 7
Intelligence: 9
Speed: 9
Endurance: 6
Rank: 8
Courage: 10
Fireblast: 7
Skill: 8

Robot Mode:

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0112.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0110.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0111.jpg

The very first thing you notice is the most obvious: The propeller blades forming as part of the chest/torso. I think this is the first time where it isn't kibble or a weapon. It's a design choice that is well executed and the result is eye-catching. Head sculpt is nice although no light-piping. The shoulders are obviously the alt-mode cockpit which might irk some people, especially the vents that is sticking out on top. The next thing you notice is the Ultra Magnus like colours. White and blue-grey. The paint apps are good choices with gold, metal blue, and silver highlighting just enough to break the colours apart, especially the piping on the propellers on his chest. Although, I'm not sure if this colour scheme fits the movie aesthetics and reminds me more of the Cybertron figures.

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0114.jpg

The proportions on this figure is quite startling. The arms stand out as being a little large, with matching giant hands as well. The forearms are equipped with 2 Cannons each, offsetting the largeness a little, but it's almost gorilla-like. Otherwise, the legs are chunky enough, the waist not too thin and the bulk of the shoulders help neutralize the big chest.

Articulation is as expected and was a little disappointed that after wave 1's double jointed elbows and knees, Skyhammer does not have it.The arms rotate on the shoulder by 360 degrees, 90 outwards, 360 on the biceps and 90 on the elbow.The legs can rotate 360 but blocked off by the other parts, 100 outwards, and 90 backwards and another 90 forwards. The latter two can't be considered a 180 degree as it is more articulated for the conversion. The toes and heel can fold 90 each too for cool aerial poses.

Articulation side on:
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0100.jpg

Articulation front on:
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0101.jpg

Overall this is an excellent robot mode that appeals to proportion whore's like me and I adore the large arms, so that's a plus. The back of the robot is quite nice too, with lots of vents and holes rather than kibble like panels and such. There are no weight issues and can pull off some nice poses without toppling over. Am just not sure this fits the movie aesthetics. 8/10

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0106.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...DSCF0103-1.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0104.jpg

CONVERSION:

Transforming Skyhammer isn't as difficult as wave 1 Voyagers and there are no real surprises here. There are some issues with aligning pegs and flaps but holds quite steady and solid when done. The vents on top of the cockpit just kinda sits there and the pegs for the forearms to attach too aren't the best. The chest is meant to twist counterclockwise by 90 degrees but it was so tight. Perhaps it was my figure but I was afraid I was going to break something. I checked the instructions but there's no latch or releases that was pointed out and I just applied an immense amount of pressure and nothing broke, no stress marks, but it's very uncomfortable knowing how tight it is. [EDIT]: Thanks to Paulbot for pointing out that the propellers are meant to be pulled out. It isn't in the instructions and if it's meant to be an auto-morph feature, then this certainly failed. I tried and tried to pull the propellers out initially but just couldn't. When I read Paulbot's comments I gave it another try and it popped out. Perhaps loosened by my initial force-twisting.

The calves doesn't really peg on properly and can be tricky due to it pushing out a recessed part out on the shins. But with some pressure ont he right places this stays on and does not affect balance. Converting back to robot mode is a lot more easier and natural and should prove to be easy to remember. 7/10

ALT MODE: ATTACK CHOPPER

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0116.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0118.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...DSCF0121-1.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0123.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0124.jpg

The alt mode is well realized and quite stunning to be honest. With no visible robot kibble and even the underside showing minimal kibble. There are retractable static landing wheels and also removable missile racks that you can also peg on the forearms or side of the chopper. The little details with the sculpt and paint highlights make for a complete finished look in this mode. The insignia is visible and the cockpit stands out. My only real complaint and is quite disappointing actually, is the propeller is pretty much flush on the chopper. It can spin but you can't let it spin freely. It catches on to the chopper roof. Unless it's due to the chest conversion problem I have, but if it is Hasbro certainly failed to make it clear on the instructions. Otherwise this is an excellent looking alt mode, if you don't mind not having spinning propellers. [EDIT]: Thanks to Paulbot the Propellers actually does pop out. It might require a little force but it pops out by about 1cm. In which case, I have to up the score for the alt-mode by a point as you can now have whirling, free-spinning blades. So, the score is now...8/10

MECHTECH WEAPON:

The Mechtech weapon is what you would expect with the blaster converting to a blade and doubling the size of the weapon. It's more of a snap attack than a blade weapon really as there's no way to lock it into blade mode. The weapon can be attached on either forearm and hands in botmode and can be attached under the cockpit, wings or the side of the alt-mode. The spring isn't the strongest and the blade sags a little when placed under the cockpit. Once again though, I think these Mechtech weapons are oversized. 6/10

OVERALL:

I really dig both modes and conversion should please puzzleformers (intricate & fiddly) and playformers (quick and easy). It has some niggles but it's strong points outshine them. Certainly a good pickup during sales and will make for good repaint fodder for Hasbro. I personally really like this for it's awesome proportions, the clever use of the propellers in robot mode and it's complete and finished look and feel. Be aware that this uses some of the more malleable plastic. As jaydisc mentioned before, it's probably a cost saving choice and/or protection from excessive force. 8/10

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0127.jpg

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/k...r/DSCF0109.jpg

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

MODS: Feel free to change the title of the thread, format of the header of the review or insert a poll if needed to fit in with the other reviews.

EDIT: Added Bio and TechSpecs. Corrected spelling and grammar and also added a few new details concerning the Propellers marked accordingly.
16th May 2011, 02:23 PM
Vector Prime

Thanks for the review Stompy! :)

I remember seeing a review on Youtube (by peaugh I think) and knew that this guy was a must buy straight away.
16th May 2011, 02:32 PM
LordCyrusOmega

He looks really good. I like what they've done with the proppelor in robot mode. Does he appear in the movie?
16th May 2011, 02:33 PM
Vector Prime

Quote:

Originally Posted by LordCyrusOmega

Does he appear in the movie?

Definitely.

(not based on fact, just my opinion based upon Michael Bay's love for helicopters :p)
16th May 2011, 02:34 PM
Sky Shadow

Thanks Stompy - you're a legend. (Or... should that now be 'you're a legion'? Or 'commander'? Or 'cyberverse'? I still haven't worked out these new size classes.) ;)
16th May 2011, 04:44 PM
Gutsman Heavy

You do the best reviews Stompy, I'll wait and see if a redeco tickles my fancy.
16th May 2011, 04:59 PM
Sky Shadow

I'd like to see a recolour as the unused (as a Transformer toy) Diaclone Triple changer:

http://www.toyarchive.com/Diaclone/Triplechanger.html
16th May 2011, 05:12 PM
Zippo

Need to paint the face, he is the one part of the toy I can't stand.
16th May 2011, 07:55 PM
SMHFConvoy

First DotM toy I picked up. He is great, love his backpack and silhouette, very reminiscent of the TFA characters.
17th May 2011, 03:13 PM
STL

Cannot wait for this! Mine's in the mail and I'm counting down the days. Very excited.
26th May 2011, 07:17 AM
Paulbot

The best Transformers helicopter since Cyberttron's Evac, who this toy does remind me of. I think it's got a great heroic looking robot mode like Evac did. The blades folding around the chest are distinctive and nice looking. The transformation is nice and hides the robot parts very well. I like that he has additional weapons (the missile pods) so he can be armed without the Mech Tech weapon. My favourite DOTM figure so far for sure.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stompy

The chest is meant to twist counterclockwise by 90 degrees but it was so tight. Perhaps it was my figure but I was afraid I was going to break something. I checked the instructions but there's no latch or releases that was pointed out and I just applied an immense amount of pressure and nothing broke, no stress marks, but it's very uncomfortable knowing how tight it is.

I had the same thing and was worried as I twisted it thinking it can't be right. But before I got more than 10 degrees in the turn the blades rose up. It's not in the instructions but the the blades need to be pulled up first. This makes the chest rotate freely and means the blades spin freely in helicopter mode.
26th May 2011, 08:53 AM
VERT

What I really like about this figure is he does not look like a typical Bay Bot. He is chunky and well looks more like a traditional Transformer. He could have come from TF Cybertron or something. No claws or silly backward leg joints etc.
26th May 2011, 09:09 AM
Vector Prime

Quote:

Originally Posted by VERT

What I really like about this figure is he does not look like a typical Bay Bot. He is chunky and well looks more like a traditional Transformer. He could have come from TF Cybertron or something. No claws or silly backward leg joints etc.

+1 on this mate - and that's why he appeals to me so much... now to just find one for under $40 at TRU. :o
26th May 2011, 08:48 PM
Stompy

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paulbot

The best Transformers helicopter since Cyberttron's Evac, who this toy does remind me of. I think it's got a great heroic looking robot mode like Evac did. The blades folding around the chest are distinctive and nice looking. The transformation is nice and hides the robot parts very well. I like that he has additional weapons (the missile pods) so he can be armed without the Mech Tech weapon. My favourite DOTM figure so far for sure.

I had the same thing and was worried as I twisted it thinking it can't be right. But before I got more than 10 degrees in the turn the blades rose up. It's not in the instructions but the the blades need to be pulled up first. This makes the chest rotate freely and means the blades spin freely in helicopter mode.

Agree with this being one of the best Helicopter TF. I'm a fan of Helicopter and Motorbike TF and this ranks highly. Am just not keen on the colour scheme in robot mode.

Hmm I tried to pull the rotor blades up but couldn't. If it does go up then that's a plus. EDIT: Just pulled up the rotor blades. :D That's about 1cm worth of clearance now and can now spin. freely! Also doubles as a shield of sorts in robot mode. Thanks PB.

Oh and thanks for pointing out the removable missile racks. I forgot to mention that. [EDIT]: Oops I actually did mention it. Man I'm getting old.
26th May 2011, 09:46 PM
Vector Prime

Skyhammer... pure win!

Just had a fiddle with Skyhammer, and wow, he doesn't disappoint! :p

Intricate, clever transformation bordering on being a tad bit fiddly but certainly a very rewarding experience once you've converted him to alt mode or vice versa with everything clicking nicely into place.

He looks very nice in both modes and like Stompy, I don't care too much for his colour scheme - he certainly would look nicer in a darker colour, but he's not that bad as he is.

My only gripe with this guy is that his feet and heel tabs don't lend themselves well to posing him in any sort of dynamic pose since they're not strong enough to support his weight.

I do suspect that perhaps it may just be bad QC on my particular figure? This gripe aside, there's very little I find wrong with this guy.

Overall, he's everything I expected and more - I would not hesitate to buy a redeco of this mold, he's that good.

9/10
27th May 2011, 04:55 PM
SharkyMcShark

Um... does anyone else have a Skyhammer with a REALLY tight chest panel?

It refuses to rotate for copter mode.
27th May 2011, 04:58 PM
SharkyMcShark

Oh right never mind I'm an idiot, you've got to pop the rotor blades up first
27th May 2011, 06:10 PM
STL

I'm so excited, got mine yesterday and hoping to have a fiddle tonight!
28th May 2011, 05:07 PM
SharkyMcShark

Very nice figure

The aesthetic reminds me more of the Ongoing art style than an out and out movie Transformer. My only real gripe is that the legs are a bit of a mess but otherwise it's great.

Love the rocket pods. It looks a lot like the Mi24 Hind, except for the cockpit (here it's angular like that of an Apache, whereas the Mi24 cockpit is more bulbous), the side turbines, and the lack of a tail rotor (which I just noticed)

Also I LOVE the way the blades tranform. It works really well.
28th May 2011, 07:43 PM
klystron

Honestly this is the only DOTM figure/toy I am even remotely interested. Now having said that, I've probably just jinxed myself and will never ever find him. *sigh*
29th May 2011, 01:24 PM
griffin

Skyhammer
Series - Dark of the Moon
Sub-line - Mechtech
Size/class - Voyager
New/remould/redeco - New
Wave - 2
Released here - May 2011
Approximate Retail Price - $50
Approximate Size - 18cm
Allegiance - Autobot
Alt-mode - Attack Helicopter
Main Features/Gimmicks - Electronics, Convertible Mechtech weapon
Main Colours - Navy blue, grey, black
Main Accessories - Mechtech weapon

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/tftoys/mt17.jpg
29th May 2011, 01:25 PM
Sky Shadow

Quote:

Originally Posted by griffin

Skyhammer...

Griffin, stop posting reviews and go enjoy the USA! :p
20th June 2011, 01:09 AM
STL

I'm really impressed with this figure. One of my favourites in the line easily. It's a very innovative figure in terms of it's transformation. I think there's a lot of uniqueness about the way the arms fold back to be the symmetric sides of the helicopter, the wings lock in to the alt mode and the detail in the legs that push out the white leg pads. Really adds different layers to him which once combined with the unique wings and goldish transparent shoulders, it's visually strong and a lot of fun.

My only problem was QC. I have gone through x3 of him to get the right one which wasn't QC riddled. My principal QC issues have been:
- shoulders are floppy and slouch down way too easily, reducing his buff look and making him look quite sad.
- legs too easily do the splits

Grab two DOTM Sideswipe's guns and double up on his weapon, and you have one gorgeously armed bot that no one wants to mess with. Absolute winner from the line
20th June 2011, 10:06 AM
kaiden

Quote:

Originally Posted by STL

Grab two DOTM Sideswipe's guns and double up on his weapon, and you have one gorgeously armed bot that no one wants to mess with. Absolute winner from the line

Did you buy a 2nd Sideswipe? I want to avoid that if at all possible. Hasbro should sell a mechtech weapon pack :p
20th June 2011, 02:11 PM
STL

Quote:

Originally Posted by kaiden

Did you buy a 2nd Sideswipe? I want to avoid that if at all possible. Hasbro should sell a mechtech weapon pack :p

What can I say? I'm hopeless when it comes to buying duplicates.
20th June 2011, 02:44 PM
kaiden

Quote:

Originally Posted by STL

What can I say? I'm hopeless when it comes to buying duplicates.

I returned my sideswipe due to a QC issue but the nice lady let me keep his weapon. though, honestly im not motivated into buying him again :/
20th June 2011, 03:53 PM
STL

Quote:

Originally Posted by kaiden

I returned my sideswipe due to a QC issue but the nice lady let me keep his weapon. though, honestly im not motivated into buying him again :/

Can you introduce me to such a lady? Could save me a lot of dough :p
20th June 2011, 08:57 PM
Pipesqueak

I think he would be a great figure if he was an oversized deluxe, but he's a bit of a ripoff for the voyager price point despite his very appealing looks. His floppy, deluxe-style joints won't stand the test of time like a $50 toy should. For that price you should get plenty of ratcheting joints.
20th June 2011, 10:43 PM
GoktimusPrime

I got mine on sale at TRU, so I'm pretty happy with it :)
28th June 2011, 12:56 AM
SkyWarp91

when this figure was announced I was excited and wanted to get a hold of it all asap as it was a new mold.

But after finally opening it after some busy weeks I'm not all that impressed. It's an okay toy, the robot mode has decent paint apps but the paint-job on the head seems a bit cheap and doesn't suit the rest of the body. The vehicle mode is okay too but I think HFTD Tomahawk is a better chopper of a figure. Articulation is good and transformation is stylish yet followable (except the part where the chest rotor panel rotates, I was so close to snapping it off had I not known you are meant to pull outward the rotor blades first).

Overall this figure is just an average. It's nothing jaw-dropping but it's far from the worst, it's just a forgettable figure in the end.

Recommended to buy on sale.
28th June 2011, 08:04 AM
jaina85

skyhammer is actually my favourite of the movie line so far! i think maybe because they weren't stuck having to copy something on-screen they had more freedom to not cheat with panels and bits hanging off all over the place? his transformation is amazing, every piece goes somewhere in both modes and has a purpose and plugs in, instead of the usual movie type 'pull apart the vehicle mode and arrange the resulting mess into a thing that looks like a robot' XD

i bought shockwave too, and was very disappointed. im not usually worried about what vehicle modes things have as long as they turn into something that looks like a thing, so i usually don't like cybertronian modes because they're often weird and feel lazy. i was hoping the robot mode would make up for it, but it is so stiff and disagreeable to posing, the backpack doesn't like to stay clipped, and the silly weapon hose really limits the arm. the plastic even feels 'wrong' somehow! it's like, he goes to a lot of effort to transform into two things where neither one of them is really any kind of special :(
27th July 2011, 12:32 AM
Ingram

I love this dude. He's great to pose and looks fantastic. The only things I hate about him are his eyes/face. I wish his eyes had light piping and I also wish his face was the same dark blue.

I also think his gun is a bit stupid and kinda wish I had something else to put on him.

Overall, worth purchasing.
20th November 2011, 12:35 AM
griffin

The most disappointing thing about this toy is that it wasn't in the Movie.

When I first saw it revealed, it looked like it was going to be in the Movie, instead of the same old cast of (Autobot) cars.
Then when I got the toys, I really thought it was going to be in the Movie, because it didn't feel like a "half assed" Wave-filler toy.
But perhaps with it being just a bit too good in its design and playability, I shoulda realised that it couldn't have been a movie character, as movie character toys are usually flawed to accommodate something that their on-screen character does or looks like.

The legs and arms all look more robotic than alien, while the usage of the rotors in robot mode is very innovative. I was amazed at how they are incorporated into the robot mode (without being kibble or an over-sized weapon), as well as acting like sculpted detailing on the upper abdomen of a helicopter motif (which would usually be created by fake kibble or detailing).
The mechtech weapon, like with most TF3 figures (especially the Voyager class) doesn't work seemlessly with the toy itself, in either mode. It's over-sized in both modes, and once again reminds us why gimmicks should never be used if it spoils the figure itself in its application.

It's definitely worth getting, even if you don't see it as a Movie toy (probably more enjoyable if it isn't seen as one). And since there doesn't appear to be any plans by IDW to continue Movie-verse comics after TF3, we probably won't have this character used in their expanded Movie Universe anyway.