Hasbro trademarks "Combiners"

[griffin]

The Combiner concept isn't new to Transformers, or even a lost concept, as we've had combiners in just about every year since 1985 (with Devastator that year, right up to Bruticus this year)... but now it seems that Hasbro has decided to actually Trademark the term.

What's the point? It could just allow them to have another word on packaging with a "tm" after it to prevent other toy companies using the word as a toy concept... or maybe they are planning a whole new subline/series called "Combiners".

Even if it was the latter, it we just had a "Combiners" subline/series with Power Core Combiners, plus the FOC Bruticus Combiner soon too, so unless they do the concept well, the name itself may not be much to hype about.

[Decepticon]

So is 'combining' transformers the next 'hot' gimmick for the Transformers line next year?.... after PRID dies.
Looking forward to the Optimus Prime torso with the different shades of yellow Bumblebees for the 4 limbs!!!

[SuspectimusPrime]

Maybe to bulk up their arsenal before making a move against third parties?

Feels like an empty victory? They're releasing one Bruticus this year, but people will still compare that to what FP did years before. Trademarking the name/term will allow them to at least say, 'well it was my idea first..'.