JetFire and Optimus Prime getting ready for combination.

One of the main reason getting both Leader Class Optimus Prime and Leader Class JetFire is both Leader class toy can combine to form Powered-Up Prime. Contrary to the combinati0n, in the Revenge of the Fallen (ROTF) movie Powered-Up Prime is form after JetFire sacrifice himself to allow its body to beef up Optimus Prime weaponary and giving flight capability to Optimus Prime in the ROTF movie climax.

Regardless of TakaraTomy or Hasbro version of the toy, both is able to be combined without issues.

For the combination, start of with transforming both Optimus Prime and JetFire in their robot mode.

Step 1 - Attach Gatling Gun and transformed blaster to Optimus Prime.

Step 2 - Divide body of JetFire into 2 half horizontally, hook the silver piece of JetFire at the back of Optimus Prime.

Step 3 - Snap 2 peg of Optimus Prime feet to JetFire feet.

Step 4 - Fasten the seat belt and ready for flight.

In the nut shell, in the transformation or combination Jet Fire is more like a jet pack complete with buckle, attachment on to the feet and hook to the back.

Original leg configuration, the dual toes is tuck to the back.

JetFire the Jet Pack.

Unfortunately, the original configuration of the legs looks plain. From the Transformers forum source of alternate powered-up prime leg configuration gives a better configuration.

Alternate leg configuration for Powered-Up Prime.

Front view of the alternate leg configuration of Powered-Up Prime.

Other than the feet and back pack, from the frontal view after the combination, the head and the torso is still clearly is Optimus Prime.

JetFire robot part is still visible.

With alternate feet configuration, it looks more closer to the original Powered-Up Prime concept art.

When the combination is completed, Powered-Up Prime is lacking of articulation at its lower part of the body. Hand are less articulated at the shoulder due to new shoulder pads. However the energon sword is still extensible on the part of arm without the big blaster.

With jet pack buckle at its abdoment.

The mech-alive feature of Optimus Prime is removed. However, it can be triggered by pushing Optimus Prime backwards. In Powered-Up mode, there is a sound effect. Which is located at the lower back of JetFire.

Button to trigger weapons activation.

By moving Optimus Prime head to the back, the chest and eyes will light up simulating effect of mech alive.

There is a few configuration available for the shoulder pad. One involving folding up the 2 half of the cockpit/fuselage back into the position of JetFire robot arm. The only downside is it exposes JetFire claw but it does not matter for JetFire head can be seen in any configuration.

Alternate configuration makes the legs and feet stubby from the back.

JetFire trying to play peek-ka-boo at the back.

Alternate configuration of the shoulder pads and feet.

Another view at all the glory of Power-Up Prime.

As summary, Powered-Up Prime is a great display piece meant to be displayed face to face to would be on lookers. In term of articulation, it is severely lacking.

Not meant for those that is fear of grotesque appearance of having your ally’s carcass mount on your back with his dead head dangling at the back of your head.

Thanks for reading. Until the next post.

Notice JetFire head is sticking up like a sore thumb behind Optimus Prime head.

Leader Class JetFire robot front view.

One compound word to describe JetFire in the Transformers : Revenge of the Fallen movie, Old Geezer. In the movie JetFire was a former Decepticon and grew tired of war. I do not recall that the movie explicitly mentioned that JetFire is an Autobot. I guess the enemy of my enemy is my friend is in effect here. The version of this JetFire is the Takara version. Perhaps if you have the Hasbro version, you may spot the difference.

Leader Class JetFire package in the front shows of the Takara version have Japanese stickers all over it.

Fundamentally, there is not much difference of the Takara version and the Hasbro version JetFire. Everything is the same, except there is some makeshift stickers sticked all over the place in which is implied it is for consumption in Japanese market. The transformation sheet is in Japanese but the illustration is the same for the Takara and Hasbro is the same.

All English, Leader Class JetFire package at the back no Japanese stickers.

At the bottom of the package, in which there is no picture of in the review. There are stickers for Japanese consumers to contact TakaraTomy. Basically, there is not must noticeable difference between the Takara version and Hasbro version. However, there are some of my friends did mentioned that the whiskers of JetFire of Takara is thicker.

Leader Class JetFire has meshes of wires and rubber band.

It took me about 5 minutes to untie JetFire from its coffin package. Unfortunately other than the mech-alive feature and the voice electronics as well as light up of chest and the eyes legs do not have any commendable articulations. Articulation of the hands and arms are good but not impressive if you make comparison to the ROTF leader class Optimus Prime.

Default Leader Class JetFire back without removal of parts.

In order to make the robot figure stand, the body needs to be made leaning slightly forward. The joints of the legs at the pelvic region is tight with ratchet joints. However, like any senior citizens JetFire too suffers from weak knees.

Close up shot of Leader Class JetFire robot chicken leg.

Leader Class JetFire posture leaning slightly forward.

The trick to solve the heavier body of Jetfire due to the weak knees, lean the body of JetFire slightly forward using the joints of the legs connected to the hips.

The most articulated appendage of JetFire is it’s arms.

Leader Class JetFire robot arm articulated at the shoulder and elbow.

JetFire hand claw is able to twist at the wrist, unfortunately the claw unable to move individual. But it provides good grip to his walking stick.

JetFire robot claw on his walking stick.

The only movement given to the head is swaying left and right. Though the electronic and lighting uses the head to add effect of JetFire eyes glowing red.

JetFire robot head close up shot.

JetFire mech-alive gimmick other than the short speech, is its firey red eyes.

The mech-alive gimmick is achieved by pulling the yellow lever which is placed at the middle of the robot chest. The speech is “JetFire is my name”. Red lights flash in the eyes and at the chest, head turns horizontally left and right.

JetFire battery is placed at the back.

The battery compartment can only be accessible when JetFire is in its robot mode. The procedure involves lifting up the back plate/trench coat of JetFire. A small phillip head screw driver is needed to complete the operations. The battery is provided. AA sized batteries are needed, 2 of them.

Leader Class JetFire robot comes with 2 AA batteries included.

In term of accessories, JetFire only has a Gatling gun and a walking stick. Unforturnately, the walking stick or cane does not transform into an energon axe.

JetFire Gatling cannon with missle attached.

JetFire Gatling cannon back exposing the clip to hold onto SR-71 and both arms of JetFire and Optimus Prime.

JetFire Gatling canon looks better with missile detached.

Of course JetFire review is not complete without its alternate mode the SR-71 blackbird. Unfortunately, the alternate mode in my opinion is not even a half baked job. The transformation is relatively simple compared to Optimus Prime.

Step 1 - close JetFire whisker and lift up JetFire's cloak.

Step 2 - Bring up the panel to hide the head of JetFire.

Step 3 - Have all the major pieces of SR-71 shell aligned and combine proper.

Step 4 - With the SR-71 shell aligned, snap the boosters, engines to the side of the shell.

Step 5 - Check all the SR-71 shell ensure it is properly snapped.

Step 6 - There should be 2 part of dangling belt leave it as is.

Step 7 - Divide the body of JetFire into 2 vertical parts.

Step 8 - Have the upper half and lower half snap on to the SR-71 shell.

Step 9 - Twist the arms and shoulder to prepare to form the SR-71 nosecone.

Step 10 - Move the shoulder up closer to the head.

Step 11 - Snap the nosecone, the fusalage with the cockpit area.

Step 12 - Align the hands together and place the cane to JetFire claws.

Step 13 - Twist the shoulder part which is silver to facing you.

Step 14 - Rearrange the foot of JetFire into position.

Step 15 - Rotate the joints from the hips to peg a connector from the leg into the SR-71 shell.

For the transformation, JetFire alternate mode the SR-71 is only half done after the transformation is complete. From the top, it is a sleek SR-71 profile no doubt about it. But from the view at the below, it is a robot twist itself to follow the shell of the SR-71.

Superb accuracy when looking from the top.

Mesh of twisted robot at the bottom.

Even in the SR-71 mode, JetFire blue claws are clearly visible from the front.

Claw is not visible but the silver part of the robot is still sticking out.

The trigger or button of the sound effect is placed at the back of the SR-71. It gives effect of high pitched jet engine screaming.

Sound effect button.

There is  decent attempts to put details to the SR-71 Blackbird mode of Jetfire.

Name and rank of pilot assigned to the SR-71 Backbird printed at the lower part of the cockpit canopy.

There is tampo print below the cockpit canopy at the left which read as “LT. COL. BRAWLEY Warning : This aircraft contains a seat containing explosive charge seek maintenance manual before removing.”

Skunkworks logo/mascot on top of Decepticon emblem at the tail fins.

Decepticon insignia defaced.

Decent try to make details at the inner part of the thrusters.

Too bad the the back of the SR-71, the part of the robot hips is exposed.

SR-71 engine details.

The view at the side of the SR-71 is not so pleasant, as it is visible that JetFire make himself to a shape similar to SR-71 shell which is place on top of its robot back.

Closer view at the side of the fuselage.

JetFire robot parts is clearly visible below the SR-71 shell.

The main part of the SR-71 still expose the robot parts.

JetFire SR-71 overall view from the front.

From reviewing this toy, it is impossible to hide robot parts of JetFire if you plan to take overall isometric angle of JetFire in its alternate mode.

There is no redemption in the JetFire alternate mode, for the entire robot is visible at the bottom of the SR-71.

The robot mode is decent though. A small modification can be made to take away the old geezer image of JetFire. It can be done by transforming part of the cloak of JetFire into the primary blaster of Powered-Up Prime.

Lend me your primary blaster Powered-Up Prime.

Part of the "Trench coat" transformed into the primary gun.

JetFire the gunslinger.

Giving JetFire Powered-UP Prime, makes JetFire a walking weapon and a complete bad ass.

Summary, the robot mode of JetFire is good but lack of articulation of the legs is a bit of a bad point. It takes time to grow onto liking JetFire in its old geezer robot mode.

In the alternate mode, SR-71 Blackbird is unbelievable. It seems more like a rushed product just to be a shell to combine with Optimus Prime.

The only reason that I see that you should get Leader Class JetFire is because you want to have a complete ROTF toyline. Or because you want to make Powered-Up Prime. Other than the other 2 reasons I do not see why Leader Class JetFire is prefered Please enlighten me

Till the next post. Thank you for reading.

Optimus Prime ROTF and TFTM Compare Robot Head.

Transformers the Movie (TFTM) made in the year 2007 has brought Transformers back in to the main stream. Of course it is not without controversy, name calling or mud sling between Transformers fan. The Transformers fans is divided between the G1 purist and non purist.

What was transpired then, has actually breath a new life in to the Transformers fandom.  The Leader Class Optimus Prime was indeed the pinacle of Transformers toy. Although it is lack of  accuracy to the actual Movie Optimus Prime. It was indeed a Transformers toy that every Transformers fan wish to have.

With the new movie a new Leader Class Optimus Prime were released. Which one of the Leader Class Optimus Prime is better.

Although in both Transformers Movies, Optimus Prime is having the same designed. But the Leader Class Optimus Prime is 2 different design in the TFTM toyline and the ROTF toyline. Though both toys transforms into a Semi Truck.

Optimus Prime SemiTruck Comparison Front.

Due to the difference transformation of both toy, there is slight difference in the Truck mode. For TFTM Leader Class Optimus Prime, the legs and the chest is formed as the part for the Semi Truck cabin, the arms is stored at the back of the cabin, also forming the back of the Semi Truck.

Whereas, ROTF Leader Class Optimus Prime the upper part of the Semi Truck cabin and and the upper park of the back wheels is Optimus Prime upper body, the rest forms Optimus Prime legs.

TFTM Prime in truck mode is about 5mm shorter than the ROTF version.

Optimus Prime Semi Truck back comparison.

Optimus Prime Semi Truck Compare Top.

The other difference is the sound electronics, the TFTM Optimus Prime is having activation button at the top of it SemiTruck cabin. The electronic sound is a truck horn, with golden yellow LED lights blinking at the front screen of the cab.

Optimus Prime SemiTruck Compare Electronic Button TFTM.

ROTF Leader Class Prime SemiTruck mode, gives sound of roaring engine with red LED emitting blinking light at the front screen of the cab. The button is located at the back of the cabin.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck Electronic Button.

In terms of weight, the TFTM Optimus Prime is heavier than the ROTF counter part. Both the detailing of the Truck mode is different. Some part uses different material.

TFTM Optimus Prime SemiTruck back wheels.

The TFTM wheels are made of real soft latex. The ROTF wheels are mode of hard PVC or plastics and it is slightly smaller.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck back wheels.

TFTM Optimus Prime SemiTruck Wheels.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck Front Wheels.

The shape of the TFTM SemiTruck is more blockier than the ROTF.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck Wind Shield.

TFTM Optimus Prime Semi Truck WindShield.

Anatomically, the Truck mode of TFTM Optimus prime is more fat and blocky feel to it.

TFTM Optimus Prime SemiTruck side tank.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck side tank.

Without checking the underside of the SemiTruck, TFTM Optimus Prime has exposed its robot component, the gun is stow at the back of the semi truck with the barrel pointing to the back of the semi truck. For ROTF Optimus Prime, the only robot exposing part is the underside of the SemiTruck.

But the ROTF alt mode is Leader Class Prime pelvic part is exposed at the back of the Semi Truck. The back bumper is ROTF Prime robot butt.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck Cab.

However, in terms of details each of the toy alternate mode has its on beautiful detailing though they have their differences.

ROTF Optimus Prime Semi Truck Cab Side.

TFTM Optimus Prime Semi Truck Cab Side.

In the ROTF toy, the designer has made many effort to make Optimus Prime robot mode harder to detect. Or it would simply means they have try to improve the 2007 Autobot leader design to more closely resembles the screen accuracy.

The smoke stacks in Revenge of the Fallen toy is in 2 pieces. The Transformer movie 2007 counter part is only 1 piece.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck Smoke Stacks Side.

TFTM Optimus Prime SemiTruck Smoke Stacks Side.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck Smoke Stacks.

TFTM Optimus Prime SemiTruck Smoke Stacks.

Perhaps the attempt is to make the convoy leader to be a creator grade toy while maintaining is durable playability. Though the ROTF Prime or Convoy is less durable than the TFTM counter part. It is due to the fact there are more parts and the ROTF is more complex toy as well as complex transformation.

TFTM Optimus Prime SemiTruck Fuel tank.

Where the TFTM Optimus Prime fuel tank is literally the place for battery to power the electronics. The ROTF fuel tanks is just aesthetics. Though the Buster Prime version, it will becomes the blaster or a gun.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck Fuel tank.

However, the Autobot insignia of TFTM is better than the ROTF counter part.

TFTM Optimus Prime SemiTruck Insignia.

ROTF Optimus Prime SemiTruck Insignia.

From a quick glance, no doubt that ROTF Leader Class Optimus Prime beats TFTM Leader Class Optimus Prime hands on in term of aesthetics.

However, a closer comparison is needed to compare, the details , feature wise and articulations. The main different is in the Transformers Movie 2007, the marketed gimmick is automorph and the current one is Mech Alive.

Optimus Prime Robot Comparison.

A test and comparison is not enough without testing the articulation.

Optimus Prime Robot Compare Legs Articulations.

Legs articulation for both robot is similar, the only different is ROTF prime can bend its knee to make avian like legs.

Optimus Prime Robot Compare back to back.

Optimus Prime Robot FaceOff.

Optimus Prime Robot Compare Arms Articulations.

Due to the Transformation of TFTM Prime, the elbow are double jointed, giving it extreme articulations. ROTF Prime elbow can only bend at 90 degrees, and due to the long energon sword, it has severely hindered the articulations of ROTF Prime.

Optimus Prime Robot Compare Hand.

Another road block for ROTF Prime is lacking of articulated digits at the hand. Where the TFTM Prime has 5 articulated fingers. Though the wrist is not able to articulate and twist in the TFTM but the ROTF has twist articulation at the fist.

It is easily determine that the TFTM Prime have the best articulation in robot mode.

The robot head of ROTF maintain better screen accuracy. However, it is worth mentioning that both version of the robot head had good detailing to it.

ROTF Optimus Prime Robot Head Back.

TFTM Optimus Prime Robot Head Back.

TFTM Optimus Prime Robot Head Side.

ROTF Optimus Prime Robot Head Side.

ROTF Optimus Prime Robot Head Front.

TFTM Optimus Prime Robot Head Front.

The details of the chest is astonishing for the ROTF, it is a few notch up compared to the TFTM Prime. This chest is actually the feature of the mech-alive and auto morph. The trigger remains at the same position. However, the difference is auto morph is used to complete Optimus Prime transformation with electronic sound with yellow lights blinking at the eyes and chest.

For Mech-Alive, Prime chest will move upwards like inhaling chest action, followed with voice “I am Optimus Prime”. With yellowish gold LED at the eyes and red blinking LED lights inside the chest. A side note, the gears in the chest move when the Mech-Alive lever is pulled.

Blocky TFTM Optimus Prime Chest.

Modern ROTF Optimus Prime Chest.

From the back of the Robot Mode, ROTF Prime again best TFTM Prime hands down on movie and on screen accuracy.

ROTF Optimus Prime Robot Back Details.

TFTM Optimus Prime Robot Back Details.

The leg details of ROTF is better than the TFTM, it only lose to TFTM from lack of Auto-Morph. The TFTM Prime foot hasa Auto-Morph feature. But I can live without Auto-Morph for better details.

TFTM Optimus Prime Robot Leg Details Front.

ROTF Optimus Prime Robot Leg Details Front.

TFTM Optimus Prime Robot Leg Details Back.

ROTF Optimus Prime Robot Leg Details Back.

Optimus Prime Robot Compare Legs.

Optimus Prime Robot Compare Legs Side.

The final verdict, the ROTF Optimus Prime clearly dominate TFTM Optimus Prime in terms of aesthetics and accuracy portrayal of Movie Optimus Prime.

However, in terms of playability wise and possibility is where TFTM Optimus Prime shines.

To compensate for lack of articulation ROTF Leader Class Prime as it has ability to combine with ROTF Leader Class Jetfire and it has complex transformation.

For individual that prefer aesthetics and movie accuracy, ROTF Prime is definately the best toy at the moment.

Until the next post. Thank you for reading.

Passing of TFTM Prime to ROTF Prime.

Optimus Prime Single Energon Sword Attack CloseUp.

Hasbro Revenge of the Fallen (ROTF) leader class is definately the most movie accurate representation of Optimus Prime in both the 2007 and 2009 Transformers Movie.

This toy easily outdone any Takara masterpiece Transfromers in term of details, complexity of transformation and playability. Out of the box, Optimus Prime is in his robot mode ready to be pose with various pose. Transforming Prime into the SemiTruck is very complicated and it shows superb engineering of current toys compared to the G1 transformers.

A look at Optimus Prime alternate mode which is a SemiTruck, the mode is almost perfect.

Optimus Prime SemiTruck Front.

Only the back of the Truck , the coach and the bottom view show the robot parts. Overall, Optimus Prime is more than 90 percent recognizable as a SemiTruck.

Optimus Prime SemiTruck Back view.

The bottom part of the truck would transform into Optimus Prime pelvic and the legs. Where the cab and the engine part forms Optimus Prime upper body.

Optimus Prime SemiTruck Pelvic.

Optimus Prime SemiTruck Bottom view.

Optimus Prime SemiTruck Front Details.

Optimus Prime SemiTruck MechAlive exposed.

The only sound effect of the truck mode is roaring of the SemiTruck engine. Which the button is properly hidden at the back of the SemiTruck cabin. The sound effect button face has an engraved triangle .

Battery Compartment and button to activate Sound Effect.

Batteries are included with Leader Class Optimus Prime. Too bad the default batteries does not carry any well known brand. The good thing is the screw has a valve or a piece of plastic attached, there is no worry of screw gone missing after changing batteries. It is easy to conclude that this toy design is to make battery replacement easy as well as conforming to child safety standards.

Battery Compartment Opened.

In this review, Leader Class Optimus Prime were in its alternate SemiTruck mode. The following are the transformation sequence from SemiTruck mode to robot mode. By default from the package, Optimus Prime is in its Robot mode.

The first part in which is recommended to tansform is the upper body, overall the SemiTruck upper part of the engine and the cabin is Optimus Prime body.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 1.

The most important part of the transformation is to detach side of the cabin apart to start the transformation.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 2.

After the lower part of the cabin is detached, gently pull the side of the cabin upward, the side of the cabin is locked by a simple peg.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 3.

Most of the part is held by plastics pegs and latches. However, the plastic is durable and is not hard and brittle.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 4.

Plastic pegs has its matching connector in both mode to ensure that Optimus Prime remains in its mode after transformation.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 5.

On the transformation, all the details such as simulation of robot circuitry and internal structure is molded on the plastics. Which is really nice to see and behold how much effort the design team of Hasbro and TakaraTomy has worked to develop this product. I could not imagine how many man work hours put in developing this toy.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 6.

At this point of the transformation, all part of leader class Optimus Prime uses just the right type of plastics for the transformation. It is a bit flexible but it hold to its original shape.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 7.

The top part of the smoke stacks is made of soft PVC bendable and able to retain its original shape. You will not get a deformed smoke stack while it maintain child safety standards.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 8.

Even the rivets like detail is not left out in the mold. This is really a WOW factor for a mass produced toy.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 9.

Another critical part of the transformation, you need to push the engine block downwards and the semi truck grill need to be pull away from the engine block to unlock the arms.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 10.

Lift the back of the cabin to separate the cabin into 2 parts the upper body and the lower body.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 11.

To separate the arms that forms the engine block, at the seam push downwards into the seam slowly.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 12.

Once the arm is expose pull the arm away from each other.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 13.

Once the arm is move away, the cabin wind shield should be pull all the way back and arms all the way to the side. It will expose the head. The most annoying part of this transformation, Optimus prime voice electronics is sensitive enough to be activated by exclaiming it existance with the phrase “I am Optimus Prime”. The only way to avoid such annoyance is remove the batteries before the transformation. However, if you do so, you will miss another sound effect.

Folding the arm could be tricky I have created a sub part on folding the truck engine cover to form the arms.

Optimus Prime Arm Transformation step 1.

Optimus Prime Arm Transformation step 2.

Optimus Prime Arm Transformation step 3.

Optimus Prime Arm Transformation step 4.

Only 4 simple steps to transform the arm.

Continuation of the body transformation, once Optimus Prime head and neck is put proper.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 14.

Without its chest piece, Optimus Prime will look like it suffers from beer gut. The chest piece is really the wind screen of the SemiTruck, in which it is designed to pay homage to the G1 Optimus Prime transformation.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 15.

The final step of the body transformation is pretty tricky, you need to attach the plastic tab at the end of the chest piece to the upper side of the beer gut belly.

Optimus Prime Body Transformation step 16.

As demonstrated on the photo, the plastic tab of the chest piece can only be fit in to the belly from the side at the top. In which the gap is larger to fit in the plastic tab. Do another attachment the other side. The transformation of Optimus Prime upper robot body is complete.

Transformation of the upper body of ROTF Leader Class Optimus Prime is the hardest transformation. The legs tranformation is more straight forward, you would not need a transformation manual to make the conversion.

Optimus Prime Legs Transformation step 1.

Continue from the body tranformation, you will notice that the entire lower part of the SemiTruck is actually Optimus Prime leg and its lower body.

Optimus Prime Legs Transformation step 2.

The first step is to split the legs. The it is all folding and defolding the truck lower part to form the feet.

Optimus Prime Legs Transformation step 3.

Optimus Prime Legs Transformation step 4.

Optimus Prime Legs Transformation step 5.

Optimus Prime Legs Transformation step 6.

The transformation is almost done. Only left is making a few final adjustment. The final phase is locking the upper body and the lower body together. Followed by touching up the back of Optimus Prime.

Optimus Prime Transformation FinalPhase 1.

Optimus Prime Transformation FinalPhase 2.

Attaching the upper part and the lower part of the body gives the 80s transformation sound effect. Which I think is the coolest sound effect for this toy.

Optimus Prime Transformation FinalPhase 3.

The final touch up of the transformation phase is folding the back wheels mudflaps and lock it onto the back.

Optimus Prime Transformation FinalPhase 4.

Finally transformation is completed. The new feature of the ROTF toyline is the mech alive. By flicking of a lever or button, it gives impression that the robot is alive. The feature requires pushing down the lever which masked as part of the abdomen piece the gears in the chest piece move and the chest piece seems to move upwards. Prime will exclaim his existance by saying “I am Optimus Prime” . At the same time , the chest will blink with red led lights and the eyes will flash with yellowish green led light.

MechAlive Activation Lever.

MechAlive Activation Lever Pulled Down.

Optimus Prime MechAlive Electronics.

Its a shame that the TakaraTomy version did not exclaim “Watashi wa Convoy Sama” Direct translation would be I am Master Convoy.

The accuracy of the head is very closely resemble Optimus prime in the movie. Unfortunately due to the chest piece design the articulation of the neck is limited. You need to lift up the head to improve the articulation.

Optimus Prime Head Details Front.

Optimus Prime Head Details Side.

The chest details attempt is very commendable, articulation are actually added to the shades at the windscreen.

Robot mode Chest Details.

Articulated sun shades at the windscreen.

Another piece feature is the energon sword used to impale to kill BoneCrusher in the 2007 movie.

Optimus Prime Energon Sword Details CloseUp.

Optimus Prime Energon Sword Activation Switch.

Energon Sword Activation mechanism.

There is a hidden feature for Optimus Prime at the legs. I discovered it from the internet.

Optimus Prime Leg Details.

Optimus Prime Leg secret revealed.

In the articulation department, only the legs has more articulation. There is no articulation at the waist, to make things worse the arm articulation is hindered by the energon swords.

Optimus Prime robot mode articulation limits.

The detailing at the hand and the energon sword is the feature and also the down fall that limits the robot mode articulations.

Optimus Prime Practice SkyDiving.

Forming Arch using all limbs.

The legs articulation is good, that you can simulate Optimus Prime got a chicken leg.

Optimus Prime Knee Articulations.

I had tried a few limited posing without using any support. Bear in mind that the upper body of Optimus Prime is heavy. Leaning too much front or too much back will make him fall.

Optimus Prime Single Energon Sword Attack.

Optimus Prime Counter Attack Pose.

In a summary, ROTF Leader Class Optimus Prime is an excellent toy to be added to any toy collector inventory. The only reason that I can think an avid fan of Transformers skipping this toy is because of too fanatical and head strong that G1 design is better than Michael Bay Transformers.

My friend had made some mod to the existing piece giving Optimus Prime articulated hands and additional blaster .

If you have not get yours today, I would highly recommend you to get your piece today

Till the next post.

P.S. : I am still waiting for my leader class JetFire

Optimus Prime taking leave.

Master Chief.

Master Chief or Spartan-117 is definately the iconic character from Halo series. On top of that this title series and this characters has help increase alot of sales for the Microsoft XBox . What is XBox without this characters.

McFarlane toys has a 7 inch figure on Master Chief from Halo line toy series, this figure is a scale up from the 7 inch little brother. This review is the 12 inch rendition from Halo 3 Master Chief.

MasterChief Box Front.

The packaging is enormous, and 12 inch Master Chief felt heavy in olive color with a lot of dry brushing using gold colored paints. The package is very plain compared to my usual Japanese toys collections. I guess the focus is on the Master Chief figure itself. 

MasterChief Box Back.

Yes, the Japanese label that is seen means, I got this from Japanese market. Not mistaken, McFarlane give distribution rights to Takara Tomy. It is a shame that Takara Tomy did not get the rights to create Master Chief under its 12 inch action figure line. The back of the package is having 2 language, English and Spanish.

Accessories is pretty limited to the iconic Assault Rifle and hand grenade.

MasterChief Assault Rifle.

Both rifle and grenade accessories feels more like plastic than the standard rubbery type of material.

MasterChief Grenade.

Unfortunately, both assault rifle and grenade has a stud that is sticking out like a sore thumb. It is used to attach the accessories to certain critical part of the Master Chief action figure.

MasterChief Assault Rifle Stud.

MasterChief Grenade stud.

Placing the grenade unto the hands of Master Chief is straight forward. The only caveat is, the grenade can be hold by the left hand of Master Chief.

MasterChief Left hand.

The left hand by design does not has any for of articulation and there is no extra hand to replace it. The left hand is fixed at a hold pose. The result is limiting the number of pose of Master Chief.

MasterChief left hand holding grenade.

Unlike the left hand, right hand of Master Chief is well thought off, it has articulated fingers. Unfortunately, the articulation of the fingers is not well executed. It takes time to attach the assault rifle to Chief’s right hand. Each of the individual fingers has very limited articulation and extra care need to be given. It is made of soft plastic or PVC. I broke my Chief right pinky finger during the test of how well the finger is articulated.

MasterChief right hand closed.

MasterChief right hand opened.

MasterChief right hand holding rifle.

Despite having a grenade and an assault rifle, the grenade is meant to be fixed to the left hand and right thigh. And the Assault rifle is dedicated to fix on the right hand and attach to the back of MasterChief.

MasterChief right thigh, a hole to attach grenade.

The back of Master Chief has a hole to be used to connect to the Assault Rifle stud.

MasterChief armor back rifle attachment hole.

MasterChief rifle attached to back.

There are numerous joints in this Master Chief action figure.

MasterChief pelvic joint.

The Joint at the pelvic has ball like joint with a weak ratchet joint. It has a feel of a major ball socket connected to another minor ball joint.

MasterChief thigh details.

Joint at the knee is a ball joint it allows the knee area 2 degree of articulation.

MasterChief foot details.

The foot and ankle there is articulation. The articulation is using ball joints. Ankle as well as the foot has 2 degree or movement.

MasterChief details footprint.

MasterChief elbow joint details.

Master Chief’s elbow joint did incorporate same ball joint action with 2 degree of articulation it can be greatly improved using double joints techniques of modern action figures .

MasterChief shoulder joint details.

Joints at the shoulder is similar to the pelvic joints but at a smaller degree.

MasterChief upper arm armor.

Master Chief has a hidden “feature” , its armor plates at the upper arm can be removed. But is exposing unfinished upper arm with L or R label or it is not meant to be exposed.

MasterChief upper arm armor removed.

The removable upper arm armor plate is discovered when I tried to try of ways to improve articulations at the upper arms joint to the shoulder.

Articulation of Master Chief at its hands is very limited.

MasterChief articulation limits.

Joints at the neck is limited, but the head sculpt is highly commended for it details.

MasterChief head details front.

Due to the design the head  head articulation to do look up and down is severely hindered.

MasterChief head details side.

Master Chief’s torso has very good details but very limited articulation.

MasterChief torso details.

The most dramatic pose that I am able to come up with the articulation limit is Chief taking aim at standing position and trying to throw grenade.

MasterChief with taking aim with assault rifle.

MasterChief taking aim with assault rifle back view.

MasterChief lobbing grenade 1.

MasterChief lobbing grenade 2.

Another poses are standing still at ease .

MasterChief at ease 1.

MasterChief at ease 2.

MasterChief at ease 3.

With its weapon stowed, there is not much pose can be made.

MasterChief armed front view.

MasterChief armed back view.

A few more random shots of Master Chief.

MasterChief BackView.

MasterChief strike pose.

To summarize, McFarlane 12 inch Halo 3 MasterChief shines as a detailed sculpt but as an action figure its articulation is very limited.

Articulation of the 12 inch Master Chief is rather primitive, should the knees, and elbows as well as the neck area is given a double jointed joints its articulation will be superb.

The weight of the figure should be reduced, torso to be given more articulations. I won’t recommend this toy for heavy posing. Even the ball joints are new it is not able to support the overall weight of the figure. Should the ball joint wore out, you will need to get a stand to help Master Chief stand straight.

Instead of half backed articulated right hand, the toy designer should consider using multiple fix posed hands to improve its playability.

Final verdict, Master Chief is a very good display statue., truly a McFarlane details. Only recommended to the hardcore fans of the Halo series. For toys collectors that demands details and articulations this version of Chief should be avoided.

Till the next review.

MasterChief a veteran soldier also needs a rest.

Voltes V weilding Sword of Heaven.

Voltes V as far as I know is a Japanese animation made in the 1970s, fall under the Super Robot genre with intriguing storyline. Bandai has finally given Voltes V with Soul of Chogokin treatment. What attacted me to this toy is not because I am a fan of the animation series but it is the details and engineering of this highend collectible toy.

Most part of this robot is made of die case, joints at the shoulders are ratchet joints. Ball joints were used at the legs connected to the pelvic region. Knees are using ratchet joints. Too bad there is no articulation at the waist and chest due to the transfromation mechanism. Head and elbow has very limited articulation too.

Another additional point of the toy, it comes with an impressive arrays of accessories and gimmicks. For SOC GX-31 Voltes V, the gimmick and accesories give more playability to the figure.

Voltes V accessories.

Luckily, the instruction on how to combine or play with Voltes V has alot of graphic and well illustrated. Though if a person is able to read Japanese it will be a plus to read the story of Voltes V and other instructions.

SOC GX-31 Voltes V manual front page.

SOC GX-31 Voltes V manual 1st page.

SOC GX-31 Voltes V manual 3rd and 4th page.

SOC GX-31 Voltes V manual 5th and 6th page.

SOC GX-31 Voltes V manual 7th and 8th page.

SOC GX-31 Voltes V manual 9th and 10th page.

SOC GX-31 Voltes V manual back cover.

Voltes V the super robot in combined from 5 vehicles which symbolizes team work to conquer the adversary.

Volt machines in formation.

The first on the list is the volt cruiser. Volt cruiser is the vehicle that forms the head of Voltes V. Just like most Super Robo classics animation, it is the leader unit. Out of all volts machine, the volt cruiser is the smallest vehicle. The vehicle represent a futuristic jet fighter.

Volt cruiser cockpit closed.

Volt cruiser cockpit opened.

The volt cruiser feature landing gear which is already built in into the vehicle.

Volt cruiser landing gear closed.

Volt cruiser landing gears.

The 2nd volt machine is the volt bomber. It is supposed to be a bomber, or futuristic looking bomber. However, it looks more like a piece of flying brick. In its bomber mode, it is more enthusiastic to transform into Voltes V arms. The arm does not lock into the bomber cockpit/body and it is quite loose. The landing gear made of die cast need to be attached to simulate the landing gears is in use.

Volt bomber front view.

Volt bomber back view.

Volt bomber landing gear.

The 3rd volt machine is the Volt Panzer. The Volt Panzer is transform to be the body of Voltes V. It looks more like a caterpilar treaded rescue vechicle more than an actual tank. It comes with 2 sets of robotic clamp that can be put forward, open and close and be extended. The awesome factor for this volt machine is its tread is made of real rubber. Majority part of the Volt Panzer feels like it is made if Diecast and it is one of the heavy part other than the Volt Frigate.

Volt panzer front view.

Volt panzer robotic arm extended.

Volt panzer half transformation into Voltes V torso.

The 4th volt machine is Volt Frigate. It is supposed to be an amphibious craft able to submerge into marine environment as well as capable of flight. From my point of view it is more like a disembody legs of Voltes V with wings, radar and cockpit attached. Volt frigate in its volt machine mode is undeniable the ugliest of all. It has a spring action to keep the radar and sonar sensor.

Volt frigate front view.

Volt frigate underside view.

Volt frigate landing gears.

Volt frigate half transformation.

Lastly the 5th volt machine, Volt Lander; futuristic looking 24 wheeled vechicle which is able to dig into subteranean. From a non Voltes V fan view, it looks like a pair of skates slab together to becomes the Volt Lander. Given shoe like appearence, it forms the feet of Voltes V. Better looking than both Volt Bomber and Volt Frigate.

The wheels is able to propel the Volt Lander and it has spring that act as suspension or dampener. The drill can be stored as well as to be revealed. This piece of Voltes V is having lots of Die Cast content in it.

Volt lander front view.

Volt lander back view.

Volt lander underside view.

Volt lander drills.

Volt lander half transformation of Voltes V feets.

All super robot in the plot will meet a powerful adversary that will cause critical defeat of the hero in one part of the story. In which a character or an entity will appears to give more juice to the fallen hero to vanquish the strong adversary. Meet the ex deus machina of Voltes V, Mecha Falcon. It is not articulated nor contains any diecast but is is not shy away from details.

Mecha Falcon.

Mecha Falcon front view.

Mecha Falcon underside view.

Invidual Volt Machines are weak but each is essential to form the Super Robot Voltes V.

Volts machines get ready to combine.

Volt Lander forms feets.

Volt Frigate form legs.

Volt Panzer forms upper torso.

Volt Bomber forms arms.

Volt Cruiser forms head.

Altough there is short comings from the Volt Machines, Voltes V shows it best when it is formed.

Voltes V front view.

Voltes V back view.

At the back of the robot,all part of the Volt Machine is still showing out like a sore thumb. But is it impossible to accomplish perfect transformation due to the anime magic factor. I can only stand in awe the manage to make an animated translation with only line art into this marvelous piece of engineering. Just a complain that the engineer did not find ways to hide away the hedious studs at the side of Voltes V waist.

Voltes V head front close up.

Articulation wise, Voltes V lack of it at the waist and chest. Due to the design emphasis on the aesthetics of the toy transformation and combination, the articulations is often sacrificed. No complain in this department

Voltes V articulation test 1.

Voltes V articulation test 2.

Accessories and gimmick wise, there is alot. Few of the example is its cannon gun built-in in the right arm.

Voltes V arm cannon step 1.

Voltes V arm cannon step 2.

Voltes V arm cannon step 3.

Another gimmick to highlight is the multiple missle launcher. It is not convertible but is an attachment prop to Voltes V arm.

Voltes V missle pod hand.

The classical finisher of all Super Robot show must have giant sword. Bandai has made a decent attempt to recreate the aesthetics of the chest piece of Voltes V turn into the Heavenly Sword.

Voltes V chest piece forming Heavenly Sword.

When the Heavenly Sword is form it leaves Voltes V chest broken.

Voltes V chest piece, sword collapsed.

Not to worry, the flimsy and ugly looking heavenly sword has a replacement which is a shiny perfect looking Heavenly Sword which is anime accurate. Unfortunately it is too heavy to be hold by Voltes V default articulated hand/fist.

Voltes V anime accurate Heavenly Sword.

The ability of Voltes V able to hold the sword is due to anime accurate hands. The hand comes in pairs with 3 different pose. Fist, holding hand and an open hand. The extra piece of hand shares the same piece of stub which is attached to the arms of Voltes V.

Voltes V anime accurate hands.

The reason that the articulated hand are unable to wield the anime accurate sword is the hands are too lose to hold and support the weight of the anime accurate Heavenly Sword.

Voltes V comparison of anime accurate hand and default hand.

Voltes V sword hold firm with anime accurate hand.

Voltes V sword pose 1.

Voltes V sword pose 2.

With the anime accurate fist other type of pose can be accomplish such as basic punch stance.

Voltes V forward punch front view.

Voltes V forward punch pose.

As a summary, SOC GX-31 Voltes V (released in 2005) excels in Robot mode. With good articulations and tonnes of accessories and gimmicks. It is a well worth toys for mecha fans and Voltes V fans alike. Diecast content is plenty in this Voltes V release.

From my understanding in 2009 Bandai has released a more improved version of Voltes V, named as Respect for Voltes V. In which Respect for Voltes V is Bandai attempt to bring the classic toy color and feature to Voltes V.

It is your choice to get this first release or the improved release. Personally, the color of the GX-31 Voltes V are more anime accurate.

Thank you for your time. Until the next post

What ? Thats all.

SOC Voltes V box front view.

Got this die cast toy many moons ago but did not have a good camera. The box art is conservatively follow any Soul of Chogokin; actual picture of the toy in the front and the back of the box is printed the features of the toy.

SOC Voltes V box back view.

Only manage to snap a few pictures before my camera run out of juice.

SOC Voltes V packed in polyester foam.

Even if you have never watch the cartoon before. Bandai add a card deco on the package with label on vehicles that forms the Super Robot Voltes V.

SOC Voltes V in the package

More to come in the next up coming post. Stay tuned.

Henkei Megatron robot mode overall view.

Megatron, is one of the early arch-villian type any kid born in the 1980s can relate to. Ruthless, megalomania but with a virtue honor. Of course, a story needs a villian and a hero. Megatron just answered the call.

Takara and Hasbro has reimagined the G1 Megatron and give it a futuristic looking short barreled revolver. At its gun mode it is just fit nicely how a compact modern pistol supposed to fit any adult´s hand. The Henkei version looks better than the Classics Megatron.

Like its arch rival Convoy, Henkei Megatron is pack in its robot mode.

Henkei Megatron package front.

Henkei Megatron package back.

Similar to its Henkei counterpart, the package back is decorated with the characters technical specs, description, features and transformation diagram.

Henkei Megatron package side 1.

Henkei Megatron package side 2.

The packaging show the toy is an advertisement or marketting tool as it introduce characters on the same toy line -_-¨ .

From the package, Henkei Megatron is rather big and it is taller than Henkei Convoy. Unfortunately, there is no accessories for this figure. Just a robot with its oversized canon on the right arm.

Henkei Megatron package open.

Henkei Megatron package back view.

The inner package that stores Megatron at the back is a plain card board. Instructions, comic and a data card is placed into a plastic warp stick to the back.

On the articulation of Henkei Megatron, the figure does not have articulation at the waist, the torso is as stiff as a board. Transformation wise, Henkei Megatron has complex and ingeniously designed transformation.

Henkei Megatron Robot Pose 1.

Henkei Megatron Robot Pose 2.

Henkei Megatron robot mode give an appearence of those Arch type victorian age villian which dressed in black with long overcoats. It is due to the part of the Gun is transfomed unwittingly to Megatron´s back effectively making it a cloak.

Henkei Megatron Robot Pose 3.

The fist of the robot does not twist. It is fixed at a position. Too bad the scope is unremovable and it is an integral part of Megatron.

Henkei Megatron Robot Pose 4.

Henkei Megatron Robot Pose 5.

Henkei Megatron Robot Pose 6.

One good point of this Henkei Megatron is it comes with tight joints at the legs. Unfortunately, it would be hard to make it fix at an angle desired.

Henke Megatron Robot back view.

Henkei Megatron Robot front view.

Like its other Henkei brethens, the head details is commendable and the robot eye give a glow effect. For Henkei Megatron however, the redness is not good enough.

Henkei Megatron head chest.

Henkei Megatron head back view.

Unlike its G1 toy, the Megatron does not suffer the trigger as a boner syndrome.

After it is tranform into gun mode, it can be hold as a pistol.

Henkei Megatron gun mode.

Henkei Megatron gun view 1.

Henkei Megatron gun view 2.

Megatron come with a semi usable scope to boot.

Henkei Megatron gun mode scope.

Target at sight.

Revoltech ARX8 used as target for scope.

Overall, Henkei Megatron is a decent Henkei line toy. Reason I got him were due to discount/sales and it is Megatron.

Only get this if you want to simulate battle and fight between Convoy and Megatron.

Until the next post.

Henkei Megatron saying good bye.

DIA Commander robot mode posing.

DIA Commander or Powered Commander is a 3rd party add on to make Henkei Convoy or Classics Prime to be more beefy and intimidating. It is created by FansProject not related with Takara nor Hasbro. Just from Fans to Fans kinda operations.

Not to forget, Henkei Convoy or Classics Optimus Prime sold seperately. You need to have either Henkei Convoy, Classics Optimus Prime or Classics Ultra Magnus to complete DIA Commander.

I got mine after deciding to make my Henkei Convoy more intimidating. Powered Commander is inspired from the City Commander, and add on to Classics Ultra Magnus to reflect its G1 roots. Other than that I do not recall any canon story line of any Transformers that include Powered Commander.

DIA Commander Package front view.

The packaging of the DIA Commander is simple, not illustration or elaborated box art. It reminds me of those CD Crystal Box of indie bands or indie singers.

DIA Command Package back view.

Seriously, there is nothing special about the DIA Commander box at the back there is some quotes and paragraph. If the package has an outline of the DIA commander that would be cool. I guess having elaborate outline will add on more cost to this add on.

DIA Commander package opened.

DIA Commander package contents.

Upon opening the package, there is a comic, stickers set and of course the DIA Commander in its alternate mode, a truck trailer. Aand there is an additional DIA Commander Illustration.

DIA Commander Inner Box Art.

Wait, where is the instruction set ?

DIA Commander Comic cum instructions 1.

DIA Commander Comic cum instructions 2.

DIA Commander Comic cum instructions 3.

FansProject has made the comic as part of the instructions on snapping on the armor part to make Convoy powered up into the DIA Commander. The comic has a story which luckily there is no dialogues. So it is locality and regional neutral. Let the pictures do the talking

DIA Commander out of the box.

2 soft symetrical plastic shell which is snap on to encompass DIA Commander trailer.

DIA Commander ready for play.

DIA Commander trailer back view.

DIA Commander trailer front view.

Some part of the DIA Commander is painted with chrome paints. In which it is originally made to have chrome paints to complement Henkei Convoy. The construction of the DIA COmmander toy is strudy but light. It can be attached to Henkei Convoy in truck mode and act as its trailer, it has a female peg that fits into Henkei Convoy.

DIA Commander trailer connecting mechanism.

The connection between DIA Commander trailer and Henkei Convoy is fixed, it does not offer articulation to simulate natural join between a conventional truck with its container.

DIA Commander trailer with trailer back view.

DIA Commander trailer with trailer front view.

During the transformation process. Henkei Convoy needs to be transformed into robot mode first. The DIA Commander Trailer then needs to be disassemble into 2 major part before it can be converted to respective parts which is add on onto Henkei Convoy to for DIA Commander. First the trailer is seperate into the upper parts and lower parts.

Upper parts forms the shoulder, chest, head and arms. The lower part turns into the legs, crotch and the Big Fucking Freaking Gun (BFG).

DIA Commander trailer seperated into 2 main parts.

At the time of the picture taken, the missle pack (which is still wrapped in plastic) for the shoulders is part of the lower part of the trailer.

Transfoming the lower part into its legs, BFG and crotch piece is fairly simple.

DIA Commander lower part transformation 1.

DIA Commander lower part transformation 2.

DIA Commander lower part transformation completed.

Transformation of the upper part of the trailer into the shoulders, hands and torso is as simple as the previous transformation. The problem of DIA commander, you will need to remember proper how to disassemble in order to reassemble the parts back into the trailer mode.

DIA Commander upper trailer transformation 1.

DIA Commander upper trailer transformation 2.

DIA Commander upper trailer transformation 3.

Once all the part is transformed into the DIA Commander armor and part, it is time to beef up Henkei Convoy to DIA Commander.

DIA Commander ready to transform.

First recommended step is attaching the parts is just snapping in the DIA legs onto Convoy, which is similar like a person wearing a boot. The plastic should be flexible enough to have Convoy legs snapped in. Do not apply too much force.

DIA Commander mid transformation 1.

DIA Commander mid transformation 2.

DIA Commander mid transformation 3.

To snap in the torso and head, Henkei Convoy head needs to be place into his body. Beware that the torso/head part of the DIA Commander is the weakest compared to other parts. Do not apply excessive force.

DIA Commander mid transformation complete.

In the nutshell, the DIA Commander/Powered Commander transformation is like having Convoy to wear elaborated armor. Similar to guys wearing tuxedo

Not forgetting you can attach the Big Fucking Freaking Gun (BFG) only to its right hand.

DIA Commander BFG at ease.

Unfortunately, the weight of the BFG is too heavy for the joints of Covoy to support.

DIA Command BFG raised view 1.

DIA Command BFG raised view 2.

DIA Command BFG raised view 3.

There is significant reduction of Convoy´s articulation after Convoy is beef up into DIA Commander. It is a good as a display piece.

DIA Commander front view.

DIA Commander back view.

As a summary DIA Commander or Powered Commander from FansProject is meant for DIEHARD fans only. A thing that I have left out is the weapons of Henkei Convoy are able to fit into the hands of DIA Commander.

Please be reminded that DIA Commander is created by an indie group called FansProject. Hence do not ecpect precision engineering like the major and mainstream toy makers. The only problem that I find in my DIA Commander is the hole to place the secondary Convoy blaster is too lose and unable to hold the secondary blaster as illustrated.

Lastly, thanks to FansProject for creating this project.

Stay tuned for the next post

DIA Commander need to rest.

Henkei Convoy posing with primary blaster.

It is rather a delayed review for this figure. Photo were taken before the Queensbay Mall Transformers Convention with TransMYians during June. Nevertheless, personally I prefer this version rather than its Hasbro counter part. Ordered it from HLJ during a discount for this toys, was in luck for retail store in my place of residence is over priced.

If you do not know, in Japan and in most area of far east Asia Transformers purist will simply call Optimus Prime in the far east Asia as Convoy.

Autobot is known as Cybertrons and Decepticons is known as Destrons. A bit confusing but you will get the hang of it.

Unlike the Hasbro packing, Takara packing offer a more compact package with a DataCard of Convoy.

Hasbro Optimus Prime package is standard like all its Tansformers Classics/Universe Voyager Class toys which is way more bulkier and it is in truck mode. For TakaraTomy, Convoy is in robot mode.

The TakaraTomy Convoy comes in the package in Robot mode.

Henkei Convoy unpacked.

Henkei Convoy is undeniable, feel heavy for its class. With details and accessories to complement the defacto Cybertronian Commander.

Henkei convoy instructions.

The only down side of Convoy, it is not a perfect transformation figure. It smoke stacks is transformed into its primary blaster and its truck roof is transformed to his secondary blaster.

Henkei Convoy and accessories.

With multiple accessories, Convoy can have different weapons configurations.

Henkei Convoy robo backgun back view.

Henkei Convoy Back Gun Armed back view.

One of the configuration is attaching the primary blaster it is mid transformed mode and attach them to the secondary gun which is still in the truck roof mode.

Henkei Convoy Robo backpack gun front view.

Henkei Convoy Back Gun Armed front view.

Another configuration is Convoy with truck roof as a back pack with a primary blaster. Every conservative peacekeeping forces would use.

Henkei Convoy Robo primary blaster with backpack back view.

The most popular mode for the most Gung-Ho people, dual blaster configuration. Aggressive and reckless nevertheless.

Henkei Convoy Robo dual blasters back view.

Henkei Convoy Robo dual blasters front.

Convoy in truck mode is something truly to behold. Almost perfect in all expect. Except the robot parts is able to be view from the underside of the truck. and if you can forgive the designers to be lazy to make big side piece of the truck is visible as part of the Convoy Robot arms.

Henkei Convoy Truck front.

Henkei Convoy Truck back view.

It is a shame that the under part of the truck expose the robot legs.

Henkei Convoy Truck underside.

The roof of the truck can be taken off but it will expose Convoy’s robot head.

Convoy truck roof detached.

Not forgetting the fact, the roof of the truck as well as the smoke stacks can be transformed into Convoy’s blaster.

Convoy Truck Roof detached.

Convoy Truck Roof Secondary Blaster.

Convoy Truck roof secondary blaster front view.

If you noticed the weapons details, TakaraTomy did not reserved and gives it more details. The smoke stacks can be detached and transformed into a small blaster with double barrel. Its design is very similar to the Warhammer 40K space marines bolters. Or atleast it has the outline of the Warhammer 40K bolters.

Convoy Primary Blaster - smoke stacks.

Convoy Primary Blaster - mid transformation.

Convoy Primary Blaster - Transformation Complete.

Convoy Primary Blaster side.

With good accessories Henkei Convoy is the best Henkei figure in the Henkei and Transformers classics line.

One thing which seperates Henkei from its cousins Transformers classics is chromed parts. The truck bumper and grill is chrome. Unfortunately it the part end up in Convoy’s behind. It is literally Convoy has a shiny ass in Robot mode. Reminds of Bender’s famous quote “Bite my shinny metal ass.”

Henkei Convoy Robo.

Henkei Convoy Robo back view.

Another small details which I prefer is the fist of Convoy, for it is moulded or painted with 2 different color on a single fist.

Henkei Convoy Robo fist details.

Even Convoy’s robot head has a lot of details on it. The blue glow on the robot eyes is attributed to blue translucent plastics were used to allow light to pass through. Giving it a blue glow at the eyes or optics if you prefer

Henkei Convoy Head front view.

Henkei Convoy Head side view.

Henkei Convoy Head back.

Just manage to make lame pose with Convoy, but in reality it is a good possable figure and the joints is neither tight or loose; just nice.

Henkei Convoy simple pose.

Too bad there is no articulation at the waist. Else it can make more dynamic poses.

In a nutshell, C01 Henkei Convoy is an incredible toy transformable accessories. Good articulations. Good details just dumb down slightly by the fact it is not perfect transformation.

Highly recommended to Transformers fans old and new alike. Mecha lovers go get it.

There is also a 3rd party producer; FansProject has created extension to make this toy more worth while. Check out for the DIA Commander and the G3 Trailer.

Until the next post. Thank you for reading and visiting my website.

Henkei Convoy Robot mode.