My MITF 2010 stash

With exception of MP Grimlock at the background, others TF toys and Hi-Metal VF-1J, those are freebees as well as things bought from MITF.

The most treasured item for the event is of course the Exhibitor’s tag Thanks to TransMY.

This post will be highlighting the some of those figures in closer view. Of course from my point of view

Heroes, villians and in betweens...

G1 toys, Heroes and villians side by side.

In the 1980s the Transformers G1 toys is definitely the craze of the childrens. Well at least as far as I can remember. If we can turn back time and show to your peers the G1 Transformers toys you have, you will becomes the school instant celebrity. Everyone is your friend LOL

Takara G1 Optimus Prime

Everyone needs a hero. Optimus Prime or Convoy is basically plays the role of model. Natural leader, charismatic, strong, wise, brave and of course personification of all good. Would dare to bet that those watches Transformers idolizes Optimus Prime/Convoy.

To think of the relation, Transformers, as well as Gundam cartoons or movie is just another form of product placement as well as advertisement. For Transformers toys are actually children of a toy time known as Diaclone.  Well not going details into it, may check out with others TransMYians or any dedicated Transformers community.

G1 Devastator

Devastator from my most fondness childhood memory is the first Transformers in cartoon that actually all the vehicle is individual robots and are able to combine their soul and body to becomes devastator. Devastator is really a bad ass in those early Transformers cartoon. Just like in all story there needs to be a villain, and of course Devastator fits well as the biggest muscles of the bad guys.

Then come the dinobots, the anti-thesis of Devastator. Unfortunately they does not combine, which is a waste.

G1 Dinobot toys

As far as I know, the gimmick of Transformers were its transformation mechanism… so called robot in disguise. It was impressive at those old time. Of course other than the elaborated commercial, it too provide entertainment worth as well as a moral story.

G1 Megatron and Optimus Prime side by side.

Despite playing bad guys, they are important to create tension and perhaps provides the motivation and plot to the story. All hail Megatron !!!

Ah despite all this rambling, moment for closer shots of customized figures under courtesy of Wan De Real .

Transformable MP Ultra Magnus

The base body is using Takara Master Piece Ultra Magnus, styrene sheet and some joint are added to make the Ultra Magnus armour to ensure ecstatics of cartoon accurate Ultra Magnus.

Customized MP SixShot

Customized MP Six Shot is definitely a sight to behold, heavily modified joint added with articulation. As well as details such as wheels, tank caterpillar threads were added.

Customized MP Sound Wave

Quintessons Fixed Pose Figure

Customized MP BumbleBee

According to Wan, the MP BumbleBee, is actually created using a customized method known as shelling. The Volkswagen Beetle is actually a die-cast car, which were carefully separated and added in robot parts into the model.

Customed MP Preceptor

Of course these are the highlights of the customized TF figures. In which will take a longer time to complete. In a way it is one of its kind in the world.

Customed painted ROTF SoundWave by TCracker

Customed painted ROTF Voyager Optimus Prime by Robowarrior_prime

Seeing how much details on the customs figures, we can know that each of those customed job whether scratch built or impressive paint job requires labour of love. Long live the customizers for personalizing and adding character to their toys making it truly one of its kind in the world.

Another toyline which is featured is Macross by Macross Fan of Malaysia.

Valkyries from Macross Zero

Assortment of Macross collectibles and toys

Macross Frontier

Macross Plus, missing Isamu the loose cannon

Regarding about Macross Plus, did Guld did it ?? Any Macross fans can give me an answer ? Did Guld really did it ?

One of Macross collector nice chatting with you

Not forgetting the Malaysia – Brunei Outpost of the 501st Imperial Army.

Someone going to have a very bad day with Vader

Photo session with Vader at the 501st Booth

Desert Storm Trooper, really impressive.

More Troopers

Taken a pot shot at a cool looking Imperial Grunt

It is great to know there are local comics as well as local CG studio. I am referring to Gempak Starz and Lescopaque. There are also other local artist some of the work is nice too.

Les' Copaque Booth

Gempak Starz Booth

Featured Artist from Gempak Starz

I missed the chance to get autograph from the artists for the comic bought last minute before closure. Perhaps better luck next time

Sean Lee @ Shabowl Brothers

Sean Lee @ Shabowl Brothers produces nice colorful caricature.

That is pretty much the sum up of what interesting at least from my perspective.

There is gaming event too.

MITF Game station 1

MITF Game Station 2

I guess computer games is a sub genre of electronic toys

Some shots of cosplayers

Noname sith

Aye! Aye! Jack Sparrow

Taking picture with a Shinigami anyone ?

Back again to the Transformers rare toys.

Destron Overloard toy from Masterforce

Masterforce toy Destron Overlord

StarSaber from Transformers Victory

Its a shame that StarSaber and Overlord mold pulled a Houdini else it is worth getting an Encore version of this toy Just too bad.

Hopefully in the future the MITF fair can make vendors and showcasers 50/50 .

Wish to see those 12″ figures kit bashes, Kamen riders, Sentai Rangers, Bandai Soul of Chogokins and a lot more to mention.

Signing off from this post, thanks for visiting

Yes that is all.

If you are still reading this are you expecting something extra ?

I’m pretty sure I have uploaded most of the highlights.

Still not reading ?

1, 2, 3… The end

Want more ?

Perhaps next time.

Still not give up yet ?

Still insist that the Post has not ended ?

You are a strong believer.

To reward you of your persistance.

Till the next toys fair in the near future.

A good bye from this 2 sweet girls

To my regular visitor, sorry for the lack of update. Hopefully, next month onwards I am able to make updates more regularly.

For the Toys, I have went to MidValley Mall, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia as early as 9am GMT +8. Security were pretty tight for non-exhibitors need to wait until the official opening time.

MITF Main Podium

We were lucky via Wan De Real we are able to get a nice place in the Exhibition. Yes the TransMY booth show casing Transformers is situated directly opposite of the  MITF main podium.

Most of the toys were from different type of genre. We have designer toys as well as local toys shop join the array.

Dweey's Toys for Designer

Though designer toys are not something new, it was introduce to me by some of my toys collecting comrades. But did not pay attention to it until my sister has introduce me to the toys of this genre. For this genre, I have liberated her coverage to be used in this blog.

What intrigues me, is the toys comes in plain white or other base color, then it can be used as a base for artist, professionals as well as hobbyist to engage in innovating the plain toy into a work of art.

Solid White Dweey

Dweey with Park motif

Dweey with different design

Other various taken by Miss IB for ladies and those has soft spot for soft toys as well as designer toy.

Tofu Cube, another type of designer toys

Another type of designer toys

Pink bear/monkey

The name is...

Various brand of designer toy

Old master Q figurines

Piglet in Gold

Hey It is Krauser from Detroit Metal City...

Tiny Designer Golem

Big eyed doll

Next part is dedicated to the TransMYians that has helped in this event.

Wan De Real in person

Thanks Hady for the great effort of providing graphics and parameter solutions.

Regular contributors

"Lou Tai" Wong

"Lou Yee" Monk at the far left

Of course the rest of the team, will glad to post up the overall team after the end of the MITF second day. Though it is tiring, but it is fun to meet up and work face to face with TransMYian in this event. It is fun.

To the visitors, who has approached TransMY booth, I regret to inform you that the toys is for show case only. Most of the toys I believe is the each of the TransMY member’s precious, sorry for our attachment to our toys

Though I did take a quick snap on some of the visitors that has give us alot of moral support just by your attendance and enthusiasm.

Random Snap Shot 1

Random Snap shot 2

Random snap shot 3

Random snap shot 4

A shot at the crowds

The moment that you have been waiting for, show cases of Transformers at TransMY booth.

Customized MP seekers

Customized MP Dirge

Custom Painted TFTM 2007 Megatron

Beast Wars Showcase

G1 Transformers dedication

Customized but Transformable MP Ultra Magnus.

Customized showcase 1

Customized show case 2

Customized Show case 3

The customized Transformers toys is proudly provided by Wan De Real. Should you have any enquiry you may visit his website which is stated at the begining of this post.

What would be a toys fair without cosplaying, others and others attraction.

Malaysian Bred Indie Band jamming

Cosplaying

Performance by famous comic/cartoon characters

Will provide more update and details tomorrow on day 2.

And extra cover before signing off this post.

Macross toys collectors

Macross Mech and characters show case

Grimlock look onward for the next post of MITF

Till the next post and thanks for visiting

ROTF Brawn paperback plastic bubble package.

ROTF Brawn package back shows biodata as well as feature.

However the rendition of Brawn in ROTF styled robot had made my jaw dropped all thanks to my friend TCracker.

The robot mode is the reason that I sought to get this Autobot, we will explore the reason later. The package comes with the toy, transformation sheet and catalog of transformers toys.

ROTF Brawn Transformation Instructions with non-attractive color.

ROTF Catalog colorful.

Continuing with Brawn. Out of the box, it is in Alternate mode.

ROTF Brawn alt mode.

In its Alt Mode Brawn is just a normal looking military 4WD truck with a minigun mounted on its roof. All the wheels is workable but it is made from plastics.

ROTF Brawn alternate mode with NEST logo at the side.

Too bad the doors as well as the windows of Brawn in truck mode is not functional. But the details of the truck is unmistakably beautiful.

There is not a single part of the robot visible at the back.

Unfortunately, the head and chest of Brawn can be seen from the bottom of the Alt Mode.

The robot head, chest as well as part of the feet is visible.

For transformation wise, like most figures of ROTF toyline even in Deluxe Class, the transformation can be considered as complicated compared to G1 Transformers. Due to the complexity of the transformation it seems that future toys are more worth the buck paid for its high tech design. As a summary, the bonnet of the alternate mode is its legs and feets, the back of the truck is its arms, and the middle part is the body of the robot.

First step is to unlock or open the main "lock".

Open the back cover of the back wheel.

Sway the roof to back of the truck.

Forming the legs.

Splitting off the bonnet to expose leg and form leg armor.

Tranformation of front truck to robot legs finally completed.

Twisting the waist to front of the robot body.

Fold down the part of the mud protector of the back wheels.

Moving the side plate of Alt Mode.

Folding of roof make form for Brawn arms.

By twisting the shoulder and arms, will complete the transformation.

Once the transformation complete, ROTF Brawn looks very beefy at the top, with big and long arms.

Top heavy ROTF Brawn Transformation complete.

One of the complain discovered during the transformation is, the ball joint of the legs connecting to the body is loose. The joint pop out from the ball a few times during transformation. With the heavy top, it is quite a feat to strike a pose with ROTF Brawn.

In term of sculpt and details, it is amazing for this Deluxe Class transformers figure.

The only thing that is giving weight is its "cloak".

The main cannon is stored in between the "cloak".

The next thing that worth mentioning is deployment of the main cannon to make Brawn looks like those highly stylized Japanese Mecha. Lets have a closer looks to the robot mode.

Darkened eyes but there are details.

Another perspective of Brawn robot mode.

Expect no slack in giving details to Brawn's arms.

Bumper as knee, half bonnet as leg armor.

On to review of deployment of the main cannon.

Details of Brawn's cannon.

Swivel up the cannon from original position.

Unfold the barrel of the cannon.

Make a full proper straightening of the cannon barrel to finish the deployment.

Once the canon is deployed, twist the root of the cannon which is attached to the back of Brawn the the left or right to make it a shoulder cannon. The only gripe is the cannon unable to be detached.

ROTF Brawn with full glory of its armaments.

Now on towards the twin blaster of ROTF Brawn.

Each pistol is a mirror to the other with same design.

Ventilation vents and blaster short barrel is added.

So much the same and there is also difference.

Next, articulation wise will leave the pictures to do justice for it. Just a note that the ball joints connecting the pelvic part and the legs is loose even for a new figure.

Arms and Legs stretch out.

Some random strike a pose before closing.

Robot Mode Brawn strike pose.

Gunfu inspired pose for ROTF Brawn.

ROTF Brawn bracing for cannon to fire.

ARC Brawn ?

Brawn at front of a bright backdrop.

As a conclusion, ROTF is not without flaw such as kibble at the bottom view of the Alternate mode as well as poor loose joint to support heavy top robot mode.

The detailed as well as Japanese mecha similarity is ROTF Brawn’s charming point for collectors.

Until the next post. Thanks for reading and visiting my site.

*Note : Finally able to squeeze time to update the blog. Do not worry as I will not abandon this blog. Also no cropping or white balancing. Just resizing and add water mark to the pictures to this post.

Let's Dance Pose - TF Edition.

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.