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.

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.

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.

The very old posts are :
1. Dancouga

2. Small but highly detailed Convoy a.k.a. Optimus Prime

3. Various chogokin comparison featuring comparison of Dancouga, Voltes V and GunBuster.

4. Love it and hate it Alpha figher toynami master piece ; MasterPiece Collection : VFA-6Z .

5. Review of THS-01 Galaxy Convoy :
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

6. Review of THS-02 G1 Convoy :
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4

Will work on newer updates in the future. Just realize this is the 2nd no pictures post in RobotHentai.com

City Commander

We do glad to interact with all the visitors that has choose to spend their weekends to follow us with a short Transformers Escapade.

Armada Prime

Can´t help to relate that the Return of the Fallen transformers where Optimus Prime combines with JetFire is inspired by Transformers Armada. Oh yes, one can use his or her knowledge of Transformers to draw which series of Tranformers that had inspired Micheal Bay to make Optimus Prime and Jet fire combines to a more powerful form. Coincidentally, in Transformers Armada Jetfire forms the legs of Optimus Prime power up mode.

Armada Prime back view.

There is also another possible inspiration of the Optimus Prime and Jetfire combination. Answer lies in the Transformers Galaxy, Optimus Prime and Jetfire combines, in this series, Jetfire becomes Optimus Prime´s back pack and give additional firepower. Sound kinda more familiar with ROTF Optimus Prime and Jetfire combination.

Galaxy Optimus Prime merged with Jetfire.

Another alien looking Transformers in which were created prior to Michael Bay´s Transformers. It was the ever contravertial Beast Wars and Beast Machines. Where it sparks a war among the most ardent Transformers stance. Yeah before 2007 there is actually a civil war between fans due to organic looking bots. History always repeats itself

Beast Wars toyline on display.

The most far right fans of G1 Transformers were screaming for heresy and blasphemy commited by the creators of Beast Wars and Beast Machines. Reasons are many and amusing, the most common reason is Robots are not supposed to be organic looking. I hope this post does not sparks another cyber heated debate and arguement

Beast Machines toyline.

There is other event such as Mikeala look alike contest. Managed to take some of the girls.

Mikeala look alike contestants.

Some shots were taken outside.

A contestant of the Mikeala Look Alike.

Another contestant of the Mikeala Look Alike.

Other than that we have tried to get cute and closer to the visitors of Transformers Convention by sharing the most famous bot at the moment, BumbleBee.

Ultimate BumbleBee pimped.

Another sighting was Spike from G1 transfromers.

Hakim cosplay as Spike Witwicky.

In transformers G1, there is a human character Spike Witwicky. Current Transformers Movie 2007 and Revenge of the Fallen, the main human is Sam Witwicky. The parallel is both Witwicky are human friend to BumbleBee. On a side note to male readers, if your GF or wife watch Transformers Movie in 2007 and continue to watch with you Revenge of the Fallen, buy a cute BumbleBee for them. For single men, if your romantic interest watches ROTF, start the topic using BumbleBee

BumbleBee and more BumbleBees.

We encourage that visitors take advantage of bringing in camera for the Transformers Convention to take snapshots of their favorite robot. Some uses camera phone and there are alot using DSLRs. Most important the satistfaction of framing your favorite Transformers bot in your digital frame or album.

HandPhone cam caught in the act.

At last, the next post will be the final day of the Transformers Convention. Remember that if you are able to look at the Tranformers robot they will look back to you

Megatron looking back at the visitors.

Optimus Prime looking back at the visitors.

Masterpiece Prime and THS Prime showcase.

We have members from all around Malaysia contributing to make the event successful. Some of our members has created a Pyramid desert diorama on the face off between good and evil.

Original pyramid diorama without figures.

The details of the pyramid is improved by using actual sand and some detailing by adding desert vegetation.

Close up shot of structures surrounding pyramid.

Of cos a diorama is not complete without filling it with heroes and villian and everything in between.

Pyramid environment overview.

TransMY are trying to capture the essense of the climatic battle of Autobots and Decepticons in the Revenge of the Fallen, 2009 Transformers Movie.

Desert climatical battle diorama of ROTF.

Other than the diorama, TransMY have setup other attraction on different Transformers toylines.

Prime and Megatron FaceOff.

One of the common line is the Transformers Classics as well as the Transformers Henkei.

Transformers Henkei and Classic line up.

Another line up of Henkei and Classics.

ROTF Leader Class Prime show chase.

There are many many more, which is best you go to Queensbay Mall and meet with the TransMY Crew there. Do take your friends and family along.

The ultimate prey of the hunt, an alpha male of the group in red, blue and grey. A priced and ultimate prey for all the hunters, nick named Big Bot.

Upon reaching the destination, parked the car in a cost effective area (saving of RM3). Braved through a series of maze and labyrinth cargo lift and quiet hallways to reach Toys R US minutes before the launch. There is already 5 brave souls arrived waiting. And yes they are hunting the ultimate prey.

There is a catch, only one person are allow 1 Big Bot and you can only be able to purchase is you are a member of Toys R Us star card member.

A girl friend guarding her mate´s stuffs.

I did not realize how frantic the shoppers are until I have got out of the premise. Realized that some bring their wife/GF to watch over their purchase while they continue to buy more.

Some random kid dancing around

There are some kids running and playing outside the premise. I see more adults than kids

Shoppers continue to shop

Didn´t manage to talk to my friends, most of them went home after they got what they want. There are multiple shoppers that literally bag the Transformers toys and merchandise. Just went home after the random photo shooting. Exit using the main door for Gurney Plaza is officially open.

Optimus Prime Leader Class ROTF

A good buy I would say. Sorry to disappoint Takara Tomy supporters but I unable to tell the differences of Hasbro and Takara Tomy leader class Optimus Prime toy. And I would not pay more for a mere sticker. On top of that the toys are all made in China.

Extra gifts from Toys R Us with purchase of ROTF toys

The semi-exclusive gift: A poster of Optimus prime, a car sticker of optimus prime, a car sticker of Autobot Insignia, a new Hasbro catalog, a RM25 voucher valid from 8th June till 28th June 2009 and a bottle of orange juice. From my point of view it looks more like promotional and marketting materials hehe. Voucher to encourage spending and orange juice as a modest thank you

Well this is how a fine Saturday morning spent.

The leader class Optimus Prime toy comes in the default mode of a robot.

Transformers Movie 2007 Leader Class Optimus Prime front view

From the first glance it do not really look like the Prime you see from the movie. Disappointed ?

Nope disappointed is not a good way to describe this Prime. Despite the lack of aesthetics Leader Class Optimus Prime from the Transformers Movie 2007 is more than meets the eye.

The reason is it is having great if not excellent details and it articulations is good if it is not great.

Final step of Optimus Prime transformation

Another is its transformation gimmick of this toyline is the feature known as AutoMorph™ , where the part transform itself with a flick or touch on a switch or button.

AutoMorph™ triggered, Optimus Prime head made the finishing step of the transformation

With a flick on the switch jut below its abdoment, the AutoMorph™ will pop out Optimus Prime head with lights and sound. Too bad there is only 1 sound in this mode.

This toy does not disappoints in the detailing department. The design team took the pain to add feature at the underside of the plastics.

Optimus Prime robot mode chest detailing

The detailing are so good that even the rivet/bolts are molded onto the plastic, giving it a tough industrial look. Wiring details are moulded as well as panel lines.

Optimus Prime shoulder pad detailing and articulation

A good example to highlight on the detailing on hidden part is its shoulder pads. It is hold by a ball joint, once it is lift up, panel line and circuit detailing can be seen. To make it sweeter, the articulation of the shoulder pad is not too tight or loose, it is just nice.

Further down the robot torso, its pelvic region is given good detailing too. Unfortunately, Optimus Prime lack of articulation at the waist region to do a good twist. But still the detailing done is nice.

Optimus Prime robot waist detailing

Another good example to highlight is its head detailing, though the paint job is not good.

Optimus Prime head close up

It comes to a quick relieve to know that Hasbro did not add Optimus Prime pie hole in this toy. The Optimus Prime with mouth in the movie is real freaky.

Optimus Prime head from the side.

The robot head if look at the side is abit of a disappointment, for it has an ugly splitting and gapping seam run vertically from Optimus Prime head. In a more gruesome way  of describing it, it is like Optimus Prime is getting ready to be lobotomized. Since it is a toy not intended for premium collector segment, it is understandable.

However, at a closer look at its head during the AutoMorph™ operation, it looks cool. Unfortunately, the paint job malfunction on its forehead is abit of a turn off.

Optimus Prime head with eyes lights up

From an overall look at the Optimus Prime, looks like he is carring a very heavy back pack, with very large top, small head, large lower legs and feets with Popeye™ ´s arm.

Though the Popeye™ ś arms can be easily overlook with its articulated fingers. Too bad the hands does not twist at the wrist.

Optimus Prime robot fist clenched

The articulation is not including the finger tips and individual segment though. But it is good enough for the toy of this class.

Optimus Prime robot fist opened.

Each of the fingers on both hands are articulated individually.

From all side the overall view of Optimus Prime robot just looks fine.

Optimus Prime robot left side.

Optimus Prime left side is mode soft and plain. It is due to all action is placed to the right. Yes, the big gun is embeded to the right hand.

Optimus Prime right side.

The wheels at the back of the robot tight can be adjusted to allow better knee articulation to the back.

Optimus Prime robot leg wheel up.

But it does not help much too, for the wheels at the heels will touch the wheel which is adjusted when the knee joint is hit less than 30 degrees.

Optimus Prime knee bending limits.

It is a shame that due to the wheels the knees unable to fulfil its full potential of 90 degrees.

The gimmick of Optimus Prime other than the AutoMorph™ is its gun embeded on the right arm. Which need to have the lever at the inner right side of the arm to be slided.

Optimus Prime Gun activation lever.

Not to forget, in order for the action to be successful, the fist needs to be positioned it back to clenched fist. If the Gun barrel can be extended further infront it will improve the aesthatics of the gun. The gun has a translucent blue projectile which is spring powered. There is no spares and careful of pointing the gun, it may shoot your eyes out

With the gun activated, the articulation of Optimus Prime is as good as it is having its gun kept and it improves the possability of the right shoulder pads.

Optimus Prime front view, at ease.

Optimus Prime battle pose.

Optimus Prime robot pose aiming gun.

Action pose can be made more dramatic, but the limitation articulation on the wrist and waist; topping on the limited movement of the ankle due to the mud guard also the back wheels; has severely hindered the articulation of this robot from performing more radical articulation.

On the nut shell, leader class Optimus Prime is a great toy with superb detailing and good possibility. If it is more articulated, it would be really a great toy. Gimmicks is very minimal, with AutoMorph™ featured is being given more attention to it. I am looking forward to the Revenge of the Fallen leader class Optimus Prime in the near future.

Optimus Prime front view, at ease lights activated.

Optimus Prime aiming gun at you.

End of review.