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.

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

Galvatron Robot mode aiming cannon.

After a series of complex transformation from tank mode to robot mode. Galvatron is almost the same rendition of its G1 Transformers movie.

Galvatron Robot mode front.

Compared to others Henkei or Transformers Classics or Transformers Universe toy. Galvatron Transformation is complex and frustrating. Wrong application of force will causes parts to be pop out. Which is true to the left arm shoulder sockets.

Galvatron robot mode close up.

The cannon at the left arm, is dominant, it takes about 30% of the entire Robot mode. The entire turret is folded and transformed into Galvatron´s right arm. Unfortunately, the hand is molded as a static opened arm with sharp claw like fingers.

Galvatron robot mode, overall close up focus.

In robot mode, the right arm is restricted to rotation at the shoulder axis and abit of articulation at the elbow. Nevertheless, the big gun is a cool factor. The gripe is Galvatron´s hips feels very feminine. It´s waist is able to be twisted.

Galvatorn robot mode neutral post.

The entire leg is made up from the tank threads. Alot of twist and turns and folding are required. Another half of the tank threads is transformed into Galvatron back or back pack. Unfortunately, there is no pegs to lock them into more stable position.

Galvatron robot back pack.

Past of the tank top is transform into Galvatron lower back slightly above the pelvic region; giving an impression of a skirt armor. Perhaps to prevent its foe shooting lasers at its butt. The skirt armor part is floppy.

Galvatron robot back isometric view.

Without the pseudo jet pack, Galvatron upper body would seems scrawny and thin. The jet pack beef up Galvatron appearance.

Galvatron robot side view.

The left arm is thin not proportioned to the right beefy cannon arm. Perhaps Galvatron fitness instructor specialized on building the right arm.

Galvatron robot mode left side view.

The length of the cannon on the right arm is 90-95 percent of the Galvatron robot height.

Galvatron very large side arm.

In term of detailing and face sculpt, it is a good as it gets compared to all existing official toy line from TakaraTomy or Hasbro.

Galvatron head close up.

The eyes is made of translucent amber colored plastics. Light is allows to pass thru from the back to the front to give an amber glow at the eyes.

Galvatron head detailing at the back.

The head is only able to turn left to right, it is not able to look up or down. Articulation of Galvatron figure is very limited to make things worse the joints are quite loose and floppy. The figure itself in robot mode is floppy and feels flimsy. It is less durable compared to its other Henkei toyline counterparts.

Galvatron getting ready to fire.

Due to the top part is heavier to the back and floppy hips, it has tendency to fall back.

Galvatron duking it.

Overall, the Henkei Galvatron toy in its robot mode has a lot of flaws. Gaps, floppiness, disproportioned, thin, scrawny, amber instead of red eyes.

The only reason that it is a taker is this-is-Galvatron factor. Only made for die hard fans. For casual playing it is not recommended at all.

Starscream front view

Proportion wise it is ok, torso is good propotioned, but it has large legs and small hands short hands with 2 oversized cannons.

The pelvic area is only good when look from the front. From the view of the side, you will realized that the pelvic region is just a thin piece of plastic.

Starscream side view

From a closer view up at the sides, the transformation from F16 to robot left a big open gap that gives a representation of a hollow torso.

Starscream side view

Head detailing is commendable, the scuplt of the robot face is closely resembles the G1 Starscream Transfomers

Starscream face details

Back of the robot is less desirable, the nosecone of the F16 can be spotted connected to the back of Starscream head. Fortunately, the wings of the seeker is G1 animation accurate.

Starscream back view

Gimmick wise of this figure is very limited, it only has a pair of cannon which is able to shot out projectiles. Unfortunately, there is no spares, if the projectile is missing, the Starscream will look like battle damaged. Too bad, the do not make actual projectile but the barrel of the null cannon itself is the projectile.

Starscreamś null cannon

Articulation wise, its torso area has no articulation. Articulation is limited to head, arms hips and legs.

Starscream pose hindered by cannons

Arms articulation is very limited by the null cannons at the arms. Removing the cannons can improve the articulation of the arms.

Starscream arms articulation improved

Starscream is able to made to stand on 1 leg, unfortunately the loose hip joint causes the pose to show very funny result.

Starscream pose standing with 1 leg

Articulation of the head is limited to twisting the head from left to right and right to left. The limitation is due to the toy design in which the nosecone is attached to the head of Starscream.

Starscream head turned

Overall Starscream is an OK toy. The reason to get it is the Starscream factor. Sculpt is properly details but paint job is bad, lots of smudges. Articulation is hindered by the toy design. Very obvious hinderance to articulation is its null cannon, nosecone as well as very loose joints. Not to be repetative, the only redemption for the toy is because it is Starscream.

Starscream pose with null cannons

Cyclonus and NightStick.

The lack of accessories is forgivable, NightStick on its own is an interesting piece of gun.

NightStick robot mode.

The posebility of NightStick is limited to its arm, elbow and leg minus its knee.

NightStick robot mode posing.

It is too bad that the gun barrel too long, it may becomes the 3rd leg for NightStick. If the barrel is collapsable the robot mode of NightStick would be perfect.

NightStick transformed to gun.

The transformation of NightStick from robot to gun is very straight forward that you need no instruction on the transformation process.

Once it is transformed it becomes a big gun.

NightStick gun mode view from side.

NightStick on gun mode can be attached to Cyclonus cybertronian jet just above the cockpit/cabin.

Cyclonus cybertronian jet with gun attached.

Cyclonus cybertronian jet mode with nightstick attached.

Cyclonus cybertronian jet mode with nightstick attached back view.

NightStick can only be hold by Cyclonus on its right hand, which is very unfortunate.

You can’t help but imagine that Cyclonus whenever he wants to shoot his gun/blaster, he might say “Say hello to my little friend.” .

Cyclonus holding NightStick at ease.

Cyclonus using NightStick.

The articulation overall is good, but the waist unable to twist and the arms is articulation is limited due to the wings is blocking the full articulation potential.

However, the torso connection to the legs is ball point there is fear of the ball joint loose after long play.

In the nutshell, the articulation of Cyclonus is good but not excellent.

You don't mess with the Cyclonus.

As a summary on this toy, it shines its best in robot mode. Cybertronian jet mode is abit floppy at the lower part of the Cybertronian jet. It sleekness on its robot mode and its pal NightStick offset the small flaw in the Cybertronian jet mode. It is a very good attempt by Hasbro and TakaraTomy to remake the toy with better accuracy to the G1 Transformers character.

Cyclonus robot mode.

The proportion of Cyclonus robot mode is very nicely done.

Cyclonus robot mode side.

Cyclonus robot back.

Panel lines and detailing is done on the legs, arms, torso as well as the wing.

The head detailing is superb, the red eyes looks intimidating, fully capture the essence of Galvatron’s vassal. It has a insidious grin sculpt to its head.

Cyclonus robot mode head details.

The red eyes glowing effect is due to the toys designer uses a piece of translucent red plastics as it’s eyes.

Back of Cyclonus head.

From the back of the robot head, it is revealed that the glowing eyes feature is due to exposed back. Nevertheless, the evil red menacing eyes of Cyclonus is appealing.

Cyclonus torso.

To be continued to reviewing Cyclonus gimmicks.

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.

Grimlock robot articulation.

Henkei Grimlock were created with lots of articulation, but the the implementation in its hips it abit weak. During the transformation, the leg, pop out of the socket for 3 time. It does not feel like the joint will endure long play without loosing or becoming loose.

Grimlock robot front

Grimlock robot mode is armed with a cannon and a whip. Which can be stowed at its back. The whip is actually its tail in dino mode and its articulation makes it abit wavy and more alive.

Grimlock robot back

Both the cannon and whip can be plug into its hands. With the with and cannon it gives Grimlock a persona of a modern mechanized beast master.

Grimlock robot back plain

Itś cannon looks like it is design with close combat in mind, it has a blade like extrusion like a bayonet at its lower part of the cannon. Perhaps it is use to make it close and personal with its adversary.

Grimlockś cannon

Grimlockś cannon with missile inserted

projectile/missile

Grimlock looks good, or the weapon makes the stubby arms dissappears.

Grimlock robot armed

Henkei Grimlock does not show it self with details. The panel lines on its head, torso and legs are sharp. Its head follows very closely to its G1 cartoon counter part. Though the chest is modified or reimagined with a large Autobot insignia at the left side, covered with translucent red plastic but it is able to show the insignia.

Grimlock head details back

Grimlock head chest details

The articulation of Grimlock robot mode is commendable at best it is due to its joints is abit loose and may loose tightness overtime. You need to be careful with its hips joints as it is easy to pop out.

Grimlock torso details

Overall henkei Grimlock despite itś short coming of stubby arms and loose joints especially at its hips and waist. Its charms is its details. It will be a good addition into anyoneś collection as long as you can oversee it´s short coming.

Grimlock robot pose