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Anyway, i think the military base got destroyed in scene 1.
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Treadshot A1
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Treadshot A1
- Posts: 2411
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Treadshot A1
- Posts: 2411
- Joined: Fri Nov 02, 2007 8:49 am
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I posted photos a while back when zeoman was writing a review for this fellow, and still have them on my computer, if you're after photos?
I do like the little fella!
I do like the little fella!
New sale thread added with a range of Transformers including Masterpiece, Botcon, CHUG, RID, Movies etc.
Looking for MP-11T Thundercracker and MP-9 Rodimus v2 (Takara version with as few QC issues as possible).
Check out my new sale thread now!
Also items on eBay.
Tech Spec: - Strength: 9
- Intelligence: 7
- Speed: 10
- Endurance: 7
- Rank: 6
- Courage: 7
- Fireblast: 6
- Skill: 8
Name: Astrotrain (D-03)
Allegiance: Decepticon
Function: Military Transport
Sub-Group: Triple Changers
Astrotrain has something of a fan following, despite never having had a particularly large role in any of the G1 cartoon episodes (other than ‘Triple Take-Over’). Of course, he did perform a pivotal role in the G1 Movie, transporting the injured Decepticons away from Autobot City after the fall of Megatron, and playing painful host / venue to the ensuing power struggles.
His inclusion in the original wave of the Hasbro Classics line was something of a surprise because of this – and the fact that expectations for a re-hashed original Triple Changer, after all these years, would be high and difficult to meet.
The result, released in 2006, was, in my view, a huge success – delivering extremely well, especially given the size limitations imposed by the Deluxe scale used. For a full, fairly exhaustive review of the mould, I’d direct you towards my review for Classics Astrotrain.
The Classics release used a more realistic colour scheme of white and black – which worked well given the steam engine locomotive upgrade to a bullet train. Dark purple brought out the shuttle wings, in a nod to the Hasbro release of the G1 figure (G1 Astrotrain), and is used for stripes along the side of the train mode, with a dash of red. This provides an excellent homage / upgrade of the first Triple Changer toy I ever owned as a child. However, Astrotrain, like a number of G1 characters, differed considerably in the G1 cartoon series – with the colour scheme bearing little resemblance to the toy.
In recent years, Takara have tended to step in and provide more G1 anime accurate renditions of figures – although it was eHobby who did so for the G1 Astrotrain figure in 2004 (eHobby Anime Accurate Astrotrain). However, as time went by, and interest in traditional Transformers figures waned in Japan, it seemed less and less likely that the Classics line would even see a Japanese release.
Roll on the 2007 live action film, and interest seems to have been re-injected, and the now TakaraTomy took advantage of the Classics moulds as a quick-to-release line (Henkei) after the Movie line finished.
And, as can be expected, far more G1 anime faithful paint applications were announced – including chromed parts.
Astrotrain has received one of the most extensive repaints (equal only to Megatron) – with far more anime accurate dark greys and purples. Given my love of the mould, I could not resist picking up this cartoon accurate version.
As I’ve already reviewed the mould thoroughly, this review will concentrate on the differences in colour schemes.
The big, and surprisingly difficult question is – how does this version compare to the Hasbro Classics release?
Alternate Mode 1:
As a Triple Changer, Astrotrain has two alternate modes. Due to the tricky nature of designing a toy which can transform in to two different vehicles, often one mode shines over the other. In the case of Henkei Astrotrain, the space shuttle (the mode he is packaged in – although I expect that packaging size and shape is a consideration here, above execution of mode!) is undoubtedly the superior mode.
Measuring 5 3/4” (14.5cm) long with a 4 1/4” (11cm) wing span, the shuttle mode is littered with moulded detail, which truly stands out a lot better in grey and a lighter purple than on the sharply contrasting Classics version.
Interestingly, Astrotrain’s colour scheme does change a little later on in the G1 anime – with his robot mode wings changing from grey with purple trim / heat shielding to purple with grey trim / heat shielding. While the eHobby G1 Astrotrain repaint has the grey wings, this Henkei figure sports purple wings.
This is slightly unfortunate, as it creates an inconsistency between the colour of the heat shielding on the fuselage (purple) and the wings (grey). It does allow for a neater underside than the Classics Astrotrain, though – with grey under the wings and purple almost everywhere else.
(Also, while the original Classics line used rub stickers and no printed symbols, the Henkei release does not include a rub sticker, but instead has printed Decepticon insignia on either wing – which I prefer, as the rub stickers hardly work in Scotland’s climate, and I like the consistency with other figures.)
The reasons for the decision to go with purple wings may have been to provide a contrast against the otherwise overbearing grey in the robot mode, and to help the bullet train front halves blend in with the shuttle mode a little better – because, frankly, they stick out like a giraffe roaming the Scottish Highlands.
While a number of people complained that these train halves looked a little conspicuous on the Classics Astrotrain, they were at least painted in such a way that they blended in to a good degree, giving the impression of fuel tanks. Indeed, the choice of upgrading the steam locomotive to a bullet train provides two sleak modes with a lot in common – helping any kibble go by relatively unnoticed. However, the Classics bullet train lacked much detail paint applications (such as front windows and lights and middle wheels – and even the black side windows were almost totally hidden by the near-black purple stripe they were embedded in) – which, although detrimental to the train mode, allowed the shuttle mode to be near-perfect. Not so with Henkei Astrotrain. Here, the train has been painted well – with a contrasting white stripe around black side windows, black front windows on grey, and headlights which are an almost fluorescent yellow. And these are tacked on to the sides of a space shuttle… And, if that weren’t bad enough, the train’s middle wheel mountings have been carefully painted purple (well, actually, the wheels have been painted grey), drawing attention to them as they thrust into the sky! Alas, this just does not fly.
Still, in a final defense – the chrome is gorgeous! The rear boosters are shiny silver, surrounded by purple chromed plastic. No doubt this is superior to the unpainted white of the Classics version.
Regarding the quality of the paint applications (an area where Hasbro did sorely disappoint – through sloppy application, inconsistent colours, and easily scratched paint), while totally consistent in colours, and with neat application, the paint is easily scratched. My Henkei Astrotrain came with a scratch out of the grey in front of the shuttle tail, showing the purple beneath. That’s a tad disappointing, but still better than the Classics quality.
The gun can be attached to the bottom – much in the same way as Megatron used to clip on to the bottom of the Seekers in the G1 cartoon.
It cannot be argued in any way that the shuttle looks at all realistic in the G1 cartoon colours, although this is how many of us remember Astrotrain. Frankly, given the red windows in the Henkei version, Astrotrain has never resembled an evil shuttle more – but it’s scant disguise!
Alternate Mode 2:
As a quick note regarding the transformation, as with the Hasbro release, the TakaraTomy instructions neglect to include a small step. When transforming, rotate the shuttle tail before unfolding it – this points the ‘V’ towards the front of the bullet train, providing a more streamlined look, and giving less of an impression of kibble.
Interestingly, the purple, grey and white colouration of the bullet train looks more train-like than the white and black Classics version. I think this is because of the consistency. The TakaraTomy designers have put a lot of thought in to how to best achieve a uniform look in the train mode, whereas Hasbro sacrificed this for a superior shuttle mode. The little touches, such as the front windows and headlights make a huge difference as well (ironically, given the detrimental impact on the shuttle mode!).
The only slight oddity is the horizontal Decepticon insignia on either side at the rear of the train.
Due to the chrome, the shuttle boosters are a lot more obvious in the Henkei version’s train mode, but, given Astrotrain’s anime counterpart also had boosters at the rear of his train, I think this is actually a plus point in the context of the character – to me, the boosters at the rear of the train are an Astrotrain hallmark. And, in comparison to the bland white of the Classics release, the stunning chrome works a lot better.
With this mode measuring 9” (23cm) in length, it’s not surprising that the figure does not come packaged as a train! This allows Astrotrain to match up with the RID bullet train team – and the Henkei colours certainly single him out as the Decepticon (which is fun, although a poor disguise, once again).
The grey gun can be attached for an ‘attack mode’, and this looks less ridiculous, thanks to the colours, than with the Classics version, but I still dislike it.
Robot Mode:
This is the main event. The mould delivers such a superb robot mode (with the trademark boosters on the back!), and the anime colour scheme is breathtaking in this mode.
Where the paint applications allow for passable shuttle and train mode, whilst failing both through compromise to the other, the scheme comes together beautifully in the 5 ½” (14cm) tall robot mode.
The purple has been used to accentuate the general grey of the robot, while the purple wings (as opposed to the possible grey, depending on which episode of the G1 cartoon you watch…) contrast nicely, with the Decepticon insignias peaking through at the corners.
The train front features are slightly distracting on the arms, where they were as inconspicuous as possible on the Classics version. However, this is not detrimental – after all, Astrotrain does turn into a train after all! And I enjoy seeing where vehicle parts end up in robot modes. The white stripes from the train are new to the character, though – but a nice addition to the colour palette, and complimenting the face (which would otherwise be a white island amongst dark colours).
The Henkei colours also make for a more interesting back for the figure – not that it’s the most important part of a toy! Greys, purples, and the chromed boosters really liven it up compared to the monotonous white of Classics Astrotrain.
My favourite feature, though, has to be the split shuttle tail chest plate (not positioned at his waist, as in the cartoon, but more G1 toy accurate). The purple stripe has been chromed, and was a real delight when I first unfolded it!
Also – although it may just be my individual toys – the train halves on the Henkei figure actually lock out of the way of the hands, while my Classics version remains loose. In fact, all the joints are tighter, which is great for posing.
So…
How does Henkei Astrotrain compare with Classics Astrotrain? Well the quality of the toy is certainly higher than the Hasbro equivalent. In terms of appearance, the Classics version has an excellent shuttle mode at the expense of the train, while Henkei Astrotrain has two passable mode, with neither being excellent. However, I do prefer the Henkei robot mode to the Classics version – if for no better reason than the fact the details stand out a lot better (which is surprising, some how, as there are actually less paint apps on the Henkei version!).
Which should you buy, though? Well, if you like the cartoon, buy Henkei. If you like a bit more updated realism, or were fond of the G1 toy, then buy Classics. Or, better yet, buy both. I can’t be more helpful than that!
Marks out of ten for the following:
Transformation: 7 – It’s not tricky, but it’s very nicely designed.
Durability: 6 – The tail halves / chest plate are a constant worry, and the paint does seem to scratch off.
Fun:10 – This mould is just perfection! Or close to it as a Triple Changer has yet to achieve. And the colours are great in both versions. You can’t go wrong!
Price: 7 – Generally, the cost of importing this figure does make him a little steep for a Deluxe Class figure. However, there are bargains to be had (I got mine for £14 [$28] including postage, which seems to be only £1 above the Universe / Classics Deluxe mass retail price in the UK now!).
Overall: 7 – This is a great figure. You really ought to treat yourself to one version of the mould or another. However, due to realism and price considerations, I expect Classics Astrotrain will have more takers outside of the Astrotrain fan club.
- Intelligence: 7
- Speed: 10
- Endurance: 7
- Rank: 6
- Courage: 7
- Fireblast: 6
- Skill: 8
Name: Astrotrain (D-03)
Allegiance: Decepticon
Function: Military Transport
Sub-Group: Triple Changers
Astrotrain has something of a fan following, despite never having had a particularly large role in any of the G1 cartoon episodes (other than ‘Triple Take-Over’). Of course, he did perform a pivotal role in the G1 Movie, transporting the injured Decepticons away from Autobot City after the fall of Megatron, and playing painful host / venue to the ensuing power struggles.
His inclusion in the original wave of the Hasbro Classics line was something of a surprise because of this – and the fact that expectations for a re-hashed original Triple Changer, after all these years, would be high and difficult to meet.
The result, released in 2006, was, in my view, a huge success – delivering extremely well, especially given the size limitations imposed by the Deluxe scale used. For a full, fairly exhaustive review of the mould, I’d direct you towards my review for Classics Astrotrain.
The Classics release used a more realistic colour scheme of white and black – which worked well given the steam engine locomotive upgrade to a bullet train. Dark purple brought out the shuttle wings, in a nod to the Hasbro release of the G1 figure (G1 Astrotrain), and is used for stripes along the side of the train mode, with a dash of red. This provides an excellent homage / upgrade of the first Triple Changer toy I ever owned as a child. However, Astrotrain, like a number of G1 characters, differed considerably in the G1 cartoon series – with the colour scheme bearing little resemblance to the toy.
In recent years, Takara have tended to step in and provide more G1 anime accurate renditions of figures – although it was eHobby who did so for the G1 Astrotrain figure in 2004 (eHobby Anime Accurate Astrotrain). However, as time went by, and interest in traditional Transformers figures waned in Japan, it seemed less and less likely that the Classics line would even see a Japanese release.
Roll on the 2007 live action film, and interest seems to have been re-injected, and the now TakaraTomy took advantage of the Classics moulds as a quick-to-release line (Henkei) after the Movie line finished.
And, as can be expected, far more G1 anime faithful paint applications were announced – including chromed parts.
Astrotrain has received one of the most extensive repaints (equal only to Megatron) – with far more anime accurate dark greys and purples. Given my love of the mould, I could not resist picking up this cartoon accurate version.
As I’ve already reviewed the mould thoroughly, this review will concentrate on the differences in colour schemes.
The big, and surprisingly difficult question is – how does this version compare to the Hasbro Classics release?
Alternate Mode 1:
As a Triple Changer, Astrotrain has two alternate modes. Due to the tricky nature of designing a toy which can transform in to two different vehicles, often one mode shines over the other. In the case of Henkei Astrotrain, the space shuttle (the mode he is packaged in – although I expect that packaging size and shape is a consideration here, above execution of mode!) is undoubtedly the superior mode.
Measuring 5 3/4” (14.5cm) long with a 4 1/4” (11cm) wing span, the shuttle mode is littered with moulded detail, which truly stands out a lot better in grey and a lighter purple than on the sharply contrasting Classics version.
Interestingly, Astrotrain’s colour scheme does change a little later on in the G1 anime – with his robot mode wings changing from grey with purple trim / heat shielding to purple with grey trim / heat shielding. While the eHobby G1 Astrotrain repaint has the grey wings, this Henkei figure sports purple wings.
This is slightly unfortunate, as it creates an inconsistency between the colour of the heat shielding on the fuselage (purple) and the wings (grey). It does allow for a neater underside than the Classics Astrotrain, though – with grey under the wings and purple almost everywhere else.
(Also, while the original Classics line used rub stickers and no printed symbols, the Henkei release does not include a rub sticker, but instead has printed Decepticon insignia on either wing – which I prefer, as the rub stickers hardly work in Scotland’s climate, and I like the consistency with other figures.)
The reasons for the decision to go with purple wings may have been to provide a contrast against the otherwise overbearing grey in the robot mode, and to help the bullet train front halves blend in with the shuttle mode a little better – because, frankly, they stick out like a giraffe roaming the Scottish Highlands.
While a number of people complained that these train halves looked a little conspicuous on the Classics Astrotrain, they were at least painted in such a way that they blended in to a good degree, giving the impression of fuel tanks. Indeed, the choice of upgrading the steam locomotive to a bullet train provides two sleak modes with a lot in common – helping any kibble go by relatively unnoticed. However, the Classics bullet train lacked much detail paint applications (such as front windows and lights and middle wheels – and even the black side windows were almost totally hidden by the near-black purple stripe they were embedded in) – which, although detrimental to the train mode, allowed the shuttle mode to be near-perfect. Not so with Henkei Astrotrain. Here, the train has been painted well – with a contrasting white stripe around black side windows, black front windows on grey, and headlights which are an almost fluorescent yellow. And these are tacked on to the sides of a space shuttle… And, if that weren’t bad enough, the train’s middle wheel mountings have been carefully painted purple (well, actually, the wheels have been painted grey), drawing attention to them as they thrust into the sky! Alas, this just does not fly.
Still, in a final defense – the chrome is gorgeous! The rear boosters are shiny silver, surrounded by purple chromed plastic. No doubt this is superior to the unpainted white of the Classics version.
Regarding the quality of the paint applications (an area where Hasbro did sorely disappoint – through sloppy application, inconsistent colours, and easily scratched paint), while totally consistent in colours, and with neat application, the paint is easily scratched. My Henkei Astrotrain came with a scratch out of the grey in front of the shuttle tail, showing the purple beneath. That’s a tad disappointing, but still better than the Classics quality.
The gun can be attached to the bottom – much in the same way as Megatron used to clip on to the bottom of the Seekers in the G1 cartoon.
It cannot be argued in any way that the shuttle looks at all realistic in the G1 cartoon colours, although this is how many of us remember Astrotrain. Frankly, given the red windows in the Henkei version, Astrotrain has never resembled an evil shuttle more – but it’s scant disguise!
Alternate Mode 2:
As a quick note regarding the transformation, as with the Hasbro release, the TakaraTomy instructions neglect to include a small step. When transforming, rotate the shuttle tail before unfolding it – this points the ‘V’ towards the front of the bullet train, providing a more streamlined look, and giving less of an impression of kibble.
Interestingly, the purple, grey and white colouration of the bullet train looks more train-like than the white and black Classics version. I think this is because of the consistency. The TakaraTomy designers have put a lot of thought in to how to best achieve a uniform look in the train mode, whereas Hasbro sacrificed this for a superior shuttle mode. The little touches, such as the front windows and headlights make a huge difference as well (ironically, given the detrimental impact on the shuttle mode!).
The only slight oddity is the horizontal Decepticon insignia on either side at the rear of the train.
Due to the chrome, the shuttle boosters are a lot more obvious in the Henkei version’s train mode, but, given Astrotrain’s anime counterpart also had boosters at the rear of his train, I think this is actually a plus point in the context of the character – to me, the boosters at the rear of the train are an Astrotrain hallmark. And, in comparison to the bland white of the Classics release, the stunning chrome works a lot better.
With this mode measuring 9” (23cm) in length, it’s not surprising that the figure does not come packaged as a train! This allows Astrotrain to match up with the RID bullet train team – and the Henkei colours certainly single him out as the Decepticon (which is fun, although a poor disguise, once again).
The grey gun can be attached for an ‘attack mode’, and this looks less ridiculous, thanks to the colours, than with the Classics version, but I still dislike it.
Robot Mode:
This is the main event. The mould delivers such a superb robot mode (with the trademark boosters on the back!), and the anime colour scheme is breathtaking in this mode.
Where the paint applications allow for passable shuttle and train mode, whilst failing both through compromise to the other, the scheme comes together beautifully in the 5 ½” (14cm) tall robot mode.
The purple has been used to accentuate the general grey of the robot, while the purple wings (as opposed to the possible grey, depending on which episode of the G1 cartoon you watch…) contrast nicely, with the Decepticon insignias peaking through at the corners.
The train front features are slightly distracting on the arms, where they were as inconspicuous as possible on the Classics version. However, this is not detrimental – after all, Astrotrain does turn into a train after all! And I enjoy seeing where vehicle parts end up in robot modes. The white stripes from the train are new to the character, though – but a nice addition to the colour palette, and complimenting the face (which would otherwise be a white island amongst dark colours).
The Henkei colours also make for a more interesting back for the figure – not that it’s the most important part of a toy! Greys, purples, and the chromed boosters really liven it up compared to the monotonous white of Classics Astrotrain.
My favourite feature, though, has to be the split shuttle tail chest plate (not positioned at his waist, as in the cartoon, but more G1 toy accurate). The purple stripe has been chromed, and was a real delight when I first unfolded it!
Also – although it may just be my individual toys – the train halves on the Henkei figure actually lock out of the way of the hands, while my Classics version remains loose. In fact, all the joints are tighter, which is great for posing.
So…
How does Henkei Astrotrain compare with Classics Astrotrain? Well the quality of the toy is certainly higher than the Hasbro equivalent. In terms of appearance, the Classics version has an excellent shuttle mode at the expense of the train, while Henkei Astrotrain has two passable mode, with neither being excellent. However, I do prefer the Henkei robot mode to the Classics version – if for no better reason than the fact the details stand out a lot better (which is surprising, some how, as there are actually less paint apps on the Henkei version!).
Which should you buy, though? Well, if you like the cartoon, buy Henkei. If you like a bit more updated realism, or were fond of the G1 toy, then buy Classics. Or, better yet, buy both. I can’t be more helpful than that!
Marks out of ten for the following:
Transformation: 7 – It’s not tricky, but it’s very nicely designed.
Durability: 6 – The tail halves / chest plate are a constant worry, and the paint does seem to scratch off.
Fun:10 – This mould is just perfection! Or close to it as a Triple Changer has yet to achieve. And the colours are great in both versions. You can’t go wrong!
Price: 7 – Generally, the cost of importing this figure does make him a little steep for a Deluxe Class figure. However, there are bargains to be had (I got mine for £14 [$28] including postage, which seems to be only £1 above the Universe / Classics Deluxe mass retail price in the UK now!).
Overall: 7 – This is a great figure. You really ought to treat yourself to one version of the mould or another. However, due to realism and price considerations, I expect Classics Astrotrain will have more takers outside of the Astrotrain fan club.
New sale thread added with a range of Transformers including Masterpiece, Botcon, CHUG, RID, Movies etc.
Looking for MP-11T Thundercracker and MP-9 Rodimus v2 (Takara version with as few QC issues as possible).
Check out my new sale thread now!
Also items on eBay.
Pictures of Lug Nut in alternate and posing in robot mode.
Kaon Krusher is probably a gladiatorial name. But it isn't hard to imagine Lugnut completely obliterating a city. Maybe in a Decepticon Civil War where someone (say Straxus) took over Kaon. Along came Lugnut, shouting "All HAIL MEGATROOOOON"...
Try Lugnut out, seriously.
Kaon Krusher is probably a gladiatorial name. But it isn't hard to imagine Lugnut completely obliterating a city. Maybe in a Decepticon Civil War where someone (say Straxus) took over Kaon. Along came Lugnut, shouting "All HAIL MEGATROOOOON"...
Try Lugnut out, seriously.
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An oversized Minicon, eh?
That sounds rather appealing! (As a novelty.)
And I wouldn't worry too much about Kaon - it's sat happily on Primus's leg, after all.
I think the gladatorial thing is probably right - Wiki also says he learnt how to fight in the 'Great Arena'. (Afraid I'm not up on Animated, so have to rely on the web there...)
That sounds rather appealing! (As a novelty.)
And I wouldn't worry too much about Kaon - it's sat happily on Primus's leg, after all.
I think the gladatorial thing is probably right - Wiki also says he learnt how to fight in the 'Great Arena'. (Afraid I'm not up on Animated, so have to rely on the web there...)
New sale thread added with a range of Transformers including Masterpiece, Botcon, CHUG, RID, Movies etc.
Looking for MP-11T Thundercracker and MP-9 Rodimus v2 (Takara version with as few QC issues as possible).
Check out my new sale thread now!
Also items on eBay.
Sorry man. (It was yesterday in Scotland...)
Here are my photos if you want to use them, seeing as how they've been sitting around for a year (what happened to zeoman's review, anyone?).
They're in a little better focus.
Here are my photos if you want to use them, seeing as how they've been sitting around for a year (what happened to zeoman's review, anyone?).
They're in a little better focus.
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New sale thread added with a range of Transformers including Masterpiece, Botcon, CHUG, RID, Movies etc.
Looking for MP-11T Thundercracker and MP-9 Rodimus v2 (Takara version with as few QC issues as possible).
Check out my new sale thread now!
Also items on eBay.
That could be enough for me to pick him up!
But there are a lot of nifty figures upcoming just now...
Movie '74 Bumblebee really adds armament to Minicons as well, but this sounds a step above!
But there are a lot of nifty figures upcoming just now...
Movie '74 Bumblebee really adds armament to Minicons as well, but this sounds a step above!
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New sale thread added with a range of Transformers including Masterpiece, Botcon, CHUG, RID, Movies etc.
Looking for MP-11T Thundercracker and MP-9 Rodimus v2 (Takara version with as few QC issues as possible).
Check out my new sale thread now!
Also items on eBay.
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electro girl
- Posts: 1719
- Joined: Tue Mar 25, 2008 4:38 pm
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Offroad Ironhide review [proofed with photos]
And the mighty Offroad Ironhide. Pictures too, so for once Blackjack is ahead of things. Animated Snag will follow, maybe next week.
_________________________
Name: Offroad Ironhide
Allegiance: Autobot
Function: Weapons Expert; Tooth fairy
Scale: 1/40
"Feelin' lucky, punk?" – Ironhide to Sam Witwicky.
"Are you the tooth fairy?" – A little girl sees Ironhide.
"You have a rodent infestation. Shall I terminate?" – Ironhide doesn't like being urinated on.
Ironhide is a fan favourite, from G1 up to now. However, until the Movie, there has never been a good iteration of Ironhide as a toy. Here Ironhide is a trigger happy war veteran, hinting at killing both Sam's parents and Mojo the dog in the ten minutes after his introduction. Prime exasperatedly said "What is with you?" Ironhide later participated upfront in the big final battle, taking on Devastator and later being blasted by Starscream. Ironhide survived the battle, and later escorted the human, Captain Lennox, home. This leaves him free to appear again in Transformers 2.
Like practically all toy molds of the movie characters, Ironhide got re-released with a new colour scheme. However, while some of the redecos got new names and characters (i.e. Cliffjumper and Evac), most just received an extra something attached to their names (Jungle Bonecrusher, Recon Barricade), as is the case for Ironhide – now dubbed 'Offroad Ironhide'. The big question is, ‘Why can't they paint him red? Like G1? What’s with the blue?’
Being a redeco, and not intended to be a new character, the only reason I bought this is because... I missed the original release, who got a lot of flak because of its needlessly complicated transformation. Considering this to be a simple redeco, you can expect this review to be short.
History time, fanboys and girls. Ironhide first appeared in Generation 1 as Prime's tough bodyguard, and his character became known and popular worldwide, appearing in all incarnations of the G1 comics. Ironhide was killed by Megatron "Such heroic nonsense." in the first few minutes of the G1 Transformers the Movie. G1 Ironhide transforms into a red Nissan Onebox cherry vanette, and had an unconvincing toy. G1 Ironhide gots a simple Power Masters toy in G2. In the Beast Wars line, an elephant Maximal was released under the name Ironhide, and was meant to be the same character as the original. Then comes Energon, where – not intended to be the same character as the previous namesakes – Ironhide is, horrors upon horrors, a young annoying emo rookie. Another Ironhide, this time more similar to G1 Cliffjumper and Ironhide, appeared in the 2007 live action Movie, and is the one we're talking about. The most recent Ironhide is the Animated version, where he is a bloody young rookie again, along with Bumblebee, Cliffjumper, Wasp and others. Ratchet is old and Ironhide is young?! Preposterous. Ironhide is slated to appear in Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen, in 2009.
Alternate Mode:
Ironhide is a GMC Topkick. As I see it, it looks like an outback kind of vehicle. Before you notice anything, basically this is just a repaint of the original black version, so I suggest that you read the expert's (Knightdramon’s) review for it here.
I've said it once in my review of the original Movie molds (Payload) and I'm gonna say it again. The detailing achieved with the mold is very, very impressive. Headlights... The front grill with GMC... Unpainted 'Road Armor' on the bumper... Nicely proportioned vehicle... Heavily detailed wheels... 4x4 tampographed on the side... Splotches on top of the wheels to resemble mud... In short, heavy detailing.
Realistic vehicles, or at least show-accurate ones, always get me reeled in. Ironhide has a dark blue paint job, with black, gray and brown to liven it up. The headlights are neon blue, signifying the juicy AllSpark power cruising through him.
One quick question: Just who is being referenced with this paint job? All the same-name repaints reference G1 paint jobs. Nightwatch Prime is an Ultra Magnus, Recon Barricade is a Prowl, while Rescue Ratchet and First Strike Prime resemble their original G1 toys. I was half-hoping for a red Ironhide repaint. However... The blue. Who can it be? Skids? Maybe, their robot modes look similar. But the vehicle modes do not. Gears? More likely, he's also a blue pickup. But then, there's no red. Might be Kup but he's more green/turquoise. The closest one I can see is the G1 Micromaster Mudslinger, so that makes Muddy one of the few Micros to get a repaint reference. When will Blackjack get one?
And the cannons hanging at the bottom. Don't get me started on that. Sufficient to say, the cannons make Ironhide officially a Movie transformer that doesn't cover up well.
Transformation:
The transformation is fun, but it is very tricky to get everything back into vehicle mode.
Tips: remove the cannons and the whole roof and windshield assembly to reduce the pain. The transformation is made more complicated than it should be, and the instructions make things worse by missing many steps!
Robot Mode:
As with the truck, the robot mode is also very detailed. Transforming with the best Automorph feature at the legs, Ironhide stands as tall as Voyager Starscream and Ratchet.
His two cannons sure look badass. They can combine into a single large cannon, but two seems more imposing than one. Regardless, the cannons are true weapons, unlike the sorry excuses of weaponry Movie Ratchet and half of the Animated Autobots are using.
Ironhide's 'minotaur' head and chest are busy parts, heavily detailed with sculpted and painted details. Although the eyes creep me out. The head is too busy for my liking, but then, this is the Michael Bay stuff, so I don't care to rant too much.
The poseability is rather solid, with the arms being the most poseable of all. It is not possible not to have fun with Ironhide. He is rather thick in the legs, making
him sturdy.
Ironhide is nice for playing, but for display the black original is much better. Neon blue sucks.
Overall, a great toy by himself. But he's a repaint and that's the thing that puts people off buying him. If you own the original, give this guy a wide berth.
Marks out of ten for the following:
Transformation: 6 – Very needlessly complicated. The joints are a bit hard to manipulate – especially the shoulders.
Durability: 8 – No stress points that I can find, though you should be careful around the Automorph and the vehicle top.
Fun: 7 – BOOM!!
Price: X – Depends on how much you like the new paint job.
Overall: If you own another Ironhide – 0. If you don't – 7. Not a figure that I would strongly recommend, mostly due to the paint job. If you already own an Ironhide, give this guy a big pass. Otherwise the new Universe Deluxe toy is much better... And cheaper to boot.
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Name: Offroad Ironhide
Allegiance: Autobot
Function: Weapons Expert; Tooth fairy
Scale: 1/40
"Feelin' lucky, punk?" – Ironhide to Sam Witwicky.
"Are you the tooth fairy?" – A little girl sees Ironhide.
"You have a rodent infestation. Shall I terminate?" – Ironhide doesn't like being urinated on.
Ironhide is a fan favourite, from G1 up to now. However, until the Movie, there has never been a good iteration of Ironhide as a toy. Here Ironhide is a trigger happy war veteran, hinting at killing both Sam's parents and Mojo the dog in the ten minutes after his introduction. Prime exasperatedly said "What is with you?" Ironhide later participated upfront in the big final battle, taking on Devastator and later being blasted by Starscream. Ironhide survived the battle, and later escorted the human, Captain Lennox, home. This leaves him free to appear again in Transformers 2.
Like practically all toy molds of the movie characters, Ironhide got re-released with a new colour scheme. However, while some of the redecos got new names and characters (i.e. Cliffjumper and Evac), most just received an extra something attached to their names (Jungle Bonecrusher, Recon Barricade), as is the case for Ironhide – now dubbed 'Offroad Ironhide'. The big question is, ‘Why can't they paint him red? Like G1? What’s with the blue?’
Being a redeco, and not intended to be a new character, the only reason I bought this is because... I missed the original release, who got a lot of flak because of its needlessly complicated transformation. Considering this to be a simple redeco, you can expect this review to be short.
History time, fanboys and girls. Ironhide first appeared in Generation 1 as Prime's tough bodyguard, and his character became known and popular worldwide, appearing in all incarnations of the G1 comics. Ironhide was killed by Megatron "Such heroic nonsense." in the first few minutes of the G1 Transformers the Movie. G1 Ironhide transforms into a red Nissan Onebox cherry vanette, and had an unconvincing toy. G1 Ironhide gots a simple Power Masters toy in G2. In the Beast Wars line, an elephant Maximal was released under the name Ironhide, and was meant to be the same character as the original. Then comes Energon, where – not intended to be the same character as the previous namesakes – Ironhide is, horrors upon horrors, a young annoying emo rookie. Another Ironhide, this time more similar to G1 Cliffjumper and Ironhide, appeared in the 2007 live action Movie, and is the one we're talking about. The most recent Ironhide is the Animated version, where he is a bloody young rookie again, along with Bumblebee, Cliffjumper, Wasp and others. Ratchet is old and Ironhide is young?! Preposterous. Ironhide is slated to appear in Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen, in 2009.
Alternate Mode:
Ironhide is a GMC Topkick. As I see it, it looks like an outback kind of vehicle. Before you notice anything, basically this is just a repaint of the original black version, so I suggest that you read the expert's (Knightdramon’s) review for it here.
I've said it once in my review of the original Movie molds (Payload) and I'm gonna say it again. The detailing achieved with the mold is very, very impressive. Headlights... The front grill with GMC... Unpainted 'Road Armor' on the bumper... Nicely proportioned vehicle... Heavily detailed wheels... 4x4 tampographed on the side... Splotches on top of the wheels to resemble mud... In short, heavy detailing.
Realistic vehicles, or at least show-accurate ones, always get me reeled in. Ironhide has a dark blue paint job, with black, gray and brown to liven it up. The headlights are neon blue, signifying the juicy AllSpark power cruising through him.
One quick question: Just who is being referenced with this paint job? All the same-name repaints reference G1 paint jobs. Nightwatch Prime is an Ultra Magnus, Recon Barricade is a Prowl, while Rescue Ratchet and First Strike Prime resemble their original G1 toys. I was half-hoping for a red Ironhide repaint. However... The blue. Who can it be? Skids? Maybe, their robot modes look similar. But the vehicle modes do not. Gears? More likely, he's also a blue pickup. But then, there's no red. Might be Kup but he's more green/turquoise. The closest one I can see is the G1 Micromaster Mudslinger, so that makes Muddy one of the few Micros to get a repaint reference. When will Blackjack get one?
And the cannons hanging at the bottom. Don't get me started on that. Sufficient to say, the cannons make Ironhide officially a Movie transformer that doesn't cover up well.
Transformation:
The transformation is fun, but it is very tricky to get everything back into vehicle mode.
Tips: remove the cannons and the whole roof and windshield assembly to reduce the pain. The transformation is made more complicated than it should be, and the instructions make things worse by missing many steps!
Robot Mode:
As with the truck, the robot mode is also very detailed. Transforming with the best Automorph feature at the legs, Ironhide stands as tall as Voyager Starscream and Ratchet.
His two cannons sure look badass. They can combine into a single large cannon, but two seems more imposing than one. Regardless, the cannons are true weapons, unlike the sorry excuses of weaponry Movie Ratchet and half of the Animated Autobots are using.
Ironhide's 'minotaur' head and chest are busy parts, heavily detailed with sculpted and painted details. Although the eyes creep me out. The head is too busy for my liking, but then, this is the Michael Bay stuff, so I don't care to rant too much.
The poseability is rather solid, with the arms being the most poseable of all. It is not possible not to have fun with Ironhide. He is rather thick in the legs, making
him sturdy.
Ironhide is nice for playing, but for display the black original is much better. Neon blue sucks.
Overall, a great toy by himself. But he's a repaint and that's the thing that puts people off buying him. If you own the original, give this guy a wide berth.
Marks out of ten for the following:
Transformation: 6 – Very needlessly complicated. The joints are a bit hard to manipulate – especially the shoulders.
Durability: 8 – No stress points that I can find, though you should be careful around the Automorph and the vehicle top.
Fun: 7 – BOOM!!
Price: X – Depends on how much you like the new paint job.
Overall: If you own another Ironhide – 0. If you don't – 7. Not a figure that I would strongly recommend, mostly due to the paint job. If you already own an Ironhide, give this guy a big pass. Otherwise the new Universe Deluxe toy is much better... And cheaper to boot.
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That's just Classics Terrorsaur.
Every so often I go out and look at other versions of the mould, and almost buy them... One day perhaps...
Every so often I go out and look at other versions of the mould, and almost buy them... One day perhaps...
New sale thread added with a range of Transformers including Masterpiece, Botcon, CHUG, RID, Movies etc.
Looking for MP-11T Thundercracker and MP-9 Rodimus v2 (Takara version with as few QC issues as possible).
Check out my new sale thread now!
Also items on eBay.
-
Treadshot A1
- Posts: 2411
- Joined: Fri Nov 02, 2007 8:49 am
- Contact:
Did that with my CUSTOM Grimlock, http://www.tfarchive.com/community/show ... hp?t=43376numbat wrote:That could be enough for me to pick him up!
But there are a lot of nifty figures upcoming just now...
Movie '74 Bumblebee really adds armament to Minicons as well, but this sounds a step above!
BADASS!
The gladiatorial thing is a homage/reminder to how Meg's first chose Con recruits. There were illegal underground stadiums that robots fought to the death in. Megs chose his recruits fro the winners.Then, he reconfigured their bodies, before sending them to the branding pits, where they would get the logo emblazoned. Then...we don't know.
(From Simon Furman's Transformers: The Ultimate Guide)
[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]
Definitely!Treadshot A1 wrote:Did that with my CUSTOM Grimlock, http://www.tfarchive.com/community/show ... hp?t=43376
BADASS!
Those totally rule man!
New sale thread added with a range of Transformers including Masterpiece, Botcon, CHUG, RID, Movies etc.
Looking for MP-11T Thundercracker and MP-9 Rodimus v2 (Takara version with as few QC issues as possible).
Check out my new sale thread now!
Also items on eBay.
That's that proofed.
Grand review.
I haven't had many problems with parts popping off my LOC Movie Megs, except when he's been bashed around up a hill in a rucksack or somesuch. But when he does, it's the arms that tend to go with mine...
I think he's one of the best of the Movie LOC figures, and both modes aren't too bad really, compared with, say, Ratchet (or, heavens forbid - Jazz!! *shudder* ).
It's interesting that the best Movie Megs figures are the smallest and the largest!
I did think that the alternate mode bears most resemblance to the Energon Megatron / Galvatron design. But, let's face it, the Movie design is way more complex and weird!
Grand review.
I haven't had many problems with parts popping off my LOC Movie Megs, except when he's been bashed around up a hill in a rucksack or somesuch. But when he does, it's the arms that tend to go with mine...
I think he's one of the best of the Movie LOC figures, and both modes aren't too bad really, compared with, say, Ratchet (or, heavens forbid - Jazz!! *shudder* ).
It's interesting that the best Movie Megs figures are the smallest and the largest!
I did think that the alternate mode bears most resemblance to the Energon Megatron / Galvatron design. But, let's face it, the Movie design is way more complex and weird!
New sale thread added with a range of Transformers including Masterpiece, Botcon, CHUG, RID, Movies etc.
Looking for MP-11T Thundercracker and MP-9 Rodimus v2 (Takara version with as few QC issues as possible).
Check out my new sale thread now!
Also items on eBay.