TakaraTomy Diaclone TM-36 Attack Multitechnics Unit [Dark Star] - Truly Ever-Changing Toys

Diaclone (ダイアクロン)

This is a toy series launched by Japan's TAKARA TOMY in the 1980s. The name "Diaclone" combines "Dia" (from "diamond") and "cyclone," representing indestructible friendship and powerful partners, respectively. It profoundly influenced the design concepts of the later Transformers toys and can be considered the progenitor of the Transformers line. After 1987, due to the immense popularity and high similarity of Transformers toys, the Diaclone line was gradually phased out. It wasn't until 2015 that TAKARA announced the revival of the Diaclone series, relaunching it as a premium, finely crafted collectible line for adult fans.

To counter the complex and diverse attack patterns of the invading alien Waruder, Diaclone forces around the world can detach from the main combat force to form specialized tactical units for various large-scale operations.

As their main combat machine, the pinnacle of Diaclone technology was gathered to develop a state-of-the-art fighter capable of confronting the current Waruder threat. This marked the birth of the Tactical Mover.

The is a variable tactical machine that merges the agility and mobility of a Powered Suit (PS) with the interchangeable functionality of the Triverse series, boasting greater combat power and versatility than a standard PS.

Based on the , a variable frame system developed from the compatible multi-purpose combat system , and the cockpit module, the TM can transform into various combat modules depending on the situation—serving as a combat vehicle, a bipedal high-mobility machine, or a humanoid robot to execute all types of combat and missions.

Furthermore, just like the PS machines and the medium-sized Triverse machines, it can combine with dedicated external units specializing in functions such as flight, ground combat, and shooting. Combining with these units makes its combat capabilities even more formidable.

Attack Multitechnics Unit

"Invader"/DU (Dark Star) is the flagship of the Dark Star Pursuit Team, stationed at the interplanetary defense base in the Giga Zone. It is equipped with the "Daedalus"—a large, high-mobility space maneuvering unit with enhanced acceleration capabilities for rapid interception. It operates in coordination with the "Hawk"-VA wingman to destroy incoming enemies.

The base model, "Invader Multitechnics Unit/DU," was developed to cope with the escalating interstellar battles in various zones. Its design concept originates from the space combat machine , with the goal of achieving an attack power capable of single-handedly destroying an enemy space carrier. Unlike previous models, its decisive battle mode focuses on long-range firepower rather than close-quarters combat, evolving into a super-powerful combat style known as "Super Decisive Battle Mode," which can unleash a full-burst attack with all weapons to annihilate large or wide-area targets in a single strike.

Space Mobility Unit: The Daedalus Unit is a giant multi-purpose space mobility unit, considered an enhanced and evolved version of the Hawk-V.A fighter's . It possesses exceptional craft attitude control capabilities and interstellar attack weaponry. It is composed of five panel units that deploy radially. The central main panel is equipped with the Atomic Smasher, a devastatingly powerful destruction cannon that also functions as a high-output power thruster. The upper-left and upper-right panels house the main thrusters and also serve as weapon units containing various missiles. The lower-left and lower-right panels connect to the Tactical Mover's fist components, forming exoskeleton-style power arms.

Giant Attack Boat Mode: A medium-sized interstellar attack craft. It utilizes an FZ propulsion engine, enabling ultra-high-speed space travel. The tail is equipped with the "Life Orbiter" support craft. As part of the HAWK-V.A Type Space Maneuver Squadron, they are typically used as flagship models.

Diaclone is truly a treasure from my childhood. I fondly remember how much I loved the $3.3 Type A, Type B, and Type C models back in the day. Now, twenty-six years later, it has undergone a polar evolution! It features high articulation and can transform into vehicle, storage, lateral bipedal, and combat modes. Its playability, especially when combined with other toys from the same series, can only be described as "ever-changing." Although I've lost track of which TM version this is, I find myself cursing under my breath while reaching for my wallet...

The price-to-performance ratio is average, the joints are a bit loose, and the appearance isn't overly "plasticky"—I wonder if any fans will give it a custom paint job. But the playability is arguably one of the highest in history! When combined with other products or vehicles from the same series, it not only looks "cool," but its play value and interconnectivity are also significantly enhanced. Diaclone, what a frighteningly awesome series!

Unfortunately, just like over twenty years ago, there are no accompanying anime or other media products for promotion or support... However, the previously released CG shorts were highly impressive and watchable.

D.M.S. Play Scoring

Look (40) 32
Articulation and Poseable (20) 15
Accessories and Gimmick (20) 17.5
Quality Control (QC) (10) 7
Price (10) 6

Total Score：77.5