Introduced by the internationally renowned toy manufacturer "Hasbro," Transformers Generations has entered its brand new "Legacy" series this year. The "all-encompassing" concept not only includes and remakes classic G1 characters from the past, but also allows characters from different universes and stories to be reborn within the Legacy series. Whether it's fully enjoying the creative transformation process, playing with them as articulated robots, or immersing oneself in the imaginative flight and speed of their vehicle modes, both seasoned players familiar with various works and newcomers just stepping into this vast world are sure to deeply experience the unique and extraordinary charm of Transformers Generations during play!
Following the unboxings of the previous first wave and second wave, today we will bring the latest third wave of the Legacy series to all Transformers-loving toy enthusiasts. Before we officially begin, let's quickly review the features of the Legacy series!
●Multiverse Characters Join the Fray: As mentioned, previous Generations series mostly featured G1 characters. The Legacy series breaks this rule by introducing characters from other stories, such as the vibrantly colored G2 universe, and 2010's "Transformers: Prime" (hereinafter referred to as Prime), adding greater diversity to the classic product line.
●Magnificent Energon Weapons: Most characters in the Legacy series come with exclusive Energon weapons, made from transparent plastic. These can be linked and played with via the 3mm and 5mm ports of the "Cybertronian Omnifunctional Modular Battlefield Assault Tech" (C.O.M.B.A.T.) system from the previous "War For Cybertron Trilogy." The expandable combinations between weapons also greatly test players' creativity and ingenuity.
●Reduced Plastic, Eco-Friendly Packaging: In response to global trends, the Legacy series adopts a more environmentally friendly packaging format. Not only has the transparent plastic window been removed from the exterior, but the internal plastic bubble shell has also been replaced with plastic ties and cardboard for securing the figure.
●Paperless Character Information: Unlike the previous method of printing information on the back of the box, the Legacy series utilizes a new QR code. When players scan the unique QR code on the box, they can directly view the character's abilities and introduction on the official website. The language also varies by region, offering different translations!
▼The protagonists of this unboxing report include five Deluxe Class figures, two Voyager Class figures, and one Leader Class figure.
▼Regarding packaging, in addition to the aforementioned reduced-plastic eco-friendly packaging, to prevent players from missing extra packaged accessories, the inner cardboard box also features a hollowed-out arrow reminder on the left. Please remember to turn the box over and retrieve the parts from the back when taking out the main figure!
▼"Minerva" (Minerva/ミネルバ), a Headmaster Junior member from "Transformers: Super God Master Force" (トランスフォーマー 超神マスターフォース/Transformers: Super God Master Force). The French girl Minerva, skilled in dance, cooking, painting, and medical techniques, combines with her vehicle using the power of the Master Braces. She often acts alongside Shūta Gō and Cab (Cab/キャブ), providing strong support for Ginrai and the Autobots (Autobots/サイバトロン). This Legacy version is a retool and repaint of the second wave's Elita-1, removing the Headmaster separation and transformation/riding mechanism. The vehicle mode has also changed from the original Porsche 959 to a Cybertronian-style off-road ambulance, and it comes with two rifles.
▼Sharing the same mold as Elita One, the representation of the female physique is quite standard, and with a slight adjustment of the articulated joints, a youthful, maiden-like appearance can be achieved.
▼The head sculpt faithfully recreates the elegant and refined face from the animation. Of course, it's a bit of a shame that it lacks the original G1 Mini-Headmaster mechanism where a small figure, small gun, and seat combine to form the complete head.
▼It comes with one pure black and one transparent energon rifle, which can be held separately or combined into one.
▼In vehicle mode, it largely retains the classic red and white color scheme of an ambulance, but the transformation from its original Porsche form to an off-road vehicle might take some getting used to.
▼Will this mold be used to release the comic-featured great detective Nightbeat next? Let's wait and see.
▼"Crankcase," a member of the G1 Triggercons, is a Decepticon warrior who appeared only in comics such as Marvel and IDW. As a Triggercon, true to his name, the original G1 Crankcase could rapidly flip out twin cannons via a spring mechanism in both vehicle and robot modes. This Legacy version is a heavily re-molded version of the first wave's Skids. Although it lacks the aforementioned instant weapon pop-out mechanism, the twin shoulder cannons in robot mode are still present, and the off-road vehicle alt-mode is quite solid and well-defined. It comes with one transparent black energon rifle and a medium rifle formed from the vehicle's front grille.
▼Although it's said to be a re-mold of Skids, upon closer inspection, Crankcase actually features quite a lot of changes, including the upper body, shoulders, and even the distinctive shoulder cannons that can be freely flipped out or retracted (though they've shrunk quite a bit). It would have been even more interesting if the head sculpt had been changed to the "brain-bursting" version from IDW.
▼The black and blue color combination is quite appealing, and the included weapons can also be combined in pairs, allowing for more free combinations and play options.
▼In off-road vehicle mode, the headlights and grille, the fuel tanks on the body, and the spare tire at the rear are all re-molds that pay great homage to the original toy. The reflective texture of the vehicle's body paint is also beautifully rendered.
▼Let's take another close-up of Crankcase; his compact and robust feel is surprisingly endearing.
▼"Dead End," one of the G1 Stunticons, is a pessimistic and negative Decepticon warrior. As a creation of Megatron to bolster the Decepticons' ground combat capabilities, Dead End can transform into a dark red Porsche 928 and combine with his teammates to form the colossal combiner "Menasor", launching cruel and relentless attacks against the Autobots. This Legacy version is a highly reverent remake, restoring the robot's goggle-masked head sculpt from the animation, and of course, the yellow stripe decals on the vehicle body are also present. It includes two pistols that can be mounted on the rear of the vehicle.
▼Without close inspection, it might initially appear to be a re-mold of someone else, but in reality, this Dead End is an entirely new sculpt, with the designer's efforts to recreate the animation-style appearance evident from the head, chest, and other areas.
▼Like his comrades, he is equipped with two rifles, and combined with the full range of articulated joints, there are absolutely no issues with dynamic or static poses!
▼In vehicle mode, although not officially licensed by Porsche, the Legacy version's car model bears a remarkably high resemblance to the 928, including the burgundy body and the yellow and silver stripe decals. Furthermore, the two rifles can simulate the G1 toy's twin cannons mounted on the rear of the vehicle. As a side note, when transforming into sports car mode, the lower legs must first be brought together, and finally, remember to press the heels into the car shell to prevent the rear of the vehicle from appearing split.
▼The most anticipated moment now is the arrival of the final member; the Terrorcons are finally nearing their complete and glorious assembly!
▼"Pointblank & Peacemaker," a G1 Autobot Target Master, was active alongside his partner Peacemaker in the Japanese animated series. He led a three-member team consisting of Crosshairs and Sureshot, continuously delivering fierce blows against the Decepticons. This Legacy Pointblank marks the first remake since the release of the original 1987 version. After 35 years, fans have finally received this brand-new design, restoring Pointblank and Peacemaker's appearance as they debuted in "The Rebirth." Its strongly sci-fi alien sports car mode stands out remarkably among a host of Earth vehicles.
▼This Legacy version utilizes the latest manufacturing processes for a fresh refinement and interpretation. Its appearance not only aligns with current aesthetics but also balances high poseability and transformation mechanisms.
▼Weapon partner Peacemaker transforms into a Sonic Blaster. Compared to previous remade Target Masters, this Peacemaker has almost no additional articulation in robot mode.
▼Although it lacks the small flying shield detached from the spoiler, a single gun can still achieve many different poses.
▼In its futuristic Cybertronian sports car mode, the Sonic Blaster can be mounted at the rear, perfectly filling the central void in the vehicle's back section.
▼We look forward to the future completion of the other two members of this squad.
▼"Skullgrin," inspired by the G1 Decepticon Pretender, appeared under the name Dauros (ダウロス/Dauros, see note) in the Japanese animated series "Transformers: Super-God Masterforce." He was concealed within a goat skull shell, while his main body transforms into an alien-style twin-cannon tank. This Legacy version adopts a fusion style common in recent years, removing the Pretender shell mechanism and presenting the skull goat head, main robot body, and tank modes all at once. It comes with a pair of large swords and large cannons as weapon accessories.
Note: Dauros is a homophone of the Greek word for bull, "Tauros." In the anime, he was also portrayed as the origin of the Greek mythological Minotaur (Minotaur/Μῑνώταυρος). However, purely from a design perspective, he should indeed be derived from a goat's skull.
▼In robot mode, as mentioned, this form cleverly blends the aesthetics of the Pretender shell with the main robot body. The contrasting styles of the head sculpt and body are truly the essence of its appeal.
▼The evolved skull head sculpt features incredibly precise detailing. As for whether it's a goat or a bull, we'll leave that for the viewer to decide.
▼The various linkages of the swords and cannons allow for diverse combination play. Yes, Transformers are also free!
▼In vehicle mode, it essentially pays homage to the original alien tank, with both cannons and swords able to be stored separately on the turret and along the sides of the vehicle body.
▼The turret itself can rotate horizontally, and the cannon barrels can also adjust their firing elevation. For a tank toy, this is truly fundamental!
▼"Armada Universe Starscream," from "Transformers: Armada" (see note), which aired in 2002. Unlike Starscream's established persona as a "cunning opportunist who would stop at nothing to usurp power," the Armada version of Starscream transformed into a "true man" in the eyes of fans. Although he underwent changes in faction and allegiance at one point, he ultimately made the ultimate sacrifice, dying heroically to unite Megatron and Optimus Prime against the invasion of Unicron, an unforgettable act of bravery. This Legacy version is a remake following the 2014 Thrilling 30 edition, adopting a larger Voyager Class size, and includes a simplified version of the Star Saber, as well as a long sword that transformed from his left wing in the original (but is now non-transformable).
Note: "Transformers: Armada" is the American title, while the Japanese version is called "Transformers: Micron Legend" (超ロボット生命体トランスフォーマー マイクロン伝説). This Legacy version uses the American title.
▼The design faithfully recreates its appearance from the original animation, including the iconic twin shoulder cannons and the jet nosecone on its chest.
▼The mighty artifact, the Star Saber. While cost considerations prevent the recreation of its three-jet Mini-Con combination mechanism, it's still a thoughtful inclusion to have it bundled.
▼In addition to the two melee weapons, the shoulder cannons also recreate their deployment mechanism. Combined with the full range of articulation, it can strike various cool, "true man" poses! It would be even more perfect if the left wing could truly detach and transform into its signature long sword.
▼The jet mode naturally strives to recreate the animation's appearance, with both weapons capable of being mounted under the wings.
▼Fleet/Mini-Con fans, do you like this remake?
▼"Inferno" (Ant), a Predacon member from "Beast Wars" (formerly known as "Transformers" in Taiwan). Originally intended to be a Maximal, his programming was corrupted by "Tarantulas" (also translated as "Wolf Spider"), leading him to become Megatron's most loyal warrior. He views Megatron as his sole queen, vowing to eliminate all obstacles in Megatron's path. This Legacy version is the first remake of his original animated design since the 1997 inaugural toy. It not only restores his robot and beast (ant) modes but also imbues him with a more contemporary aesthetic and articulation design. For fans, this is an eagerly anticipated and unmissable masterpiece!
▼In robot mode, compared to the original version which heavily utilized transparent parts, the Legacy version's materials and paintwork are closer to the animation's depiction. The metallic paint accents inside the head and tail are also quite striking.
▼The head sculpt perfectly reproduces the animation's appearance, with light-piping in the eyes and even articulated temporomandibular joints, allowing for easy recreation of his ferocious expressions from the show.
▼Although only a quad-barreled cannon is included (which, to be precise, originates from the original's internal tail thruster), it still gives a strong impression of full firepower when equipped. His loyal salute can also be easily recreated, truly making this an excellent piece well worth acquiring.
▼In beast mode, disguised as a fire ant, similar to the new beasts from Kingdom, great attention has been paid to the animalistic details. For instance, the surfaces of the chitinous carapace and appendages have an unexpectedly tactile feel.
▼In addition to the striking transparent eyes, the mandibles also feature articulated joints for opening and closing.
▼The carapace features a gradient paint application of red plastic with purple and brown paints, creating a visually excellent sense of layering.
▼This Inferno figure can be said to be the final puzzle piece for the initial members of the "Beast Wars" new interpretation series. All BW fans absolutely must get it!!
▼"Transmetal II Megatron," the third form of Megatron from "Beast Wars." After witnessing the results of Optimus Primal's spark merging with Optimus Prime, Megatron also attempted to combine the dormant Megatron's spark with his own. However, facing rejection and a failed fusion, he was pushed into lava. Surprisingly, this instead allowed Megatron to evolve, transforming into the brand-new Transmetal II - Dragon Mode. This Legacy version is also the first reinterpretation of Transmetal II since 1999, utilizing a large Leader Class size to faithfully recreate both the animated mechanical fire dragon and robot modes. It features a magnificent gradient paint application to present the striking wine-red armor and signature wings, and includes flame effect parts that can be used with either mode, perfectly showcasing the domineering and arrogant aura of the Dragon King.
▼In robot mode, while it lacks the chrome plating of the original, the multi-layered gradient coloring still gives the overall appearance a magnificent presentation. The complementary gold and red combination further enhances its imposing presence.
▼The head sculpt features transparent parts for the forehead. It's worth noting that the facial features of the Legacy version are closer to the design of the old toy rather than its animated appearance.
▼The characteristic Spark Crystal on the chest is rendered with transparent parts, and the pectoral muscles are painted with a gradient of fuchsia (purple).
▼The asymmetrical design, coupled with luxurious wings and the included flame effect parts, makes playing with it an absolutely exhilarating and satisfying experience!
▼The wings are crafted from translucent plastic sheets, and when spread out piece by piece under light, they truly exude an impressive power.
▼A fire-breathing dragon reborn from the scorching magma, this form has earned Transmetal II Megatron the affectionate nickname "Fire Dragon King" among players. Even though the transformation mechanism isn't overly complex and lacks the original version's third mode, the Legacy version's solid construction is still incredibly satisfying.
▼The fire dragon's temporomandibular joint is articulated, and the included flame effects can be attached to recreate the scorching moment of fire breath. Both the neck and tail feature multiple articulated joints, greatly aiding in dynamic posing.
▼The left chest in dragon mode also features an embedded Spark Crystal, with a gradient application of gold/purple paint above it.
▼Each wing has five individual wing segments that can be extended and retracted to recreate its in-show flight poses.
▼Combined with the highly articulated joints throughout the body, you can effortlessly showcase the Fire Dragon King's unparalleled charisma!
▼And that concludes this unboxing report for the third wave of the Transformers Legacy series. For long-time fans of G1 and "Beast Wars," seeing beloved classic characters reborn with new technology is absolutely a momentous occasion worth celebrating. Whether you're a nostalgic veteran or a newcomer, you absolutely must experience the powerful charm of the all-new Legacy line for yourself! We'll see you in the next unboxing report!
