In 2022, the "Transformers Generations" line, led by the internationally renowned toy manufacturer "Hasbro", entered the "Legacy" series, which spans across the multiverse. Moving beyond its previous focus on remaking G1 characters, it expanded to a broader and more open vision, incorporating more popular characters from different stories and redesigning them with the latest technology. This approach has been widely praised by players from all walks of life. Now, as the Legacy series is about to enter its second year, let us formally welcome this new generation that builds upon the past and ushers in the future – the "Legacy Evolution" series!
▲The official promotional artwork for "Legacy Evolution." Keen-eyed toy enthusiasts can spot many upcoming classic characters in the image – let's look forward to them together!
As the successor to the Legacy series, "Legacy Evolution" naturally inherits the excellent traditions of the Generations and Legacy lines. It not only boasts superb design but also features impressive articulation and transformation mechanisms that are irresistible. Now, let's take a look at the major selling points of Legacy Evolution:
●More Characters from More Universes: Upholding the core mission of the Legacy series, Legacy Evolution embraces popular characters from an even wider array of stories. This includes newly introduced characters from the IDW comic universe, the Japanese animated series "Beast Wars II" (ビーストウォーズII 超生命体トランスフォーマー) universe, and more, all adding greater diversity to this product line!
●Super-Evolved Powerful Weapons, Perfect Fusion: The highly acclaimed Weaponizers from the "War For Cybertron Trilogy" make a grand return! The Legacy Evolution series introduces the concept of "Evo-Fusion," enabling the combination of weapon parts. It also utilizes 3mm and 5mm ports for interactive play, allowing the returning Weaponizers to be disassembled and reassembled to provide other Transformers with enhanced firepower and armaments, challenging players' creativity and unique ingenuity.
●Reduced Plastic, Eco-Friendly Packaging: In response to global trends, the Legacy series adopted more environmentally friendly plastic-free packaging (except for tape and adhesive parts). The Legacy Evolution series continues this philosophy, not only removing the transparent plastic window from the outer packaging but also replacing the previous internal plastic bubble shell with plastic ties and cardboard for securing the figures.
●Paperless Character Information: Unlike the previous method of printing on the back of the box, this series, like Legacy, adopts a new QR code system. When players scan the QR code printed on the top of the outer box, they can directly view the character's abilities and introduction on the official website, with different translations available depending on the region.
▼The stars of this unboxing include three mini Core Class figures, four Deluxe Class figures, and two Voyager Class figures.
▼By piecing together the side panels of the different faction's boxes, you can assemble the Legacy Evolution artwork!
▼"Soundblaster", appearing in the Japanese animated series "Transformers: The Headmasters" (トランスフォーマー ザ☆ヘッドマスターズ), is the resurrected and enhanced form of the Decepticon spy commander Soundwave after he and his arch-rival Blaster destroyed each other. This version is a repaint of the Kingdom version Core Class figure, and the non-transforming cassette hidden in his chest has been changed to Buzzsaw's color scheme.
▼Despite its mini size, Soundwave's distinctive dark color scheme has been reproduced as faithfully as possible.
▼Thanks to ball joints throughout, basic articulation is completely unhindered, and the chest can be manually opened and closed to store mini-cassettes!
▼In boombox mode, shoulder cannons and other weapons can be stored on both sides at the rear. This easy-to-handle mechanism makes it a perfect entry-level choice for casual transformations.
▼"Sludge", one of the first three Dinobots created by Autobot scientists Wheeljack and Ratchet. He transforms into a robotic Brontosaurus and loves to express his presence and arrival by stomping heavily with his bulky body. Although he and his comrades dislike Optimus Prime's leadership, he is willing to dedicate his combat power to the greater cause of the Autobots. This version of Sludge has been redesigned at the Core Class size and given a brand new function: that's right, he can combine with his Dinobot comrades to form the Decepticon's nightmare—"Volcanicus"!
▼The back also features the component number for Volcanicus, making it easy for unfamiliar players to identify.
▼To satisfy three transformation modes simultaneously, the robot mode was somewhat sacrificed, especially the hip joint design, which is quite unique.
▼Even if he looks a bit odd, he still possesses some articulation.
▼In Brontosaurus mode, compared to previous combiner versions or the Studio Series versions, this Core Class Dinobot mode has almost zero articulation. However, I must say, a tiny one in the palm of your hand is truly adorable.
▼"Dinobot Slug" (Note), a member of the Dinobot team, transforms into a robotic Triceratops. He is short-tempered, easily angered, and extremely unsociable, to the point where his Autobot comrades even question why he isn't a Decepticon. This Core Class figure is an entirely new mold design, recreating both dinosaur and robot modes in a compact size. Furthermore, this Legacy Evolution version also possesses the ability to combine into Volcanicus, which players can eagerly anticipate.
Note: Due to copyright issues, Slug's original name, Slag, can no longer be used and has been renamed to Slug.
▼In robot mode, Slug boasts a more aesthetically pleasing sculpt and articulation design by comparison.
▼He can wield a weapon detached from his tail, and his articulated joints are up to the usual Core Class standard.
▼In Triceratops mode, the lower jaw features an opening and closing mechanism, and all four limbs are equipped with single-axis joints.
▼This Dinobot team will consist of six members. Besides the classic five, who will the last one be? Let's wait and see.
▼The two members released so far can already form the torso of a small-sized Volcanicus. Let's look forward to the arrival of the other members!
▼"Armada Universe Hot Shot" (also translated as "Gekisatsu"), a young Autobot from 2002's "Transformers: Armada" (see note). He is a confident, occasionally reckless, but always righteous and passionate warrior who, after much training, became a pillar in the rebuilding of Cybertron. This new version is a remake following the 2008 release, transforming into his signature yellow sports car, but it does not include his Mini-Con partner, Jolt.
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.
▼In Robot Mode, Hot Shot's streamlined appearance from the animation is faithfully recreated; its somewhat rounded form actually bears a resemblance to Bumblebee.
▼The visor features a free-wearing function.
▼"Evo-Fusion!" The front wheel axle located on the upper back can rotate to recreate the classic Axlezooka from the original toy!
▼The articulated design certainly lives up to the "Generations" name, allowing for easy posing in even cooler battle stances!
▼In Sports Car Mode, the windows, made of clear parts, are very beautiful. Wouldn't it be even more perfect if he could be paired with his Mini-Con?
▼"Needlenose" (also translated as "Needle Nose"), a Decepticon Targetmaster who only appeared in the comics, operates alongside his Nebulan partners Sunbeam and Zigzag. He can transform into jet mode, engaging their eternal enemies, those damned Autobots, in the air. This new version has been long-awaited by fans. Needlenose, teamed with Tracks (see note below), appeared in an official fan poll held in 2018; however, he ultimately lost to the more popular Impactor and Mirage. Subsequently, the official releases in the War for Cybertron Trilogy gradually completed the roster of contestants from that year, including Spinister, Wheeljack, and Tracks. The final piece of that puzzle is finally being completed today.
Note: In the IDW comics, Needlenose and Tracks are brothers. This design concept might be related to the knight helmet visor-like styling on both of their foreheads.
▼As a character once planned as a poll option, this remake receives the highest treatment with an entirely new mold. Its classic styling and articulation are both very eye-catching.
▼From left to right are Sunbeam and Zigzag, respectively. Unlike previously remade Targetmasters, their mechanical design is much simpler, with zero articulation in robot mode, just like the original version, and transformation merely involves flipping the cannon on their back. However, a closer look at their head sculpts and body designs reveals quite exquisite detailing, and Sunbeam even directly recreates the built-in left arm cannon design!
▼Although the partners' articulation is somewhat lacking, the ability to restore them all at once, and with entirely new molds, is enough to deeply move fans.
▼"Evo-Fusion!" In weapon mode, the two can also combine, just like the old toy, into a more powerful triple-barreled rifle!
▼Needlenose's main body also boasts excellent articulation, allowing for dynamic poses whether for play or display.
▼In Jet Mode, its design is an "over-interpretation" and refinement of the F-16XL from that era. The two weapon partners can be attached separately under the wings on both sides, or combined into one and attached to the tail to enhance jet propulsion efficiency.
▼"Scraphook", an original Junkion from the Legacy Evolution series, possesses Weaponizer capabilities. In addition to transforming into a heavily wasteland-styled tow truck, he can also disassemble into various components to provide other Transformers with firepower enhancements and modifications, seemingly echoing the concept of Junkions self-regenerating and reinforcing themselves with scrap metal in the 1986 film "The Transformers: The Movie."
▼Robot Mode. As one of their kind, his color scheme naturally incorporates elements of the Junkions.
▼The rifles in both hands can be stored on the front of his shins. Overall, he boasts an above-average level of articulation. However, due to a conflict between design and material, the elbow joints are very prone to coming loose during horizontal rotation or transformation, requiring a bit of caution during play.
▼Vehicle Mode. Elements like patches, spikes, and window crash bars give him a strong "Mad Max" post-apocalyptic wasteland vibe. If some weathering paintwork were applied, he would undoubtedly be a spectacular piece. Incidentally, compared to previous Weaponizers, Scraphook's transformation shows significant progress, no longer requiring disassembly to achieve vehicle mode.
▼Finally, of course, we must try Scraphook's Weaponizer enhanced mode!
▼"Evolution Fusion!" This time, it's assembled according to the official instruction manual. However, by utilizing the 5mm ports all over his body, players can also combine him according to their own creativity, or even use multiple figures for even more spectacular variations!
▼"Breakdown", one of the members of the G1 Decepticon car team "Stunticons." He is a paranoid individual filled with delusions of persecution, and his constantly suspicious nature could drive him mad at any moment. This Legacy Evolution version is a retool and repaint of his teammate "Wildrider," capable of transforming into a supercar that is a hybrid of a Lamborghini Countach and a Ferrari 308. He is also the final puzzle piece for the Legacy combiner "Menasor!"
Incidentally, this wave's Breakdown does not appear to be listed as a "Legacy Evolution" member on the outer box, yet the included instruction manual features the Legacy Evolution logo... Well, no matter, completing the set is what's most important!
▼The new Stunticon's insignia and number. I'm sure everyone has already called their hand, right?
▼As a retool and repaint, only areas like the head sculpt and chest have been altered; the split backpack design is identical to Wildrider's.
▼Included are a small rifle and an axe-shaped weapon formed from the detachable rear spoiler; both can also combine. Incidentally, he does not have a stated weapon evolution fusion mechanism.
▼Stunticon team, assemble at the rally point!! This five-member Decepticon car team is finally complete!
▼Vehicle Mode. The car shell, of course, faithfully recreates the classic color scheme. The only regret is that the final member couldn't be reproduced with a unique mold, which is truly a great pity.
▼The only highlight of the vehicle mode: compared to his three sports car comrades, Breakdown is the only one capable of completely concealing and storing his weapon.
▼Road Rulers and their merry companions! Ready to crush those Autobot punks!
▼Finally, we arrive at the grand climax of the Stunticon team! Let's give a round of applause for the majestic arrival of the combiner — "Menasor"!!
▼We have already discussed the combiner's structural design in the previous unboxing review, so we won't elaborate further here. Of course, this Legacy version will inevitably be compared to the Combiner Wars version. Whether it's the presentation of the physique or the articulation, this Legacy version is an undisputed triumph, making it currently the most ideal choice for collecting Menasor!
▼The articulation after combination also boasts impressive performance, and the overall balance and stability are, of course, commendable.
▼This is absolutely a magnificent grand combiner that is well worth acquiring for your collection!!
▼"Maximal Leo Prime" (ライオコンボイ), from the Japanese animated series "Beast Wars II" (ビーストウォーズII 超生命体トランスフォーマー). As a supreme commander, Leo Prime possesses immense courage and a strong sense of responsibility. He scanned a white lion as his alternate mode, leading his comrades on Planet Gaia to resist the invasion of the Destrons (デストロン) and prevent them from seizing the malevolent Angolmois Energy. This Legacy Evolution version is crafted with an entirely new mold design, adopting the Voyager Class size, aiming to recreate his cool and stylish robot mode and realistic white lion form from the anime.
▼Robot Mode. Benefiting from the experience of the 2020 MP version, this iteration's sculpt and mechanisms are arguably even more refined, perfectly balancing Leo Prime's asymmetrical upper body design with highly articulated joints.
▼The left chest features an opening mechanism, revealing the internal "Energon Matrix."
▼"Evolution Fusion!" The ultimate combination of Leo's armaments – the "Lion Claw," "Lio Missile," and "Lio Beam" – now unfolds!
▼The articulation is also top-notch. While it couldn't incorporate the mane-spinning mechanism of "Lion Typhoon," the mode with the missiles and beams mounted simultaneously on the lion head is incredibly cool!
▼White Lion Mode. Compared to previous versions, the Legacy Evolution version shares a similar style with the Kingdom line, leaning towards recreating the appearance of a "real lion." The temporomandibular joint can open and close, but the neck lacks extensive articulation. The limbs also have limited joints. The mane's texture is quite well-rendered. If the lion head could have some additional paint applications, it would undoubtedly be even more beautiful.
▼Full firepower! Who said a lion's mane could be pulled out? Come face me!
▼"Comic Universe Tarn", appearing in the IDW comic universe. He leads the D.J.D. (Decepticon Justice Division, 狂派正義部門), an enforcement agency dedicated to executing traitors. His true face is hidden beneath a Decepticon insignia mask. As an ardent Megatron fan who loves classical poetry and music (his name comes from the Cybertronian city, the famous birthplace of Megatron), Tarn dedicates an extraordinary passion to his mission: pursuing, hunting, and purging all who would hinder the Decepticon cause, and slaughters them using his unique Spark-resonance ability. He possesses an abnormal obsession with repeatedly transforming, which has burned out countless transformation gears. As for his true identity... please read the comics to find out. This Tarn figure is arguably the first official three-dimensional rendition of the character. Its unique design has been highly anticipated by fans and collectors alike, and it was swept off shelves immediately upon release. Please cherish any opportunity you have to acquire it!
▼Robot Mode perfectly recreates the appearance from the comics and concept art. Even the asymmetrically designed twin fusion cannons are faithfully reproduced. For IDW comic fans, this is truly a moving moment!
▼The signature Decepticon insignia mask is non-removable. While the eyes feature a light-piping mechanism for illumination, the angle of light is very narrow. The Decepticon insignia on the chest is golden, just like in the comics.
▼The hands also feature uniquely articulated open-palm joints. This is truly going to spoil Tarn fans rotten~
▼ "Evolution Fusion!" The two fusion cannon barrels can combine to form a longer, massive cannon! The use of clear parts is just right!
▼ Utilizing the articulation throughout the body, you can strike various dynamic and lifelike battle poses! Weapons can also be combined and played with in diverse ways; no matter how you twist or pose it, it looks cool!
▼ Cybertronian Tank Mode, of course, just like the robot mode, it faithfully recreates the imposing design seen in the comics!
▼ Honestly, if both of my modes were this cool, I'd be transforming back and forth all day!
▼ The turret base can rotate horizontally, and the twin cannon barrels can move up and down; for a Transformers tank, it's absolutely fantastic!
▼ And that concludes this unboxing report for the Transformers Generations Legacy Evolution series. Which one is your favorite, Transformers fans? Have you all successfully acquired the toys you wanted? Don't forget to share with your fellow toy enthusiasts! See you in the next unboxing report!
