Led by the internationally renowned toy manufacturer "Hasbro", the "Transformers Generations" line entered the "Legacy Evolution" series, spanning multiple universes, at the beginning of this year! Shifting from its previous focus on remaking G1 characters, the Legacy Evolution series expands its character selection to a broader and more open scope, not only including more popular characters from different stories and universes but also interpreting them with the latest technology. Whether you're a veteran player looking to relive old memories or a newcomer just entering this field, you're sure to find your own fun in this series. This is the greatest advantage that allows the Generations series to constantly innovate and develop sustainably!
▲Official promotional artwork for 'Legacy Evolution'.
As the successor to the "War For Cybertron Trilogy" and Legacy series, the Legacy Evolution series naturally inherits the excellent traditions of Generations. It not only boasts excellent design but also features impressive articulation and transformation mechanisms that are equally captivating. Before diving into the unboxing, let's review the magnificent selling points of Legacy Evolution:
●More Characters from More Universes: Upholding the core principle of the Legacy series, Legacy Evolution incorporates popular characters from a wider array of stories, such as the Japanese anime "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, "Transformers: Prime", and even the IDW comic universe, all of which add richer character diversity to this product line!
●Hyper-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 allows for interactive play using 3mm and 5mm ports, letting the returning Weaponizers disassemble and reassemble to provide other Transformers with more powerful 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), and the Legacy Evolution series continues this philosophy. Not only are the transparent plastic windows on the outer packaging removed, but the internal plastic clamshells of the past have also been replaced with plastic ties and cardboard to secure the toy body.
●Paperless Character Information: Unlike the previous method of printing on the back of the box, this series, like Legacy, adopts a new QR code. 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, including three miniature Core Class figures, four Deluxe Class figures, two Voyager Class figures, and one Leader Class figure.
▼"Nemesis Prime" (also translated as 'Bao Ying Zhi Zun'), like an evil mirror image of Optimus Prime, Nemesis Prime possesses all of the original's combat abilities and wisdom, but with no moral or ethical compass. Whether he is a secret weapon created by the Decepticons, a fallen Optimus Prime, or an evil emissary used by Unicron to destroy all things, Nemesis Prime is always a killing machine born for destruction. This Core Class Nemesis Prime is a repaint of the Kingdom version, transforming into a black semi-truck, and its included weapon has been changed to a more aggressive energy axe.
▼The rule that simply changing the color to black makes something ten times cooler is once again proven true with Dark Optimus Prime. Beyond the color transformation, the Decepticon insignia on his left shoulder and the more aggressive Energon axe further highlight his darker side.
▼The Energon axe features a metallic paint finish and can be equipped by simply folding up the fist. Combined with the ball joints throughout the figure, even this small collectible can strike various dynamic poses.
▼As the saying goes, good and evil cannot coexist, and behind light, there is always darkness. The outcome of this war is left for toy collectors, with their god's-eye view, to decide.
▼In vehicle mode, he transforms into a truck cab, just like the original color Optimus Prime. The armed Energon axe can be stored at the rear of the truck cab in this mode.
▼"Thundercracker", a member of the G1 Seekers, is one of the Decepticons' proud aerial forces, often operating alongside Skywarp to hunt down Autobots. This version is also a recolor of Kingdom Core Class Starscream, transforming into a blue fighter jet and including a pair of his signature "Null Rays".
▼In robot mode, while it follows the ancient tradition of sharing the mold with Starscream, the color change still makes a significant visual difference. It's also worth noting that the Null Ray, a classic Seeker weapon, finally makes its return. Skywarp, however, expresses sadness at being excluded.
▼Similarly, the various ball joints allow for a wide range of heroic battle poses, and the Null Ray can also be equipped as a handheld weapon.
▼Spanning three series, this mini Core Class Seeker team is finally complete!
▼In jet mode, it faithfully recreates the classic F-15-like form. Having all three jets together makes playing even more enjoyable!
▼"Grimlock", the squad leader of the G1 Dinobots, is one of the first three Dinobots created by Wheeljack and Ratchet. He transforms into a mechanical Tyrannosaurus Rex. Grimlock is naturally impulsive and warlike, tending to solve all problems with violence and destruction. He possesses combat abilities no less than Optimus Prime's and often disobeys his commands. Surprisingly, beneath his fierce and unparalleled exterior, he possesses a childlike heart that loves listening to stories. This Grimlock is made in a mini Core Class size, and in addition to transforming between robot and T-Rex modes, he can also combine with previous wave Dinobot members to form the ferociously powerful ultimate warrior - Volcanicus!
▼In robot mode, limited by the design of the combination mechanism, the sculpt cannot be said to be perfect, but it still faithfully recreates Grimlock's signature features as much as possible.
▼He can be equipped with the double-barreled rifle detached from his tail. Various poses can also be adjusted via the ball joints throughout the figure. Look, even a superhero landing is no problem!
▼In mechanical T-Rex mode, this is arguably Grimlock's most iconic image from the G1 cartoon. Similar to his comrades from the previous two waves, there aren't many articulation points, but this small figure is surprisingly cute in the palm of your hand (Me Grimlock: Me cutest!).
▼As of today, we have acquired three Core Class Dinobots. It's truly exciting to anticipate the completion of the team!
▼Finally, in combination mode, its default position is the left leg, but with a slight adjustment, it can also be swapped to the right leg. Let's continue to await the arrival of the remaining members!
▼"Crosscut", a former Autobot senator from the G1 universe, is strictly speaking based on Transformers' predecessor - Diaclone. He transforms into a (similar) silver Honda City Turbo as his alt mode. This version is a repaint of
Legacy Skids. The weaponry also includes a "Liquid Nitrogen Rifle," a "Twin Electron Blaster," and an Energon Axe-Gun, which can be interactively assembled for a magnificent "Evolution Fusion."
▼The main body structure is almost identical to Skids. Aside from the vehicle's color change, Crosscut's most distinctive feature - the masked head - is faithfully recreated!
▼The three included weapons can be freely combined and matched using the 5mm ports on the arms and various other locations, offering a more diverse play experience.
▼After a color change, the vehicle mode boasts an even more dazzling and captivating visual effect. The only minor drawback is that the wheels are merely molded in plastic. Like Skids, his three weapons can also be mounted on various ports on the vehicle body, transforming it into a heavily armed vehicle with full firepower.
▼"Prowl (Animated Universe)," based on the Autobot Cyber-Ninja from the 2008 animated series "Transformers: Animated" (hereinafter referred to as TFA). He is proficient in Cybertronian martial arts such as "Circuit-Su" and "Metallikato." Rational, taciturn, and rarely smiling, he initially found it very difficult to integrate into Optimus Prime's Space Bridge repair team. However, after experiencing the beauty of nature and life on Earth, he fell in love with this second home, becoming a cornerstone of Optimus Prime's team. This Legacy Evolution version reinterprets him in the Generations style, departing from the original's streamlined design and incorporating the angular aesthetics of the Generations line, with significant advancements in articulation and joint design. We urge everyone to personally experience the designers' dedication to this traditional reimagining.
▼Following the classic black and gold color scheme, we can still instantly recognize this Prowl's TFA origins. His body is replete with unique police vehicle elements, such as red and blue police lights, and sets of three badge-like symbols.
▼The weaponry also draws inspiration from the original TFA toy. By removing the wheel rims from both legs and rotating the main body, his signature three-bladed shuriken can be deployed. Coupled with the new highly articulated body, he can recreate all sorts of extreme ninja poses. As a side note, his left and right hands feature different sized pegs; only the right hand can hold weapons with 5mm handles. Please keep this in mind, fellow toy enthusiasts.
▼The vehicle mode also faithfully recreates the black and gold police motorcycle from TFA, with excellent detail presentation on parts like the dashboard, handlebars, headlights, and rear police lights.
▼Although it might take a little getting used to at first, as you play with it, you'll unconsciously grow to love this new interpretation.
▼"Shrapnel", one of the G1 Decepticon Insecticons. Shrapnel and his comrades arrived on Earth even earlier than Megatron and the Decepticon army, adopting a robotic stag beetle form as their disguise. He is skilled at controlling electricity to deliver high-voltage shocks to enemies. This new version of Shrapnel features an entirely new mold design and is the same Deluxe Class size as the earlier Legacy Series Wave 1
Kickback. It includes a dedicated Gamma Ray Detonator and can also achieve "Evolution Fusion" with the weapon formed from its rear legs, combining into a larger hunting rifle.
▼In robot mode, it faithfully recreates its animated appearance, adorned with classic generation details, making it arguably the closest G1 option available.
▼In addition to the Gamma Ray Blaster, the G1-inspired insect leg gun can not only be equipped on the forearm but also held with both hands, or all combined together to evolve and merge into a more powerful large rifle!
▼Two-thirds of the Insecticon crisis is complete; now we just await the arrival of the final rhinoceros beetle!
▼In robot stag beetle mode, compared to the 2014 IDW Thrilling 30 version, this iteration pays a stronger homage to G1, with more prominent mechanical elements.
▼We eagerly await the day when all three Insecticons (eagerly anticipating the advanced Insecticon trio) are assembled!!
▼"Crashbar", similar to the previous wave's
"Scraphook" is also an original Junkion from the Legacy Evolution series. He can disguise himself as a wasteland-style off-road motorcycle and possesses the ability of a weapons expert, capable of disassembling into different components to provide firepower upgrades and modifications for other Transformers, echoing the concept of Junkions regenerating themselves with scrap metal in the 1986 film "The Transformers: The Movie."
▼The robot mode continues the Junkion style from "The Transformers: The Movie," featuring a beard, punk aesthetics, red and yellow alternating colors, and flame decals.
▼In addition to the included dual pistols, the tire on the back of the right leg can also be detached independently and unfolded into a spinning blade for use as a round shield, perfectly matching Crashbar's style!
▼In motorcycle mode, like the previous wave's Scraphook, Crashbar's transformation can be completed without extensive disassembly. The strong wasteland punk style truly possesses a decadent beauty.
▼Of these two cool motorcycles in this wave, which style do you prefer?
▼Do you like the wasteland aesthetic? Let's look forward to more creations in this style!
▼Evolution Fusion! This is one combination method featured in the official instructions: by removing the front and back halves of Scraphook and replacing them with Crashbar's parts, you can reassemble this cool wasteland-style vehicle with a very obvious patchwork feel! Players can brainstorm and try to combine even more awesome and cooler forms!
▼"Twincast & Rewind." In the story of "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), after a fierce battle between Blaster and his arch-nemesis Soundwave, Blaster was rebuilt and resurrected with a new identity, serving the Autobots as an information specialist. This Legacy Evolution version is a recolor of the Kingdom and Shattered Glass universe versions, with the head sculpt also changed to a winking, smiling expression. It can still transform into a large portable cassette player, and includes another signature Cassettebot member, Rewind (also translated as Fadia).
▼The color scheme has changed from the original red and yellow to blue, yellow, and red, which visually offers a refreshing new look. The head sculpt has also been adjusted to a more approachable smiling expression. A minor regret is that the rifle is not red, unlike the original toy.
▼The articulation design is the same as Blaster's, allowing for a variety of dynamic and static poses.
▼Pressing the gray rectangular switch on the waist opens the chest's cassette compartment, releasing the hidden partner. A minor drawback here is that it wasn't updated from the original version to accommodate two cassette bots in the chest.
▼Rewind, a member of the Autobot cassette forces. This version is clearly a recolor of Eject, who came with Blaster, and similarly uses transparent plastic. It can transform into a mini-cassette through a simple process.
▼With this, the Autobot cassette twins are complete. Will the remaining Autobot cassette forces like Steeljaw and Ramhorn also have a chance to reunite? Let's wait and see.
▼Boombox mode. Aside from the color, the sculpt is identical to Blaster's, also featuring excellent detail.
▼Whether in robot mode or boombox mode, the chest can be opened to store or retrieve cassettes.
▼"Metalhawk" (also translated as Ironhawk), originating from the Japanese anime "Transformers: Super-God Masterforce," who, under the human guise of Hawk, is the leader of the Autobot Pretenders (also translated as Hidden Warriors) who secretly monitors Earth to prevent Decepticon incursions. His true form transforms into a fighter jet, embodying a resolute and noble leadership spirit, willing to risk his life to protect Earth when necessary. This Legacy Evolution release is based on
a heavily re-tooled version of Kingdom Cyclonus,incorporating the original G1 vehicle and robot modes, and omitting the Pretender's human shell. It comes with dual pistols and his signature long sword as weapons.
▼Perhaps not immediately obvious, but upon closer inspection, many traces of Kingdom Cyclonus can be found. This re-tooling is truly impressive, not only fulfilling the desires of many veteran collectors but also making the most effective use of the mold.
▼The articulation remains excellent, and the dual pistols can be combined into a single weapon. Even wielding the long sword looks incredibly cool!
▼In jet mode, there's fundamentally a significant physical difference from Cyclonus, making it truly an outstanding re-tool.
▼One can only hope that someday, the true Pretender mechanism can be perfectly recreated!
▼"Skyquake (Prime Universe)", a Decepticon warrior from "Transformers: Prime" (hereinafter referred to as TFP), who holds absolute, unwavering loyalty to Megatron. He has a spark-twin brother, Dreadwing, with whom he shares a psychic bond, and transforms into a fighter jet as his Earth disguise. This Legacy Evolution version conceptually combines the original G1 design with TFP's aesthetics, blending both images to create a truly exciting combination.
In robot mode, elements from both aforementioned prototypes are visible. For instance, the shoulder armor and weaponry are clearly derived from TFP, while the crown, transparent chest window, and legs are naturally inspired by G1. It's worth noting that, given the immense size of this invincible warrior, the hollow areas in his arms, calves, and other parts are designed with cover pieces. Aside from the waist being prone to separation, the structure and visual presentation are essentially very full and robust.
The included Gatling gun and energy blade can be held individually or attached using the 5mm ports on the forearms. The long blade can also fold and store in the rear underside of the Gatling gun, achieving an evolved weapon fusion.
After extending the front grip on the Gatling gun, it can be held with both hands, recreating the magnificent sweeping gunfire seen in TFP!
In fighter jet mode, aside from the transparent parts at the rear of the fuselage paying homage to the G1 vintage toy, the other sections seem to lack such strong TFP/G1 influences. The weaponry can now be stored at the bottom of the fuselage.
The cockpit canopy can open to reveal a two-seater configuration, a feature almost extinct in toys of this class in recent years, and certainly worthy of praise!
Furthermore, Skyquake is equipped with three landing gears (one at the front, two at the rear). Although the wheels are not articulated, the sculpting details are incredibly precise, which is also highly commendable!
Finally, there's a hidden interlocking feature: Skyquake's fuselage has a tab at the rear that allows it to combine with the previously released Needlenose. In the future, if all goes well, his brother Dreadwing should be released, or perhaps even a retooling to create a G1 Skyquake or Machine War Starscream?
And that concludes this unboxing report for the second wave of Legacy Evolution. This rich and spectacular combination satisfies all aspects of players' demands. Don't hesitate; if you're tempted, act now and head to your toy store to find them! See you in the next unboxing report!
