Transformers News from New York Comic-Con

The 2011 New York Comic-Con was held this weekend providing some info and look at upcoming plans for Transformers for Dark of the Moon, Transformers: Prime, Fall of Cybertron, and Transformers: The Ride. Below are the news highlights with links to galleries and panel videos.

Hasbro Panel
• DOTM - Repaints of Bumblebee, Wheeljack (G1 style), Ratchet (G1 style), and Soundwave are coming
• DOTM - Deluxe Optimus with trailer is coming (think same as the Takara release)
• TF: Prime - Calling 2012 "All Prime All The Time"
• TF: Prime - Deluxe Wave 1 toys will be Cliffjumper, Bumblebee, Wheeljack, and Soundwave
• TF: Prime - Legion wave 1 toys will be Vehicon, Ratchet, Arcee, Bumblebee and Cliffjumper Read More »

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Transformers Linkfest - Masterpiece Prime

Time for another link fest. This one is fairly focused on official Transformers toys including a look at the new Masterpiece version of Optimus Prime, a new DOTM toy, more 3rd party stuff and three reviews.

Masterpiece Optimus Prime 2.0 Released - MP-10 | Coin | Packaging | Comparison
The new version, with new mold, of Optimus Prime has now been released from Takara. MP-10 is the most cartoon accurate version of Prime released so far that comes with a mini-Spike action figure along with his trailer modeled on the G1 version. This is a very expensive toy costing around $250 from the usual importer websites (TFSource, Bigbadtoystore, etc) but he does look pretty sweet. Hopefully video reviews will pop up soon so I can make a decision on spending that kind of money. Depending on the company's supplier (Japan or China), your figure might also come with a coin. Hit the links above to view galleries of this must have figure of any Optimus Prime fan. On a related note, it seems Takara is testing the idea of releasing a Masterpiece Ultra Magnus based on this figure. Back in the 80s, Magnus was a while repaint of Optimus Prime with a trailer that the cab fit into. This version seems to make use of the recent development from 3rd party makers (see Fansproject's City Commander) to create a trailer that breaks down into the needed component parts to form the Magnus look. It’s just a test so this may never happen (but don't be surprised if someone fills the void anyway).
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Transformers Linkfest - Merged

Time for another linkfest. With the Dark of the Moon news down to just the upcoming home video releases and repaints, figured time to merge this stuff into one. Have not decided if will start seperating this stuff out yet into a bunch of seperate posts or not. What do you think? This method easier or prefer five or six individual posts? Any case, the latest is a TF pinball machine, a look at more 3rd party figures, TF Prime concept art, repaints and a review.

iGear Masterpiece Cartoon Seekers
Third party Transformers maker iGear announced the next two toys in their not Masterpiece line. They are release cartoon version of not Starscream (December 31st) and not Skywarp (April 30th, 2012) that is based on their modified mold from Takara's Masterpiece Starscream that was released three or so years ago. The newish mold started with their recently released conehead seekers where the back leg wings have been modifed to eliminate the ball joint connection at the hip resulting in a better looking figure. Based on the coneheads, the retail cost will probably be around $130 each.

iGear's not Sharticon
Speaking of iGear, they also revealed the near final look at their next not Generation One Transformeer knockoff with a look at their not Sharkicons based on the Quintessons' evil minions from Transformers: The Movie. Not sure on size, release date, or cost. Keep hoping they will be so cheap that you could practically create an army of them but not holding my breath on that.
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DOTM Linkfest - Customs

Yet another Transformers: Dark of the Moon link fest and the toy and related news continues to trickle in. Below are few galleries to upcoming toys, a video review and two custom jobs that take two DOTM to the next level.

Leader Class Prowl Custom
Hit the link to view a gallery and how-to on this very sweet custom leader class Prowl created by autobotx23 that sold for $339 on eBay. The figures core is Leader class Bumblebee with parts from leader Brawl, leader Megatron, Sentinel Prime, Halo figures, and more. The result is just a ton of Transformer goodness.

Hasbro's DOTM Wave 5 Gallery
Hit the link for the deluxe class Wave 5 Transformers: DOTM toys. Not entirely sure when these are coming out but guessing in a few months. The line-up includes Armor Topspin (repaint), Darksteel (bio, repaint), and Air Raid (new mold).
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Dark of the Moon Linkfest

While Transformers: Dark of the Moon is winding down its theatrical run, a little of toy related news continues to pop up now and then. Below is the latest, most of it about repaints and the like.



FDR Bay-ized

This tongue in cheek poster is an amusing take on what a Michael Bay version of President Roosevelt may be like. At the link is more images (not really Bay related) that places other Presidents in classic movie type settings like George Washington vs. Zombies and Andrew Jackson vs. aliens.



More Warren Manser Concept Art

Hit the link to look at more images of concept art from Transformers 3 posted by Warren Manser. It seems he may continue to add to the set but it’s still worth looking at all the cool artwork created for the movie.

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SDCC 2011 Transformers Panels

Below are links to the various Transformers related panels held during the San Diego Comic Con. The panels include a look at upcoming toys, IDW's comic plans, Shout Factory on their various DVD sets and cast and creators of Transformers: Prime. If you are interested in viewing even more SDCC panels, links to more than two dozen panels from movies, TV, comics, toys, and video games have been collected here.



Hasbro Transformers Toy - Part 1 | Part 2

IDW Transformers Comics - Part 1 | Part 2

Shout Factory (DVDs) - Part 1 | Part 2

Transformers: Prime - Part 1 | Part 2

Transformers: Prime Roundtable - Part 1 | Part 2

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DOTM Linkfest

The movie has been out for weeks now and yet the Transformers: Dark of the Moon related merchandise news keeps coming.

Figure King 162 ScansHit the link for a scan of Japanese toy magazine Figure King #162 featuring Takara's release across the entire line of Transformers including DOTM, Masterpiece, and more. It also has interviews with Takara Tomy toy designers (but obviously in Japanese).

DOTM Galleries - Armored Topspin | Leadfoot | Shockwave Repaint | Shockwave and Ratchet Action Sets | Target Exclusives
A bunch of links to upcoming DOTM toys that should be hitting toy shelves soon or already have (Target exclusives). The Shockwave repaint is very odd and not confirmed if official. I am sure one is coming as Hasbro reuses every mold at least two (or more) times but I would be really surprised if that color scheme is the final version. Read More »

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San Diego Comic-Con Day 2-4 (Updated)

The second day of the 2011 San Diego Comic-Con as ended with a few more Transformers related bits with gallery of Soundwave & Ironhide, the TF Animation panel, and when the exclusives will be available to buy online.

Update: Nothing new happened on the final two days of SDCC. The only things of note is a new gallery from the dealer room by AllSpark and a look at Bumblebee Kre-O costume.

Human Alliance Soundwave Gallery
Hit the link to get a good look Human Alliance Soundwave that appears to come with Laserbeak and Dylan Gould figure. I have to admit he is looking pretty sweet. Wheeljack is also getting released but no word on Mirage/Dino. The scheduled release date is December.

Cannon Force Ironhide Gallery
At this link are images of the red paint job for voyager class version of Ironhide that will be released in September.
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San Diego Comic Con Day 1

Yesterday was the preview, today was the first official day of the San Diego Comic-Con 2011. Transformers held multiple panels today from Hasbro, IDW, and Transformers: Prime revealing upcoming toys (including asked about DOTM toys), comics news, and hinting at a significant story arc for Prime.

Hasbro Transformers Panel
The Hasbro panel revealed a bunch of new toys that are in the works. The Generations line is getting relaunched with Junkheap (Wreck-Gar repaint) and Sky Shadow (Thunderwing repaint). Dark of the Moon wave 6 toys will include deluxe Wheeljack (specifically not Que) and Soundwave who will come in deluxe, Human Alliance (with Dylan Gould), and legion sizes. Additional DOTM toys include Air Raid and Darksteel. Target will be getting two score exclusives in the form of Leadfoot and a Leadfoot/Twin Twist two pack. Not sure why they just don't do a Wrecker trio set. Even more Transformers: Prime toys were teased with concept art for legion & deluxe class Wheeljack, legion Bumblebee, commander class Ironhide, deluxe Soundwave with Laserbeak, deluxe Knockout, voyager Skyquake, and voyager Starscream.

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San Diego Comic-Con Day 0

The San Diego Comic-Con 2011 officially begins today but that didn't prevent visitors getting a chance from looking at the various displays that where built by the many companies that are using the convention as a means to promote their products including Hasbro. Below are links to the many galleries that have been posted of the upcoming wave of Transformers including Unicron, Toys R Us exclusive Rodimus Prime, Kre-O displays, Transformers: Prime toys, pallet of Kre-O Primes and more. Except for a couple of repaints, there isn't really anything new. Thanks to Sahara for some of the links.

Preview Night Galleries - TFormers (x217) | TFW2005 (9x)
Various galleries that are a combo of Transformers products and displays. The number in () is pics at the link.
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Official Hasbro SDCC Exclusive Prices

The 2011 San Diego Comic-Con is just days away. Hasbro is joining the party with a bunch of brand exclusives and panels to promote their line of products. Included with that is Transformers related items that was revealed a while back but the pricing has remained unknown until now thanks to a Hasbro issued press release (below). In years past, if fast enough, there have been chances to buy the toys at HasbroToyShop.com. Below is a summary of the Transformers related portions. Not mentioned is the rumored Masterpiece Rodimus Prime for the con.

TF Toys
- Special Edition Optimus Prime Kreon with Matrix deco (likely same as one from Botcon) - no price listed
G.I. Joe Sky STriker with Starscream deco - $49.99
Nerf N-Strike Barricade Optimus Prime RV-10 Blaster - $24.99
Special Edition Ultimate Optimus Prime - $79.99
Optimus Prime First Edition in Matrix packaging - $19.99

Panels
Transformers Brand Panel - 7/21 2:30pm to 3:30pm Room 24ABC
The Making of Transformers Prime - 7/21 3:30pm to 4:30pm Room 24ABC
Evolution of Transformers Animation - 7/22 5:30 to 6:30pm Room 8
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Dark of the Moon Gives Hasbro a Boost

Hasbro's Q2 numbers (I think April 1st to June 30th) are in and the executives are feeling the love thanks to Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Their profits jumped 33% compared to same time last year ($58.1M to $43.6M). Sales are tracking the same as they did with Revenge of the Fallen, crediting the movie with much of the boost. As a result the boys division (which includes Transformers) had a 96% jump in revenue. Considering ROTF made $592M that year, it seems the next two quarters might be just as strong with the small drop in US sales being made up with international sales. It also seems that The Hub has turned a small quarter. There were concerns it was in financial trouble due to new deal that was negotiated with Discovery Communications but this quarter it turned a modest $197,000 profit. Not much but considering the network isn't a year old with all the associated startup costs that isn't a bad start.

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Transformers: Dark of the Moon Linkfest

Time for a little cleanup on miscellaneous stuff that has popped up related to Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Links include a look at custom figures, a chance for Nebraskans to see two DOTM vehicles, a TF limo, new apparel line and more video reviews.

Customized DOTM Ironhide, Megatron and Sentinel Prime
Hit the link for a look at the custom figures based on the Dark of the Moon toys, each with a new gorgeous paint jobs, lights and other custom details that really make the figures stand out.

Gearing Up for DOTM
An interesting article with Tactical Pro Shop CEO Matthew Kime as he talks about how his company help outfit the gear that NEST wore in Dark of the Moon. “We started this project in Feb. 2010, so we had to be very proactive regarding where things are heading, plus integrate conceivable pieces of tech that this ‘elite’ unit would have had developed for their mission.” The company also helped on ROTF, helping with supplies when the shoot ran short in China. Read More »

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"Mad Max" Truck Is...

Warning, this post is a plot point spoiler warning for Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

...Megatron! Yesterday a few prototype images of Transformers: Dark of the Moon toys were leaked online. One of them was of a tanker truck looking thing that wasn't painted so lacked the detail needed to completely verify its identity but most people assumed it was what I have been calling the "Mad Max" truck seen periodically during filming in Chicago and DC.

Later, more images were posted of the truck's robot mode that proved it is Megatron complete with cape, confirming the rumor from September. The pictures on Facebook (account required) show that half the face remains scarred (like Two-Face) as a result of the battle with Optimus from the end of Revenge of the Fallen. Where is the robot image you ask? Hasbro demanded all the various websites pull the images, more or less officially verifying this conclusion. Thanks to rumah for the link.

Update: The cat is out of the bag for Hasbro as JoBlo.com has posted the images of the robot mode. While they claim "dandy anonymous scoopers" but the same root source as above. If the three images no longer appear, probably means JoBlo either blocked my linking to them or Hasbro successfully got them to pull the pics.

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TF3 Bumblebee, Ironhide Toys Leaked (Update)

The movie may be months away from release but the toy leaks have already begun. Pictures of the prototype version of deluxe Bumblebee and leader Ironhide have hit Seibertron.com. Bumblebee appears to mostly remain the same but now has a spoiler, driver side netting and a large something or other as an accessory. As for Ironhide, there is no frame of reference so hard to know for sure he is leader class but the incomplete figure shows the character will continue to undergo transformation modifications much like his previous iterations. The idea of a leader class version this character is very appealing idea so hopefully the info is accurate. TFormers.com had posted another potential leak in the form of a transforming truck but pulled it. However, Collecticon.org has now posted it here. It doesn't look like any truck seen on the various sets so may not even be TF related.

Update: Thanks to the comments here are two more pictures from Facebook. One is another angle on the truck pic from collecticon and the other is a look at a motorcycle that a robot picture shows is Wreck-Gar. At this point I think the motorcycle is for the "Reveal the Shield" line, not Transformers 3.

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Transformers 3 Toyline Release Date

Hasbro toy inserts in the latest wave of toys that are now starting to hit toy shelves has revealed the intended release date of the first group of Transformers: Dark of the Moon toys. The inserts show a towering image of Optimus Prime, with message "Look for official licensed products starting the week of May 16, 2011!" This aligns with around the time the toys hits shelves for the previous two movies. Even if the toys do not interest you, it mostly means that we will learn the names and bios on the names of various new Autobots and Decepticons that have joined the latest outing. Thanks to Udana for the link.

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Transformers 3 Toyline Sizes

The movie maybe just a touch under a year from release but that isn't stopping Hasbro from laying the groundwork. According to TFW2005, Toys R US Canada has already received some information about the prices and classes that will be released for the movie.

Transformers MV3 Activators ass.---$9.99
Transformers MV3 Cybertech DLX-----$16.99
Transformers MV3 Cybertech Lead----$59.99
Transformers MV3 Cybertech voy-----$29.99
Transformers MV3 Cyberverse basic--$5.99
Transformers MV3 Cyberverse plus---$9.99
Transformers MV3 GO BOTS ass.------$12.99
Transformers MV3 Revving robots----$24.99

Basic is another name for Legends class and Plus replaces Scout. The main new class additions are Go-Bots and Revving Robots but no clue what they mean. Not really sure what "Cyberverse" or Cybertech means but probably has something to do with whatever gimmick is designed into the toy. Thanks to Udana for the link.

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