Explore every episode of the podcast Triple Takeover Toycast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toys, Tales, and Tensions: Inside the Transformers Collectors Club | 09 Dec 2025 | 01:23:48 | |
The Transformers Collectors’ Club (TFCC) and Figure Subscription Service (TFSS) are front and centre this week as we delve into one of the most fascinating — and at times frustrating — eras in Transformers collecting. We were never members ourselves (thanks, geography!), but that didn’t stop us getting FOMO from afar. Today we're diving into the toys, the distribution choices, the aftermarket drama, and the nostalgia surrounding a club that often felt just out of reach for anyone outside the US. From brilliant figures and wild character choices to eye-rolling shipping costs and maddening accessibility issues, we explore how the TFCC shaped collector culture during a very unique period for the brand — and why it inspired equal parts love and confusion. So sit back and join us for a fun but honest look at the highs, lows, and “you had to be there” moments of the Transformers Collectors’ Club. This episode began life as a commission from our patron, Siege Maximo. — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:04:58 Sponsors: TFSource & Valart Studio 0:09:21 What Is the Transformers Collectors’ Club? 0:13:46 TFCC Distribution Woes 0:19:47 The Aftermarket Implication 0:28:52 Why Were the Toy Choices So Intriguing? 0:32:24 TFCC’s Influence on Modern Generations 0:41:25 Customer Service Drama? 0:49:25 Favourite TFCC Toys 0:56:42 TFCC Conclusions 1:06:31 Patreon Q&A — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Studio Series — What Is the Line Now? | 25 Nov 2025 | 02:03:12 | |
Studio Series has been a cornerstone of modern Transformers collecting since its debut in 2018 — but what exactly does the line represent today? Originally conceived as a celebration of the live-action movies, Studio Series has steadily expanded its remit. With characters from The Transformers: The Movie (1986) now sitting alongside Bayverse designs, the line’s identity has become broader — and occasionally more ambiguous — than first intended. In this episode we take a step back to examine how Studio Series has evolved, how collectors have responded to its changing focus, and where the line might realistically head next. This discussion began life as a commission from our patron Ross — thanks for the great topic — so join us as we explore one of the most interesting sub-lines in modern Transformers collecting. This episode began life as a commission from our patron, Ross. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| The Future of Transformers Missing Link | 15 Jul 2025 | 01:45:19 | |
Transformers Missing Link is back in the spotlight as we dig into the latest speculation and assess what might be coming next. With names like Ultra Magnus, Galvatron, and even Metroplex entering the conversation, we weigh up the rumours, the likelihood of future releases, and what Missing Link could realistically look like as it continues to evolve. And, of course, we’re joined by our own Missing Link, Maz, to help guide the discussion. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Halloween Special | 26 Oct 2021 | 01:34:03 | |
Enter, if you dare, as the Triple Takeover team embrace the spooky season with a Halloween special. With pumpkin spice in the air, we take a playful tour through the darker and weirder corners of Transformers, drawing on ghosts, monsters, Pretenders, and other eerie oddities from across the franchise. From vampire vibes and zombie aesthetics to some particularly unsettling toy concepts, this episode leans fully into the fun of Transformers-through-a-Halloween-lens. It’s a tongue-in-cheek, slightly unhinged seasonal special that mixes spooky themes with plenty of laughs — definitely not one for the faint of heart. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers GT: Mission GT-R — An Overlooked Gem | 12 Oct 2021 | 01:49:47 | |
It’s lights out for Transformers GT: Mission GT-R, as the Triple Takeover team race through this underappreciated but spectacular line of robots from TakaraTomy. Released in 2013 and inspired by Japan’s Super GT racing scene, Transformers GT combined high-end aesthetics with luxury car modes and a very distinctive sense of style. In this episode, we explore what made the line so unique, why it flew under the radar for so many collectors, and how it holds up today. With Super GT influences, race queens, and even a few crunchy biscuits along the way, this is a lively deep dive into one of Transformers’ most unusual modern offshoots. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Classics: The Birth of the Generations Line | 28 Sep 2021 | 01:49:07 | |
The Transformers Generations line has long been a driving force behind the brand, but in this episode the team chug back to where it all began by revisiting 2006 and the original Classics releases. We wax nostalgic on these now-iconic toys, discussing what made them feel so fresh at the time and why they marked such an important turning point for Transformers collecting. Along the way, we also get a little philosophical about their place in the wider history of the franchise and how their influence can still be felt today. It’s a thoughtful look back at the line that helped redefine what modern Transformers could be. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers WFC: Kingdom — Bridging G1 and Beast Wars | 14 Sep 2021 | 01:47:40 | |
Transformers War for Cybertron: Kingdom marked a new step for the franchise in bringing together Generation 1 and Beast Wars characters within a single animated series. In this episode, the team discuss their thoughts on Kingdom as both a show and a toy line, exploring its approach to legacy characters, its storytelling choices, and how the accompanying figures stacked up alongside the animation. We reflect on what worked, what divided opinion, and how Kingdom fit into the wider War for Cybertron trilogy at the time. It’s a considered discussion of a series that attempted to bridge multiple eras of Transformers — and sparked plenty of conversation along the way. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers (2007): A Turning Point for the Brand | 31 Aug 2021 | 02:17:32 | |
The 2007 live-action movie marked a seismic shift for Transformers, reshaping both the toy line and the fandom in ways that are still felt today. In this episode, the team look back at the build-up to Transformers (2007) and the reaction to Michael Bay’s first big-screen outing for the robots in disguise. We discuss the film’s impact across multiple fronts, including the soundtrack, cast, and accompanying toys, as well as how it changed perceptions of the brand at the time. It’s a reflective discussion of a landmark moment in Transformers history, and how its influence continues to ripple through the franchise. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers 1985: Defining the Line | 17 Aug 2021 | 02:39:21 | |
1985 marked the second year of the Transformers toy line, and it was a period packed with figures that would go on to become true icons of the franchise. In this episode, the team explore the Generation 1 releases from 1985, discussing standouts such as Shockwave, Jetfire, Devastator, the Dinobots, and more. We also take a closer look at the toys that didn’t originate from Diaclone or Micro Change, examining how these unique additions helped broaden the scope and identity of Transformers in its formative years. It’s a deep dive into a pivotal year that helped define what Transformers would become. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Masterpiece — The Early Years | 03 Aug 2021 | 02:36:20 | |
The Transformers Masterpiece line took collectors of robots in disguise to new heights when it launched in 2003, redefining expectations for accuracy, engineering, and presentation. In this episode, the team look back at the early years of Masterpiece, articulating the sense of wonder these releases inspired and discussing why they felt so significant at the time. From ambitious design choices to the growing pains of a line finding its identity, we explore how those first figures helped shape what Masterpiece would eventually become. This episode may have taken longer to put together than the design of MP-5 Megatron — but some things are worth the wait. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Beast Wars: Reinventing the Brand | 20 Jul 2021 | 02:47:42 | |
Release the inner beast as the Triple Takeover team turn their attention to the original Transformers: Beast Wars toy line that burst onto the scene in the 1990s. In this episode, we put figures like Optimus Primal and Megatron under the microscope, discussing how the Beast Wars toys challenged expectations and redefined what Transformers could be at the time. From bold aesthetics and integrated gimmicks to innovative engineering and ball-jointed articulation, we explore why this line proved so influential — and why it continues to inspire strong opinions among collectors. It’s a maximised deep dive into one of Transformers’ most important toy-line reinventions. That’s just prime! — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Toy Packaging: Living in a Cardboard Box (Part 2) | 06 Jul 2021 | 01:26:32 | |
Toy packaging can capture the imagination like nothing else, often leaving just as strong an impression as the toys themselves. In part two of this two-part discussion, the team continue their exploration of toy packaging, covering more classic examples from Transformers, M.A.S.K., Starcom, Masters of the Universe, and beyond. We expand on why packaging has such lasting power, the memories it evokes, and how its importance has changed over time. Welcome to part two of living in a box, living in a cardboard box! — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Toy Packaging: Living in a Cardboard Box (Part 1) | 29 Jun 2021 | 02:16:14 | |
Toy packaging can capture the imagination like nothing else, often leaving just as strong an impression as the toys themselves. In part one of this two-part discussion, the team dive into the world of toy packaging, exploring everything from classic Transformers box art to M.A.S.K., Starcom, Masters of the Universe, and more. We talk about why packaging mattered so much, how it shaped childhood memories, and the role it plays in collecting today. Welcome to part one of living in a box, living in a cardboard box! — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers SS86 Megatron — The Gun Debate | 01 Jul 2025 | 01:41:26 | |
Studio Series SS86 Megatron has finally arrived — and few Transformers releases in recent memory have sparked quite as much discussion. From early rumours through to the official reveal, nearly every aspect of this figure has been debated, dissected, and argued over. In this episode we work through the controversy, the design decisions behind the toy, and why reactions have been so strong, considering what SS86 Megatron represents for the line as a whole. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Toy Photography: Seeing Your Collection Differently | 15 Jun 2021 | 02:37:47 | |
The very subject that originally brought the Triple Takeover hosts together: toy photography. In this episode, we focus in on how photographing your toy collection can influence, enhance, and even reshape your experience of the hobby. From composition and lighting to storytelling and presentation, we discuss why toy photography resonates so strongly with collectors and how it can change the way you engage with the toys you own. It’s a thoughtful and personal conversation about creativity, connection, and seeing your collection through a different lens. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Collecting Completionism: When Enough Is Never Enough | 01 Jun 2021 | 01:52:50 | |
Few robot toy enthusiasts are strangers to goal-based collecting, and in this episode the team turn their attention to the phenomenon of completionism in Transformers and other toy lines. We discuss the appeal of roster-building, the satisfaction of ticking boxes, and the pressures that can come with chasing completeness — whether driven by nostalgia, fear of missing out, or self-imposed rules. Along the way, we reflect on how completionism can shape collecting habits, for better and for worse. Our hosts are very much in this picture… and they don’t like it. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Alternators & Binaltech — When Transformers Became Collector-Focused | 18 May 2021 | 02:42:05 | |
Binaltech and Alternators were among the most exciting and ambitious Transformers toy lines of the early 2000s, emerging at a time when the brand was exploring new directions for adult collectors. In this episode, the team look back at the rise and fall of this highly realistic, vehicle-focused era of Transformers, discussing how Binaltech and Alternators offered a very different approach to collecting alongside the early Masterpiece releases. From 1:24 scale licensed car modes and premium presentation to the challenges that ultimately brought the line to an end, we explore what made these toys feel so special — and why the concept proved difficult to sustain. It’s a reflective look at a distinctive chapter in the evolution of robots in disguise. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Combiners: An Enduring Play Pattern | 04 May 2021 | 02:27:34 | |
Combiners have always been one of the most popular and enduring elements of the Transformers toy line. In this episode, the team take a detailed look at combiners across multiple eras, covering everything from their roots in Diaclone through Generation 1 Transformers, Beast Wars, Robots in Disguise, and beyond. We discuss how the concept has evolved over time, why combiners hold such appeal for collectors, and the different ways the idea has been interpreted across the franchise’s history. It’s a wide-ranging discussion of one of Transformers’ most iconic play patterns — and why it continues to resonate so strongly. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Collection Displays: Living With Your Toys | 20 Apr 2021 | 02:05:22 | |
If you’re a toy collector, chances are you’ve faced the eternal dilemma: display or storage? In this episode, the team discuss the challenges and compromises involved in showing off a collection versus packing it away safely, from shelving and space management to rotation and long-term storage. Prompted by the arrival of the colossal HasLab Transformers Unicron, the conversation naturally turns to how truly large-scale pieces can completely reshape a display — and force some tough decisions. Whether your collection is proudly on show or carefully boxed up, this is a relatable discussion about the realities of living with robots (and action figures) at home. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers 1984: Where It All Began | 06 Apr 2021 | 02:22:14 | |
It’s back to where it all began for Transformers as the team explore the very first year of the franchise. This 1984 special covers the debut of iconic characters such as Optimus Prime and Megatron, alongside the wider line-up of early robots in disguise that helped define the brand. We discuss the toys themselves, their origins, and why these earliest releases continue to hold such a powerful appeal for collectors and fans alike. A foundational episode looking at the roots of Transformers — and why it all started so strong. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| What Makes a Transformers Holy Grail? | 23 Mar 2021 | 02:08:09 | |
What qualifies as a 'holy grail' in toy collecting? Is it rarity, price, nostalgia, or something else entirely? Liam, Sixo, and Maz explore the many ways collectors define a holy grail, sharing personal examples from their own Transformers collections. From long-sought pieces finally tracked down to elusive robots that continue to haunt want-lists, this episode digs into what makes a grail meaningful — and why that definition can be so different from one collector to the next. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Gimmicks: Play Features That Defined the Brand | 09 Mar 2021 | 01:55:14 | |
Episode 1 of the brand-new Triple Takeover Toycast kicks things off by asking a deceptively big question: what are the very best gimmicks in Transformers toy history? Liam from Toybox Soapbox, Sixo, and Maz from TFSquareOne delve deep into both vintage and modern Transformers lines, exploring the play features and ideas that made certain toys truly memorable. From Headmasters and Micromasters to base modes, Cyber Planet Keys and even unreleased curiosities, this episode is a broad tour through nearly four decades of robot gimmickry — and why these features mattered so much to the experience of the toys. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Hidden Gems Vol. 5 | 17 Jun 2025 | 01:56:31 | |
'Hidden gems' returns, as we once again shine a spotlight on Transformers toys we think deserved far more attention than they received at the time. In this episode each of us brings a pick to the table, celebrating overlooked figures from across the brand’s history and making the case for why they’re worth a second look. And while the intention is to look beyond the usual G1 favourites, sticking to that brief proves — as ever — a little more flexible than planned. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers 1989 Micromasters — Small Toys, Big Vibes | 03 Jun 2025 | 02:03:09 | |
Our exploration of individual years in Transformers toys continues, this time focusing on the 1989 Micromasters. One of the biggest resets in the original line, Micromasters brought a new scale, new play patterns, and a surprising amount of personality. In this episode we look at why these mini marvels were such a bold shift at the time — and why they’ve become such a fondly remembered part of late-G1. Along the way, we also attempt to answer the important question: just how many Micromasters does Jason actually own? — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Technobots vs Terrorcons: The Battle of the 1987 Combiners | 20 May 2025 | 01:50:29 | |
Following the Scramble City combiners of the previous year, 1987 introduced the Technobots and Terrorcons with a fresh take on a familiar design. In this episode we look at Computron and Abominus, two combiners that have grown into fan favourites over time. From their individual components to their combined forms, we discuss what sets each team apart and why opinions remain so divided when it comes to choosing a favourite. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| From Masterpiece to MPG: The Evolution of Optimus Prime | 08 May 2025 | 01:46:44 | |
The announcement of MPG-17 means a fourth Transformers Masterpiece Optimus Prime is on the way — but what actually sets it apart from the versions that came before? In this episode we look at how the Masterpiece line has approached Optimus Prime over the years, using MPG-17 as a jumping-off point to discuss design philosophy, changing expectations, and how the line has evolved since its beginnings in 2003. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| The Transformers Collection: Celebrating the 'Book Box' Reissues | 15 Apr 2025 | 01:36:04 | |
The early 2000s marked the beginning of a major wave of nostalgia for Transformers — one that has continued ever since. A key part of that resurgence was Takara's 2002–2006 The Transformers Collection series, often referred to as the “book box” reissues. In this episode we take a closer look at what made these G1 re-releases feel so special at the time. From presentation and packaging to timing and accessibility, we explore why The Transformers Collection played such an important role in reshaping how classic toys were revisited and celebrated. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Robotmasters: A Curious Footnote in Transformers History | 02 Apr 2025 | 02:46:19 | |
Despite being one of the formative Transformers toy lines of the pre-movie mid-2000s era, Takara’s Robotmasters is now largely overlooked by many collectors. In this episode we take a deep dive into the 2004 line, exploring its unusual mix of concepts, characters, and execution. Along the way we uncover a handful of genuine highlights — and a few moments that raise a smile — as we reassess where Robotmasters fits within Transformers history. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| IDW's Transformers Last Stand of the Wreckers (with James Roberts & Nick Roche) | 18 Mar 2025 | 02:35:08 | |
It’s our 100th episode extravaganza, so naturally we aimed high and invited back two of our all-time favourite guests. When that fell through, we somehow ended up with James Roberts and Nick Roche instead. Jokes aside, the pair kindly helped us mark the milestone with an in-depth and genuinely brilliant discussion of IDW’s The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers (2010) — one of the most celebrated Transformers comic stories ever published. We dig into its origins, themes, and lasting impact, as well as what made the series resonate so strongly with fans then and now. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Should Haslab Transformers Exist? | 25 Feb 2025 | 02:06:13 | |
With the recent reveal of Liokaiser as a HasLab project, the whole subject of Transformers crowdfunding has come up for debate once again. HasLab campaigns promise ambitious, high-end figures that might never exist at retail — but they also come with long waits, high price points, and plenty of passionate discussion among fans. So what are the real pros and cons of this approach to getting toys made? In this episode we break down how HasLab works, why characters like Liokaiser end up in this space, and whether these crowdfunded releases genuinely represent good value for money — or simply ask collectors to buy in on faith. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| The Transformers Comic Panels That Still Haunt Us | 11 Nov 2025 | 01:36:01 | |
Some Transformers comic panels stick with you forever — and not always for the right reasons. In this episode we take a look at some of the most memorable moments in Transformers comics, focusing on panels that shocked, unsettled, or simply refused to be forgotten. From unexpectedly brutal imagery to moments that still make us wince, it’s a tour through the darker and more infamous corners of the franchise’s comic history. This topic was suggested by our patron Duggertron, and it quickly grew into a full-length discussion — so join us as we explore the panels that left a lasting impression, for better or worse. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Brave Exkaiser: When Takara Went Beyond Transformers | 11 Feb 2025 | 01:57:59 | |
As Transformers began to wane at the turn of the 1990s, Takara stepped forward with a bold new direction in the form of Brave. Originally rooted in unused Transformers concepts, the Brave series quickly became a popular Japanese franchise in its own right. In this episode we take a closer look at the first year of Brave Exkaiser figures from 1990, exploring how the line established its identity and set the tone for what followed. So… are you feeling Brave? — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| What Makes a Great Transformers Combiner? | 28 Jan 2025 | 01:55:00 | |
With Age of the Primes Superion recently revealed, combiners are firmly back on the minds of Transformers fans — along with the long-running debate over how these toys should work. Should combiners rely on partsforming? Should they transform as all-in-one figures? Or has the latest approach struck the right balance with its “skeleton”-style conversion? In this episode we break down the different philosophies behind combining toys and explore what makes for a satisfying combiner in practice. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Animating Transformers One (with Industrial Light & Magic) | 14 Jan 2025 | 02:09:49 | |
We kick off 2025 with another deep dive into Transformers One — and this time, we’re going big. Joining us are three special guests from Industrial Light & Magic, the team behind the film’s stunning visuals: Stephen King (Head of Animation, ILM Sydney), Amy Beth Christenson (Art Director and Lead Character Designer), and Alex Fry (Compositing Supervisor). Together, they walk us through the creative process behind the movie, covering everything from character design and visual storytelling to hidden details and Easter eggs. It’s a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of the most visually impressive Transformers projects to date. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers 2024: Favourite Toys of the Year | 25 Dec 2024 | 02:00:00 | |
As 2024 draws to a close, we take a moment to look back on a spectacular anniversary year for Transformers and celebrate some of the highlights from the past twelve months of collecting. In this episode we reflect on the standout toys we picked up along the way, the surprises we didn’t see coming, and the curveballs that made the year such an interesting one for fans. It’s a relaxed, celebratory look back at a year packed with memorable releases. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| The Design of Transformers Collaborative (with Hasbro's Brian Parrish) | 10 Dec 2024 | 02:07:56 | |
We’re back with another special Transformers design team guest as we’re joined by Hasbro veteran Brian Parrish. Brian has enjoyed an incredible career working across a wide range of toy lines, but for Transformers fans his résumé is particularly stacked — from Universe 2003 and Star Wars Transformers to Rescue Bots, EarthSpark, Rise of the Beasts, Transformers One, and, crucially, the current wave of Collaborative projects. In this episode we dig into his career, creative process, and what it’s like helping shape some of the most talked-about Transformers releases of recent years. Not one to miss. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transmetal 2: The Weirdest Bit of Beast Wars | 25 Nov 2024 | 02:02:33 | |
Beast Wars remains one of the most celebrated and colourful eras in Transformers history — but the Transmetal 2 line-up is notorious for pushing boundaries in just about every possible way. In this episode, we take a tour through this weird and wonderfully chaotic ’90s roster, revisiting the designs, ideas, and excess that made Transmetal 2 toys so memorable — and so wild. From eye-catching finishes to truly unhinged aesthetic choices, it’s a line that still sparks debate decades later. Love them or loathe them, we may never see a Transformers toy line quite like Transmetal 2 again. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Target: 2006 (with Simon Furman) | 12 Nov 2024 | 01:42:36 | |
In a real treat, we sit down with legendary Transformers comic creator Simon Furman to discuss his fan-favourite 1986 Marvel UK epic, Target: 2006. We chat about the inspirations behind the story, its place within the wider Transformers mythos, and how Furman feels it holds up all these years later. From ambitious storytelling to lasting fan impact, this is a deep dive into one of the most celebrated arcs in Transformers comic history. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| The Production Design of Transformers One (with Jason Scheier) | 23 Oct 2024 | 01:36:55 | |
This episode continues our Transformers One discussion, with another extra special guest joining us — the hugely talented Production Designer Jason Scheier. Jason takes us behind the scenes of the film’s visuals, walking us through everything from character design to specific scenes and the creative influences that shaped them. From subtle world-building details to bold stylistic choices, there’s plenty here that may surprise you. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Making Transformers One (with Josh Cooley & Lorenzo di Bonaventura) | 07 Oct 2024 | 02:59:37 | |
It’s the big one. After attending two separate press events for the film, we’re delighted to bring you our bumper-sized Transformers One extravaganza, featuring multiple in-depth chats with director Josh Cooley and producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura. We discuss the creative process behind the film, its themes and ambitions, and — with spoilers ahead — deliver our verdict on this bold new chapter for Transformers on the big screen. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Inside Marvel’s Transformers (with Bob Budiansky) | 30 Sep 2024 | 01:44:31 | |
We’re honoured to be joined by the legendary writer of the classic Marvel Transformers comic — and the creator of many of the franchise’s most iconic characters — Bob Budiansky. Bob takes us back to the Marvel days of the 1980s, sharing stories from behind the scenes and reflecting on the creative process that helped define Transformers in its formative years. From character creation to world-building, this is a fascinating look at a pivotal era for the brand. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Designing the Perfect Transformers Toy Wave | 28 Oct 2025 | 02:00:30 | |
What would the perfect new wave of Transformers Generations toys look like… if we all played by the same rules? In this episode we have some fun assembling our ideal Generations lineup, taking turns to select characters across a full spread of size classes. With four Deluxes, two Voyagers, plus picks for Leader, Commander, and Titan, we attempt to look beyond the familiar G1 comfort zone — with varying degrees of success... Suggested by our patron Andy Gold, this discussion quickly becomes a mix of wish-list thinking, creative loopholes, and good-natured rule-bending as we debate what really makes a great Generations release. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Designing Transformers (with Hasbro's Evan Brooks) | 16 Sep 2024 | 02:17:43 | |
We’re joined by an extra special guest for this episode as Hasbro Transformers designer Evan Brooks joins us for a fascinating behind-the-scenes discussion. Evan takes us inside what goes into producing the Transformers toys we all love, from the collaborative relationship with TakaraTomy to the challenges of modern toy design — with a few tantalising hints about what might be on the horizon along the way. Insightful, candid, and packed with industry perspective, this is an essential listen for any Transformers fan. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Inside TFNation 2024 — The Highs and the Hauls | 02 Sep 2024 | 01:51:20 | |
TFNation 2024 has come and gone, and as the dust settles on Europe’s largest Transformers convention, we look back on another unforgettable weekend. From the highs and lows of the show to the inevitable dealer room splurges, we reflect on the experiences, highlights, and moments that made this year’s TFNation one to remember. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers 1986 — Five Great Toys… and Wheelie | 19 Aug 2024 | 01:45:33 | |
For episode 86, we’re talking ’86 — Minibots, that is (or “Mini Vehicles”, if you prefer the official terminology). After already gassing up the previous years of these pint-sized Autobots, we turn our attention to the final batch from 1986. How do they stack up against what came before? And yes… we have plenty to say about one of them in particular. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Third Party Transformers: Heaven and Hell, Revisited | 06 Aug 2024 | 01:47:58 | |
It’s the return of Third Party: Heaven or Hell, as the team dives into a second round of unofficial Transformers toys — picking one truly great example, and one that absolutely misses the mark. From inspired design to baffling execution, we each make the case for a third-party release that belongs in toy heaven… and one that deserves to be cast straight into hell. That is, most of us do — as Jason once again struggles to say a bad word about anything he actually owns. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Transformers Hidden Gems Vol. 4 | 22 Jul 2024 | 01:29:23 | |
It’s the return of our Hidden Gems series, where each of the team champions Transformers toys from across the years that we feel deserved far more love than they ever received. From overlooked releases to underappreciated oddities, we each bring our picks to the table and make the case for why these toys should be remembered more fondly. That is… almost all of us — as Jason once again finds a way to interpret the brief in his own unique fashion. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Beast Wars II — Predacons with a Difference | 08 Jul 2024 | 01:35:01 | |
This episode marks the long-awaited follow-up to our exploration of Takara’s 1998 Beast Wars II line — and this time, it’s all about the bad guys. The Predacons of Beast Wars II are perhaps not what you might expect, offering a very different flavour of villainy from elsewhere in the franchise. We dig into the designs, concepts, and oddities of the line, with plenty of toy-based enablement along the way — particularly for one host who was discovering this corner of Transformers history for the very first time. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Designing Transformers: EarthSpark (with Nick Roche) | 24 Jun 2024 | 01:58:51 | |
With a new season of Transformers: Earthspark landing, it felt like the perfect time to finally welcome Nick Roche to the podcast. Known for his legendary work on the IDW Transformers comics, Nick was also a key character designer on Earthspark, helping to define the look of several Autobots and Decepticons — not to mention the Terrans — in the series. We chat about his work across both animation and comics, but fair warning: this quickly becomes one of the most delightfully bizarre episodes we’ve ever recorded, thanks in no small part to Nick being an absolute force of nature. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||
| Inside Skybound’s Transformers (with Daniel Warren Johnson) | 10 Jun 2024 | 01:31:21 | |
A real treat for this episode as we’re joined by acclaimed comic creator Daniel Warren Johnson to talk all things Skybound’s Transformers. Widely celebrated for his creator-owned work and distinctive storytelling style, Daniel’s move into the world of Transformers was seen as something genuinely unprecedented — and he tells us all about his approach to taking on such an iconic franchise. We discuss his personal love of the robots in disguise, the challenges of working within an established brand, and the creative decisions that shaped Skybound’s bold new direction. Insightful, candid, and refreshingly honest, this is a fascinating conversation with one of modern comics’ most respected voices. — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover | |||