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As the final year of the original Transformers toy line in North America, 1990 is typically thought of for precisely one thing: Action Masters. Yet aside from the notorious non-transforming examples, there was also a whole second wave of Micromasters unveiled alongside them — and they're every bit the mini-marvels as the previous year's efforts.

With new multipacks of four individual robots — including the Construction, Air, Monster Trucks, Hot Rod, Race Track, and Military Patrols — now bolstered by a heavy focus on Micromaster Combiners such as the Metro, Astro, Battle, and Constructor Squads, alongside the notoriously hard-to-find Combiner Transports, there's plenty to contemplate from this last hurrah of the line. In fact, there's an argument to say that "Generation 1" showed no sign of sputtering out at this point, considering how vibrant it all is.

We examine all these toys and more, including the larger Anti-Aircraft Base and Battlefield Headquarters sets, exploring how this final wave built on the Micromaster concept introduced the year prior. More than anything though, this is a love letter to Micromasters as a whole, contemplating how sometimes, the best things really do come in small packages.

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The Transformers fandom was recently rocked by the tragic passing of legendary voice actor Peter Cullen, who famously provided the iconic voice of Optimus Prime for over forty years. We've already expressed our appreciation for the man himself in a dedicated minisode, but now we're back to celebrate his legacy in a different way — by selecting some of our favourite Optimus Prime toys from over the years. And boy, are we spoilt for choice.

Right from the earliest years of the brand, Optimus Prime has had some of the best toy designs to his name — be they from the 1980s, '90s, '00s, or beyond. Today, we each highlight two examples that have spoken to us or stand out for various reasons, but what becomes clear is the sheer range of amazing options for representing the character in plastic. No two examples here are the same, yet they all share one thing in common: they're some of the definitive Transformers toys of all time. And that's Optimus Prime.

Inevitably, there's some lighthearted landgrabbing along the way, along with the usual confusion about just what constitutes 'the brief' for the conversation. However, once we're all aligned, there's little doubt that this is a wall-to-wall celebration of some outstanding toy designs representing one of the most iconic characters in fiction — all in the memory of the man who famously brought him to life.

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It's a busy old time for new Transformers toys currently, but don't let that stop TakaraTomy. Now they're back with New Legends, a fresh spin on their Japanese equivalent to the Generations line, promising plenty of fun redecos and retools alongside the occasional new moulds and other surprises too. Today, we're here to see what it's all about.

After the hugely popular collector-focused fare found in the original Legends line of the 2010s, New Legends promises much of the same — and then some. Built as a spin-off-of-sorts from the celebrated 40th Selection Lio Convoy release, there's already an impressive roster of figures on the way before too long, including a glow-in-the-dark repaint, the Generation 2 Motormaster of our dreams, a Nemesis Star Convoy, Gigatorm, some Earthspark designs, and a whole new mould in the shape of an upcoming Leader-scale Beast Wars II Galvatron.

There's plenty to be excited about amongst all of this, so we take our time to discuss what each reveal means and why this new direction has us so enthused. Ultimately, it feels as though New Legends promises to be something super special, and that's what we're here to celebrate — and get suitably enabled by, naturally.

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Another year of TFNation has come and gone, as the Triple Takeover team celebrates the biggest event of the UK Transformers social calendar with the usual positive vibes. We've just about recovered from the weekend, and now we're here to recap the experience — from the hauls to the guests to the many random events that took place throughout.

Despite still being extremely tired, we're delighted to relive the highs of TFN 2026, which was — as ever — a hugely positive event from start to finish. With legendary composer Vince DiCola in attendance for an unforgettable (unless you're Liam) Saturday night concert, there's plenty to celebrate with this one. We also spend time remembering our own Friday afternoon panel and recapping the various wares we picked up in the busy dealer room.

Though as ever, it's the people in attendance who make this a convention to remember. From old friends to new faces, Discord regulars met in the flesh to the wider community that makes the whole weekend so special, we'll do our best to shout out as many as we can along the way.

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We're back for a seventh round of Hidden Gems, our popular format where each of us nominates a figure from Transformers history that we feel has been rather overlooked by the fandom at large and now deserves a little more attention. And today, the choices are more unusual than ever before.

From movie-styled Masterpiece fare to Mini-Cons and early examples of cross-brand collaborative projects, everyone brings something hugely different to the table for discussion this time. It makes for a particularly eclectic episode, spanning wildly different eras and design philosophies, united only by the sense that each figure never quite got its due when it mattered most.

The variety proves a lot of fun as we explore why these toys didn't get the focus they perhaps should have on release. And with TFNation in our near future, it might just prove enabling enough to give us some options to look out for in the dealer hall...

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Way back at the turn of 1980, years before Transformers became a thing, Takara led the way forward for transforming robot toys with Diaclone — all about non-sentient mecha piloted by one-inch figures. The most well-known examples are from the Car Robots subline that would find new life as robots in disguise, but today we're exploring the fantastically old-school sci-fi fare of the earlier years.

Prior to churning out realistic vehicles and recognisable car models, Diaclone was all about big, over-the-top futuristic spacecraft and bases that became modular robots, all operated by a team of Dia-nauts versus their alien opposition, the evil Waruders. The concept was new, but as we'll discover, these toys have an unusual origin story themselves, harkening back to the 1970s in a tale that begins with another, lesser-known collaboration between Takara and Hasbro — ironically enough.

We trace the building blocks from those earliest years through to the toys that would eventually be repurposed as Transformers when Hasbro came back on the scene looking for inspiration. Along the way, we explore how Takara's Diaclone robots helped lay the foundations for the international mega-hit to come, and why these early designs remain so fascinating decades later.

This topic was chosen in a fan vote by the Patrons on our Discord, so we hope it was worth the wait.

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With the World Cup in full swing, sports mania is at fever pitch across the globe right now — yet Transformers tie-ins with sport have been surprisingly few and far between over the years, despite some obvious potential. Today we're looking at the various tries made so far, and the open goals that remain untapped by the toymakers.

Sixo has finally relented (against his better judgement) and allowed Liam to have the sports episode of his dreams. From Takara's Sports Label line in the mid-2000s to modern-day collaborative attempts such as the recent NFL and soccer-themed figures, there's plenty to discuss — and yes, we even manage to cram in a bit of motorsports along the way. It's a surprisingly rich vein once you start digging, spanning official partnerships, licensed tie-ins, and the occasional oddity that defies easy categorisation.

As it turns out, there's a lot to enjoy even for collectors who aren't big sports fans, with a surprising amount of creativity thrown in throughout. Whether it's clever integration of sporting motifs or oddball aesthetic swings, these releases prove there's real potential in the crossover. Can we keep Liam focused on the chat, though, or will he be simply too distracted come the final score?

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Between Hasbro and TakaraTomy, there has been a significant volume of new Transformers product of late — so much so that many collectors are forced to pick and choose through practicality if nothing else. Between mainline Generations, Studio Series, MPG, Missing Link, reissues, Collaborative releases, and much more, it's a great time to be a fan. But what has tickled our fancy more than anything else in the first six months of 2026?

Today, we're taking turns to choose one toy — all of which were very definitely released this year! — that we each feel represents the pick of the crop to date, and perhaps best showcases where our own specific collecting tastes currently sit. With three very different selections on the table, it makes for an intriguing snapshot of both the year's output and our individual priorities as collectors.

It prompts plenty of chat about expense versus affordability, particularly given the extreme price tag of one example. However, from premium high-end pieces to more accessible mainline fare, our choices reflect the sheer breadth of what's available right now, and the difficult decisions every collector faces when budgets don't stretch to everything.

One thing's for sure: the year may only be half done, but there's been plenty going on.

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Imagine a world where Transformers Armada never happened and the brand had gone a completely separate route. Back in the early 2000s, that was almost the case. After the smash success of Beast Wars and the hugely divisive follow-up that was Beast Machines, Hasbro originally planned a third era — one that would build on the existing direction and pave further towards fusing the technological and organic themes prevalent at the time. This was the series that never came to be. This was Transtech.

Although never fully realised and ultimately abandoned well before fruition, plenty of details about Transtech have since emerged over the years, including a plethora of concept art and character designs, as well as prototypes for several of the toys. It all paints a wildly distinct picture to where Transformers went instead, with Hasbro changing gears to port over Robots in Disguise 2001 before performing a seismic line-wide reboot with Armada. Yet it's fascinating to now sit and pore through what might have been, particularly given how incredibly creative so many of the Transtech ideas prove to be upon further examination.

Featuring a mix of classic and Beast era characters, intricate gimmicks, non-humanoid designs, and vehicle modes unlike anything you've seen elsewhere, this is a window onto the road not travelled at the turn of the century. Had it been taken, Transtech would have sent Transformers on a very different journey for the years that followed — and here we explore exactly what that might have looked like.

Patrons can get access to all the artwork and photos discussed in this episode via our Discord here (accessible for just £1 per month): https://discord.com/channels/974758218381287445/1511701662958616777

This episode began life as a Patreon commission by Tarngaryan — thanks for the brilliant suggestion!

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With Missing Link Ironhide having just been fully unveiled, there's a lot to talk about. Perhaps more than any other release in the TakaraTomy line, this one has defied fan expectations and delivered something that no one could have predicted by entirely reimagining the classic toy from the ground up. The result feels in the spirit of a vintage design, but much more in the style of the character's fictional portrayals from over the years. But what did we make of it all?

On the one hand, it's not hard to see where the inspiration has come from. The original toy was a real hand-me-down oddity from Diaclone, featuring unusual proportions, a separating 'sled' module and, most infamously of all, a very non-traditional stickered seat face set behind its windshield. People have been imagining a suitable 'upgrade' of it ever since the childhood playgrounds of the 1980s, with plenty of custom efforts and add-on kits made available over the years. In that sense, Missing Link Ironhide feels like the culmination of decades of fan desire.

However, there's also no doubt that some collectors had a firm idea of what Missing Link was all about — rightly or wrongly — and were hoping for something a little more faithful in terms of overhauling the original, causing palpable disappointment upon reveal. Are those expectations fair, though? And do they sit in line with the core brief of what Missing Link is supposed to be about? We explore whether the line was ever really about pure vintage accuracy, or if it's always been about something more interpretive.

This episode was recorded just prior to the subsequent reveal of Missing Link Ratchet, but still, there's plenty of relevant speculation and in-depth discussion about how this latest effort has landed, whether we're excited for it, and just what it might mean for the future of the line.

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Released at a time when Transformers were already firmly on the wane after six years on toy shelves, 1990's Action Masters were Hasbro's attempt at 'rebooting' the line by bringing back familiar A-list characters and delivering them in more 'action figure' style. The concept was inherently divisive from the start: they're Transformers that don't transform. For a brand built entirely around transformation, this felt to some like abandoning the core premise.

Soon seen as having killed the franchise after they proved to be the last year of original series product in North America (even though it continued elsewhere in the world), Action Masters have never quite shaken the infamy ever since. The very mention of them online typically triggers passionate reactions about how they represent everything wrong with late-G1 desperation, a fundamental misunderstanding of what made Transformers special.

However, there are also collectors who have given them a sharp reappraisal in more recent times, finding a lot to admire about these admittedly clunky efforts to deliver something different — even if the flaws are there for all to see. Today we give this derided roster another look, taking in the vintage charm these surprisingly unposeable specimens possess, alongside the goofiness of the accompanying accessories and vehicles they were packaged with.

We discuss what Action Masters were trying to achieve, why the concept failed so spectacularly with fans, and whether modern collectors approaching them without the baggage of 1990 can find merit in their quirky existence. Did they really deserve the hate, or were they simply the wrong idea at the wrong time? The action is alive — whether you want it to be or not.

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This episode is the opposite of our Hidden Gems discussion. Rather than bigging up amazing Transformers toys that nobody mentions, we're re-assessing former releases which are already well known — but not in a good way. These are the perceived stinkers, the Renford Rejects, the real bottom-of-the-barrel stuff. The toys that as soon as they're mentioned online, everyone will quickly jump in to give them a major kicking, swiftly pointing out in elaborate detail why they are just plain bad.

And it's not so much that we disagree with a lot of the points commonly made — it's more that we think the toys we're putting in the spotlight maybe have more going on beyond their all-too-often highlighted flaws. Sometimes a toy can be a bit of a letdown but still offer something that makes it otherwise enjoyable, or perhaps it just doesn't deserve the harsh reaction it so typically garners. Maybe the hate is justified, or maybe time and perspective reveal redeeming qualities that got lost in the initial backlash.

That's what we're evaluating here, as we each choose a toy from Transformers history to sit in the dock and be judged all over again. We examine why these figures earned their reputations, what they actually get right despite their failings, and whether the community's collective memory is fair or simply piling on. Some might still be irredeemable disasters, but others might surprise you with hidden merit that's been overshadowed by swift judgement.

Do they deserve the hate? There's only one way to find out.

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Q-Transformers is a 2014 Japanese exclusive line centred around being both a homage to and a spin-off from Takara's own classic Choro-Q line of super-deformed cars (known as Penny Racers in the West). Except here, the central gimmick isn't a pull-back-and-go mechanism but the ability to transform from licensed-but-chibified real world vehicles into familiar robots in disguise characters. Plus, as the name suggests, they're super cute!

We examine what makes this line a real sleeper hit for collectors. Despite their tiny size and unparalleled accessibility on the aftermarket, the toys boast impressive levels of detail and paint far beyond what you might expect. With a wide range of desirable and often unusual car model choices employed — from classic sports cars to obscure Japanese market vehicles — there's plenty here for Transformers fans and petrolheads alike to appreciate.

We also unpick the origins behind the execution of the toys, comparing them to vintage Choro-Q design and indeed the Micro-Change-inherited minibots from Transformers' earliest years. There's a surprising amount of heritage baked into these diminutive figures, connecting them to decades of Takara's toy design philosophy. The enthusiasm at play in this episode is palpable throughout.

This one started as a Patreon commission by our patron John Pearl, but we thought it was so deserving of the full episode treatment that here we are. Fair warning: this is peak enablement territory.

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The general aftermarket value of second-hand Transformers items has skyrocketed in recent times, driven by what appears to be a collecting boom over the last five years or more. What was once a reasonably accessible hobby has become increasingly pricey, with even previously unloved releases now commanding premium prices. It's a hot topic that affects every collector, regardless of focus or budget.

We're here to establish whether such price hikes are justifiable — is this simply the market responding to genuine demand, or is the perceived value of certain items being artificially inflated to take advantage of increased interest? We discuss why some toys become astronomically expensive even when they weren't particularly desirable on initial release, examining the psychology behind grail hunting, and how scarcity (both real and manufactured) affects pricing.

There's also the practical question every collector faces: how can we continue to justify a hobby that's becoming ever more eye-wateringly exorbitant? We explore strategies for navigating the current market, from knowing when to walk away to understanding what actually holds value versus what's riding a temporary hype wave. There are definite frustrations to vent along the way, but we're also searching for solace and sensible approaches.

With thanks to Moltara Imports for providing key insight on the wholesale and retail side of the equation, helping us understand the bigger picture behind the numbers we see. It's a conversation that needed to happen. Find Moltara at: https://linktr.ee/moltaraimports

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Chapters

0:00:00 Intro

0:05:06 Sponsor Segment: Valart & Moltara Imports

0:15:06 The Current State of The Aftermarket

0:28:12 Will The Aftermarket Ever Bottom Out?

0:35:44 Why Condition Matters

0:43:36 Are Vintage Toys Still... Toys?

0:52:29 When Prices Are Artificially Inflated

1:16:31 How Collecting is Becoming Inaccessible

1:25:55 Sponsor Segment: Moltara Imports

1:28:14 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions

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The so-called e-Hobby era has become a landmark of Transformers collecting for many fans. Running predominantly through the 2000s, the TakaraTomy-affiliated online store offered recolours of classic Transformers toys in weird and wonderful colour schemes — sometimes referencing Diaclone or Micro Change releases, occasionally diving into exceptionally niche corners of the brand's lore, and often just embracing pure creative experimentation.

What makes this period so fascinating is the dramatic shift in perception over time. Many of these toys weren't particularly appreciated when released, sitting plentifully available online for years before experiencing a swift and surprising renaissance. Today, individual e-Hobby releases can outstrip even the original vintage versions on which they're based, with some specimens commanding immense sums on the aftermarket. It's a remarkable transformation for what were once considered curiosities.

Even aside from their current desirability, there's genuine substance here worth celebrating: lush new colour schemes afforded to beloved vintage classics, the sheer unbridled creativity at play, and a willingness to serve the most dedicated collectors with references that rewarded deep knowledge of the franchise. We discuss our favourite releases, the ones that got away, and why certain examples have achieved such legendary status.

With Missing Link now promising a return-to-form that feels almost spiritually in-keeping with what the e-Hobby reissues offered, it's the perfect time to look back on what is, for many of us, one of the fondest periods of post-G1 collecting. If only it had gone on longer.

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Chapters

0:00:00 Intro

0:06:24 Sponsor Segment: Valart

0:10:14 Introduction to e-Hobby

0:26:23 New Characters From Old Toys

0:35:36 Will They Re-Do Some of These Repaint Ideas Again?

0:42:21 Availability on Release

0:50:01 Why Does e-Hobby Feel 'Exotic'?

1:09:52 Why Do They Still Feel Like Grails Now?

1:19:26 Sponsor Segment: TFSource

1:29:51 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions

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We've tackled the topic of head sculpts before, but tonight we're returning with a mission: to highlight specific examples that represent the absolute best the franchise has to offer. Whether it's modern era mainline, Japanese exclusive fare, classic Generations, or our beloved Beast Wars, we're unpacking what makes a great Transformers head sculpt and why their design is so integral to making toys work and feel memorable.

The choices we end up highlighting are all very different in style — spanning eras, size classes, and design philosophies — but they have one crucial thing in common: they're chock full of personality. These are the head sculpts that give their figures genuine character, the ones that make you stop and appreciate the artistry involved in capturing a character's essence at such a small scale.

We discuss what separates a good head sculpt from a great one, why certain design choices resonate so strongly, and how sculptors manage to convey so much expression and identity in just a few millimetres of plastic. From intricate paint applications to bold stylistic choices, these are the heads that stick in your memory long after you've transformed the figure.

Fair warning: this episode assumes Liam has actually prepared his picks. Results may vary.

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Chapters

0:00:00 Intro

0:05:19 Sponsor Segment: Valart

0:12:13 Liam's first choice

0:32:45 Sixo's first choice

0:45:54 Jason's first choice

1:01:11 Jason's second choice

1:09:09 Sixo's second choice

1:21:20 Liam's second choice

1:37:43 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions

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Let it never be said that Triple Takeover doesn't enjoy a bit of beast. Having already done deep dives into the classic Kenner line and Takara's Beast Wars II, we're back for more — and this is where things get really weird, with 1999's Beast Wars Neo.

Tonight it's all about the Maximals: a crew of twelve toys that run the gamut from intriguing repaints and retools to flat-out Japanese exclusive oddities. Sixo guides Liam and Jason through the roster one figure at a time, discovering some of the more noteworthy alternate modes from the entire Beast era — not to mention the somewhat inexplicable third modes on offer. With giraffes, penguins, horses, rabbits, sharks, and of course the line's notorious tanuki, Beast Wars Neo showcases the sheer creativity (and occasional bewilderment) of late-90s Takara design philosophy.

The discussion leans towards the absurd at times — that was somewhat inevitable given the subject matter — but there's genuine reverence for what is, at the end of the day, a fabulous set of classic Transformers toys. Big swings, plenty of fun, and a roster that wasn't afraid to do something different.

Fair warning: this episode gets weird. But that's exactly why our Beast Wars discussions always end up being some of the most entertaining episodes we record. Let's hope we don't balls it up.

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Chapters

0:00:00 Intro

0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart

0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout?

0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact

0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits

0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance

1:02:27 Community Connection

1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource

1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions

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We first covered the beginnings of Transformers Generations toys with 2006's Classics line back in episode #16, but now we're back for the Takara equivalent: Henkei! Henkei! Transformers. This Japanese roster — which also spans parts of 2008's Universe line and literally translates to "Transform! Transform! Transformers" — is a jewel in the crown of mid-2000s robots in disguise.

Henkei! offered surprisingly varied — and often superior — repaint choices on already beloved moulds (including some which have arguably been unfairly maligned, as we'll discuss). It's a line of creative designs, intriguing transformations, and definite ingenuity, but coupled with Takara's attention to detail when it comes to finish, it's not hard to understand why it grabbed so much attention at the time. Even if the abundance of chrome proved surprisingly divisive.

We're stepping back to an era before every character received regular Generations updates every few years — a time when classic characters were brought back with real flair for doing something different, and when A-list names like Bumblebee received their first toys in years. It's not an exaggeration to say that the figures in today's spotlight set the template for Generations toys to this day, and we're here to give them their due.

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Chapters

0:00:00 Intro

0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart

0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout?

0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact

0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits

0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance

1:02:27 Community Connection

1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource

1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions

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Collecting Transformers should be a joy, but what happens when it starts to feel like a chore? This episode tackles collector burnout — that creeping sense of being overwhelmed, stressed, or feeling obligated rather than excited by your hobby. It's a topic chosen by our patrons, and it's one we approach with honesty, care, and maybe a bit of catharsis.

Burnout can happen to any collector. The pressure to acquire everything new, the sheer volume of releases, lifestyle changes, mounting clutter, and that nagging guilt about figures still in boxes — it all adds up. What starts as passion can slowly transform into obligation, and before you know it, the thing you love feels like work.

We discuss why burnout happens, what the early warning signs might be, and practical ways to mitigate or avoid it altogether. We also reflect on our own experiences: have any of us genuinely faced collector burnout? The answers might surprise you.

If you've ever felt exhausted by your collection rather than energised by it, you're not alone. This one's for anyone who's questioned whether they still love the hobby — or are just going through the motions.

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Chapters

0:00:00 Intro

0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart

0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout?

0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact

0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits

0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance

1:02:27 Community Connection

1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource

1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions

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As another year of collecting draws to a close, the Triple Takeover crew sit down to reflect on the Transformers toys that defined 2025 for them.

Rather than chasing completeness or release lists, this episode focuses on personal favourites — the figures that made the biggest impression in hand, sparked the strongest emotional response, or simply reminded us why we enjoy collecting in the first place. From the long-anticipated Missing Link releases to standout modern designs and ambitious large-scale projects, it’s a year that offered a surprising amount of variety.

We talk through what made figures like Sunstreaker feel genuinely special, why releases such as HasLab Omega Prime and Age of the Primes Superion stood out in a crowded landscape, and how 2025 balanced nostalgia with forward-looking ideas. Along the way, the conversation naturally widens into thoughts on collecting habits, changing priorities, and what really makes a toy memorable over time. It’s a reminder that the value of a collection is often measured in experiences rather than numbers.

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Chapters

0:00:00 Intro

0:06:09 Setting the discussion rules

0:11:05 Sponsor chat

0:13:58 Jason's first choice

0:23:20 Liam's first choice

0:38:39 Sixo's first choice

0:48:30 Jason's second choice

0:56:04 Liam's second choice

1:08:17 Sixo's second choice

1:18:45 Honourable mentions

1:32:52 Patreon Q&A

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IDW artist Nick Roche returns to Triple Takeover to talk Transformers Generations: Thrilling 30 — the 2013–2014 toy line — and the unusual creative journey that links Sandstorm and Springer.

Nick discusses supplying an original Sandstorm concept to Hasbro, how that design eventually became a finished toy, and how it was later retooled into Springer — released first, and coincidentally based on Nick’s own comic design for the character as seen in IDW’s Last Stand of the Wreckers.

Along the way, the conversation drifts (as it tends to with Nick) into nostalgia, collecting, community, and the realities of working across different parts of the Transformers brand — including his more recent design work on Transformers Earthspark. Expect equal parts toy history, behind-the-scenes insight, and good-natured chaos.

This episode began life as a commission from our patron, Josh Bell.

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Chapters

0:00:00 Intro

0:05:54 Thrilling 30 In Context

0:10:58 How the Sandstorm Concept Came to Be

0:23:35 Nick's First Impressions of the Toys

0:42:28 Translating From Sandstorm Into Springer

0:49:27 How Nick Designed Springer for IDW

1:02:04 Owning Toys of Characters You've Created

1:18:53 TFSource Sponsor Segment

1:28:35 Patreon Q&A

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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What are some of the most overlooked Transformers toys — and do they really deserve to be forgotten?

Following a recent Patreon poll, we’re back for a sixth round of Transformers 'hidden gems', with each of us nominating a figure from across the brand’s history that we think deserved a little more attention than it received at the time.

In theory, we’re looking beyond the usual G1 favourites… though, as ever, sticking to that brief proves easier for some than others. Expect plenty of nostalgia, spirited defence of underappreciated toys, and a few familiar lines being quietly blurred along the way.

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The number 113 has become a recurring motif in James Roberts’ Transformers comics — most notably throughout More Than Meets The Eye and Lost Light. But where did that fascination come from?

For our own episode 113, we’re joined by James Roberts himself to explore the inspiration behind those references, tracing them back to issue #113 of the original Marvel UK Transformers comic. From there, the discussion follows the story through to issue #120 and its conclusion in the 1987 annual, unpacking why this particular run left such a lasting impression.

It’s a thoughtful look at influence, continuity, and the deep cuts that helped shape some of the most celebrated Transformers comics of the modern era.

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Partsforming is one of the most controversial aspects of Transformers design, despite being present since the very beginning of the brand in the 1980s.

In this episode we take a closer look at why partsforming remains such a divisive topic among collectors. With modern designs often prioritising integrated transformations and cleaner silhouettes, we discuss how expectations have shifted over time — and why detachable parts continue to spark debate.

From play value and accuracy to practicality and frustration, it’s a thoughtful conversation about one of Transformers’ most persistent design flashpoints.

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TFNation has been and gone for another year, and the (very tired) team sit down to reflect on the many highs — and hauls — from Europe’s largest Transformers convention.

In this episode we talk through standout moments from the show, and the inevitable post-con exhaustion that follows a packed weekend of toys, panels, and catching up with fellow fans. But with energy levels running low, the real question is whether Liam can make it through the conversation at all.

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San Diego Comic-Con always brings a wave of new Transformers reveals — and this year was no exception.

In this episode we break down the latest announcements from SDCC, including reveals from Age of the Primes, Studio Series, and beyond. From initial reactions to broader thoughts on direction and design, we talk through what stood out, what surprised us, and what these reveals might signal for the future of the brand.

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1989 was a year of major change for Transformers, introducing two very different new directions for the toy line — Micromasters and Pretenders.

Having already explored one half of that shift, we now turn our attention to the Pretenders. Strange, colourful, and often divisive, these toys have become something of a cult favourite over time. But how were they actually received when they first appeared?

In this episode we look back at the context surrounding their release, the reactions they sparked, and how perceptions of the line have shifted in the years since. Chosen by our patrons, it’s a chance to revisit one of the most distinctive — and misunderstood — chapters in late-G1 Transformers history.

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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.

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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.

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'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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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