Growing up in the 80s and 90s, Transformers is one of my all-time favorite shows. As I got older I naturally stopped buying toys and relied more on comics and movies (no thanks Michael Bay) for robots that were more than they seemed. But it seems everything is cyclical: now that I have my son old enough to share my passion, I’ve found myself back there, and it seems we’re living in the golden age of Transformers toys. So if you need a quick overview of the coolest Robo figures on sale today, check out our guide below.
For me, the magic definitely goes back to the original cartoons and the first Transformers movie from 1986, which is still the best robot adaptation (even though it’s from last year). transformers a deserves an honorable mention). This three-year series spawned icons Optimus Prime, Megatron, Bumblebee, Starscream and more, and thanks to Hasbro’s line of Studio Series action figures, virtually every popular robot now has updated versions (or has a new model in the works) that looks better than ever.
Unsurprisingly, the two best examples of this are the leaders of the Autobots and the Decepticons. The Studio Series 86 version of Optimus Prime is simply perfect, coming from someone who had an original Optimus G1 as a child. The set also comes with a full trailer and plenty of accessories, including a scooter, an Energon ax and an ion blaster. It looks just as cool (some might say even better), although it looks a little different now that it turns into a tank, because you can’t drop a kid’s toy that looks like a Walther P38 2025.
But that’s not all, because there’s also the entire Dinobot series, including (although Slag/Slug can be hard to find, I hope there’s a reprint soon), other notable characters like and (unfortunately my son lost ours), and excellent renditions of my favorites: and.
But the highlight of the recent Transformers releases may be the updated parentage of those joining together to form the Devastator (Prepare for extinction). Anyone who has come across a Transformers fan forum recently has probably seen pictures like this, because when you combine all six robots into one, it’s pretty impressive. Alternatively, if you prefer one of the excellent combiners, there’s always Aerialbots and Superions (led by the ever-reliable).
Now, it’s understandable that Hasbro sometimes leans too much on nostalgia and 80’s Transformers designs. So if you’re looking for toys with flashier designs, there’s the Age of the Primes line of robots like (which is also a triple shifter), , , and others. I like this too camouflage figure from the old IDW Transformers series. His face is literally the symbol of the Decepticon. And that’s before we even think about some of the upcoming models. Meng Prime AND Fifth first. Of course it’s not over yet, I have to give him credit. large convoywho might end up being the best character in the Beast Wars timeline.
I will add that Transformers make great gifts year round, even during the holidays. When I don’t know what to buy as a birthday present for my son’s friend, you can probably guess what I see first. Honestly, there is something for everyone. If a child is interested in spaceships, he will certainly not be upset about the purchase. And if you like airplanes, the new model is a delight and a surprisingly good representation of an F-15.
You don’t need any additional context or story to enjoy the franchise. There are also great options for younger children, like this two-pack that I bought for my son well before he reached the recommended age of six. And he loved her and could transform her with his own power. (Of course, there is also a double pack with .)
And for those feeling particularly generous, there are some incredible premium options too. The $200 titanium version of the Omega Supreme is a 2-foot behemoth that can be the centerpiece of any collection. Then there are people who make children’s dreams come true, if you can afford it. And recently, the collaboration between Transformers and Lego has resulted in some of the coolest brick sets ever made, led by and.
If you don’t mind going down the rabbit hole of third-party offerings (what some would call knockoffs), you might also consider “divorce toys” like this one. $1,600 M-01 Steel Forta huge four foot version of the Metroplex. Even though it’s not a toy, I’d be remiss not to mention it. Transformers Deluxe Book 1contains the first twelve issues of Image Comics’ latest release and represents a fantastic expansion of the franchise’s universe. If you or someone you know is a fan of the modern design of today’s live action movies, there are high quality figures and models like these. Darkness of the moon or that of Revenge of the Dead.
When it comes to purchasing these toys and figures, the vast majority of them can be found at major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target. You can also go directly to the source and buy things there. Hasbro Impulses. This can be the best option if you want such sets with high demands Previous reprintwhich unfortunately is already over (again). You can also pay $50 per year to become a premium member and get free shipping, discounts and early access to select products. But if you’re not a hardcore collector, it’s probably not worth it. Or you can choose external suppliers such as: Big bad toy storeHe is my personal contact, especially if you are not in a hurry for the arrival of the goods.
Anyway, if you’re like me and returning to a beloved franchise, I’m here to tell you that even after 40 years, there are plenty of great Transformers characters to choose from. And if that’s not the case and you’re just looking for a nice gift for the holidays, Transformers also has a great selection of really cool robots.