Review: #303
Name: Shockwave
Brand: Transformers
Allegiance: Decepticon
Line: Generations - Combiner Wars
Year of Release: 2016
Size Class: Legends (Wave 5)
Mold Status: new
TANK MODE:
Shockwave transforms into a hovering tank/gun mode that's actually very reminiscent of his Fall of Cybertron figure. There is a nice cross-sight on top, too bad it is an unpainted grey.
This is a good mode overall, although you can see the exposed robot fist and gun sticking out from the back. This mode sits flush against the ground.
The figure comes with a collector card which shows a very nice piece of artwork.
To increase the playability of the figure, Shockwave interacts nicely with larger figures, he has a handle that can flip down.
While it is mainly for Bruticus or another combiner, other figures can hold it loosely. The second peg stops some figures from holding it securely so it can fall out easily.
Another neat interaction with the Combaticons is that Shockwave can attach on top of Onslaught for some added firepower. He sits there loosely but nevertheless still looks awesome.
One thing that's against the figure is how small it is, but about on par with other Commander figures.
A fantastic and recognizable alternate mode that suits the character very well. It has good use of translucent plastic although the fact that you can see the robot knees inside the barrel ruins the look somewhat.
TRANSFORMATION:
As you'd expect of something in this size, the transformation is simple. The only thing that might stump you for a few seconds when first transforming him into his gun mode is how his arms snap into place, they don't actually fold in half but rather in a "S" shape. Other than that, it's quick, simple and a lot of fun.
ROBOT MODE:
Shockwave's robot mode is just... absolutely perform. It captures the character perfectly while giving him a suitably bulky and powerful looking stature.
He barely has any kibble, the gun handle and sight sits flush against his back.
The headsculpt is perfect, with a yellow painted optic, and silver ears, it's surprising at how much paint this guy has, especially considering the whole of his legs are painted purple as it's cast in transparent plastic.
Size-wise, Shockwave remains small but this is easily overlooked when you realize how cool he is.
Of course, he has the gun on his left arm, and it is cast in transparent purple plastic as well. The right fist is also in clear plastic, which sucks as it doesn't make as much sense.
He has excellent articulation, and his head can even turn, which is a rare feature these days for a figure in this size class.
With gigantic heelspurs, Shockwave is super stable. He lacks a handheld weapon but his gun arm makes up for that.
A great robot mode and while the gun mode was strong, the robot mode is even better.
OVERALL:
Shockwave is a clever little figure. It doesn't do anything inventive or crazily new, but it is still refreshing enough to keep your interest. It is faithful to the original G1 design but nicely updates it to contemporary standards. Shockwave is definitely worth your money.
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