Review: #518
Name: Optimus Prime
Brand: Transformers
Allegiance: Autobot
Line: Generations - Studio Series
Year of Release: 2019
Size Class: Voyager (Wave 6)
Mold Status: new
VEHICLE MODE:
This version of Optimus is based upon the G1-inspired model in the Bumblebee movie.
Optimus transforms into a cab-over truck that's highly reminiscent of the original G1 design. While the front windows are transparent blue plastic, the side windows are painted.
While sold as a Voyager, in this mode, he is very compact and is approximately the length of a Deluxe, but has more bulk and is taller. Above is a comparison against Titans Return Voyager Optimus and Studio Series Deluxe Lockdown.
The robot weapon pegs onto the hitch as expected. There's no gimmick here apart from the six rolling wheels.
One of the neat things about this figure is that it doesn't go the typical lazy route of just pegging the robot legs together at the back and call it a day. There are plenty of joints and manipulation to make it pass off much better as the back of a truck. Unfortunately, this also had the side effect of having a massive gap between the bed and the cab.
Despite the gappy back, this is a stellar vehicle mode and the attempt to improve the way the robot legs are dealt with is appreciated.
TRANSFORMATION:
Optimus has a complex transformation but surprisingly feels quite intuitive and logical. The general transformation scheme is similar to the original G1 toy. The cab forms the torso and arms of the robot, while the back forms the legs. There are a lot of panels that fold away and neatly stack on top of each other. It is a satisfying transformation and one of the best ones we've seen for quite a while.
ROBOT MODE:
As good as the truck mode was, the robot mode is multiple times better and looks absolutely amazing. If they went for this sort of aesthetic where it looked like a more realistic upgrade to the original cartoon design, then maybe the movie designs wouldn't have been so polarizing.
Despite the complicated transformation and numerous panels, Optimus does not have much kibble. The kibble is mainly constrained to the panels underneath the forearms. The back which is the grill of the truck has some neat sculpting to enhance the look.
The other striking thing about the figure is how awesome the headsculpt is. It's a more complicated twist to the standard Optimus head but doesn't go overboard with the detailing.
In terms of size, above is a comparison against Voyager Siege Soundwave. You can see that Optimu sis a tad bit taller. There are also no obvious hollow parts too which helps make the figure feel more premium.
As part of the Studio Series line, he comes with a cardboard stand.
The stand depicts the Golden Gate Bridge, which corresponds with the ending scene where Optimus turns up.
As expected, the poseability is fantastic and one of the bonuses is that he has wrist swivels.
The ankles also have joints such that he can stand flat on the surface in nearly all poses.
He comes with a rifle, also inspired by the original.
Optimus can hold the weapon in either hand. Note that the pieces on his shoulders are on joints which move out of the way of the shoulders but can look weird.
When not in use, there are two 5mm pegholes on his back to store the weapon.
The dark grey plastic used is nice and there are silver highlights here and there. Unfortunately, the silver paint on his abs don't cover the whole section.
His arms has more joints that needed due to transformation but you can use it to your advantage.
An amazing robot mode that perfectly balances the aesthetics of both the G1 cartoon and the movie designs.
OVERALL:
Optimus Prime is a fantastic figure and brings back to form the Studio Series line after a few of the later waves having issues of their own. Two fantastic modes, plenty of awesome sculpting and paint applications, and you have a figure that's actually worthy at full price.
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