Review: #525
Name: Refraktor
Brand: Transformers
Allegiance: Decepticon
Line: Generations - War for Cybertron: Siege
Year of Release: 2019
Size Class: Deluxe (Wave 3)
Mold Status: new
ALTERNATE MODE:
The first proper Refraktor update we've had and he transforms into an artillery hovercraft.
Unfortunately, this is a very poor attempt at an alternate mode. There is a bridge with windows, a gun in front with a type of radar dish and a nice curved back for thrusters but it is not enough.
Refraktor is on the smaller size for a Deluxe, feeling thin and light. Above is a comparison against Studio Series Deluxe Lockdown.
Since the original Reflector was comprised of three members, it's only natural to grab three of Refraktor as well (actually making it hard to find him at times).
A disappointing alternate mode but don't worry, this is really only a "filler" mode, the main course is yet to come.
TRANSFORMATION (TO CAMERA MODE):
If you have three Refraktors then you can form the camera. Considering it is three of the same exact figures, it's quite ingenious at how the designer made the weapons to be one-third of the lens and the tripod. The robot itself folds up into a cube and then pegs together. You then have the option to put the circular chest module wherever you want but but one is required for the tripod to attach, and the other you really should put as a shutter button.
CAMERA MODE:
Camera mode is pretty impressive. It's immediately recognizable and is quite an achievement considering it is made of three toys that are exactly the same, and is nothing more than three cubes pegged together with a lens and tripod attached.
The back isn't as elegant as you can clearly see the robot feet and chests. This mode holds together solidly.
Being comprised of three Deluxes (albeit small ones), the camera mode is fairly decent in size. Above is a comparison against Siege Sideswipe.
A great camera mode and frankly, this is the true alternate mode of the figure (even though you need three figures).
TRANSFORMATION (TO ROBOT MODE):
From hovercraft to robot is quite simple since the front splits to form the legs. The arms unfold from the bottom and then you flip the head up. The only interesting thing is how the chest forms from three pieces folding together.
ROBOT MODE:
Refraktor's robot mode is instantly recognizable. It is based upon Viewfinder's robot design.
As you can see, the figure is quite hollow, notably the lower legs, torso and forearms.
The headsculpt is fantastic and having a silver painted face really makes it stand out.
The robot mode is fairly small although is about on par with the other Deluxes in the line (since figures have shrunk across the board).
Thankfully, Refraktor doesn't have the ugly silver battle damage all over the robot and he is better for it.
Articulation is great although he has long double jointed elbows which can make his arms look too long.
He comes with two weapons, a shield and a gun.
He can hold the gun in either hand and the shield is very versatile since Refraktor has a ton of spots for it to peg. Officially per the instructions, it pegs onto his upper arm.
However, there is a handle for Refraktor to hold in his hand.
Then lastly, there's a slot on the outside of his forearm where you would more traditionally wield a shield. Despite being one-third of a camera lens, it looks surprisingly good as shield.
Since the circular chest module is removable, you're able to have the other two components/robots to be slightly different.
Note that Refraktor has ankle tilts which helps a lot in poses.
To give the three robots even more of a distinction, you can have each one hold the shield and gun differently.
A good robot mode that focuses on being a fun robot rather than on gimmicks.
OVERALL:
As a standalone figure, Refraktor has a weak alternate mode with a strong robot mode. However, gather three and you gain the addition of a combined camera mode which looks fantastic. It is worthwhile to spend the time and trouble to gather all three (or you can buy the exclusive version with additional parts for a more convincing camera mode).
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