Review: #550
Name: Bumblebee
Brand: Transformers
Allegiance: Autobot
Line: Tribute
Year of Release: 2019
Size Class: Deluxe
Mold Status: repaint of Age of Extinction High Octane Bumblebee
VEHICLE MODE:
Bumblebee transforms into a 1967 Camaro SS and this is a minor repaint of the original usage of the mold from the Age of Extinction line.
Unlike his normal color scheme, this version is mostly black with only a few minor pieces that are yellow. It is similar to his "stealth" color schemes.
Compared to the original mold, this version has a few plastic color changes where it is a slightly different shade.
At the height of the Deluxe shrinkage, Bumblebee is a small Deluxe and feels very light and hollow. Above is a comparison against Studio Series Lockdown.
There are no gimmicks in this mode. He can roll on flat surfaces.
A striking alternate mode, the black with minor yellow highlights works surprisingly well.
TRANSFORMATION:
The transformation feels insubstantial thanks to the small hollow pieces of plastic used. Coupled with tight joints, it can feel like you're tearing the figure apart at times. The rear forms the legs like most of the early Bumblebee designs. The hood forms the torso and this is trickier than expected due to the tight tolerances. It's just not a fun transformation.
ROBOT MODE:
Robot mode has some proportion issues with a skinny look overall, long legs and if you're looking from the sides, an empty torso.
He carries effectively all of the car on his back. It's folded up but not very neatly and still sticks out.
The headsculpt is fine. It is a balljoint so you'll have plenty of motion.
In terms of height, Bumblebee is not very tall. Again, he was released during the time when Hasbro was severely cost-cutting and it shows. His plastic feels more fragile and he's a lot lighter than other figures before and since.
Articulation is pretty good. He has ratchet joints (the ones without a metal pin) for his shoulders and elbows which is more of a curse than a blessing as they are way too tight.
His only weapon is a pressure missile launcher on his right arm. It is actually permanently attached which is quite annoying. Due to the way it is attached to the arm, firing the missile can be awkward.
He is the smallest figure out of the three in the pack, and the weakest by far.
A lot of yellow comes out in this mode to make him more recognizable as Bumblebee but the design is mediocre at best.
OVERALL:
Bumblebee isn't a great toy but is not the worst Transformer released either. Compared to the other two in the pack, even against the older mold released in 2007, he isn't up to scratch as he feels less well designed. The plastic quality also seems worse.
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