Review: 10302 Optimus Prime
Posted by CapnRex101,
Various interesting subjects have inspired LEGO models and yielded some decidedly unexpected partnerships. 10302 Optimus Prime presents an incredible example, since developing this heroic Transformer involved collaboration with Hasbro and Takara Tomy!
While surprising, this appealing rendition of the beloved Autobot leader looks absolutely spectacular and captures important details from the Generation 1 design. The famous robot and vehicle modes certainly appear impressive, while the transformation balances inspiration from the original Hasbro toy and the animated series.
Summary
10302 Optimus Prime, 1,508 pieces.
£159.99 / $179.99 / €179.99 | 10.6p/11.9c/11.9c per piece.
Buy at LEGO.com »
Optimus Prime looks magnificent in LEGO form and the transformation is amazing.
- Fantastic display value
- Enjoyable transformation
- Ample upper body articulation
- Good selection of accessories
- Limited leg articulation
- Quite expensive
The set was provided for review by LEGO. All opinions expressed are those of the author.
Box and Contents
10302 Optimus Prime belongs to the 18+ range, so features the traditional black packaging. While something more evocative of the original toy would have been superb, I think the dark backdrop complements Optimus Prime. Seeing the Hasbro and Takara Tomy branding beside the LEGO logo is surreal and the official Transformers product stamp appears on the bottom.
The box contains eleven bags, numbered between one and ten, beside the instruction manual. Information about Optimus Prime and the broader Transformers universe occupies the first few pages, including this artwork inspired by the LEGO Optimus Prime. The set designer, Joe Kyde, also provides commentary and actually worked for Hasbro, creating new Transformers, before joining LEGO!
Five stickers are included, alongside several printed elements. Of course, printing alone would have been great, but these stickers are relatively easy to apply and are therefore excusable, in my opinion.
The Completed Model
Optimus Prime measures 35cm in height, towering over numerous LEGO mechs and Hasbro versions of the Autobot leader. This design takes inspiration from both the original toy and the animated depiction, featuring perfect proportions and lovely colours. The balance between red, dark blue and light bluish grey is attractive, with scattered metallic silver highlights too.
Larger mechs frequently include limited articulation, although Optimus Prime fares reasonably well. The figure includes neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip and ankle joints, alongside swivelling knees. The omission of hinged knees is unfortunate, but the rocking ankles alone are adequate for simple and stable posing, particularly given the need for transformation functions.
Optimus Prime's distinctive head is instantly recognisable, benefiting from a new 2x2 curved wedge slope that forms his faceplate. This element previously appeared in 10309 Succulents, but was developed for Optimus and looks fantastic in metallic silver. The printed eyes and grille on Prime's forehead appear accurate too, reflecting the original animated character.
However, the design is not excessively reliant upon specialised elements and printed pieces, making clever use of dark blue blades to represent antennas. The shaping seems absolutely perfect as well, comprising wedge plates, angled tiles and curved tiles to capture details from the animations. In addition, the Autobot's head is mounted on a ball joint, improving upon the classic figure's immovable head.
The torso also looks marvellous, replicating the angled radiator grille and windscreen panels from the source material. The proportions between the chest and shoulders appear authentic too, although the narrow section around Prime's midriff should be bulkier. Moreover, the orange decoration across his hips diverges slightly from the original character design, but looks good.
Opening the chest compartment reveals space for the Matrix of Leadership, an artefact passed between Autobot leaders and channelling the power of Primus. This depiction makes good use of a pearl silver bullbar component, with light bluish grey and trans-orange pieces in the centre. The resulting shape is certainly not perfect, but avoids the need for specialised parts.
The nature of Optimus Prime's transformation creates an empty space on his back. The model therefore appears relatively untidy from behind, although that was unavoidable because these exposed hinges and voids are necessary when converting the figure to the truck configuration. While perhaps not ideal, retaining this issue from the Hasbro version feels appropriate!
Fortunately, a rocket pack is provided to occupy the vacant space. Optimus Prime borrows a similar rocket pack from Sideswipe during the animated series and this complete assembly is securely attached using two clips. The thrust nozzles are both adjustable and I like the printed Autobot symbol, between black exhaust vents.
Autobot symbols also decorate both shoulders, while the yellow arrows on Prime's wrists are printed as well. The blocky design corresponds with the original animated character and does not interfere with the articulation, permitting various dynamic poses. The hands are important in that regard, even though the fingers lack individual articulation.
Such articulation is unnecessary to grip the supplied accessories, starting with an intimidating ion blaster! Optimus Prime's signature weapon looks absolutely fantastic here, including some texture absent from the animated rifle and attaching securely on the Autobot's wrist. The simple handgrip slots perfectly into either hand, although the weight of this rifle sometimes overcomes the friction of the elbow joint.
No connection points are available for the trans-pink Energon cube, although this accessory rests comfortably on Optimus' open palm. The magenta and trans-pink colours are great, but this is easily my least favourite among the different accessories and could probably have been omitted without detracting from the set.
Optimus Prime's orange Energon axe only appeared once during the original animated series, but has become invariably associated with the Autobot leader in subsequent continuities. The trans-orange colour looks great and I love how energy blasts are integrated here, creating an impression of fizzing energy. The shape of the weapon was originally simpler, but this version looks outstanding.
While the upper body looks impressive, Optimus Prime's legs seem particularly faithful to the source material. The dark blue and light bluish grey colour blocking appears brilliant and their proportions are accurate too. While the vents on Prime's legs are often portrayed as dark blue, these metallic silver 1x2 slopes look wonderful.
Stickers are applied on the thighs, again replicating satisfying detail from the animated design. However, the stickers are presented upside down in official images and the instruction manual, since the longer panels should be situated immediately beneath the hips. Thankfully, these 2x6 tiles can be easily inverted for complete accuracy.
By contrast, the legs appear bland from behind. Nevertheless, there are no unsightly joints or inappropriate colours, instead presenting a splendid combination of smooth surfaces and anti-studs. The wheels, which memorably disappear from Prime's robot mode during the animated series, look great, but the rotating fuel tanks appear slightly strange because these are nearly always presented in a vertical position.
The transformation process remains reasonably faithful to the original toy, although the most significant change is immediately apparent as the torso rotates. This was unnecessary on the classic action figure because the wheels were positioned further forward, but needing to rotate the waist is common among modern Transformers.
Afterwards, the legs move into a horizontal position, the toes fold inwards and the fuel tanks rotate. The familiar vehicle mode becomes apparent almost immediately and I am especially delighted with the folding toes, since such minor details could easily have been overlooked or completely omitted for simplicity.
The shoulders swing behind the cab and the arms fold up underneath, before the hands are moved downwards and nestle between the front wheels. They were removed from the action figure altogether during 1984, so I am pleased that proved unnecessary here. Lastly, the grille and headlight section is secured using two vacant studs, finishing a fun transformation.
G1 Optimus Prime transforms into a Freightliner FL86 cab-over truck and this rendition looks superb. The wheels roll smoothly along the ground and nearly no evidence of the robot mode remains exposed when viewing the model from usual angles, matching the original Hasbro toy and the actual Freightliner truck!
The model measures nearly 27cm in length, so is considerably smaller than 18+ large-scale vehicles. One may reasonably question the relative value between 10300 Back to the Future Time Machine and 10302 Optimus Prime in this configuration, since the Autobot seems rather small, but the robot mode undoubtedly appears more visually impressive.
Upon receiving this set, I was pleased to discover that no disassembly was required during the transformation. However, you can swap the 2x6 tile on the front, replacing the aforementioned orange design on Optimus' waist with something better suited for this outwardly unremarkable truck. The metallic silver radiator grille looks appealing, but the central pillar on the windscreen would ideally be narrower.
The cab is not completely seamless because the arms are not actually connected to the chest, instead resting against that section. I think the design could have been improved in that regard, although any seams are partially hidden by the light bluish grey band around the cab. Moreover, Optimus Prime's head remains visible, but could easily be mistaken for mechanical detail.
The ion blaster slots between Optimus Prime's folded legs, disguised as part of the wiring and muddled cables one might encounter on any truck. Otherwise, this section of the model seems comparatively simple beside the cab, reflecting the relative ease of the leg transformation. Even so, I like the trans-red and metallic silver highlights, along with printed wheel inserts.
Small information plaques, comprising stickers applied on 6x8 ramp pieces, have appeared in many recent sets. The plaque presents the Autobot emblem alongside Optimus Prime and the character's statistics, which return from the original G1 toy packaging! The hero's most famous quotation also appears here, underneath his name in the ancient Autobot language.
Overall
The unprecedented collaboration between LEGO and Hasbro has certainly proven worthwhile, as 10302 Optimus Prime looks absolutely incredible! This model recreates extraordinary detail from the animated character and the original figure, with influence from subsequent versions of Optimus Prime's Generation 1 incarnation. The display value, as expected, is exceptional.
Admittedly, articulation is somewhat limited in certain areas, although such compromises were likely unavoidable because the transformation requires strong limbs. That process is ingenious and definitely exceeded my expectations, even though LEGO has produced some transforming vehicles before. The price of £149.99, $169.99 or €169.99 feels expensive, but seems unlikely to perturb many Transformers fans.
Hopefully more LEGO Transformers will be forthcoming in the future. Megatron is definitely the most famous potential character, but his G1 incarnation transforms into a fairly realistic gun, which would conflict with LEGO's established brand values. However, I think Bumblebee, Starscream or Soundwave seem plausible, assuming the focus upon G1 designs continues.
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141 comments on this article
I'm always astonished by the speed of reviewing after a set has been revealed.
It's likely on the expensive side because of the Hasbro tax.
Lol still can’t believe we’re getting a major Hasbro theme in Lego. GIJoeNext…I appreciate the picture of him next to the Time Machine. Wish he could’ve appeared bigger as a truck. Still so thankful they went with the original look as opposed to the movie style.
Could you post a picture of Optimus Prime next to some of the 8 wide Speed Champions? I think those cars would scale better as opposed to the DeLorean.
Man, imagine what other Hasbro themes can be on LEGO now.....
@lORDoFtHEbOARD said:
"I'm always astonished by the speed of reviewing after a set has been revealed."
LOL. LEGO sends the sets early to reviewers. I would guess that Brickset had it for about a week now.
I'm not a Transformers guy, but the way they integrated the transformation function into LEGO? It's not only cool as heck, but I imagine it was on the collective bucket lists of LEGO designers!
My only gripe is the lack of the distinctive trailer, which is a staple G1 Optimus’ vehicle form. Regardless, however, this is still an incredible set!
The same price as a Titan class figure makes this a rough value proposition for Transformers fans but it looks pretty great for what it is. Wish they omitted some of the accessories to get that price at 150 though.
@lORDoFtHEbOARD said:
"I'm always astonished by the speed of reviewing after a set has been revealed."
Lego gives popular websites advance copies and their rules say they cannot disclose any information before official release by Lego
This is so cool, although was never much into transformers as a child, preferring to play with lego :p. However as a fan of robots and action figures, it'll definitely end up finding a place on my shelves.
This is awesome! I'll totally pick it up at some point! I hope we get more characters like Starscream, but Bumblebee would definitely be the next one. I hope this isn't just one-off and we do get more.
Also the transformation is beautifully done
The orange section along his waist looks pretty faithful to a bunch of images online. But I’m certainly no Transformers expert and perhaps it was a less common design.
I would love to see a pic of Optimus Prime and Voltron together.
Great review!
As a fan who grew up watching G1 Transformers, I would love this line to continue. Megatron, Starscream, Shockwave, Bumblebee, the list goes on.
Is it just me, or does this set look like it was built with mostly old elements , especially the upper torso? The blocky chest with the transparent window panels and red hinges gives me the vibe that this is similar to what the set would look like if it was released in the 1980s. Love it!
Why does the Matrix look like a hazard light plastered onto a fence panel?
Otherwise, this is great.
I love how both models look so convincing and accurate. I was afraid that the truck would look too bully due to the legs folding up but it looks like a real truck unlike some other Optimus Prime toys. And this is made with Lego! Excellent design!
It looks great but the exposed robot parts when transformed into the truck are a bit disappointing. I've built a MOC Optimus Prime someone made a few years ago where there was a hinged back section for the cab so the head could be covered. The MOC would never pass Lego's testing for stability or build-ease though.
How does he look next to Voltron?
I was never into Transformers, but this looks very cool.
I might swap out the clear windshield pieces with light blue bricks to capture the cartoon feel a little better but otherwise this is perfect.
@Lego_Prime said:
"My only gripe is the lack of the distinctive trailer, which is a staple G1 Optimus’ vehicle form. Regardless, however, this is still an incredible set!"
I'm sure there will be a plethora of MOCs of the trailer in the next few months.
@B_Space_Man said:
"The orange section along his waist looks pretty faithful to a bunch of images online. But I’m certainly no Transformers expert and perhaps it was a less common design.
I would love to see a pic of Optimus Prime and Voltron together.
Great review!"
Someone has a photo somewhere. I want to say it was the early-released brothers brick review.
I hope Joe Perez buys one and puts it next to his Soundwave. As for Optimus, I grew up in that era and had the original toy. This looks like a solid recreation. My hope is it’s not a one-off. There must surely be a place for smaller Lego Transformers, perhaps in minifig scale (so something similar to a Speed Champions set). I’d buy the heck out of those – even if they didn’t transform and were just poseable futures.
@Lego_Prime said:
"My only gripe is the lack of the distinctive trailer, which is a staple G1 Optimus’ vehicle form. Regardless, however, this is still an incredible set!"
The trailer is iconic, but is essentially a brick and a tremendous parts hog for a Lego model. I'm glad they didn't include it! Probably would've tacked on another $100.
I would like some pictures with minifigures : )
Since he is 12 studs wide, I guess I already have an idea that he won't really fit on my old road plates.
Pictures with a modular building and the original Prime would be great too.
I love the idea behind this set! There might be other Autobots possible in the future, but I can't think of any truly iconic Decepticon counterparts that Lego would be open to producing. Megatron started as a gun and has since become a tank, Starscream is a realistic fighter jet... Soundwave is a possibility, but really has no association with Optimus. Fans would want Megatron first and foremost.
Would be interested to see him posed next to Voltron for size comparison
But, does it make the sound when you transform it??? That would be amazing if they had a sound brick that had that distinctive cartoon noise.
I know I'll get him because this is a mashup of my two main collector obsessions but would be cool if there were an accompanying gwp, e.g. a Spike MF or a cliffjumper.
Otherwise, given my outlay on Lego in 2022 so far, I am tempted to wait and see if John Lewis or anyone else ends up offering at a discount.
My biggest worry is if this is first in a new line. I'd love a starscream but my wallet wouldn't...
Prob in the minority here but I really don’t like the face. The eyes are too close together for me. Love the rest of the model though.
@capnrex101 We need a pic of it next to Voltron for a size comparison!
How long before somebody makes a Nemesis version in grayscale?
@lORDoFtHEbOARD said:
"I'm always astonished by the speed of reviewing after a set has been revealed."
You do realise reviewers get review copies well in advance of the announcement, don’t you?
I really do like how it looks, and I’m not miffed at all about the lack of knees, it's a display piece after all. I am however disappointed with the price and the size. I'd want to put him next to Voltron, but he's so small compared to Voltron. He's definitely not a day one purchase. I'll have to think about this one for a while before deciding if I want to purchase it. At that price point, I could buy several highly detailed collectible Transformers toys.
@ohrmazd said:
"Prob in the minority here but I really don’t like the face. The eyes are too close together for me. Love the rest of the model though. "
I was thinking that too! And his neck seems really narrow too.
To be fair, based on what Transformers cost nowadays, the cost seems about right. For as much as everyone complains about the cost of Lego (and rightfully so at times), the cost of Transformers toys astounds me compared to what it was 15 or so years ago.
I would also like to see a picture of Optimus Prime next to Voltron.
Any chance they manage to make an Optimus Primal or Silverbolt work?
@ohrmazd said:
"Prob in the minority here but I really don’t like the face. The eyes are too close together for me. Love the rest of the model though. "
Yeh something about eyes looks off. Maybe it's too high cause of the bracket piece underneath. If the eyes is just a plate I'll probably swap it with a transparent blue plate.
As someone who loved the original Transformers animated show in the 80s and who owns a Hasbro Optimus Prime from back then, I definitely need this set. Will wait for a discount of course, but this one is so going to join my collection.
Very big, very cool... I just don't have the money. Oh well.
The two stickers on the legs seems upside down, comparing the box image and the one on the sticker.
(I see @Bagelwolf has beat me to it, but since I'd already started typing...) Everyone is talking about "what if they make more Transformers" but I don't think it's particularly likely. Assuming we stick with G1 designs, there are almost no major characters besides Optimus who would fit with Lego's "no modern military or weaponry" policy. Certainly, choosing Decepticons would be difficult. Megatron and Starscream are out completely; Soundwave could work but would be an odd choice in the absence of the other two. I could see a Bumblebee, maybe, if they could get manage also having to license him from Volkswagen. But there aren't really any other characters prominent enough to entice the casual adult with nostalgia for the franchise - which is really what they're relying on to sell this set, much more so than AFOLs or even necessarily Transformers collectors.
@ayayop said:
"The two stickers on the legs seems upside down, comparing the box image and the one on the sticker."
The review addresses this—swapping the orientation of those stickered tiles is more accurate to how it appeared in the original cartoon.
@Lyichir said:
" @ayayop said:
"The two stickers on the legs seems upside down, comparing the box image and the one on the sticker."
The review addresses this—swapping the orientation of those stickered tiles is more accurate to how it appeared in the original cartoon."
Thanks, I should have read the whole article before posting comments.
@JMLego said:
"I might swap out the clear windshield pieces with light blue bricks to capture the cartoon feel a little better but otherwise this is perfect."
They could have gone for trans light blue, right. Thank god it's Lego so we can customize anything. :D
I appreciate the photo next to the delorean but I would've also liked a photo next to Voltron. Is he a lot taller? Shorter?
@JasterMereel42 said:
"It's likely on the expensive side because of the Hasbro tax."
There is no Hasbro tax. There is no Disney tax. Every single set is priced based almost entirely on perceived demand and what the company thinks it can get. Like basically every modern company, they are constantly doing both internal research and external research (through consulting firms) to determine the highest prices they can charge to optimize returns. Every price tag is a result of those calculations. It's not really any more complicated than that.
Nice. Now do Wheeljack!
@kalexicon said:
"(I see @Bagelwolf has beat me to it, but since I'd already started typing...) Everyone is talking about "what if they make more Transformers" but I don't think it's particularly likely. Assuming we stick with G1 designs, there are almost no major characters besides Optimus who would fit with Lego's "no modern military or weaponry" policy. Certainly, choosing Decepticons would be difficult. Megatron and Starscream are out completely; Soundwave could work but would be an odd choice in the absence of the other two. I could see a Bumblebee, maybe, if they could get manage also having to license him from Volkswagen. But there aren't really any other characters prominent enough to entice the casual adult with nostalgia for the franchise - which is really what they're relying on to sell this set, much more so than AFOLs or even necessarily Transformers collectors."
Surely pretty much all the Autobots are fine, being cars / robots. And pretty much all the Deceptions are troublesome being military planes etc.
However, we know Lego loves space shuttles.
We know Lego trains are popular.
And when talking about Transformers, we are well in the Lego mech wheelhouse.
So... Astrotrain it is.
@illennium said:
" @JasterMereel42 said:
"It's likely on the expensive side because of the Hasbro tax."
There is no Hasbro tax. There is no Disney tax. Every single set is priced based almost entirely on perceived demand and what the company thinks it can get. Like basically every modern company, they are constantly doing both internal research and external research (through consulting firms) to determine the highest prices they can charge to optimize returns. Every price tag is a result of those calculations. It's not really any more complicated than that. "
I mean, yeah, what the market is willing to pay determines the ultimate price point... but it's disingenuous to insist that licensing fees aren't a factor at all. Licensing costs money and that cost impacts both the decision of whether or not to license an external property in the first place, as well as how much more profit a licensed set or theme ultimately has to make to be worth that investment.
Lego D&D next, please ; )
@JasterMereel42 said:
"It's likely on the expensive side because of the Hasbro tax."
It's not a hasbro tax, but the fact they have to license from two separate companies. I don't know all the specifics of the arrangement, but I believe it's something like: Takara owns the rights to the figure and hasbro owns the rights to the name optimus prime
@Lyichir said:
" @illennium said:
" @JasterMereel42 said:
"It's likely on the expensive side because of the Hasbro tax."
There is no Hasbro tax. There is no Disney tax. Every single set is priced based almost entirely on perceived demand and what the company thinks it can get. Like basically every modern company, they are constantly doing both internal research and external research (through consulting firms) to determine the highest prices they can charge to optimize returns. Every price tag is a result of those calculations. It's not really any more complicated than that. "
I mean, yeah, what the market is willing to pay determines the ultimate price point... but it's disingenuous to insist that licensing fees aren't a factor at all. Licensing costs money and that cost impacts both the decision of whether or not to license an external property in the first place, as well as how much more profit a licensed set or theme ultimately has to make to be worth that investment."
Of course, but licensing costs are spread across the entire product line, not factored into the cost of individual sets. Licensing costs are one of many reasons why ALL LEGO products are expensive, but they're not a reason why any individual set is expensive.
People who talk about Disney tax etc. are always hard pressed to explain why City is consistently one of the most overpriced lines. And it's just because demand for City is perpetually high, just as it is for Star Wars and other popular lines.
We care about Transformers 'cos there's more than meets the eye
@illennium said:
" @Lyichir said:
" @illennium said:
" @JasterMereel42 said:
"It's likely on the expensive side because of the Hasbro tax."
There is no Hasbro tax. There is no Disney tax. Every single set is priced based almost entirely on perceived demand and what the company thinks it can get. Like basically every modern company, they are constantly doing both internal research and external research (through consulting firms) to determine the highest prices they can charge to optimize returns. Every price tag is a result of those calculations. It's not really any more complicated than that. "
I mean, yeah, what the market is willing to pay determines the ultimate price point... but it's disingenuous to insist that licensing fees aren't a factor at all. Licensing costs money and that cost impacts both the decision of whether or not to license an external property in the first place, as well as how much more profit a licensed set or theme ultimately has to make to be worth that investment."
Of course, but licensing costs are spread across the entire product line, not factored into the cost of individual sets. Licensing costs are one of many reasons why ALL LEGO products are expensive, but they're not a reason why any individual set is expensive.
People who talk about Disney tax etc. are always hard pressed to explain why City is consistently one of the most overpriced lines. And it's just because demand for City is perpetually high, just as it is for Star Wars and other popular lines."
Do you have proof there’s no special costs associated with these licensed sets?
@illennium said:
" @Lyichir said:
" @illennium said:
" @JasterMereel42 said:
"It's likely on the expensive side because of the Hasbro tax."
There is no Hasbro tax. There is no Disney tax. Every single set is priced based almost entirely on perceived demand and what the company thinks it can get. Like basically every modern company, they are constantly doing both internal research and external research (through consulting firms) to determine the highest prices they can charge to optimize returns. Every price tag is a result of those calculations. It's not really any more complicated than that. "
I mean, yeah, what the market is willing to pay determines the ultimate price point... but it's disingenuous to insist that licensing fees aren't a factor at all. Licensing costs money and that cost impacts both the decision of whether or not to license an external property in the first place, as well as how much more profit a licensed set or theme ultimately has to make to be worth that investment."
Of course, but licensing costs are spread across the entire product line, not factored into the cost of individual sets. Licensing costs are one of many reasons why ALL LEGO products are expensive, but they're not a reason why any individual set is expensive.
People who talk about Disney tax etc. are always hard pressed to explain why City is consistently one of the most overpriced lines. And it's just because demand for City is perpetually high, just as it is for Star Wars and other popular lines."
Well, yes, the costs of licensing are normally distributed across a product line. But when a set is standalone like this (not part of a larger theme), that one set has to recoup those licensing fees. So compared to something like Star Wars or Marvel the impact of the licensing on the price of a set like this is a little more evident, especially since (as mentioned above) it involves licensing from two separate companies, each of which will want their cut.
@AustinPowers said:
"As someone who loved the original Transformers animated show in the 80s and who owns a Hasbro Optimus Prime from back then, I definitely need this set. Will wait for a discount of course, but this one is so going to join my collection. "
I’m genuinely curious what type of discounts you are referring to. I don’t ever see discounts on large popular set but maybe it depends on regional stores and websites.
As I am concerned, this is the biggest LEGO-yawn ever...
I thought his most famous line was "Let's roll out!" Shows what I know...
Anyway, I loved Transformers as a kid. I love that they created this with the ability to transform. I'm not sure if I can swing getting it, but it is added to the list and will see how the LEGO chips fall this year.
I tried getting Voltron for a discount when LEGO offered it and then they canceled my order, so I either wait on this or snatch it right away when funds allow me to...decisions.
@B_Space_Man methinks the discounts usually happen overseas. Not very often (if ever) here in the US.
Even when back as a kid in the 80s I loved robots and I loved everything with wheels (well, I still do...), I always thought the whole concept was just silly and didn't make any sense. And honestly, that never changed. But damn is this set awesome! Apparently everything I needed to be turned into a Transformers fan was some Lego....
Too bad for those stickers, but luckily not too many and also some good prints. There's just one thing I don't like, and that's the price. So once again, waiting for some nice discounts....
For all those wanting a comparison picture with Voltron, Brothers Brick already has it in their review.
I count 7 printed tiles (likely unique to this set), but then they added 5 stickers? Why not all printed or all stickers?
@mrzeon said:
"I count 7 printed tiles (likely unique to this set), but then they added 5 stickers? Why not all printed or all stickers?"
Cost
@B_Space_Man said:
" @AustinPowers said:
"As someone who loved the original Transformers animated show in the 80s and who owns a Hasbro Optimus Prime from back then, I definitely need this set. Will wait for a discount of course, but this one is so going to join my collection. "
I’m genuinely curious what type of discounts you are referring to. I don’t ever see discounts on large popular set but maybe it depends on regional stores and websites. "
Inevitably almost every set ends up on Amazon someday. And some, like this one, are available at select online retailers from the start. 15% discount is the norm with pre-orders at JB Spielwaren for example, and Amazon discounts range from 5 to 50% on most sets.
The funny thing is, I used to be quite envious at all those people from the US who regularly posted about huge discounts at places like Target or Wal-Mart.
@markyman20 said:
"Is it just me, or does this set look like it was built with mostly old elements , especially the upper torso? The blocky chest with the transparent window panels and red hinges gives me the vibe that this is similar to what the set would look like if it was released in the 1980s. Love it!"
Nah, a very small proportion of these parts were available back in the 80s. I mean, even the standard plates are new- we've got some 1x5s on our hands!
This is cool, and I'm sure my son will be grabbing one. I'd be down for Starscream and classic Soundwave as well, although the latter is probably a pipe-dream, since boom boxes haven't been popular for a very long time.
Kudos to CapnRex101 for the excellent and comprehensive review! Look forward to this model
Not justifying or defending the cost, but...
People should check out how much the Masterpiece line of TF toys go for. Those are also on a larger scale like this set and are based on the G1 (i.e. original '80s) designs. They're priced at or above this set's price point, which has been made even worse in past years because no major retailers in the US sell them anymore and you basically have to go through importers to get them now.
Even when Hasbro releases remakes of the original G1 toys from the '80s (as in, exactly the same blocky toy from back then) and major US retailers sell them, they retail for crazy amounts.
So, regardless of licensing fee or not, this seems on par for TF toys based on what I've seen, unfortunately.
@Sethro3 said:
"I thought his most famous line was "Let's roll out!" Shows what I know..."
"Transform and roll out" is easily his most iconic line, but besides Hasbro's dodging of trademark genericization (hence why the box says he "converts"), "Freedom is the right of all sentient beings" is his motto from his Tech Specs, same place the stats on the plate are from.
The close-up of the rifle can't help but make me think of how different Lego and Hasbro were when Transformers came out. Lego explicitly avoided firearms and weapons. I'm not trying to make social commentary here, just observing how companies evolve their vision and values.
You may think it's expensive...but I will still be there to buy it on Day 1.
Like the DeLorean, I'm going to the store in person to make sure I have it in my hands that day and I'm not waiting for LaserShip to send me a dented box.
@AcademyofDrX said:
"Cost"
Let me correct you: Greed.
While I can get over those few stickers here, at €170 for a bunch of plastic, cost could and should never be an issue.
Can't wait til we start getting sets based on 90s nostalgia. What would that even be?
... Actually, scratch that, it's probably just Lego Star Wars in my case.
@MisterBrickster maybe a buildable Furby or Tickle me Elmo (I mean they did work with Sesame Street already). With LEGO's interest in APP based items, maybe a Tamagotchi?
Brothers-Brick has Optimus next to Voltron for those asking: https://www.brothers-brick.com/2022/05/12/lego-the-transformers-10302-optimus-prime-is-more-than-meets-the-eye-review/more-347824
@Sethro3 said:
" @MisterBrickster maybe a buildable Furby or Tickle me Elmo (I mean they did work with Sesame Street already). With LEGO's interest in APP based items, maybe a Tamagotchi?"
If they DID do a Furby, would it have the fur be removable to reveal the creepy animatronic underneath? Heck, they could even pull the Simpson's molds out of the dusty drawer they're in and recreate that one classic episode with the Furby-parody!
@MisterBrickster said:
"Can't wait til we start getting sets based on 90s nostalgia. What would that even be?"
Much more looking forward to the bit of 70s nostalgia due later this year... just hoping the woodgrain finish is captured well!
@jaap3740 said:
"Could you post a picture of Optimus Prime next to some of the 8 wide Speed Champions? I think those cars would scale better as opposed to the DeLorean."
I was just wondering to myself a month or so ago how easy it would be to modify the Lamborghini Countach to resemble Red Alert (or maybe RID Prowl). Guess it's time to take a more serious look at that.
I've been a fan of Transformers G1 since my childhood. I have almost all the G1 toys as well, so this set is a no-brainer. :-D
@AustinPowers said:
" @B_Space_Man said:
" @AustinPowers said:
"As someone who loved the original Transformers animated show in the 80s and who owns a Hasbro Optimus Prime from back then, I definitely need this set. Will wait for a discount of course, but this one is so going to join my collection. "
I’m genuinely curious what type of discounts you are referring to. I don’t ever see discounts on large popular set but maybe it depends on regional stores and websites. "
Inevitably almost every set ends up on Amazon someday. And some, like this one, are available at select online retailers from the start. 15% discount is the norm with pre-orders at JB Spielwaren for example, and Amazon discounts range from 5 to 50% on most sets.
The funny thing is, I used to be quite envious at all those people from the US who regularly posted about huge discounts at places like Target or Wal-Mart. "
Maybe I'm doing it wrong, but I rarely see discounts over here. The best ones are at huge online retailers like Amazon.com and Bol.com, but that's about it for most of the year except for once in a blue moon or on specific days of the year where one store has a price fest week or something. And as I won't buy from Amazon (both on moral principle and because I'm not getting a credit card just for that) I always feel a bit sad whenever people say the high prices have discounts factored into them. Because over here if you want a set, most options except for a few specific ones will demand the full amount. At this point you have to hunt around just to find something for a decent price. If you're lucky.
As for the set... It looks soo goood. It's just weird to see an official Lego Transformer. For all my life I was certain Mattel and Lego are too directly in competition with each other to ever do something like this. But here we are! And of course it's an overly huge, overly detailed display model. But I must say, it's genuinely impressive, what with the working transformation and limited -but available- articulation! I think that they did well with this one, if you want an expensive, buildable version of an 80s robot toy.
As I said before and will say again:
Lego's ongoing quest to make a set out of every popular IP in existence continues on...
Now with even more unlikely IPs than ever before! Gotta brick them all!?
I was planning on getting the BTTF Time Machine next. I just changed my mind. I was never really a fan of Transformers when I was a kid but oh my word this looks incredible. Great review , thank you.
EDIT: Please also note that in my enthusiastic haste I accidentally sent the above as a message. Oops, sorry!
@Binnekamp said:
" @AustinPowers said:
" @B_Space_Man said:
" @AustinPowers said:
"As someone who loved the original Transformers animated show in the 80s and who owns a Hasbro Optimus Prime from back then, I definitely need this set. Will wait for a discount of course, but this one is so going to join my collection. "
I’m genuinely curious what type of discounts you are referring to. I don’t ever see discounts on large popular set but maybe it depends on regional stores and websites. "
Inevitably almost every set ends up on Amazon someday. And some, like this one, are available at select online retailers from the start. 15% discount is the norm with pre-orders at JB Spielwaren for example, and Amazon discounts range from 5 to 50% on most sets.
The funny thing is, I used to be quite envious at all those people from the US who regularly posted about huge discounts at places like Target or Wal-Mart. "
Maybe I'm doing it wrong, but I rarely see discounts over here. The best ones are at huge online retailers like Amazon.com and Bol.com, but that's about it for most of the year except for once in a blue moon or on specific days of the year where one store has a price fest week or something. And as I won't buy from Amazon (both on moral principle and because I'm not getting a credit card just for that) I always feel a bit sad whenever people say the high prices have discounts factored into them. Because over here if you want a set, most options except for a few specific ones will demand the full amount. At this point you have to hunt around just to find something for a decent price. If you're lucky."
You're not doing it wrong , many sets don't even appear outside of LEGO's own shop, like 31120 in Netherlands, or 60305 , 60326 or 60327 and none are like big 18+ sets.
A few big sets like Barracuda Bay and Blacksmith Shop eventually did appear outside, but there seemed to be a rule in place at maximum 15% discount for those at places like Bol.
@Murdoch17 said:
" @capnrex101 We need a pic of it next to Voltron for a size comparison!"
I was going to post the same thing! Size comparison, please!
I will be passing on this set. I never did enjoy the cartoon. The only movie that I watched was when bumble bee was the beat up Camaro.
@Binnekamp said:
"Maybe I'm doing it wrong, but I rarely see discounts over here."Are you familiar with Brickwatch ( https://www.brickwatch.net/nl-NL/ )? Sure, a lot of the best prices are indeed Amazon (you can actually use iDeal at amazon.nl, though that won't take away the moral issues...), but you can often still get some good discounts at other shops. Do keep in mind that they don't watch all shops out there, but it's a convenient starting point.
@curtydc said:
"I am however disappointed with the price and the size. I'd want to put him next to Voltron, but he's so small compared to Voltron."
Are you saying that he should have been less expensive and a bit smaller? That would make sense, because the "real" Voltron is about 10 times taller than G1 Optimus Prime. I think that the scale we are getting is probably due to the pieces that OP's designers wanted to build around (grill tiles, etc.).
I love the way this looks.
It helps that it's a toy of a toy that was in a cell-animated cartoon.
The lines, design, and colors are basic and that translates very well to Lego.
I'll be picking this up eventually. It actually has a play feature that I would enjoy playing with.
@Pompatus said:
" @lORDoFtHEbOARD said:
"I'm always astonished by the speed of reviewing after a set has been revealed."
You do realise reviewers get review copies well in advance of the announcement, don’t you?
"
I do. I just think they're some lucky basterds :D
But ... great review by capn', as always ;)
So ... with Voltron and G1 Optimus Prime, are we getting a Gundam next? Because that would be great. And, yes, some of the recent Ninjago mechs have definitely channeled some Gundam (and other anime) vibes. They're great, too.
@jaap3740:
This is a 12-wide build. It’s going to positively dwarf even the 8-wide Speed Champions, about as bad as they dwarf proper 6-wide cars (it is a semi cab, so some of that’s just being wider than most passenger vehicles).
@Bagelwolf:
In addition to being the inspiration for the Decepticon symbol, Soundwave is easily one of the most popular Decepticons.
@kalexicon:
G1 Megatron is out because they’ll never make a realistic, lifesize gun. I think there are some modern versions that hearken back to the G1 robot mode, while transforming into not-a-pistol. The “no military” clause covers licensed builds, but there have been many jet fighter models that were not licensed, but clearly took design cues from real military planes. There’s no reason they can’t give a nod towards an F-15 or F-22, as long as they don’t label it as such.
@Desbug:
No.
@mrzeon:
When they make a licensed set, the licensor has to approve various aspects of the product before it’s cleared to go into production. For this set, those Autobot logos are very critical, and have to present well on the model. They can also be repurposed for any other Autobots they make down the road. Optimus Prime’s belt buckle, not so much. The face is critical for play, and going back to the Chima Legend Beasts, they have tried to make sure key design elements like faces are printed, while patterns on legs can be skipped. Speed Champions recently started printing headlights for this very reason, while vents and race sponsor logos go on the sticker sheet. And the third reason they go with print over stickers (not evident here) is complexity of applying the sticker. Radar dishes are printed because you can’t get a sticker to lie smooth on a compound curved surface.
@MugenPower:
Once in a blue moon I’ll spot a smaller Masterpiece bot at Target. Losing TRU hurt in that respect. That’s where I bought Soundwave, Soundblaster, and two copies of Skywarp.
@Binnekamp:
Well, they are in direct competition with each other, since Mattel bought Mega. That’s why they licensed this from Hasbro. Also because Hasbro owns the IP.
@EvilTwin said:
"We care about Transformers 'cos there's more than meets the eye"
We Care A Lot
Undeniably, this is going to sell like hot cakes.
@vagabondnma said:
"We Care A Lot"
Oh, it's a dirty job but someone's gotta do it!
I want this, but the price is disgusting. I was considering it until I saw it next to the DeLorean. The DeLorean is overpriced as is, and this even even smaller? For the same price? I cashed in $100 worth of VIP points for the DeLorean and still felt ripped off.
I have added a comparison photo with 21311 Voltron. As you can see, Optimus Prime is significantly smaller, although this benefits his articulation because the limbs are lighter.
Thanks for the suggestion!
@B_Space_Man said:
" @AustinPowers said:
"As someone who loved the original Transformers animated show in the 80s and who owns a Hasbro Optimus Prime from back then, I definitely need this set. Will wait for a discount of course, but this one is so going to join my collection. "
I’m genuinely curious what type of discounts you are referring to. I don’t ever see discounts on large popular set but maybe it depends on regional stores and websites.
"
In Canada Toys R Us are having a specific theme (SW/Disney/Marvel/Friends/City...) for 15%-20% off every week/every other week. Amazon.ca has lots of sales,. Mastermind Toys have comparable sales to Toys R Us. Walmart, not so much. Costco have some of the sets with a lower price, even sets like ideas and creator expert. Canadian Tire are having sales, $10 off here or there.
It's not hard to find a good deal if you're not the "must own on day 1" shopper. If Prime is not D2C only, it'll go on sale.
@PurpleDave said:
"The face is critical for play, and going back to the Chima Legend Beasts, they have tried to make sure key design elements like faces are printed."
This is true but another factor in why the eyes are printed is that they're on the edge of a plate—I don't think Lego has ever tried to have a sticker on that small a surface, at least not in the past decade or two.
Looks amazing and the transformation looks as good as the original 80s die cast set (which I still have).
Definite buy for me.
I would’ve expected to see the conventional Lego smokestack element (65571) make an appearance here since it more closely resembles what original Optimus Prime had. Does it not work or look way out of scale?
@lORDoFtHEbOARD said:
"I'm always astonished by the speed of reviewing after a set has been revealed."
Why’s that? They’ve likely received the set with ample time to prepare said review just as soon as Lego does the official reveal.
Wow, my wife LOVES Optimus, but when I showed her this she was not interested in the slightest. Odd that, but then she actually likes the Bey films, which I think are....poor.
@Lyichir:
I would lump those in with radar dishes as “too difficult/impossible to apply). And yeah, while I regularly shoot down entitlement claims that D2C sets should always be sticker-free, the front stripe on the new UCS Landspeeder looks like something that should have fallen into the same category. So, critical to play, required by the licensor, too difficult to sticker, and likely to be used often enough to be worth printing. I really can’t think of a fifth category.
I only got into Transformers the week before the rumors of this set came out, seems very fitting.
I'm only a new and casual fan, but I just might get this set for its display value, as I would really like to observe the drooling whenever I might have guests over :D
I seem to be in the vast minority here: I LOVE Transformers (I grew up with G1) and I obviously love Lego, but this just looks really off to me. I really, really dislike it. And for $170?? No way - I'd rather pony up for the recent Earthrise Optimus Prime, itself selling for much more than retail price now but still for less money than this. I just don't get the love here.
The mouth/mask piece would do better to be built out further/ in line with the blue brow line and the eyes would do better on the top of the silver mask piece but I appreciate how difficult these details get at this scale. It’s generally a wonderful achievement with an over inflated price.
My favorite Transformer is Grimlock, but I’m guessing they’ll do Bumblebee and Megatron before him. When it comes to Megatron, they could always turn him into a tank or fighter plane like the more modern figures; given Indiana Jones, LEGO seems to have little issue with that, or at least did fifteen years ago. I personally prefer Megatron turning into a vehicle anyways, the idea that he shrinks as a gun so Starscream can hold him always broke my suspension of disbelief.
In general, I can see this becoming very profitable for both companies, and the existence of stats on the display stand indicates there will be more of them (what use are they without any others to compare Prime with?) Hopefully, we’ll see the Dinobot King soon enough!
This looks so good. I need this.
@Dare_Wreck said:
"I seem to be in the vast minority here: I LOVE Transformers (I grew up with G1) and I obviously love Lego, but this just looks really off to me."
In what way?
I've just compared it again with my original Hasbro Optimus Prime from the 80s, and to me it seems very faithful to the source material.
@shokwave2 said:
"As a fan who grew up watching G1 Transformers, I would love this line to continue. Megatron, Starscream, Shockwave, Bumblebee, the list goes on."
This one's excellent but I suspect it will fall into a similar category to many other Creator Expert, 18+ sets without a subtheme, i.e. Subject covered, move on. It could happen, but probably as likely as a series of different types of pianos or typewriters!
Great review. I especially liked the Voltron side-by-side picture. I was wondering about that. Answered my every question. Now it's about colecting enough spare change to get the set...
@CCC said:
"If you view LEGO as just a bunch of plastic, you can do much better for your money elsewhere. You can even collect a bunch of plastic from the trash or recycling bins for nothing."
Well, that's the thing: considering the prices Lego is asking, we can ask for it to be a bit more than just a bunch of plastic, can't we?
Like I said many times before: I don't mind paying premium prices for Lego, as long as they deliver premium quality.
As for those, at least in continental Europe, looking for a bargain, JB Spielwaren currently has the set for pre-order for 144.49 Euro - plus you get several polybags for free along with it.
Perhaps @Huw or @CapnRex101 could add the Brickset affiliate link for anyone who is interested.
@Lyichir said:
" @PurpleDave said:
"The face is critical for play, and going back to the Chima Legend Beasts, they have tried to make sure key design elements like faces are printed."
This is true but another factor in why the eyes are printed is that they're on the edge of a plate—I don't think Lego has ever tried to have a sticker on that small a surface, at least not in the past decade or two."
Not lately, perhaps, but 6634-1 has stickers on the long edge of 1x2 plates.
@Peeeeeeet:
And badly applied, by the look of it. The left and bottom edges appear to extend just far enough past the edges of the part that the sticker will catch on everything, dirt and dust will work its way underneath, and before you know it you have an unsticky sticker that’s laying on the floor.
@AustinPowers said:
" @Dare_Wreck said:
"I seem to be in the vast minority here: I LOVE Transformers (I grew up with G1) and I obviously love Lego, but this just looks really off to me."
In what way?
I've just compared it again with my original Hasbro Optimus Prime from the 80s, and to me it seems very faithful to the source material. "
You know what I think it is? It's the head - it looks like a caricature of Optimus, which throws the entire model off for me. The truck mode looks pretty decent, though. Honestly, there have been so many good Optimus Prime toys lately that I don't see the benefits of getting one (an expensive one at that!) made out of Lego that doesn't look as (*puts on sunglasses*) prime as the others. My young kid really loves Transformers and Lego, too, so I think part of my problem is my anxiety kicking in, thinking about him grabbing it off a shelf, playing with it, and losing pieces.
@Dare_Wreck said:
You know what I think it is? It's the head - it looks like a caricature of Optimus, which throws the entire model off for me. The truck mode looks pretty decent, though. Honestly, there have been so many good Optimus Prime toys lately that I don't see the benefits of getting one (an expensive one at that!) made out of Lego that doesn't look as (*puts on sunglasses*) prime as the others. My young kid really loves Transformers and Lego, too, so I think part of my problem is my anxiety kicking in, thinking about him grabbing it off a shelf, playing with it, and losing pieces.]]
Call it "battle damage"! ;-)
I'm going to just skip all other comments, because this is one parade I don't need any rain on - I'll be getting this thing ASAP, and I will summon all of my untapped Karen-potential to demand the G1 Megatron to [go along with]/[stand against]/[shockingly befriend and then predictably betray] Ultimate Robot Dad.
Yes, sure, Megatron becomes a gun. Who cares - we've also got life-sized licensed warhammers, life-sized licensed lightsabres and life-sized licensed murder-symbiotes. If I can rob anyone with a gun made out of Lego, maybe that person deserved to be robbed.
@TeriXeri said:
" @Binnekamp said:
" @AustinPowers said:
" @B_Space_Man said:
" @AustinPowers said:
"As someone who loved the original Transformers animated show in the 80s and who owns a Hasbro Optimus Prime from back then, I definitely need this set. Will wait for a discount of course, but this one is so going to join my collection. "
I’m genuinely curious what type of discounts you are referring to. I don’t ever see discounts on large popular set but maybe it depends on regional stores and websites. "
Inevitably almost every set ends up on Amazon someday. And some, like this one, are available at select online retailers from the start. 15% discount is the norm with pre-orders at JB Spielwaren for example, and Amazon discounts range from 5 to 50% on most sets.
The funny thing is, I used to be quite envious at all those people from the US who regularly posted about huge discounts at places like Target or Wal-Mart. "
Maybe I'm doing it wrong, but I rarely see discounts over here. The best ones are at huge online retailers like Amazon.com and Bol.com, but that's about it for most of the year except for once in a blue moon or on specific days of the year where one store has a price fest week or something. And as I won't buy from Amazon (both on moral principle and because I'm not getting a credit card just for that) I always feel a bit sad whenever people say the high prices have discounts factored into them. Because over here if you want a set, most options except for a few specific ones will demand the full amount. At this point you have to hunt around just to find something for a decent price. If you're lucky."
You're not doing it wrong , many sets don't even appear outside of LEGO's own shop, like 31120 in Netherlands, or 60305 , 60326 or 60327 and none are like big 18+ sets.
A few big sets like Barracuda Bay and Blacksmith Shop eventually did appear outside, but there seemed to be a rule in place at maximum 15% discount for those at places like Bol."
Usually bol.com follows amazon.nl, and otherwise amazon.de / .es /.fr /.it will do the trick. And I feel that there are a lot of discounts in NL. The only exception are the Chinese festivity sets. Intertoys also often has a lot of good offers.
Optimus’ face looks a little queer due to the lack of his nose; at least, that’s what I find off-putting.
I think if they had been able to print two lines in-between his eyes to represent his nose, he’d look better.
@CapnRex101 , @Huw Do sets like this have an official exclusivity status and if so, are you supposed to not reveal it? For instance, elsewhere this set has been stated as being exclusive until August and then having a wider release. Exclusivity is extremely useful to know, especially when it's only for a limited period, but I can understand why it might not be generally publicised.
@sjr60 said:
" @CapnRex101 , @Huw Do sets like this have an official exclusivity status and if so, are you supposed to not reveal it? For instance, elsewhere this set has been stated as being exclusive until August and then having a wider release. Exclusivity is extremely useful to know, especially when it's only for a limited period, but I can understand why it might not be generally publicised."
We've not been told that, but I believe it to be the case: German retailers are advertising availability from August.
@Huw said:
"German retailers are advertising availability from August."
Thanks.
I don't mind paying full retail if a set is a permanent exclusive, but it's a bit galling if a set pops up unexpectedly on wide release for 25% off when you've just paid rrp for it.
@Huw said:
" @sjr60 said:
" @CapnRex101 , @Huw Do sets like this have an official exclusivity status and if so, are you supposed to not reveal it? For instance, elsewhere this set has been stated as being exclusive until August and then having a wider release. Exclusivity is extremely useful to know, especially when it's only for a limited period, but I can understand why it might not be generally publicised."
We've not been told that, but I believe it to be the case: German retailers are advertising availability from August."
JB Spielwaren lists it as a June release.
@AustinPowers said:
" @Huw said:
" @sjr60 said:
" @CapnRex101 , @Huw Do sets like this have an official exclusivity status and if so, are you supposed to not reveal it? For instance, elsewhere this set has been stated as being exclusive until August and then having a wider release. Exclusivity is extremely useful to know, especially when it's only for a limited period, but I can understand why it might not be generally publicised."
We've not been told that, but I believe it to be the case: German retailers are advertising availability from August."
JB Spielwaren lists it as a June release. "
I only see it listed there as
'Pre-order available from 31.07.2022'
My order confirmation said June 1, but even if it was August 1, I'm a happy camper. I have waited decades for such a set, what's another month or two.
@AustinPowers said:
"My order confirmation said June 1, but even if it was August 1, I'm a happy camper. I have waited decades for such a set, what's another month or two. "
Be interesting to see when you get it... maybe a few early ones have slipped through!
Insanely good. It looks like could be minifig scale? If so, an Optimus Prime in our Lego city could be spectacular. Only concern is availability. This’ll be popular.
With this, a rumoured UCS Razor Crest, Creator Lighthouse, massive Eiffel Tower, Jazz Quartet, (and I’ve still to buy the UCS AT AT), Lego are knocking it out of the park at the moment. They obviously know the adult market is lucrative.
@lORDoFtHEbOARD said:
"I'm always astonished by the speed of reviewing after a set has been revealed."
They'll have had the set for a while, and been able to build and play with it, and photograph it. LEGO would have put an embargo on releasing the review until a set date and time. The Brick Brothers' review went live first, but was subsequently pulled until a later time.
I was looking forward to a LEGO-Transformer, the two passions of my infantry.
On one side I'm a bit disappointed: I expected a lager size and details (or, alternatively, the trail!) for a 170€ set. the image that compares Optimus Prime with Voltron, a set with a similar price point, clearly shows what I mean. The Matrix is very poor also, and I will try to add a 1x1 tr-blue round plate on the centre in some way. I'll try to make fingers independent to, if possible (at a first glance it seems feasible replacing the 1x3 blue plate with three 1x1 plates and maybe adding or replacing a clip).
On the other side the model is great: a G1 Optimus (deo gratias), transformable, with a good selection of accessories. I mean to buy it, sooner or later.
You got the clutch! You got the pow-ah!
@Calabar:
When comparing sets against each other to determine value, it’s important to remember 21311 was about a $230 set that retailed for $180. It was underpriced, at $0.078/pc. This is a $150 set that retails for $170. It’s slightly overpriced at $0.113/pc, but in a direct comparison of course it’s going to look bad. It’s almost 50% more expensive…than a set that was almost 25% underpriced.
Regarding the changes you want to make, the fingers will be a snap, if it’s only for display. Headlight plates on the outside fingers, and a clip plate in the center means you shouldn’t have to do anything to the knuckles. Remove the 1x3 plate, or replace it with 1x1 plates, and they’ll be individually posable. The outside fingers won’t have a strong connection though, and playing with them will probably result in them coming off, not to mention the risk of cracking one of the knuckles with rough play. This mitten-hand design is almost certainly done to kid-proof the design.
For the Matrix, careful examination of the one photo in this review shows that it uses part 23444 (Bar 1 x 6 x 3 with 4 Studs) as the frame, which is not attached to the rest of it. The center bit has 4x nipple tiles, attached to the chest cavity by the bars. I can’t see clearly what’s behind them, but I think there’s a black bracket with a 2x2 face, and it looks like there’s something 2x2 round sandwiched between them (but it’d need hollow or recessed studs for this to work). Plugged into the anti-studs of the nipple tiles is a light-bley 2x2 round plate, and a trans-orange boat stud completes the design. As far as changing that, good luck. I’ve played around with a few ideas for how to fit a trans-blue center into a trans-orange design, and haven’t had much luck. Best I could come up with is to pinch a 1x1 round plate between the boat stud’s studs, and plug that stud into a donut tile. I’m just not sure if that will fit through the frame.
Pass. For that price, I could pick up a Masterpiece version.
The lack of knees is also a deal breaker.
@PurpleDave said:
"nipple tiles"
I'd say the G-rated term is jumper plate, but you do you.
@R1_Drift:
https://brickset.com/parts/design-20482
^ nipple tile, as used for the nipple on the water bottle in 71018-14
https://brickset.com/parts/design-3794
https://brickset.com/parts/design-15573
^ jumper plate
The jokes pretty much write themselves, but they would definitely not be G-rated. If you’d joined in the discussion Sunday, you might have learned about a few G-rated, non-biological uses for the term “nipple”:
https://brickset.com/article/74991/random-part-of-the-day-plate-1x1-w-3-2-shaft-1-5-hole
I must confess that I’m very confused about why you thought I was referring to a jumper plate.
Can't wait to have him next to the Bishoujo Optimus Prime ^.^
Love that final image, I was curious form the first reveal how Optimus and Voltron compared
My brother: "Damn you, Lego! I thought I was finished with your expensive sets!"
If he's getting it, then I have to. I gotta rep to protect.
@PurpleDave said:
" @R1_Drift :
https://brickset.com/parts/design-20482
^ nipple tile, as used for the nipple on the water bottle in 71018-14
https://brickset.com/parts/design-3794
https://brickset.com/parts/design-15573
^ jumper plate
The jokes pretty much write themselves, but they would definitely not be G-rated. If you’d joined in the discussion Sunday, you might have learned about a few G-rated, non-biological uses for the term “nipple”:
https://brickset.com/article/74991/random-part-of-the-day-plate-1x1-w-3-2-shaft-1-5-hole
I must confess that I’m very confused about why you thought I was referring to a jumper plate."
"Mummy, have you seen my jumper?"
(Ginny Weasley, HP 2).
I repeat this line everytime I pull out a bag o jumper plates... just to annoy my son. It's a great Dad-nerd annoyance tactic. He threatens insanity and large therapist bills every time I say it! ;)
Hmmm... 'nipple plates' might be much more annoying to a 15 y.o.? Hmmm...
@StyleCounselor
As a 15yo, it would be more embarrassing than annoying at first.
@R1_Drift said:
" @StyleCounselor
As a 15yo, it would be more embarrassing than annoying at first."
Yes, that's the key to all great annoyance, preliminary embarrassment.
However, that's not likely in this case. He comes from a very large, noisy, creative, hyper-intelligent, critical, sardonic, extended family of Italiano-Germanic-Irish-Slavs. He also plays a lot of sports. Very little embarrasses him.
That's why I roll down the window when I drop him off at school, and yell loudly... "I love you, Schmoopie!"
It helps to keep him grounded.