Tag Archives: Transformers

Fan Interviews & Art, Transformatorium

Trev interviewed on the ‘Children of Primus’ channel

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Today I was interviewed by the lads of the ‘Children of Primus’ channel, which was livestreamed on Youtube.  The guys had lots of questions about my collecting and The Transformatorium, and people were able to send in questions for me to answer live online.

It was a lot of fun and I had a really good time doing it.  The four regulars who interviewed me were a mixture of Canadians and Americans, which just goes to show that the love of Transformers trancends timezones.

The video can now be found on their YouTube channel, so check it out below!

(Yes I know I said Windcharger when I should have said Cliffjumper, and the bot we couldn’t remember the name of was Grandus – cut me some slack, I was live!)

If you’d like to see more of the Children of Primus, check out their website and they can be found on all the social medias so look them up on Facebook, instagram, TikTok and X.

 

Video: Trev interviewed on the Frostbite channel

 

My Transformer Collection Showcase, Transformatorium

Transformers Collection – Thrilling 30

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And so the great cataloguing of my extensive collection continues,

Hasbro went all out when the Transformers reached it’s 30th anniversary of the franchise.  By this time Transformers popularity was at an all-time high, with successful movies, cartoons, toylines, video games and comics aplenty – enough to appease even the most die hard fan.

To celebrate this success, Hasbro launches the Thrilling 30 collection.  This consisted of a main toyline that, while primarily made up of new versions of G1 characters, also contained characters from other cartoons/toylines such as G2, Beast Wars & Beast Machines, RID01, Armada, TFPrime and even incorporated the Movieverse. Many of the Deluxe figures came with IDW comics, printed with special collectors edition covers of the characters.  It also brought out a line of tiny collectable figurines, and a line of special toys that were numbered from 1 to 30, incorporating convention exclusives, Masterpiece figures the fan-designed Windblade.

Thrilling 30 also saw the introduction of the Titan-class with Metroplex, the biggest figure since G1 Fortress Maximus.

 

Not included in this cataloging:

Thrilling 30 figures included elsewhere.

Figures from Transformers Prime and from the Masterpiece lines that are Thrilling 30 are cataloged elsewhere.  As are the associated comics.

 

My Transformers Thrilling 30 Collection

Transformers Thrilling 30 Autobots

Thrilling 30 Collectable Figurines

*Item #T30CFA001:Transformers Generation One Autobot Optimus Prime

*Item #T30CFSA002:Transformers Generation One Autobot Optimus Prime (2nd unit)

*Item #T30CFA003:Transformers Generation One Autobot Bumblebee

*Item #T30CFA004:Transformers Generation One Dinobot Grimlock

*Item #T30CFA005:Transformers Generation One Autobot Ratchet

*Item #T30CFA006:Transformers Generation One Autobot Rodimus

*Item #T30CFA007:Transformers Generation One Autobot Ultra Magnus

 

*Item #T30CFA008:Transformers Movieverse Ironhide (MOSC)

*Item #T30CFA009:Transformers Movieverse Bumblebee (MOSC)

 

30 Special Toys

– 17 of 30, Protectobots Emergency Response 3-Pack (MISB), including:

*Item #T30STA001: Transformers Protectobot First Aid (MISB)

*Item #T30STA002: Transformers Protectobot Streetsmart (MISB)

*Item #T30STA003: Transformers Protectobot Groove (MISB)

 

*Item #T30STA004: 21 of 30, Transformers Autobot Jetfire (MISB)

 

*Item #T30STA005: 29 of 30, Transformers Dinobot Grimlock

*Item #T30STA006: 29 of 30, Transformers Autobot Silver Knight Optimus Prime

 

*Item #T30STA007: 30 of 30, Transformers Autobot Windblade (MOSC)

*Item #T30STA008: 30 of 30, Transformers Autobot Windblade

 

Thrilling 30

*Item #T30A001: 006 Transformers Autobot Cosmos

*Item #T30A002: 001 Transformers Autobot Optimus Prime

*Item #T30A003: 008 Transformers Autobot Tailgate

*Item #T30A004: 006 Transformers Autobot Targetmaster Payload

*Item #T30A005: 001 Transformers Autobot Targetmaster Roller

*Item #T30A006: 008 Transformers Autobot Targetmaster Groundbuster

 

*Item #T30A007: 019 Transformers Autobot Cliffjumper

*Item #T30A008: 002 Transformers Autobot Bumblebee

*Item #T30A009: 019 Transformers Autobot Targetmaster Supressor

*Item #T30A010: 002 Transformers Autobot Targetmaster Blazemaster

 

*Item #T30A011: 010 Transformers Autobot Gears

*Item #T30A012: 005 Transformers Autobot Swerve

*Item #T30A013: 010 Transformers Autobot Targetmaster Eclipse

*Item #T30A014: 005 Transformers Autobot Targetmaster Flanker

 

*Item #T30A015: 005 Transformers Autobot Hoist

*Item #T30A016: 001 Transformers Autobot Trailcutter

 

*Item #T30A017: 002 Transformers Autobot Orion Pax

 

*Item #T30A018: 0010 Transformers Autobot Goldfire

*Item #T30A019: 004 Transformers Autobot Bumblebee

*Item #T30A020: 020 Transformers Autobot Nightbeat

 

*Item #T30A021: 009 Transformers Autobot Skids

*Item #T30A022: 016 Transformers Autobot Crosscut

 

*Item #T30A023: 014 Transformers Autobot Scoop

*Item #T30A024: 014 Transformers Autobot Holepunch

*Item #T30A025: 014 Transformers Autobot Caliburst

 

*Item #T30A026: 021 Transformers Autobot Arcee (MOSC)

*Item #T30A027: 022 Transformers Autobot Chromia (MOSC)

*Item #T30A028: 021 Transformers Autobot Arcee

*Item #T30A029: 022 Transformers Autobot Chromia

 

*Item #T30A030: 001 Transformers Autobot Springer

*Item #T30A031: 003 Transformers Autobot Sandstorm

 

*Item #T30A032: 006 Transformers Autobot Whirl

*Item #T30A033: 008 Transformers Autobot Roadbuster

 

*Item #T30A034: 009 Transformers Autobot Brainstorm

 

*Item #T30A035: 001 Transformers Scamper

 

*Item #T30A036: 001 Transformers Metroplex

 

Transformers Thrilling 30 Decepticons

Thrilling 30 Collectable Figurines

*Item #T30CFD001: Transformers Generation One Decepticon Starscream

*Item #T30CFD002: Transformers Generation One Decepticon Megatron

*Item #T30CFD003: Transformers Generation One Decepticon Megatron (2nd unit)

*Item #T30CFD004: Transformers Generation One Decepticon Soundwave

*Item #T30CFD005: Transformers Generation One Decepticon Shockwave

 

Thrilling 30

*Item #T30D001: 009 Transformers Decepticon Acid Storm

*Item #T30D002: 009 Transformers Insecticon Targetmaster Venin

*Item #T30D003: 003 Transformers Decepticon Starscream

*Item #T30D004: 003 Transformers Predacon Targetmaster Waspinator

 

*Item #T30D005: 004 Transformers Decepticon Megatron

*Item #T30D006: 018 Transformers Decepticon Nemesis Prime

*Item #T30D007: 004 Transformers Insecticon Targetmaster Chop Shop

*Item #T30D008: 018 Transformers Decepticon Targetmaster Spinister

 

*Item #T30D009: 007 Transformers Insecticon Skrapnel

*Item #T30D010: 007 Transformers Decepticon Targetmaster Reflector

 

*Item #T30D011: 003 Transformers Decepticon IDW Megatron

*Item #T30D012: 007 Transformers G2 Decepticon Dreadwing

 

*Item #T30D013: 012 Transformers WFC Decepticon Skywarp

*Item #T30D014: 006 Transformers WFC Decepticon Thundercracker

 

*Item #T30D015: 011 Transformers Armada Decepticon Starscream

*Item #T30D016: 018 Transformers Decepticon Jhiaxus

 

*Item #T30D017: 015 Transformers Beast Machines Vehicon Tankorr

 

*Item #T30D018: 008 Transformers Predacon Waspinator

 

*Item #T30D019: 004 Transformers Decepticon Doubledealer

*Item #T30D020: 002 Transformers Decepticon Blitzwing

 

*Item #T30D021: 007 Transformers RID(01) Predacon Sky-Byte

 

Thrilling 30 Mini-Con Figures

*Item #T3MC001: 013 Transformers Mini-Con Assault Team Heavytread

*Item #T30MC002: 013 Transformers Mini-Con Assault Team Windshear

*Item #T30MC003: 013 Transformers Mini-Con Assault Team Runway

 

Total Count: 74

Transformatorium

Age of Primes: Which Bots can be traced back to which Primes?

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Which bots can be traced back to which Primes?

The Original 13 Primes has been part of the Transformers mythos for quite a while now.  Be it in the Aligned Continuity, the Movieverse, the Power of The Primes Trilogy, or even retroactively into G1 via the IDW Comics, the idea that Primus originally created 13 Primes in order to battle Unicron has become an established part of Transformers lore.

The next instalment of the Generations toyline is Transformers: Age of The Primes.  And there are some interesting concepts in the trailer for the toys, even stating  “Every Transformers Bot can be traced back to one of the original 13’.

So the question is, who can be traced back to who?

It’s a bigger question than you think.  There are thosands of Transformers characters, and Cybertron is meant to have a populace of millons.  Yet all trace back to 13 – sounds a bit like Astrological signs doesn’t it (though perhaps less ridiculous).  At any rate, lets look at who the actual 13 Primes are, and who is likely to be descended from them:

 

Those Primes with obvious descendants

Solus Prime—The master artificer and creator of many of the Primes’ weapons through use of her incredible Forge. She was the first female Cybertronian.

Upcoming AOP Figure

As the only female bot amongst the Original 13, it is safe to say that the majority of female Transformers can be traced back to her, even evil ones such as Crasher.

Given her Forge can create weapons as well as heal, it may be that many Transformers who are medics or have weapon modes are descended from her as well.

Toys Review – Galactic Odyssey Ratchet & Lifeline

 

 

Micronus Prime—The conscience of the Thirteen, and the first Mini-Con, able to link up with and enhance the power of his siblings through the use of his Chimera Stone; responsible for creating the alternate dimension of Microspace.

The only question is: will his toy plug into the other bots?

One could say it’s safe to assume all the small bots can be traced back to Micronus.  Mini-Con’s, Micromasters, Targetmasters, Headmasters, Power Masters – all seem likely to be his descendants.

Toys Review – Micron Micromasters

 

Nexus Prime—The first and greatest combiner, granted the ability to divide himself into separate forms by his Enigma of Combination. Unpredictable, fascinated by change, and a lighthearted prankster.

WIll he be a possible Superion retool?

As the first Combiner, one could assume that groups such as the Constructicons, Stunticons, Aerialbots, Technobots and so on can be traced back to Nexus.

Toy Review – Unite Warriors Computron VS Combiner Wars Computron

 

Onyx Prime—The first beast-form Cybertronian, a primitive and spiritual being able to view other times, places, souls, and even the afterlife through his three-faced Triptych Mask.

Do I get a new toy, or a Transmetal II Megatron retool?

As the first Transformer with a beast mode, it is safe to say that most, if not all Transformers with beast modes can be traced back to Onyx.

Toys Review: POTP Terrorcons – First Lot

On a personal note, I would love to see the ‘Primacron’s Assistant’ from the G1 Episode ‘Call of the Primatives’ retroactively be turned into Onyx Prime!

 

Quintus Prime—A daydreamer and perfectionist whose drive to express his ideas led him to become a scientist. His artifact was the Emberstone, which gave him the ability to create life; the Quintessons were among his creations.

A no brainer.  The Quintessons are as stated his creations, as would likely be the likes of the Sharkticons and Allicons.   Possibly other bots with aquatic features such as Sky-Byte, Finback & Submaurader can be traced back to Quintus as well.

Toy Review – WFC Earthrise Quintesson Judge

 

The Fallen—Once known as Megatronus, guardian of entropy and wielder of the Requiem Blaster, the Fallen’s name was stricken from history when the dark warrior turned on his siblings.

Upcoming AOP Figure

As many see him as the first Decepticon, surely many in the Decepticon ranks with a thirst for warfare and violence can be traced back to The Fallen, the most obvious of which being Megatron.

Transformers Collection – Generation One Decepticons

 

Those Prime’s with less obvious descendants

Prima—The leader of the Thirteen, a warrior of light and the first Matrix-bearer who wielded the Star Saber.

You can remove my Matrix and attach it to the hilt of my sword – friggin sweet!

Being the first ever Transformer and the leader of the Original 13, it could be said that those bots who show natural leadership qualities can be traced back to him.  Ultra Magnus, Springer, Thunderclash, Dai Atlas, Heatwave and Deathsaurus would all be likely candidates.

Toy Review – Studio Series Ultra Magnus

 

Vector Prime—The master of time and space, which he could manipulate through his Blades of Time.

I smell a repaint coming on!

Very few Transformers have shown the ability, to manipulate time but they exist, examples of such being as Elita-1 and Meantime.  Blurr’s speed could be put down to a manipulation of time, moving so fast everything else seems stationary.  And Skywarp could be said to be a master of space with his teleportation ability.  It could also be conjectured that Transformers with space-faring capabilities such as Galaxy Shuttle hail from Vector Prime.

Toy Review – Titans Return Blurr, Hardhead, Scourge and Skullsmasher

 

Alchemist Prime—Student of the elemental structure of the natural world, aided in this by his Lenses, which allowed him to see further and deeper than anyone, in both material and spiritual senses; fond of the occasional tipple, with some claiming that he still walks Cybertron in the form of a humble bartender.

Please let me get a proper figure and not be a Build-a-Bot!

Being an expert in the material & spiritual realms, bots who show a penchant for such things could well trace themselves back to Alchemist.  This could include bots such as Wheeljack, Beachcomber, Mindwipe and Shockwave.  And since Alchemist likes a tipple, maybe we could throw Trailbreaker in for good measure.

Toy Review – Masterpiece Shockwave

 

Liege Maximo—The “Prime of Lies”, a black-hearted and amoral manipulator. Though his artifact was notionally the toxin-loaded Liegian Darts, his real skill was his ability to talk others into his way of thinking.

“Hmmmm, Loki got his own show, so maybe….”

Stepped in cunning, trickery and with a gift for the convincing others, it is perhaps those bots that exhibit these traits that can be traced back to Liege Maximo.  The likes of Starscream, Swindle,  Tarn, Smokescreen & Jackpot spring to mind.  Also any robots that use weapons akin to stinging darts, such as Venom and Waspinator.

Toys Review – Team Sky Reign

 

Amalgamous Prime—The joker of the Thirteen and the first Shifter, unpredictable and easygoing. He was first Cybertronian with the ability of transformation, granted him by his Transformation cog, which became the basis for the cogs in all subsequent Transformer life.

Good luck making a toy of that!

Since (almost) all Transformers can transform, it makes no sense that all of them can be traced back to Almalgamous as the first Transfromer, as it would mean none are descended from any others.  So perhaps it would be Transformers with special Transforming abilities.  Triple changers such as Blitzwing and Sandstorm, 6-changes such as Sixshot and Quickswitch, or Transformers whose transforming cogs allow them to transform incredibly quickly such as Runabout and Twin Twist.

Toys Review – Titans Return Blitzwing and Octone

 

Those with few obvious descendants

Alpha Trion—Holder of the Quill, which he uses to record the past, present, and future of Cybertron in the Covenant of Primus as part of his role as recordskeeper of the Primes.

Alpha Trion, being the one Prime that stayed around the keep watch over the Transformers race, could be said to be the father of all while being the father of none.  Perhaps some more scholarly bots could be traced back to this ancient sage such as Skids, Rung and Sky Dive.

Toy Review – Masterpiece Skids

 

The Thirteenth Prime— the last and most mysterious of the Thirteen, all we can say for certain is that he bore a strong connection to the Matrix of Leadership and his depictions look awfully familiar…

Ok, if it turns out Optimus’ original ‘Prime’ body is the same one he slowly evolves back into at the end of the G1 JP toyline, that’s gonna be kind of cool.

The Thirteenth Prime is a puzzler.  Said to be Optimus Prime, who gave up his Primehood and his memories to become the ordinary bot Orion Pax, only to become Optimus Prime once again when chosen by Primus to wield The Matrix and lead the Autobots.   Perhaps some bots that share physical similarities such as Pyro, Ginrai,  Leo Prime and especially Opitmus Primal can be said to trace themselves back to Optimus.

Legends ‘LG35 Super Ginrai’ vs Titans Return ‘Powermaster Optimus Prime’

 

But… but.. what about the Seacons?

Seacons

There are lots of Transformers that have traits or altmodes that make them obviously descended from a specific Prime.  But what about those that could have multiple?

The Seacons are a very obvious example.  They all have aquatic modes, making a link to Quintus Prime very obvious, especially given Overbite turns into a shark-monster with limbs much like a Sharkticon.  However they all have beast modes which calls out to Onyx Prime being their progenitor.  But then 5 of the 6 can turn into weapons which screams Solus Prime.  Additionally they are Decepticons with Snap Trap being particularly brutal so that says Megatronus.   And to top it off they can combine, which harkens to Nexus Prime.

There are numerous other examples.  Sky Lynx has beast modes, a special transformation cog allowing him multiple modes, can combine (albeit with himself), can travel through space as a shuttle  and is a Lieutenant Commander.  So who does he trace himself back to – Onyx, Almagamous, Nexus, Vector or Prima?

Multiverse Sky Lynx Toys Gallery

 

So I will be very interested to see with the new Transformers: Age of Primes toyline if they indicate via the packaging which non-Prime characters are descended from specific Prime.  Given that sadly tech specs are mostly a thing of the past perhaps they will do this via symbols specific to specific Primes on the boxes or instruction manuals.

However they choose to move forward, it will be interesting to see if this latest iteration of the Transfomers toy franchise has a lasting impact on the Transformers lore.  And if nothing else, it will be great to finally get some decent official toys of the Original 13 Primes.

Check back soon for my examination of what  “Every Transformers Bot can be traced back to one of the original 13’ could mean for the lore of the Titans!

Transformatorium

Surprise package from Hasbro!

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As many of you would know, a week ago I appeared on ABC Radio National’s Life Matters, talking about the ‘kidult’ trend.  Also two months before that I appeared on Channel 10’s The Project, showing off The Transformatorium.

Well Hasbro Australia must have been watching because they were kind enough to send Orion and I a surprise gift for our continuing support of the brand!  Check out the video below:

Massive thanks to Hasbro Australia for their generosity!  Our Bumblebee, signed by Keegan Michael-Key, will sit MISB in pride of place in The Transformatorium for many years to come!

Big Angry Trev visits Hasbro Australia!

Trev interviewed on ABC RN about the ‘Kidult’ Trend

Video: Trev & The Transformatorium on National TV!

Movie Review: Transformers One

 

My Transformer Collection Showcase, Transformatorium

Transformers Collection – Generations & Fall of Cybertron

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And thus the great cataloguing of my collection continues.

Generations is now used as a general umberella term for the majority of Transformers toylines that aren’t specifically based on a movie or cartoon, despite those toylines having their own names such as Power of the Primes or Legacy.  However back in 2010 & 2011 the term first originated with its own Generations toyline. The toyline continued what many lines by this stage, such as Classics and Universe had done before, give fans new takes on classic characters, primarily from G1.    It’s international offshoot GDO, had more characters based on G1, however for some reused moulds from the Movieverse line.  Generations also introduced action figures based directly on the video game War for Cybertron.

In 2013 & 2014 it received it’s sequel toyline, Generations: Fall of Cybertron.  This line consisted exclusively of figures based around the Fall of Cybertron video game, including many characters who did not appear in game but were designed in a similar style.  FOC was supposed to fall into the ‘Aligned’ continuity, but given how G1 the characters were, most consider it much more of the G1 universe than that of Prime.

 

My Transformers Generations Collection

Transformers Generations Autobots

*Item #GENA001: Transformers Generations Autobot Red Alert

*Item #GENA002: Transformers Generations Autobot Blurr

*Item #GENA003: Transformers Generations Autobot Sergeant Kup

*Item #GENA004: Transformers Generations Autobot Wheeljack

*Item #GENA005: Transformers Generations Autobot Warpath

*Item #GENA006: Transformers Generations Junkion Junkheap

*Item #GENA007: Transformers Generations Autobot Drift

 

*Item #GENA008: Transformers GDO Protectobot Hot Spot

 

*Item #GENA009: Transformers GDO Autobot Swerve (MOSC)

 

*Item #GENA010: Transformers GDO Autobot Bluestreak

*Item #GENA011: Transformers GDO Autobot Hoist

 

*Item #GENA012: Transformers WFC Autobot Cliffjumper

*Item #GENA013: Transformers WFC Autobot Optimus Prime

*Item #GENA014: Transformers WFC Autobot Bumblebee

 

Transformers Generations Decepticons

*Item #GEND001: Transformers Generations Decepticon Skullgrin

*Item #GEND002: Transformers Generations Decepticon Darkmount

*Item #GEND003: Transformers Generations Decepticon Thunderwing

*Item #GEND004: Transformers Generations Decepticon Scourge

*Item #GEND005: Transformers Generations Decepticon Skyshadow

 

*Item #GEND006: Transformers Generations Decepticon Seeker Thundercracker

*Item #GEND007: Transformers Generations Decepticon Seeker Thrust

 

*Item #GEND008: Transformers Generations Decepticon Seeker Dirge

*Item #GEND009: Transformers Gentei! Gentei! Decepticon Seeker Dirge

 

*Item #GEND010: Transformers GDO Decepticon Powerdive

 

*Item #GEND011: Transformers GDO Stunticon Motorbreath

*Item #GEND012: Transformers GDO Decepticon Seeker Thundercracker

 

*Item #GEND013: Transformers WFC Decepticon Megatron

*Item #GEND014: Transformers WFC Decepticon Soundwave

 

My Transformers Generarations: Fall of Cybertron Figures

Fall of Cybertron Autobots

*Item #GFOCA001: Transformers FOC Autobot Ultra Magnus

*Item #GFOCA002: Transformers FOC Autobot Optimus Prime

 

*Item #GFOCA003: Transformers FOC Dinobot Grimlock

 

*Item #GFOCA004: Transformers FOC Autobot Blaster

 

*Item #GFOCA005: Transformers FOC Autobot Steeljaw

*Item #GFOCA006: Transformers FOC Autobot Eject

*Item #GFOCA007: Transformers FOC Autobot Rewind

*Item #GFOCA008: Transformers FOC Autobot Ramhorn

*Item #GFOCA009: Transformers FOC Autobot Sunder

 

*Item #GFOCA010: Transformers FOC Autobot Sideswipe

*Item #GFOCA011: Transformers FOC Autobot Jazz

*Item #GFOCA012: Transformers FOC Aerielbot Air Raid

 

 

*Item #GFOCA013: Transformers FOC Wrecker Impactor

 

Fall of Cybertron Decepticons

*Item #GFOCD001: Transformers FOC Decepticon Seeker Starscream

 

*Item #GFOCD002: Transformers FOC Insecticon Kickback

*Item #GFOCD003: Transformers FOC Decepticon Shockwave

 

*Item #GFOCD004: Transformers FOC Decepticon Soundwave

*Item #GFOCD005: Transformers FOC Decepticon Soundblaster

 

*Item #GFOCD006: Transformers FOC Decepticon Rumble

*Item #GFOCD007: Transformers FOC Decepticon Frenzy

*Item #GFOCD008: Transformers FOC Decepticon Ravage

*Item #GFOCD009: Transformers FOC Decepticon Ratbat

*Item #GFOCD010: Transformers FOC Decepticon Buzzsaw

*Item #GFOCD011: Transformers FOC Decepticon Laserbeak

 

*Item #GFOCD012: Transformers FOC Combaticon Onslaught

*Item #GFOCD013: Transformers FOC Combaticon Vortex

*Item #GFOCD014: Transformers FOC Combaticon Swindle

*Item #GFOCD015: Transformers FOC Combaticon Brawl

 

*Item #GFOCD016: Transformers Generations FOC Decepticon Combaticon Blast Off (MOSC)

 

Fall of Cybertron Exclusive G2 Bruticus Set (MISB)

Containing:

*Item #GFOCD017: Transformers FOC G2 Combaticon Onslaught

*Item #GFOCD018: Transformers FOC G2 Combaticon Blast Off

*Item #GFOCD019: Transformers FOC G2 Combaticon Vortex

*Item #GFOCD020: Transformers FOC G2 Combaticon Swindle

*Item #GFOCD021: Transformers FOC G2 Combaticon Brawl

 

Total Count: 62

Fan Interviews & Art, Transformatorium

Trev interviewed on ABC RN about the ‘Kidult’ Trend

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I was recently approachedby ABC Radio National and asked if I would be a guest on the show Life Matters, hosted by  Jacinta Parsons.   They were doing a story on Kidults – adults who still enjoy the passions they had as a child.   They were familiar with the extent of my Transformers Collection and the Transformatorium from my appearance earlier this year on Channel 10’s The Project and thought I would be perfect for their show.

Video: Trev & The Transformatorium on National TV!

The other guest on the show was to be Dr Katriina Heljakka, a researcher in the toyification of culture, toy design and the hybrid and transgenerational dimensions of ludic practices.

Despite being on the radio weekly on The Big DJ Trev Show, I was a little nervous about going on National Radio live on air across the country, especially since I was battling a headcold and didn’t want to sound sick.  However my family assures me I did ok  😉

Click on the link or the image below to visit the ABC Radio National Website to listen and enjoy!

https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/lifematters/are-you-an-adult-who-still-loves-toys/104577990

Hope you enjoyed my latest interview about my collecting.  Are you an adult who collects something from childhood?  Tell us about it in the comments section below!

The Transformatorium Makes Front Page News!

 

Fan Interviews & Art, Transformatorium

Transformers Fan Interview – Bobby Allen

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It’s time for another Transformer Fan Interview, and once again this one comes from overseas, the good ol’ US of A.  Bobby has some of the most awesome looking Transformers displays I have seen, and he’s sharing photos of it, as well sharing the history of his hobby, with us today.

Name and/or nicknames:
            Hi everyone, my name is Bobby and I’m a Transformers addict
        ***waits for the applause to stop at the TFs Anonymous meeting*** 
I’m Bobby Allen on Facebook and Turbine027 on TFW2005.com … those are the main places I interact with other nerds 🙂
.
Family?
            Married, 2 dogs, and some awesome nephews!  Took them both to see the new Transformers One movie the other day!  Recently, one of them has been showing particular interest in Transformers and has been asking lots of questions every time he comes over… He was quizzing me to see if I “actually” had every vintage figure!  Maybe if he learns all their names he can be put in the will!
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Career? 
            High school mathematics teacher.
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Website/Fan-pages?
            I’m really active on TFW2005 and I’m an admin for the Facebook group “Transformers Displays.”  Back in the early days of the internet I had a website called “Make Your Own Transformers” … as a kid I had no budget for toys so I used to make Transformers out of paper… and not just drawing them on a sheet and cutting them out, like full on (designed in MS Paint) pieces that were folded and strategically put together so that they could transform! Based on how young I was, they objectively started out pretty awful… but over time I got really good and would have people emailing me their requests.  I remember staring at the catalogs for hours and admiring figures I didn’t own and trying to figure out how they would have transformed so I could design them.
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How would you rate yourself on a C scale, C10 being MISB Mint perfection, to the lowest C1 ‘junker not worth it even for parts’?
Compared to /most/ other collectors I see out in the wild? Lol  I don’t think people would automatically assume I live in a basement and collect toys or anything haha so I’d say maybe a C7.5  All my parts are there, a few joints are a little loose or stiff, and I’ve had some of my stickers replaced with Reprolabels!  Thankfully no GPS!
Fan/Collector since (year)?
My very first toys (the Technobots) were gifted to me back in November of 1988 and I haven’t stopped since!  In fact, I recently built a shadowbox to showcase the ones that started it all and commissioned Dan Khanna to create a HUGE piece featuring the Technobots for over the couch in my display room.
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Transformers Allegiance, if you had one?
I feel like the Decepticons are cooler overall, but I think I would have been an Autobot.
Your Techspec motto if you had one?
“YAAAAAAAS” or anything else with a gay undertone that could be shouted while playing loud music with the convertible top down.
What existing, official Transformers character best describes you?
Probably Tracks or Sunstreaker.  A cool sporty car that’s a little obsessed with being pretty sounds about right 😉
Which special ability of any Transformers character would you want to have for yourself? 
Hmmm, can’t say that I’ve ever thought about this … The ability to fly seems pretty cool but honestly I’d have to say the ability to combine!  Maybe that’s something subconscious from my very first figure being Computron, but either way I imagine being bullied by a bigger robot then all of a sudden “my friends show up” lol
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What drew you to Transformers, making you become a fan/collector?
I was born in 1984, so I grew up mostly with G2 and Beast Wars, living my G1 dreams through 1987-90 catalogs and syndicated reruns. I’ve always been a huge fan of puzzles, everything from jigsaw to Rubik’s cubes, so my affinity for Transformers has always stemmed from the engineering and transformations. I think that’s why they survived all my other interests (GI Joe, Ninja Turtles, Power Rangers, girls … wait, what?).
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Do you think you will collect Transformers until you die?
At this point I’ve got a very specific vision for when I’ll consider my collection “done” but I think I’ll always be present in the community.  I’m a vintage collector at heart, and I display MPs and 3PMPs side by side the vintage toys, so there’s only so many more I need to be considered finished.  I’m a few accessories away from a complete vintage collection (I won’t lie though, many figures are reissues and a few of them are actually customs (like my Artfire) or high quality KOs (the 6 headmaster heads, the dino cassettes etc) and I don’t plan on swapping them out).  So “complete” is kinda relative here…  but complete for me!
As far as MPs, I’m looking for the rest of the Head/Targetmasters and main combiners to be made so I still have several more years to go!  When I did my room overhaul last year, I made sure to plan and create space for all the future MP figures I want to exist, so it’s both cool and frustrating to see the obvious gaps on the shelves.  It does help me stay focused and not just buy stuff to buy it and it helps my husband and friends who see the room understand my end game.  Being asked “are you done” is pretty common when someone comes over and being able to point to the obvious gaps helps them see what’s missing!
During “The Great Purge of November 2023” I completely redesigned my room layout from scratch and forced myself to admit that I would never be able to properly display all the lines I had collected over the years.  I streamlined my focus to G1 Vintage and MPs, but I still wanted to honor my personal journey with the other lines I used to collect.  I sold my entire CHUG collection, all my Alternators, and paired down everything from the Beast Era, AEC, Animated, Prime, 2007 movie, etc down to about 5-6 figures per faction.
I found that being able to display a curated sample of the lines gave me enough nostalgia to work with.  I don’t regret buying all the figures originally… even though they’re sold now for a loss (mostly) I certainly enjoyed the ride.  I remember the watch parties for new episodes and all the discussions surrounding the figure reveals so seeing a mini display still brings back those memories and for me that makes it all worth it!
So will I be collecting new toy lines until I die?  Probably not, but I’m gonna finish out my personal goal and then admire from the sidelines!
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Do people outside of the hobby know you collect TFs (like at work/school)?
I feel like everyone knows hahaha  My students and coworkers know, and every friend (online or in person) has seen photos or physically visited the space at some point.  It also means that every time a TF meme makes the rounds in the “regular part of the internet” that I get tagged in it by people lol
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Were your family/parents supportive of collecting toys or did you have to hide your passion from them and friends?
Always supportive.  Even as a kid I was obsessed with G1 figures that were clearly long out of print.  My parents would help me hunt down figures for my birthdays, xmas etc.   I remember when eBay first started and you could search “Transformers” and find 253 results. The forums were predated by alt.toys.transformers newsgroups that you had to access through your email. I was too young to buy/sell at that time with “mysterious strangers on the internet” but I remember finding websites like Snarl’s Homepage (Todd) and Robozone (Gerry Bunker) to give my parents places to shop!
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What does your partner think of your hobby?
My husband will also always ask me for a preorder link for the holidays so he can support my addiction haha  He’s not specifically into Transformers the way I am, but he does appreciate the way I have curated my display over the years and how passionate I am toward the hobby.  He’s also super into cars so for a brief while there we had a shared interest in the Binaltech/Alternators line!  The great compromise when we built our home was that I got the windowless media room for my display and he got to take over the garage as his chill spot.
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Have you attended any fan-meets, Fairs, Conventions, Special Events?
Not as often as you would think for someone as active in the collecting world as I am and with a collection my size… but I’ve been to a few.  I remember going to OTFCC the first year the name changed.  It was the very first time being in a place specifically for Transformers and I remember being in total awe of the dealer room area.  This January I went to a Fans Expo convention and splurged on a private Meet and Greet with both Peter Cullen and Frank Welker!  We each got about 5 minutes alone with them (and their handlers) to just talk, ask questions etc.  I was able to briefly show them my display, get a few autographs, photos … and then they each did a voice recording for me as Prime and Megatron.  It was truly an amazing experience and the items I got signed will be cherished forever!
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Any creative endeavours with Transformers (drawing, writing, customising, etc)? 
            I would say the Make Your Own Transformers website was my main creative outlet as a teenager, but I’ve done a few customs like my Artfire over the years.  Most I’ve slowly replaced with vintage pieces though.
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Favourite series/era/year, and why?
            Gosh, that has to be vintage… it’s the one thing that always feels special to me.  Even the parts of the line that don’t get a lot of love like the Pretenders, Action Masters, etc all have a certain charm to them.  I have to say that the catalogs from G1 have the biggest nostalgic pull for me, and it’s the reason I display the way that I do… There’s just something about seeing the best representation of the robot form I fell in love with from the cartoon (MP) side by side with the alt mode (vintage) that just reminds me of those old catalogs and it makes my inner child smile!
Even though I don’t collect modern lines (by my own restrictions) there is still a lot of cool stuff out there for fans!  I love the Studio Series 86 line even if I don’t own many and I will say I’ve been breaking my own rules with Missing Link 🙂
I gave Prime and Megatron their own specific G1 shelves so it’s also been a place for me to dabble in Blokees, Legends scale, etc!
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Collect any comics?
Up until very recently, no not really.  I had a few random Marvel TF comics that I came across at a young age… As far as modern comics I always felt like I became aware of them too far in and I was too lazy to go back and try to catch up.  I always enjoy the discussions that go along with new episodes and new issues, so when SkyBound started the Energon Universe I finally jumped at the chance to actually follow along from issue #1.  I’ve fallen in love with the series and even made little setups to represent the first 6 titles.
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Favourite Comic issue/story, and why?
            Can’t say that I have an absolute favorite yet.  I feel like I would just pick something cliché…  I did very much enjoy the end of the first arc of the Energon Universe when Prime starts kicking butt with the whole “You Know The Song” in the background!
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Favourite Cartoon episode/story, and why?
I always enjoyed the episodes that dove into the origins of the characters like War Dawn and the flashbacks in Five Faces of Darkness.
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Favourite Character, and why?
            As a kid, I was OBSESSED with Hot Rodlol  Such a cool car mode and the main character in that VHS movie I kept renting!  So when asked, that’s still probably my instinctual “go to.”  Soundwave is also a personal favorite.
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Sexiest Transformers (robot) Character?
            I can’t say that I’ve ever actually thought about this… but I guess I’ll say Springer lol  But if he and Hotrod want to fight over me, I’ll be glad to marry one and see the other on the side!
Which Transformers character would you want to exist for real?
            If it was like a personal best friend and side kick, then Hot Rod all the way!  Sexy ride and seemed to enjoy hanging out with humans.
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Approx TFs toy collection count (or give a range like 200s, 300s, 2000s etc): 
            After MASSIVELY downsizing last year during the room refresh, I still have over 1,000 but I want to say I sold off 600 or so to make the display exactly how I wanted… Part of it was admitting that I would never have the space to properly showcase them all so I went with a “less is more” approach if you can call 1000+ toys “less” lol
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Sealed collector or out-of-packaging collector?
            Out of box for sure!  If I were to ever run into a vintage figure, I wouldn’t open it… but I collected loose complete since the boxes had no value for me.  I am often impressed with vintage boxed collections but modern stuff… meh … recycle that!  I think Transformers are one of the few collectables where having access to fiddling with them makes the most sense.  I do have sealed reissue Megatron and Optimus Prime figures but that’s just because I go a little more crazy with those two!  I personally do not collect as an investment and I’d rather give it all away when I’m older.
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How much do you think you’ve spent on your collecting habit?
            We do NOT ask this question lol
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Any rare/expensive figures in your collection? 
            Probably all my vintage Japanese G1.  Things like Grandus, Battle Gaia, Grand Maximus etc would be considered grails for a lot of vintage collectors.  Haslab Unicron is probably one of the most impressive pieces just for its sheer size!  I love having him as a centerpiece in the room and having a little Skywarp is Cyclonus controversy front and center makes me happy!
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What interesting Licensed Merchandise items do you have?
            I mostly just collect figures, but I did grab the Prime and Megatron helmets to be signed and think that those make really cool display pieces.
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First Transformers toy?
            The Technobots.
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One toy you most want?
  Unicron Prototype (come on Missing Link, I’m counting on you!).
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The centrepiece/favourite toy in your collection at the moment (and why)?
            Favorite toy is hard to say, but I’ve always been a huge fan of Powermaster Optimus Prime!  The 2 visual centerpieces of the room though are the Unicron coffee table and Skybound Comics display over the couch.
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Favourite toy in your early years of collecting?
            Astrotrain!  I picked up a junker at a garage sale and always thought it was so cool to show off.  “Look at this robot… you can clearly tell he turns into a space shuttle ChhhChrrrgChrrrChrrrChhh … which he does!  But then ChhhChrrrgChrrrChrrrChhh … this train just comes out of nowhere!”
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Worst toy(s) ever in your opinion?
 God, it has to be one of the firecons lol.
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Toy(s) that were most disappointing when you got them?
   Probably all the foreign recolors of the firecons lol  I already hated them, but then I had to spend like $100 a pop to finish the collection just to have the same terrible toys in green, red, and translucent haha.
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Thoughts on gimmick and non-convertible Transformers toys?
 I thoroughly enjoyed the various “Master” gimmicks.  Generally, I don’t think toys “need” them but when the play pattern feels intuitive then it works great!  I mostly stay away from non-transforming figures, even when I hardly transform my MPs as it is … I still need to know that they CAN transform lol.  But clearly I own a bunch of Action Masters and I did pick up the Yolopark G1 Prime and Megatron to add to my Skybound Display.
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Which single TFs toy should every fan own?
 Vintage G1 Optimus mold… it can be a reissue or the amazing Missing Link figure… but I think everyone should own one!
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Which Transformers toy/product would you give as a wedding present?
 Unless someone was a super fan, I don’t know why that would happen lol.  However, as a kid my sister used to steal my G2 Beachcomber and hide it in her room. So at one point as an adult I found a MOSC G2 Beachcomber and bought it as part of her Christmas gift that year!
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Do you collect other toys?
 Not really… but I did get into vintage Joes while curating the Skybound displays and it was fun messing with a franchise I had never collected before.  It was also really interesting to experience how media (comics in this case) give figures life.  Until this year I couldn’t tell you anything about a single Joe figure outside of Cobra Commander and now I’ve started wanting to add new characters as they show up in each series!
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What is your favourite TF themed post on this website?
Well now, I can’t lie!  I found this website through interactions over at Transformers Displays and following your own interviewsand video showcases!  But it seems like as a good a time as ever to dive into all the content!  I also always enjoyed reading the Collector Interviews that Maz used to do, so going back and reading some of the other interviews here has been fun.  Especially when I recognize a name!
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Thanks so much to Bobby for his in depth and thoughtful answers to our questions, and the photos are simply amazing!  You can also see his collection in the following video:

Do you have any more questions for Bobby about his collection?  Then pop them in the comments section below!
My Transformer Collection Showcase, Transformatorium

Transformers Collection – Universe

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And thus the great cataloging of my collection continues.

Transformers Universe was… it was…. it was a bloody mess to be honest!

Starting out in 2003, it was intially a way to milk existing moulds.  It took figures from G2, Beast Wars, Beast Machines and the Unicron Trilogy and released them as their original characters with new colour schemes, or else repainted them into different characters completely.

Then it moved on to new characters and toys, such as making Micromaster combiners out of classic teams, and  limped along for several years, releasing a smattering of figures here and there, even pulling other toys under its umberella that really should be classified under different toylines such as figures from G1, Titanium, Robot Heroes and even Masterpiece.

Then in 2008 they revamped the line, with many new toys of existing G1 characters, picking up where the Classics line left off, making it quite popular until the line came to an end in 2010.  Some of the figures were also released under the Takara banner Henkei! Henkei!

Toys and characters from almost every continuity, Micromasters, Targetmasters, Combiners, Autobots, Decepticons, Predacons, Maximals, Mini-Cons, Spychangers, repaints, retools – the line had everything while at the same time specializing in nothing, and making it damn hard to keep track of for collectors.

So check out what I deemed worthy to grab with my personal Transformers Universe collection below!

 

My Transformers Universe Collection

 

Universe Autobot Figures

 

*Item #UNA001: Transformers Universe 25th Anniversary Autobot Optimus Prime (MISB)

 

*Item #UNA002: Transformers Universe Autobot Deluxe Prowl

*Item #UNA003: Transformers Universe Autobot Spychanger Prowl

 

*Item #UNA004: Transformers Universe Autobot Deluxe Hound

*Item #UNA005: Transformers Universe Autobot Scout Hound

 

*Item #UNA006: Transformers Universe Autobot Spychanger Silverstreak

*Item #UNA007: Transformers Universe Autobot Deluxe Silverstreak

 

*Item #UNA008: Transformers Universe Autobot Scout Jazz

*Item #UNA009: Transformers Universe Autobot Spychanger Jazz

 

*Item #UNA010: Transformers Universe Autobot Ironhide

*Item #UNA011: Transformers Universe Autobot Inferno

*Item #UNA012: Transformers Henkei! Henkei! Autobot Ratchet

*Item #UNA013: Transformers Universe Autobot Sunstreaker

*Item #UNA014: Transformers Universe Autobot Sideswipe

*Item #UNA015: Transformers Universe Autobot Smokescreen

 

*Item #UNA016: Transformers Universe Aerielbot Silverbolt

*Item #UNA017: Transformers Universe Autobot Hardhead

*Item #UNA018: Transformers Universe Autobot Powerglide

 

*Item #UNA019: Transformers Universe Autobot Blaster

*Item #UNA020: Transformers Universe Autobot Blackrock

 

*Item #UNA021: Transformers Universe Autobot Spychanger Wheeljack

 

*Item #UNA022: Transformers Universe Autobot Brawn

*Item #UNA023: Transformers Universe Autobot Beachcomber

*Item #UNA024: Transformers Universe Autobot Bumblebee

 

*Item #UNA025: Transformers Henkei! Henkei! C-19 Autobot Minibot Spy Team Wheelie

*Item #UNA026: Transformers Henkei! Henkei! C-19 Autobot Minibot Spy Team Cosmos

*Item #UNA027: Transformers Henkei! Henkei! C-19 Autobot Minibot Spy Team Warpath

 

*Item #UNA028: Transformers Universe Aerielbot Skydive

*Item #UNA029: Transformers Universe Aerielbot Air Raid

 

*Item #UNA030: Transformers Universe Protectobot Blades

 

*Item #UNA031: Transformers Universe Micromaster Protectobot First Aid

*Item #UNA032: Transformers Universe Micromaster Protectobot Groove

 

*Item #UNA033: Transformers Universe Micromaster Railbot Rapid Run

*Item #UNA034: Transformers Universe Micromaster Railbot Overload

 

Universe Decepticon Figures

 

*Item #UND001: Transformers Universe Decepticon Seeker Acid Storm (MOSC)

 

*Item #UND002: Transformers Universe Decepticon Tankor

*Item #UND003: Transformers Universe Decepticon Galvatron

 

*Item #UND004: Transformers Universe Ultra Combaticon  Onslaught

*Item #UND005: Transformers Universe Scount Combaticon  Onslaught

 

*Item #UND006: Transformers Universe Decepticon Cyclonus

*Item #UND007: Transformers Universe Decepticon Targetmaster Nightstick

 

*Item #UND008: Transformers Universe Decepticon Overkill

*Item #UND009: Transformers Universe Stunticon Drag Strip

 

*Item #UND010: Transformers Universe Decepticon Nemesis Strika

 

*Item #UND011: Transformers Universe Decepticon Seeker Thrust

*Item #UND012: Transformers Universe Decepticon Seeker Ramjet

 

*Item #UND013: Transformers Universe Decepticon Ravage

 

*Item #UND014: Transformers Universe Decepticon G2 Megatron

 

*Item #UND016: Transformers Universe Micromaster Constructicon Long Haul

 

*Item #UND017: Transformers Universe Decepticon Ramjet

*Item #UND018: Transformers Universe Decepticon Mini-Con Thunderclash

 

*Item #UND019: Transformers Universe Decepticon Mini-Con Gunbarrel

*Item #UND020: Transformers Universe Decepticon Mini-Con Thunderwing

*Item #UND021: Transformers Universe Decepticon Mini-Con Terradive

 

VS Packs

*Item #UNA036: Transformers Universe Autobot Wrecker Roadbuster (MISB)

*Item #UND022: Transformers Universe Decepticon Seeker Dirge (MISB)

*Item #UND037: Transformers Universe Autobot Wrecker Springer (MISB)

*Item #UND023: Transformers Universe Decepticon Ratbat (MISB)

Ask Trev!

Ask Trev: Would you collect anything besides Transformers?

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This question comes from master filmographer Pieter:

If The Transformers never existed do you think you would you have become a die hard collector of anything else like perhaps Robotech, Star Wars/Trek etc?

I’m going to have to give a big YES to that, though I’m sure never to the extent I have Transformers.  I’ve collected various other things over the course of my life, and if I didn’t have Transformers I think my collections of them would be a lot bigger than they are.  Given how much I spend per month on Transformers, the rest of my nerdy passions don’t get much of a look in.

 

Mid 90’s: Home Improvement Merchandise

Remember the 90’s sitcom Home Improvement?  Back in the day I LOVED that show!  Maybe it was because from 1987 onwards I lived away from my father, who had tried to be a good Dad in his way, but was 50 when I was born and already suffering from Paranoid Schizophrenia and Manic Depression.  Thus he wasn’t a father who was overtly loving or would play catch with me at the park.  So watching a TV Dad who openly loved, played and did activities with his sons, as well as being funny, perhaps was a substitute for something my own life was missing.

During the 90’s I wasn’t collecting Transformers as I wasn’t a big fan of Beast Wars, so for a while I collected Home Improvement merchandise.  This included everything from collector cards, posters, jumpers, t-shirts, socks and even a board game.

 

Mid 90’s:/2000’s: The Tick

I love The Tick!  He is by far and away my very favourite super hero and has been since the cartoon came out in the 90’s.  I don’t have a great deal of The Tick merchandise, but truthfully in part that’s because there isn’t that much out there, as super heroes go he is on the obscure side.

 

Late 90’s: X-Men Comics

I used to collect X-Men comics in the late 90’s.  Sadly when I moved in with a girl I gave a ton to a mate to hang onto who subsequently lost them, and now only have the special edition ones I kept for myself.

 

Early 2000’s: Men’s G-Strings

Wow – the ‘Censored’ sign somehow makes this photo look way worse than it actually is, you’d see worse at any swimming pool (maybe).

Hold up!  This isn’t as pervy as it sounds! And they were all mine, not someone else’s!

When backpacking around Europe in my mid 20’s I had to lug all the clothing I had in my backpack and didn’t get to wash clothes that often.  And two or 3 thongs would take up the same amount of space in my swag as one pair of boxer shorts would.  So by wearing mens g-strings I could triple the amount of underwear I had before I had to find a laundromat in whatever country I happened to be in – now that’s just good common sense for a world traveller.  As I traversed Europe I would occasionally pick up a new one at places like a fancy men’s underwear store in Florence.

When I arrived back in Australia I found I had accrued quite a few.  The oldest have been tossed now.  Back then I was young and very fit, these days it would look like wrapping a rubber band round the bottom of a pear.  Ah but back in the day, it was amazing how many bar patrons across Europe would buy drinks all night for a Mad Aussie dancing round in a blokes thong – a great money saver!

 

90’s/2000’s: Star Trek

Yes, VHS Tapes. Yes, I am that old.

I’ve seen most everything made in both franchises, though admit to being far more of a Trekkie than a Star Wars fan.  I bought nearly every Star Trek book written by Shatner, but never collected Star Trek merchandise in a huge way.  Back in the 90’s I collected the ‘Star Trek Fact Files’ that came out each week for $5 and could be put into associated binders.  Considering that there were a bit over 200 issues I guess that was a thousand bucks over 4 years which was a decent bit of cash.  Sadly I had them stored in a shed and mice got into them so they are pretty wrecked now.

Star Trek V: Kirk vs God

 

2000’s: Anime Statuettes

They’re from Japan – that makes them cultural instead of pervy.

For a while about 15 years ago I collected Anime Statuettes from some of my favourite Japanese cartoons and ended up with maybe a couple dozen.  However parenthood changes ones perspective, and given the… ahem… proportions of many anime girls, they didn’t seem appropriate to have on display anymore, so I stopped collecting and those I had got packed away and have spent a decade in a box in the storage shed.  I might get around to selling them off one day as I don’t think I’ll really ever want to display them again.

 

2010’s: My Little Pony

When I was the househusband and not working for 6 months when we first moved to NSW I used to watch My Little Pony with my young daughter each morning, and found it to be very entertaining and something we could share!  So both she and I started collecting MLP figures, myself specializing in Rarity figures since I found her hilarious!

Movie Review – My Little Pony

However the cartoon came to an end and she got older and lost all interest.  She actually donated her MLP toys to me and I was a bit sad to see something we had enjoyed together cast aside.  I kept a bunch of the Rarity ones, the rest went to goodwill as the joy for me came from collecting them with my daughter and sharing the hobby rather than the figures themselves.

Pictorial Toys Review – My Little Prime & Plasmane

Now my daughter is into Lilo & Stitch and I do try to share the hobby with her as best I can, but for my money the Ponies were more fun.

Video – Stitch: Toys and Facts with Acacia!

 

80’s/90’s/2000’s: Ghostbusters

‘Who ya gonna call? A middle-aged man cosplaying!’

If I didn’t collect Transformers, I think this would be mainly what I would collect now.  I adore Ghostbusters, it is definitely my No.2 pop culture love.  I’ve got a full uniform (gets busted out once a year to take my kids Trick’or’Treating), a few toys, DVD’s, video games, a board game etc.

Though nothing will ever equal the the first two movies for me, I love that the franchise is still kicking strong today.

Ghostbusters Movies: All 5 ranked from Worst to Best!

 

Hooray for Crossovers!

Two times the fun, wrapped up and rolled into one!

So while I may not be able to afford to collect much outside of Transformers, luckily there are Transformer Crossovers!  Between comics and toys Transformers has crossed over with the likes of Star Wars, Star Trek, Jurassic Park, Avengers, X-Men, Mr. Potato Head, Ghostbusters, Street Fighter, Back to the Future, Terminator….  heck, even Angry Birds!  

So these crossovers have enabled me to dip my toe into other sci-fi genre’s without having to compromise my Transformers budget.

Toys Review – Street Fighter Transformers

Toy Review – Ectotron

So yep Pieter, I would definitely still collect something.  And maybe its in the blood because my son also collects Transformers and my daughter collects Stuffed Animals & Stich merchandise.  But would I have a Ghostbustertorium Shed or MyLittlePony Stable?  Probably not.  Transformers have been producing toys for the last 40 years and never so much as in the past 20, and with dozens of different cartoons and movies, hundreds of different characters and thousands upon thousands of different toys, I don’t know how many other passions could have offered so much variety – it’s a lot of fun!  But there will always be one small cabinet in the corner of The Transformatorium for those little extra’s from my other nerdy loves.

Thank you Pieter for your question.

If you would like to see some of Pieter’s great work, check out the short film he did about my Transformatorium! 

Video: The Transformatorium: EXTENDED CUT

Do you collect something interesting?  Why not tell us about it in the comments section below!

Fan Interviews & Art, Transformatorium

Transformer Fan Interview – Chris Bishop

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It’s time for another Transformer Fan Interview, and once again this one comes from overseas, the good ol’ US of A.  Chris has some of the most brilliant looking Transformers displays I have ever seen, and he’s sharing photos of it as well sharing the history of his hobby with us today.

 

Name and/or nicknames:

Chris Bishop.  I used to go by makoaspire as a customizer, but not so much anymore.

Family?

Married man, nearly 20 years this go round. Two teenage daughters.

Career?

I own and operate my own full service sign company. I do the little stuff  – like banners and such, and the big stuff – like shopping center monuments. As well as all the stuff in between. Having the equipment and the background I do from the sign business has helped incalculably in creating the collection display space that I have now.

 Website/Fan-pages?

Well I basically live on Facebook, so all of my content is there.  You can see my customs work, which includes exhaustive photos of my collection as well at: https://www.facebook.com/LNOWcustoms. 

I’m going to be starting up a side venture selling my background prints and creating dio pieces for anyone who wants them. I’m sluggish on the start, but hope to get that running soon.

How would you rate yourself on a C scale, C10 being MISB Mint perfection, to the lowest C1 ‘junker not worth it even for parts’?

I’m a 50 year old man. I’ve got more dents and dings in my packaging than I care to admit, but you see, the inside’s gone to pot as well.  I’m not a total loss though, so I’ll give myself a C5+

Fan/Collector since (year)?

September 17, 1984. The day the G1 cartoon premiered in the US.  A week earlier, a kid in my class had the first TF toy I had ever seen, a Buzzsaw cassette.  Up until that point Star Wars was the top dog in my toy arsenal. Then I see this thing, that’s TWO things.  And one was a robot bird! I was intrigued.  Then he told me a cartoon was coming out for these toys and it was gonna start the following week. I was hooked.

Transformers Allegiance, if you had one?

Decepticon. I have a tattoo of the symbol on my shoulder, a badge on the front of my truck, Devastator adorns my shop’s garage door.

I’m not all good. I’ve done some untoward stuff in my life. I love dark humor. The darker the better. I cannot suffer fools easily or at least without making my disdain known. I complain a lot, but I love cats, am exceedingly helpful and don’t want to cause any unnecessary pain.

Your Techspec motto if you had one?

Be nice, until it’s time to not be nice.

What existing, official Transformers character best describes you?

Blitzwing.  Has leadership goals, has a few sides to him, can avoid a hit when necessary, has his own mind, but is ultimately loyal and honorable in the end.

Which special ability of any Transformers character would you want to have for yourself? 

I’m a Skywarp fan and hate long car trips so, teleportation would be great.

Do you think you will collect Transformers until you die?

Difficult to see.  Always in motion, is the future. Just as you have with your Transformatorium, I have spent an inordinate amount of time and effort, as well as money and other intangibles to create the setup I have, so I’m definitely “pot committed” to use a poker term. AFTER I die, well, that’s my survivor’s problem.  But I have all the boxes in the attic for them to pack everything into to sell.

Do people outside of the hobby know you collect TFs (like at work/school)?

Yes. Several do, but I am of a generation where being a nerd was not something that you ever wanted to be labeled. So I still find myself low key ashamed to be into this sort of thing, especially at my age. I don’t broadcast it beyond the “community”. However, you make allowances for always loving what you grew up with and I love these things.

Were your family/parents supportive of collecting toys or did you have to hide your passion from them and friends?

I would say in retrospect, that I was spoiled with toys as a child. I was a good kid, definitely not a Veruca Salt, but I had a lot of stuff.  I was the first kid, first grandchild, so a lot of gifts at birthdays and holidays.  Not the rest of the year.  We were lower middle working class, but somehow my family provided plenty. Though there was always that one figure, or playset, or whatever, that I didn’t have or wanted, but didn’t get.

What does your partner think of your hobby?

She supports me, whatever.  She’s not into the hobby by any means. But she appreciates the effort and the artistry that I bring to it, because for me, it’s not just about the collecting, it’s about creating things and marrying the two.

Have you attended any fan-meets, Fairs, Conventions, Special Events?

I’ve been to many local cons, as well as a few TFCons.  Next up is TFCON Baltimore in November.

Favourite series/era/year, and why?

Geee-Wunnnnn!  Because it was the right time, I was the right age, it was made for me, crafted to manipulate me into loving these characters, watching their cartoon exploits, reading their comics (and shrugging off the differing from the cartoon storylines). And ultimately BUYING (or being gifted or stealing) the toys.

I know it wasn’t the best written thing. I cringe at AKOM episodes, or laugh at all the animation errors. But it was FOR me…at the time. And generationally as a whole,  Xers and Early Millenials are so entangled in their own pop culture nostalgia. Moreso than any previous or subsequent generation. Perfect storm, man.

Collect any comics?

None beyond the original TF ones, but I’ve read everything that’s come down the pike about the G1 characters. Dreamwave, IDW, Image.

Favourite Comic issue/story, and why?

I realize that when it comes to the original G1 comics continuity we have Marvel US and UK titles.  As an American, I’m always talking about the US title.  The comic stories didn’t really move me in any particular way, but Issue #9 with Circuit Breaker stands out, as well as the cover for issue #5. And of course the abomination in issue 70.

Favourite Cartoon episode/story, and why?

Don’t have a favorite, but I have ones that I don’t really like. Most of those are in Season 3 or by AKOM studios. Lol.

Favourite Character, and why?

If you could combine Shockwave, Skywarp and Motormaster into one badass hombre, then that’s my guy!

Which Transformers character would you want to exist for real?

Huffer or Gears.  He can help me work and complain all day with me.

Approx TFs toy collection count (or give a range like 200s, 300s, 2000s etc): 

Including items not on display I’d estimate in the 300-400 range.

Sealed collector or out-of-packaging collector?

I have done both.  But mainly out and displayed. The current Mainline/Studio Series 86 bots all remain MISB and packed away in the attic.

How much do you think you’ve spent on your collecting habit?

Including the lumber, supplies, lighting, toys and all the display redos since the Ikea Detolf days of 2014 – roughly $25 – $30K

Any rare/expensive figures in your collection? 

I have a few exclusives.  The most recent pickup was the Yolopark Clear Purple Megatron.

What interesting Licensed Merchandise items do you have?

I stay away from non-figure purchases.  I used to heavily collect Star Wars stuff in my 20s.  Had a display space similar to what I have for the TFs without all the dios and backgrounds, though.  I bought EVERY. THING. Star Wars branded and it had to stay MISB.  Of course I had ALL of the figures and playsets. But then I started buying scented markers, collectors plates, store displays, Bags of chips and Pepsi products, bookmarks.  It became untenable. It swallowed my time and was a small, but contributing factor to the disintegration of my first marriage.

First Transformers toy?

G1 Trailbreaker was the first one I unwrapped that Xmas.

One toy you most want?

I don’t have a grail. I’ve bought everything I want…so far.

The centrepiece/favourite toy in your collection at the moment (and why)?

It’s quite literally the entire centerpiece of my display. In 2020 during the pandemic time off I built a Legends scale G1 cartoon centerpiece display unit for the space.  It is comprised of 4 sides, each with 3-4 shelves that have dios of G1 cartoon scenes populated with legends figures. I intentionally built it with differing composition angles that force you to keep looking and moving around the unit. I feel it’s the finest work I will ever do. And I already did it… So I’m done, I guess. Lol.

Side 1: The Ark & Sherman Dam

Side 2: The Oil Rig and the Decepticon Underwater Base

 Side 3: The 86 Movie

Side 4: Cybertron, the Space Bridge and Season 4

Favourite toy in your early years of collecting?

Soundwave was always a banger to have on hand.

Worst toy(s) ever in your opinion?

Dino-Riders. Shout out to my buddy Gort. Lol.  But I assume you meant worst TF toy.  I personally dislike the pretenders, especially the mega super pretenders or whatever they called them. I was out of TFs by that point, trying to catch the ladies.

Toy(s) that were most disappointing when you got them?

All of the G1 toys, really.  Even then I held the toys up and compared them to the toon, and found them lacking.  Don’t get me wrong, I loved they toys then, but I was keenly aware they didn’t match the characters on the show.  I mean Where TF are Ironhide & Ratchet’s heads??  It started me on the road to customization.  Not knowing any different I would regularly repaint my figures with house paints or even one time I glued lego bits to Blaster to make him combine with the Throttlebots.

Thoughts on gimmick and non-convertible Transformers toys?

A gimmick is only cool if it doesn’t take anything away from the figure. I couldn’t care less about opening doors and hoods, or steering wheels on car robots. When you start making sacrifices to include a gimmick, that’s when the toy IS the gimmick and not the character. As far as non-converting – that’s a case by case basis, but I don’t prefer it unless it is a definitive representation of the character.  I’m slavish to G1 toon accuracy if you haven’t come to that conclusion yet. However you still have to straddle the line sometimes when it comes to Devastator.

Which single TFs toy should every fan own?

A Prime. For better or worse, he’s the sigil of the franchise.

Which Transformers toy/product would you give as a wedding present?

I can’t imagine that being a possible scenario in my life. LOL. My TF collecting friends already have everything.

Do you collect other toys? 

Minimally.  I have small collections or single shelves of various 80’s pop-culture properties.  Back to The Future, They Live, Aliens, Ghostbusters, Jaws (70s) Flash Gordon and others.

I also have 3 shelves of Indiana Jones.  Artifacts from the films and the recent 6” figure line. I had to make custom figures of several of the characters that Hasbro left out.  All the shelves have some sort of backgrounds or dioramas. I can’t help myself 😉

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How did you find out about www.bigangrytrev.com?

I’ve seen your Transformatorium photos in the groups before, and just watched your video.  It’s a massively, impressive collection you’ve amassed. Now it’s got it’s own orbit with people sending you stuff all the time to add to it. But to also be able to share it with your kids is golden, and best of all. I’m sure you’re supremely proud of it all, and you SHOULD be!

Thanks for requesting the interview. I’m quite proud of what I’ve done and like to show it off. I guess it’s the equivalent to gearheads and their rides and car shows or burning donuts. Except our collections can’t go anywhere to show off, we just get to post cool pics.

 Additional photos

Thank you so much to Chris for sharing his AMAZING Transformer displays with us!  If there is anything else you’d like to know about Chris and his hobby, pop it in the comments section below!