W4C: Starscream And Optimus Primed

Game Informer has updated its Transformers: War for Cybertron hub with two new articles.

Starscream Profile
The last character profile focuses on Megatron's second in command. The game, for the first time ever, will show the first meeting between Starscream and Megatron during a mission onboard a space station in orbit around Cybertron. It will also attempt to explain why Starscream wants to rule the Decepticons and why Megatron keeps him around despite knowing his dangerous ambitions. As the image shows, Starscream's alt mode is once again a jet while his game special powers are Hover in robot mode and Shockwave which is useful for attacking groups of enemies.

Optimus Primed
Click the link for a time lapse look at the W4C version of Optimus Prime as he is drawn by Senior Concept Artist Billy King. Overall, the inspiration in the game character designs seems to be from the Generation One cartoons with a mix of the Classic toy line and The War Within comic series.

Four New ROTF Toy Reviews

After a slight detour to review Power Rangers and Beast Wars toys, Peaugh is back with four new reviews of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen toys. This time he reviews Deluxe class Ratchet, Lockdown and Brawn and also Scout Class Skystalker. All four are part of the new NEST Human Alliance toys coming out in the next few months. That sub-line has lots of repaints so it’s good to see some of the new molds.

NEST Shorts In 2010?

It appears that Tomy Takara plans to support the NEST sub line for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen toys with style. According to TFormers, there will be a series of short videos released to the web called "Transformers Cyber Mission" along with Toys R Us Japan exclusive NEST badge to first 4000 people that spend 2000 yen or more on ROTF products at their stores. The details on the videos (number, cgi, cartoon, voice, story, etc) have not been released.

Here is the translated text:

N.E.S.T. Enrollment Campaign
Get a Toys R Us exclusive N.E.S.T. tin badge by purchasing more than 2,000 yen worth ROTF products at TRU stores within Japan (except the online store) after Jan 23th 2010. For first 4000 customers only.

Transformers: Nafarious #1 Preview

Comic Book Resources has posted a first look at the first three pages of the next Transformers mini-series from IDW. Transformers: Nefarious starts were Transformers: Tales of the Fallen #5 (in comic books stores now) left off which tells the story of how Ravage was somehow revived by The Initiative.

The sequel to TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN starts here!

What is The Initiative? More to the point, why doesn’t the all-seeing SOUNDWAVE know anything about it? How did they come to reanimate/control RAVAGE? SOUNDWAVE must find the answers, and he’ll destroy anything in his path to get them!

The issue will hit comic stores in March. Story by Simon Furman who has written most American TF books over the years including almost all of the movie related material. The preview pages can be found here.

Things Learned From ROTF

It turns out that Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen provided plenty of life lessons that can carry you through life. At least according to 100 Things I Learned. For ROTF, the list is currently at 63 things, most rather amusing. Some used it to vent about the movie but most got into the spirit of pretending to take the movie's "lessons" literally. The full list is here. (via Roger Ebert, nope not a typo)

Some favorites:
- Don't let your mom eat environmentally friendly brownies served by white kids in dreadlocks.
- The army will automatically fire a conveniently placed rail gun if you tell them you used to work with them.
- Mothers love hearing their children losing their virginity.
- If a hot girl is interested in a geek, she is probably trying to kill him.
- You can throw a high US government official appointed by the president, from a C17 with a parachute and get away with it.
- When someone you love is in peril, screaming their name apparently helps a lot.

Botcon 2010 Location Announced

In time for Christmas, the location and date of Botcon 2010 has been announced. The yearly Official Transformers Convention will be held at Walt Disney World's Dolphin Hotel and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida from June 24th-27th, 2010.

I have never been to Botcon so can't vouch if the convention is worth the $134USD per night hotel cost plus $5USD for parking. So far details on guests and panels have not been announced but as the name implies it is all about Transformers so typically guests are voice actors, Hasbro representatives, and lots of dealers with TF loot. Panels are usually about future TF plans with likely a look at Hasbro's next toy lines, cartoon plans and IDW's comic book plans.

Click here for more details.

W4C: Megatron, High Moon Studios, And Game Art

Game Informer has added additional articles to their Transformers: War for Cybertron article hub. Below are links to the latest updates about the game that is coming this next summer.

Megatron Character Profile
As the image shows, this isn't the Megatron of old but he shares a lot of features with his G1 incarnation such as the head shape, color scheme and large cannon. Ever since Generation Two, Megs' traditional alt mode has been a tank (due to US toy safety rules) and that hasn't changed here. Megatron's motivation remains the same, rule Cybertron, but for the game he is trying to find "Dark Energon" to achieve that goal. Meg's arm cannon is powerful enough to destroy city blocks, has Mark Targets (like Prime) and Drain abilities.

High Moon Studios Profile
Activision is the publisher, but High Moon is the one actually making W4C. Owned by Activision, located in Carlsbad, California, the company got its start in as part of Sega when called Sammy Studios. Their other games include Darkwatch and The Bourne Conspiracy.

Behind the Art of War for Cybertron
A behind the scenes look at the art that was created for the game as this is probably the first extensive look at Cybertron for a video game. The planet was previously explored in season three of G1 Transformers and Beast Machines but not much sense. Click the link above for a video that shows off some of the art and sources of inspiration.

Transmission Recovery Codes
TransformersGame.com has new content relating to War for Cybertron but it requires you to choose the right Coordinate (yellow) and Transmission (blue) combinations. Thanks to TFormers, here are the codes.

Coordinate: 40, Transmission: 120 (art also in art profile video)
Coordinate: 21, Transmission: 284 (art also at Megs profile link)
Coordinate: 30, Transmission: 007 (video of seeker flying)
Coordinate: 298, Transmission: 85 (video of Decepticon symbol)
Coordinate: 11, Transmission: 265 (art of Optimus Prime)

After using all five codes get "100% total recovered" and "3rd batch will be available in 6 hrs" (or around midnight EST).

War For Cybertron Interview, Details

TFW2005 has posted up a quick summary about Transformers: War for Cybertron and a quick interview with Game Director Matt Tieger. Below are highlights, the full article can be found here.

Also, TransformersGame.com has updated with the trailer. After the trailer plays a pretty click 3D view of Cybertron from space appears with what appears to be a blast coming from its surface (or engine?) with game to "locate a transmission". Click the "?" for instructions. The one I found was coordinate 011 and transmission 263 which switched and showed a still of Optimus Prime.

Highlights:
- Game not based on any generation or iteration of Transformers but uses elements, references, etc to create new cannon that Hasbro is considering using as the basis of new ongoing cannon for the franchise.
- Takes place on Cybertron, long before Transformers ever reached Earth.
- Familiar faces will be in game (Prime, Megatron, Soundwave, etc) with plans to use characters not seen for a long time (Omega Supreme) etc. Which will be playable, boss fights, etc was not indicated.
- "Character development is key", Cybertron will be expanded upon using past references from comics, cartoons, etc such as use of the city Iacon as Prime's home.
- Toys based on the game are under consideration but no firm plans yet.
- "I think there is a law against making a TF game without Peter Cullen."
- There will be online campaigns with co-op modes
- Confirmed game uses the Unreal Engine and will be 3rd person shooter. Not cover-based shooter but teamwork is involved, can transform anywhere, and each character has special abilities.
- There likely will be DLC packs but nothing specific planned yet.

Transformers: Tales Of The Fallen #5 Preview

Bzzurkk.com has posted the cover and first five pages to Transformers: Tales of the Fallen #5 that I believe hits comic stores next Wednesday. The issue focuses on Ravage, somehow rebuilt despite being rather effectively shredded by Bumblebee in the movie. The preview can be found here.

Transformers: War For Cybertron Dated, Cover Art

Amazon has posted their pre-order page for Transformers: War for Cybertron that reveals a release date of June 22, 2010 and a mock up of the cover art for the game. In addition is news that the game is also going to be coming to the Nintendo DS (oddly PSP isn't listed) in an Autobots or Decepticons version as the previous movie games were done for the system. The prices are the expected $60USD (PS3, 360), $50USD (Wii), and $30USD (DS). There will probably pre-order specials coming so I would wait on ordering (but if do use the link above so blog gets credit).

In addition, Activision issued its press release about the game but it did not include the info from the Amazon listing.

“For the first time, Hasbro is working with Activision to drive the TRANSFORMERS fiction forward into new story arcs, demonstrating pivotal moments in Transformers history that defined who they are,” said Aaron Archer, Senior Design Director, Hasbro. “This remarkable video game helps us to tell a critical event in TRANSFORMERS lore that will be used as canon for future storylines in a way we could have only dreamed of a few years ago. It is a testament to the success of the TRANSFORMERS brand and a key element to the story we look forward to telling in 2010 and beyond.”

Transformers: War for Cybertron features two distinct storylines: the AUTOBOT campaign tells a story of heroism to save their home planet against overwhelming odds, and the DECEPTICON campaign tells a story of an unquenchable thirst for power to control the universe. For the first time in a TRANSFORMERS title, fans will be able to play the game with their friends through team-based online co-op, or go head to head in a variety of intense, online multiplayer game modes. The game features a sci-fi art style that introduces to fans the entire living, metallic world of CYBERTRON, as well as all-new visualizations of the iconic TRANSFORMERS characters in their original Cybertronian forms.

Transformers: Animated Coming To Japan

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen has finally been released in Japan. As part of the inserts is news that Transformers: Animated is coming to the country as their next toy line starting March 2010 and I assume translated cartoons will start airing at some point. Their name for the toy line has not been revealed. I expect they will get all versions of the toys that were released stateside with Tomy Takara adding their own additions as they see fit. For Transfans in North American this mostly means that you will get a second chance to fill out collection gaps and grow it with Japan exclusive releases. (via TFormers)

Transformers 3 "Stimulus Package"

Michael Bay and company want you to join the Transformers 3 team. Well specifically experienced Maya users to help with pre-viz work according to a post on MB.com called "Our Stimulus Package".

Nelson here...

We are looking for the best Pre-viz animators to help build the team for Transformers 3. Maya expertise is a must.

Please email your resume in Word or PDF format along with the URL of you reel to the web master.

If you don't know what pre-vis and Maya is, you probably shouldn't apply. As to what they are, pre-viz is a 3D animation of movie scenes (nowadays practically the entire movie) that uses a virtual camera to mimic how a director would prefer to film a scene practically. It’s become critical for most productions as it saves on costs as gives directors and crew a chance to simulate scenes, camera angles and more all before having to do it practically. Its saves on filming unnecessary sequences, improve the story both visually and conceptually and helps the crew plan what their needs are especially for stunt work, special effects, and CGI effects.

Maya, it is the scripting language and program that is used to create 3D computer graphics. It can be used to create ILM level VFX but it is most often used for pre-vis, CGI animation productions like Monsters vs. Aliens, and more or less the default program for amateur creators due to its relatively inexpensive cost compared to other special effects programs. In this case "inexpensive" is defined as around $3500 plus cost of a high end computer to handle the rendering.

We know from many of the videos found online, a fine crew of animators can be assembled from Transfandom. Good luck!

More War For Cybertron Coverage And Details

TFormers has posted a little more insight in what the game play will be like from talking with Transformers: War For Cybertron Game Director Matt Tieger.

Gameplay will feature shooting, in a third person style reminiscent of the Gears of War series. Expect the dynamic elements of Transformation, including into air craft, to weigh in on that tried formula though. Most weapons will be standardized, be changeable and use ammo. Health will regenerate when fire is avoided.

A co-op feature is planned, and while it is unknown what the final number of simultaneous players will be, the levels available for play all had 2 AI controlled players fighting alongside the player character. Online multiplayer has been a part of design from day one, High Moon hasn’t given any of those features away just yet.

The campaigns are set one after the other, the first is from the Decepticon perspective, as Megatron pursues something called “Dark Energon”, once he is victorious, the Autobot campaign begins. Apparently this story is so compelling that Hasbro is accepting it as canon for the franchise.

Game Informer has started a rather long series of articles that will be posted periodically here throughout the month for W4C video game. Here is a summary of what they have so far.

Sterner Stuff
A good History 101 summary of the Transformers franchise from the Generation One cartoons to today including summaries on the toy lines, comics and more. A nice primer for anyone wanting to play catch-up on some of the terms you might have read about here and there (including on this blog).

Optimus Prime Character Profile
The first of a series of profiles on the major characters of the game including a look at some concept art (example above). For the game, this is Optimus before he rises to leader of the Autobots that joins the war after his home city of Iacon is attacked by Decepticons.

Teaser Trailer
In case you didn't already see it, another look at the teaser trailer for the game.

Transformers Trivia
An amusing video as Game Informer editors and W4C Cinematics Director Dave Cravens quiz each other on aspects of Transformers history.

Transformers New Line Image?

TFormers.com posted the image to the left that indicates a mock-up of the next line of Transformers products called Power Core Combiners. Based on the mock-up it really reminds me of a slightly more elaborate version of the Targetmasters from the Generation One line. The power core line was suggested a few months ago with a trademark filing from Hasbro but this is the first time there has been a real indication of what the company was planning with that name. Unless this is a fan fake which you never know until something official comes out.

Human Alliance Barricade Video Review

Below is a video review of Human Alliance Barricade with Frenzy set that is popping up in stores now. The review is by Baltmatrix and does a good job showing off the figure that while part of the Revenge of the Fallen toy line is really based on the first movie. This includes having Frenzy tucked under Barricade's hood similar to the movie, a feature not obvious from previous images of the toy.

Bumblebee #1 Preview

Tomorrow Transformers: Bumblebee #1 will be out at your local comic book shop. Click here for a six page preview of the issue that follows Bumblebee after his recent (spoilers) ascension as leader of the Autobots after Optimus Prime quit (in Transformers #1 and #2).

Hasbro's Legends Devastator In Package

The Arker has posted the first images indicating that Legends class Devastator is getting a stateside visit. The images below show the toy in its package with the Hasbro logo in the bottom right corner. No indication of release date and price. To me the curved packaging and the silver naming along the top looks very similar to previous Target Transformers exclusives. (via TFW2005)

Click here for a large gallery that shows off the new Transformers in more detail with in package, out of package, robot mode, and vehicle mode images for the whole and the individual Constructicons.

Transformers: ROTF On Oscar VFX Short List

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen has been selected as one of fifteen semi-finalists for Achievement in Visual Effects for the upcoming Academy Awards. In early January, the list will be cut to fifteen. Next on January 21st, Academy members will screen 15-minute excerpts to choose the final three for official nomination announcement on February 2nd. The Oscar will be rewarded during the live telecast on March 7th. Sadly the excerpts are rarely released to the public, which is a shame as the audience the awards are for should at least be able to join the debate even if don't have an influence on the results. Besides it never hurts to show off a movie.

The full list of semi-finalists:Angels & Demons, Avatar, Coraline, Disney's A Christmas Carol, District 9, G-Force, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Sherlock Holmes, Star Trek, Terminator Salvation, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, 2012, Watchmen and Where the Wild Things Are (via Dark Horizons)

Leaked Transformers 3 Movie Script? (Updated)

The Allspark has received a copy of what is labeled as a draft script for Transformers 3 by Ehren Kruger, finished on November 24th, 2009. Considering that last leaked script for Transformers 2 was fake, I am not holding my breath this is the real thing. Actually the script itself indicates it is fake with way to many fan boy references, reformatting of most of the characters (which would make creating brand new CGI models for everyone, not a cheap task), and more. Feel free to read and determine for yourself the validity of it.

Leaked Transformers 3 Draft l mirror

Update 2: Nelson, Michael Bay's site admin, posted "Their is a script out there being reported on TF sites as being legit. It's fake. Amazing that someone would take so much time to write so much for nothing."

Update 1: Here is a more detailed description and analysis now that I have had time to do more than just skim the script.

The script is essentially a love letter to the history of Transformers. There is a jump to the past so some characters both new and old can get a makeover in their more famous alt modes. In some cases there are literal re-creations of moments from the generation one cartoon series (especially "More Than Meets the Eyes") and Transformers: The Movie. Most of the new characters are classic G1 with Percepter, Laserbeak, Mirage, Hound, Thundercracker and many more. The script has some rather clever ideas and plot twists such as given Prime a trailer using Mirage's holographic technology, the introduction of a new plot McGuffin with the Key to Vector Sigma and retroactively correcting many of the plot wholes from the first movie. The final act has a moment to up the Devastator ante with Superion vs. Bruticus while having Prime and Megatron once again go at it, with Soundwave joining the battle with his mini-friends (Ravage, Rumble, and co). The final scenes make for an excellent cliffhanger moment. It was an enjoyable read that gave me some warm and fuzzies as I recognized many of the moments from my childhood love of Transformers.

Having said that, all that is also the very reason this script is NOT the real deal. Michael Bay has made it clear he doesn't really like doing homages, limiting it as much as possible while this script is just thick with it. The ideas, while huge and interesting, have rather long sequences (including a space fight) being pure CGI and for most scenes the Transformers are almost constantly in robot mode. Part of the reason for the emphasis on human interactions, human technology and the vehicle alt modes is it saves on the budget. The final pages, with the cliffhanger, also breaks a Bay rule of keeping movies contained to itself.

Finally, this script doesn't have that "emotional hook" that Bay, the writers, etc loved harping on (in a silly attempt to elevate their work to more than it really is but whatever works I guess). For the first movie it was a boy and his first car, the second was boy becomes man as he accepts his responsibilities, and this one has a brief moment where Sam and Michaela become engaged but nothing else really.

Overall, I was entertained by the script and would not mind this being the real deal. Sadly that is not the case. Maybe IDW can do an "Elseworlds" type thing with in it comic book form. There was clearly a lot of thought put into this so thanks to the writer for putting together an enjoyable read.

Transformers Linkfest

Another installment with more galleries, toys and a custom 7 foot Prime for sale.

Custom Optimus Prime 7ft Statue (mirror)
From EBay Australia is this rather sweet looking fan made statue of Prime in movie form. The work is the result of around $10,000 in parts, 75 days of label, and a whole lot of scrap metal. The weight is estimated around 450-559kg (992-1213lbs). Click the link to read a lot more about the project. The "buy it now" price currently at AU $47k with no bids. Click here for the auction.

NEST Deluxe Figures Gallery
Click the link for a look at the nest wave of NEST toys for Revenge of the Fallen coming out early next year. The images include Brawn, Lockdown, Ratchet, and combined Skystalker and Mindwipe (vehicle mode only).

Shadow Command Megatron & Strike Mission Sideswipe in Packages
At this link are images of the two toys in their packaging. Both are repaints that actually appear to be a better color scheme then their original look. I believe both are part of the next wave of toys coming out early next year.

Buster Prime & Jetfire 2-Pack
Asian only release, this leader class two pack features the improved version of Optimus Prime with Jetfire who is also featuring a new paint job with a black, brown and dark gray scheme. Still no indications if Buster Prime will make a Stateside or European release.

Official Images of 2010 Legends and Deluxes
Click for sizeable gallery of the next wave of Legends, Deluxe and HA Barricade that is coming early next year. It’s basically two images per, one for package, one for alt mode. The images include Legends Wheelie, Soundwave, Bluesteel Sideswipe along with Deluxe Dirge, Alliance Bumblebee, Tuner Mudflap, and Armorhide.

Ultimate Optimus Collection Auction
If your a fan of Optimus Prime you might be interested in this auction which has almost 140 different Prime items for sale in one auction. Click the link for images and the full list. The auction expires on December 20th.

Transformers: War For Cybertron Teaser Trailer

GameTrailers.com has officially and exclusively released the teaser trailer for Transformers: War for Cybertron to go with the leaked art from the other day. The trailer shows lots of quick shots of a cinematic with teasers of various characters like Optimus Prime and Omega Supreme, all redesigned but clearly inspired by their original Generation One counterparts.

I assume this game is set at some point during "The Great War" that first pits the Autobots against the Decepticons in a long lasting civil war that eventually reaches Earth as indicated in the various cartoons, comics and movies. Also the official website, TransformersGames.com, has been updated to reflect the new game with a countdown clock in the Cybertronian language and a link to sign up for "future transmissions."

The game's release date is to be determined, the platforms are PS3, XBox 360, and PC. Below is the video or click here for the embiggened version.

Click here for nearly a frame by frame gallary of images from the trailer.

Video Games | Transformers: War for Cybertron | Exclusive Debut Trailer HD

XBox 360 | Playstation 3 | Nintendo Wii

Transformers: The War For Cybertron Video Game First Look

Activision has released new art to Game Informers announcing a new video game from the company for the Transformers franchise. This game, which is being created by High Moon Studios (Darkwatch, Bourne Conspiracy), is called Transformers: The War for Cybertron, appears to take place in the Generation One sandbox. No further details have been released beyond the images and the studio, but judging from those this appears to be the first game that I can remember that appears to take place in the Generation One universe (rather than movies or other recent cartoons) and on Cybertron.

It appears that some of the designs might have been inspired by Don Figueroa's art for Transformers: The War Within comic books series from Dreamwave back in 2002 with a mix of other more recent concepts like the Classic line. Below are some images, click here for the full gallery.

Revenge Merchandise Tops $850 Million

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen has brought good news to Hasbro's bottom line with a licensing and merchandise bringing in $830 million USD worldwide. By comparison, the worldwide gross of the movie is $833.2 million USD.

This new information comes from a MSNBC article highlighting Hasbro's shift from toy company to multimedia with relationships in the movie industry (TF, GI Joe, Monopoly and more), TV (deal with Discovery Communications for new Hasbro channel), and video games (EA and Activision deals). The company’s profits rise 9% to $150.4 million USD thanks to cost cutting efforts and pay off from their multimedia deals increasing toy sales.

It could just be a matter of time before the company hits the number one spot with Transformers 3 in the planning stages, a probably sequel to GI Joe, and more in the works for the next few years. (via TFormers)

Transformers Linkfest

More links to more Transformers related galleries and news of note.

Transformers USB Thumb Drive
From Paramount Digital Entertainment, a limited edition run of 20,000 4GB USB drives in the Autobot logo shape that comes with own unique ID number and a copy of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen on it. The price is about 20 pounds and appears to be a UK exclusive, released as part of the promotion for the November 30th home video release of the movie in the country. If in that area, click here to order.

Premium Ironhide Custom
Link to a gallery of a fantastic custom paint job of Ironhide using the 2007 toy as the base.

Bumblebee, Soundwave 2-pack Packaging
If you’re interested, a look at the packaging for Battlefield Bumblebee and Infiltration Soundwave. Both repaints of the deluxe toys, Bumblebee looks about the same as the cannon one while Soundwave has a red and blue color scheme of sorts.

Transformers 25th Anniversary Memorial Stamp Set
From Nikkon Broadcast is a stamp and trading card set. It includes 10 stamps, 50 JYP, five trading cards and special edition portfolio. It is for the Japan market only.

Transformers Encore #19
Tomy Takara has officially announced the release of Big Mission Cassettes Volume 3 for later this month for around $47USD. Japan only release, it will include Rumble, Frenzy, Laserbeak, and Overkill.

ROTF Gold Prime
Click the link for a look at a gold painted version of Optimus Prime.

Human Alliance Barricade And Mudflap

Two more toys are joining the Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Human Alliance sub class. One is Barricade with Frenzy and another is Mudflap with Simmons & Chromia which essentially mirrors the Skids with Mikaela & Arcee set. I will wait on Peaugh's reviews before making any final decisions but the Human Alliance toys have turned out to be pretty good (if a touch overpriced).

Galleries: Barricade l Mudflap

Time Lapse Of Final Battle Set Consrtuction

EarthCam.net has posted a video of a time lapse of the construction of the Final Battle set for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen in White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico which I think occurred around June 2008. It gets some of the early filming but not of any of the big explosions and resulting destruction of the set. A set constuction like this helps give you an idea of the sheer volume of hard work that can go into a movie.

Unused Track From Transformers

Here is a video of sorts that has an unused track from Transformers called "A Call To Arms" by Steve Jablonsky. I am not entirely clear if this is from the first or second but the use of Prime's theme and the sound suggests the first film. I wonder what spot it was originally intended for?

Alternity Bumblebee And Cliffjumper Video Review

Peaugh has posted new Transformers video reviews, this time for Alternity Bumblebee and Cliffjumper. Alternity is Japan exclusive Transformers line that is a successor to the Binal-Tech/Alternators toy line. The result is a detailed, complex transformation that gives your classic characters a real world alt mode from real car companies. The toys are now available for $50USD-$60USD (my store recommendations: BigBadToystore.com, TFSource.com and Digital-Toys). Overall the toys are looking sweet.

Transformers #2 Preview

The next issue of Transformers (Ongoing) is hitting stores shelves soon (next week I think) and Newsarama as a sneak peak at its covers and first five pages that starts were the last left off (Spoilers!) with Ironhide dead and Optimus Prime turning himself in to the humans after resigning as leader of the Autobots.

Click here to view.

Bendy-Bus Prime, The 1st UK Transformers

As part of the promotion of the release of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen in the United Kingdom, Paramount UK commissioned the creation of Bendy-Bus Prime. It is being called the "first British inspired" Transformer that is valued at 50,000 pounds. The robot is made of 100 bus parts, stands 13 feet high and took 650 man hours in 25 days to build. More interesting is The Sun is holding a contest for UK residents for a chance to win the robot.

Click here for a full gallery of pictures. Click here for a brief making of video and to enter the contest. (via TFormers)

Buster Optimus Prime Video Review

Peaugh has posted a new Transformers video review, this time for Revenge of the Fallen Leader class Buster Optimus Prime. This toy is currently a Japan exclusive but that doesn't mean it may not get a release elsewhere in the future.

Overall it is an improved version with the same transformation but better, more detailed paint job and a sweet accessory.

Voyager Bludgeon Hidden Feauture

Thanks to Yoboy, here is a video update for Voyager Bludgeon that show that his Katanas can combine into a longer sword, something not shown in previous review.

Transformers Linkfest

Lot of new links to various Transformer galleries including new Alternity gallery with review, look at Legends Devastator in G1 colors, Masterpiece Nemesis Prime and more.

Alternity Bumblebee and Cliffjumper Gallery
Huge 84 image gallery of the now finished version of the next figures in the Japan exclusive Transformers Alternity line. The alternate mode is the Suzuki Swift Sport and the two are essentially identical except for color and head mold. The Alternity line are small (about Deluxe sized) but detailed toys with complex transformations and use of die-cast in their construction.

Alternity Bumblebee Video Review
In addition to the above gallery, here is a video review of Alternity Bumblebee that shows off the gimmicks and the transformation of the toy. Due to cussing can't exactly call it safe for work nor is it as good as Peaugh's but gives you an idea of whether the toy is worth the extra cost.(via TFW2005)



Masterpiece Optimus Prime in Black
Gallery of in package MP Prime in yet another re-issue (I think fifth version). This time the Japan exclusive is sporting the black and teal that tends to be associated with Nemesis Prime.

EZ Collection Devastator in G1 Green (mirror)
Click the link to view an official gallery of images from Takara of the repaint of Legends Devastator that remains a Japan exclusive. He is sporting the G1 green that the Constructicons first had back in 1984.

Next Masterpiece Toy Hint
In an interview with TF designer who created MP Prime, Buster Prime, and more Hirinori Kobayashi hints that the next figure in the MP line will come from the Season 3 line of toys. That season was dominated by characters from Transformers: The Movie.

XBox Revenge of the Fallen Avatars
Now available on the XBox Live Marketplace is Transformers: ROTF clothing and helmets for your avatars. The helmets (Megatron, Bumblebee, Optimus Prime) cost 240 MS points and the shirts (7 types total) are 80 MS points.

Device Label Grimlock and Trypticon
Now available in Japan are these two new Transformers from the Device Label line. Grimlock and Trypticon are identical (except for paint job) whose alt mode is a fully functional optical mouse.

Another Leader Starscream Gallery
A new high-quality gallery of the upcoming toy that almost seem like official images. No clue when Leader class Starscream reaches stores, actually thought he would have by now for the Holiday season but maybe he is being held back for the 2010 wave of toys.

25 Years Of Transformers Clip

From Seibertron.com, below is a clip from the "25 Years of Transformers" extra feature that came with the home video release of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen on DVD and Blu-ray. The clip was released by Paramount to help promote the release of the movie in the UK on November 30th. Video below or click here to view.

More Buster Optimus Prime Images

For whatever reason, a bunch of new images have popped up of Leader class Buster Optimus Prime which is currently a Japan only exclusive from Takara. The main differences are a more movie accurate paint job and the additional accessory based on Prime's blaster (from the factory scene that sends Starscream through the wall).

Gallery 1 and Gallery 2
Click these links for multiple shots of the toy in its package which is in English oddly enough. I believe the bio remains unchanged from the regular leader class Prime toy. The gallery also includes shots of the figure loose and combined with Jetfire.

Comparison Gallery
This gallery is does a great job of uses images to compare Buster Prime (left) with the old (right). The images don't just do the usual far away shots but close-up of various parts to give you an idea of the many tweaks added all over the place to improve the toy. The new blaster accessory also gets shown off in detail.

Buster Prime 360 View
Last but not least is a flash video that gives you a 360 degree view of the toy. If you click "Action" in the top right you can also get a look the chest and light gimmick ("02 Style") and the vehicle mode ("03 Style").

Tales Of The Fallen #4 Preview

From TFormers.com is an eight page preview of the upcoming issue of Transformers: Tales of the Fallen #4. The issue gets into the background and history of The Fallen as it tells why he decided to turn on his brothers. Of note is The Fallen suggests the Allspark "spoke" to him to turn rogue. The new issue is in comic stores this Wednesday.

Click here for the preview. Four of pages, a few different, can be found here.

Custom Generation 1 Ark Autobots Auction

ProCustomizers.com has charity auction going on now for the Make-A-Wish Foundation that gives you a chance to own Autobots that arrived on the Ark when it crashed on Earth in the original Transformers cartoon. The figures are based on Transformers Classic and Animated toys but customized in their G1 colors with much greater details. Currently included in the auction are Bumblebee, Cliffjumper, Hound, Ironhide, Jazz, Mirage, Optimus Prime, Ratchet, Sideswipe, Sunstreaker, and Wheeljack. It will also include a lithograph of "On the Wings of Heroes" art (image to right is work is not final art). The auction runs through November 29, 11PM EST. So if you want to give until it hurts and get something cool in return be sure to check it out.

The eBay auction with images of the toys can be found here. The video "commercial" for the auction (below) is courtesy of Peaugh.

Transformers : ROTF Video Game Nominations

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen The Video Game has been nominated in two categories for Spike TV's Video Game Awards for 2009. One is for "Best Performance by a Human Female" for Megan Fox and "Best Performance by a Human Male" for Shia LaBeouf. It seems a lot of the nominations for these categories are less about superior voice work in video games (only "famous" people did good voice work?) but really so they can some stars for the awards program that will air live on Saturday, December 12 at 8:00PM on Spike TV.

The competition for Fox is Kristen Bell (Assassin's Creed 2), Eliza Dushku (Wet: Bethesda Wetworks), and Tricia Helfer (Halo 3: ODST). Shia is competing against Bill Murray (Ghostbusters), Hugh Jackman (Wolverine), Samuel L. Jackson (Afro Samurai), and Vin Diesel (The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena).

To vote for your favorite video games in these categories and more click here. (via TFW2005)

Bay: No To Killing Fox

Michael Bay tells USA Today that Megan Fox's Michaela Barnes character will not be killed in Transformers 3 despite some of her more inflaming comments such as calling Bay "Hitler" like.

But it turns out, Bay couldn’t care less. Really. “I love her,” the man responsible for the blockbuster franchise told USA TODAY's Andrea Mandell. “It’s just, she’s young. Everyone’s got to give her a break, she only…23? It’s just hard. I’ve traveled around the world with her and she’s just like this world symbol now, you know?”

So he brushes her diatribes under the carpet? “Absolutely,” he said. “She called me (after the Hitler comment) and goes, ‘It’s all bullsh—t, Mike.’ The press, they just like to prey, and stalk, and pounce and find a good little juicy thing. But she’s always wanted to do these crazy comments. That’s just her. She’s great.”

He also said, “She’s got a great part in Transformers 3,” and he said he’s currently working on the script. So Bay’s not planning on getting revenge by, say, killing her off? “No, no. no,” he said, dismissing it. “She gets enough of that already.”

Heart Of Steel Optimus Prime Images

Seibertron.com has posted four images of KM-01 Knight Morpher Commander which is based on Optimus Prime from IDW's Transformers Evolutions: Hearts of Steel comic book mini-series from 2006. The figure is a not a Takara or Hasbro product but form Master Mind Creations. It is 6.5 inches tall so around Voyager class sized. The estimated release date of the toy is February 2010 with a price tag to be determined. Overall it’s a pretty sweet looking toy.

USA Today's Transformers #1 Article (Spoiler Warning)

If the goal of IDW was to get the attention of "mainstream media" with their first issue of Transformers, apparently they succeeded with an article from USA Today which discusses the status quo changes to the Transformers comic universe with the death of Ironhide and Optimus Prime quitting as the leader of Autobots. Yep, you read that right. Prime, upset over the death of his friend and having achieved the goal of stopping the Decepticons decides to throw in the towel by apparently turning himself over to the humans. How long this last isn't known.

Snippets from the article:

"This first story arc is all about upheaval and change and what happens when you realize that all the tools and skills you've previously spent your life accruing are no longer effective."

With news of Ironhide's death breaking several weeks ago, Schmidt understands that fans of the series are a passionate lot, with strong opinions. "Fan reaction has been mixed. Everything from 'Wow, they're really making changes and taking this seriously. Can't wait to pick it up!' to, 'I love Ironhide, I'll never read that!' "

He feels that fans will understand the controversial plot decisions as the story progresses, though. "We'll see how it goes, but I believe the storyline is great and ultimately that is what we aim to deliver to the fans. The hate mail has already begun but that's what happens when storytelling risks are taken. I'm waiting to see how fans react when they see it in context."

Aside from Optimus stepping down and Ironhide's death, other changes are on the way for the series, as well. Costa hints at some familiar characters getting more time in the spotlight. "When the dust settles, we're going to end up with familiar characters in unfamiliar roles, including a couple criminally underused fan-favorite characters finally at the foreground."

"These are the same characters we've known for 25 years, they're just having to face the new challenges of what to do when their war is over, and all they've known is how to be a soldier. This first arc is almost a metaphor for that time in a teenager's life where he leaves high school and enters college, and everything he knows is turned on its head. It's scary, but it's also really, really exciting."

Transformers Review And Sneak Peak

Not much on the Transformers news front, but some new comics are in the works. This week brings us Transformers #1 ongoing issue and next week will bring Tales of the Fallen #4. In addition, there is a sneak peak at the covers for February Transformers issue.

Transformers #1 Review - With Spoilers or Without Spoilers
The first issue of the new ongoing Transformers comic series is on comic stores shelves as of today. Based on the review, it appears that old habits die hard with an aim for "shock" moments (for details read the with spoilers review) that don't really accomplish much except get a leading character to suddenly do a 180. Long time fans will likely be angry while new fans will just be confused. Strong emotion though for an issue is usually a good thing though so at the very least should be interesting how it plays out.

February TF Previews
From Chris Ryall, Editor-in-Chief of IDW Publishing has posted covers for two TF comics coming out in February. The first is cover to Transformers #4 and the second is for Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers #2.

Transformers Ongoing #1 Preview II

IDW has released another preview of the first issue of Transformers #1 ongoing that is coming this Wednesday I think. This time it appears to be the first eight pages of the comic, establishing the new status quo after the end of All Hail Megatron story arc. The gist is it is three years after Earth was freed from Decepticon rule with help of the Autobots. The human race has spent its time preparing all manner of defenses to combat the Cybertronian race (which has gone underground) and unfortunately for the Autobots they don't make any meaningful distinction between the factions. In essence its humans vs. Cybertronians rather than just Autobots vs. Decepticons. The key part though is this finally returns the series back to its "robots in disguise" origins. For me the real question is will this series finally move at a decent pace while telling interesting stories or suffer from the same excessive story decompression style that has plagued Transformers comics since their revival.

Click here to view the eight pages.

Shia, Megan Nominated For People's Choice Awards

Megan Fox and Shia LaBeouf have been nominated in several categories in the People's Choice Awards for their work on Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. Shia is up for "Favorite Action Star" against Christian Bale, Gerald Butler, Hugh Jackman, and Vin Diesel. The duo are also nominated for "Favorite On-Screen Team" against the teams from Harry Potter 6, The Proposal, Twilight, and Wolverine. Transformers sadly isn't up for favorite movie but it is up for "Favorite Franchise" against Harry Potter, Twilight Saga, Star Trek and X-Men.

To vote for your favorites in the above characters and many more for television, movies and music, click here. Winners will be announced live during the People's Choice Awards telecast on Wednesday January 6th by CBS.

"The Self-Manufacture Of Megan Fox"

The New York Times has posted a long and interesting article on Megan Fox from interviews with the actress from just after Jennifer's Body failed at the box office, during the week the was prepping for her SNL appearance with a follow-up a month later. The article gets into her attempt to have a provocative (both verbally and physically) public persona while maintaining a private life. She tried to model her after Angelina Jolie (see tats, lip injections, and statements for proof) but the result has been a career that remains on unsteady ground despite the success of Transformers. The article can be found here and worth the read.

I actually like her Megan Fox (and not just for her looks) but then I have a fondness for direct bluntness which is rare nowadays (and often vilified). However, Hollywood stardom is grounded on how the public perceives and wants you. There are many possibilities from the slutty, dumb, sexy and more but the one that has consistently proven to be the most successful is the girl next door (see Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Julia Roberts, etc). They come across as the perfect girlfriend for the guys and the BFF for the girls. Instead, Fox has essentially become every guys' dream one night stand (looked back with pride but never brought home to meet mom) and someone women would want to hang with for some fun but not want to be friends with. Basically, Fox needs to seem more like a friend rather than a f$#@-friend.

Her best teachers are not just Jolie, but Tom Hanks, Will Smith, Reese Witherspoon, even Shia LaBeouf and really all the members of the $20 million per film club. Notice that the only time we hear about them is when they have their next project or charity to sell. Then they come across as a great person ("like me"), almost a good friend until the pitch is done and then exit the stage until next time. It works for them, there is no reason it can't work for Megan Fox. Just getting written about isn't sufficient (see Lindsay Lohan for that), it’s the quality that matters. She has plenty of time to repair her image thanks to Transformers 3, but she only has this last chance to decide exactly what she wants her public persona to be. She can continue on the Jolie track but that one is clearly not working.

Peaugh Video Review Of Leader Starscream, Voyager Mindwipe

Here are two new video reviews of upcoming Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen toys from Peaugh. The first is a review of Leader class Starscream. Like the previous review, this is based on the prototype version of the toy so the electronic aspects do not function. The differences between the two reviews are minor but Peaugh's does provide a better look at the transformation process and his gimmicks. The second video is for Voyager class Mindwipe, one of the few new molds for the upcoming wave of ROTF toys.

Transformers Linkfest

Bunch more links to various Transformer toy galleries and other TF related news.

EZ Devastator in G1 Green
A new image has popped up showing the EZ Collection (Legends) version of Devastator is getting a repaint in Generation One green that was the signature look for the Construction line. The figure is scheduled for March 2010 release in Japan only. Still no official confirmation that the Legends class Devastator of any color will get a stateside release.

Leader Shadow Command Megatron and Voyager Final Defense Optimus Prime
A new gallery of the upcoming repaints of the two faction leaders. The color scheme of gray and black looks pretty good on Megatron, something the movie version might benefit from since he has been essentially neutered by repeated Optimus beat downs in the sequel.

Scout Class 2-Packs
Click the link to view scout class repaints for the NEST Global Alliance two packs. One is "Windy City Chase" set with Slap Dash vs. Trenchmouth and the other is "Road Rival Showdown" of Beachcomber vs. Deadlift.

Voyager Bludgeon Gallery
New gallery of Bludgeon, a G1 character getting the ROTF toy treatment. The result is a pretty slick figure new and old fans will like. Peaugh already did a review, which I posted about here.

Transformers Continuum Preview
Five pages of the upcoming one-shop. The comic provides a summary of events in the last few years of Transformers comics that IDW has published so help get fans up to speed for the new ongoing Transformers comic series coming out in around two weeks.