Bludgeon effect - Revision history

Saix at 18:50, 16 January 2026

2026-01-16T18:50:10Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:50, 16 January 2026
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	The namesake for this phenomenon is the "[[The Transformers (toyline)\|Generation 1]]" [[Pretender]] [[Bludgeon (G1)\|Bludgeon]]. Part of the [[1989]] "small Pretender" assortment, Bludgeon was comprised of an inner robot that transformed into a small tank and a Pretender shell styled after a skeletal samurai. On its own, this was no more remarkable than other toys in the same assortment, such as the [[Longtooth\|monster walrus guy]] or the [[Octopunch (G1)\|octopus bell suit diver]]. As a result of appearing as a badass martial artist in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|stories penned by Furman]], however, he commands a handsome tuppence on the aftermarket.		The namesake for this phenomenon is the "[[The Transformers (toyline)\|Generation 1]]" [[Pretender]] [[Bludgeon (G1)\|Bludgeon]]. Part of the [[1989]] "small Pretender" assortment, Bludgeon was comprised of an inner robot that transformed into a small tank and a Pretender shell styled after a skeletal samurai. On its own, this was no more remarkable than other toys in the same assortment, such as the [[Longtooth\|monster walrus guy]] or the [[Octopunch (G1)\|octopus bell suit diver]]. As a result of appearing as a badass martial artist in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|stories penned by Furman]], however, he commands a handsome tuppence on the aftermarket.

	The same is true of another toy from the same year: [[Thunderwing (G1)\|Thunderwing]]. Part of the new [[Mega Pretender]] assortment, Thunderwing had an oni-styled Pretender shell that itself could transform and combine with his inner robot to form a starship. Again, under Furman's pen, Thunderwing would appear in the comics as a ruthless Decepticon warrior with an obsession for the [[Matrix of Leadership\|Creation Matrix]], and his machinations would influence events in the comic right up until its end in 1991.		The same is true of another toy from the same year: [[Thunderwing (G1)\|Thunderwing]]. Part of the new [[Mega Pretender]] assortment, Thunderwing had an [[oni]]-styled Pretender shell that itself could transform and combine with his inner robot to form a starship. Again, under Furman's pen, Thunderwing would appear in the comics as a ruthless Decepticon warrior with an obsession for the [[Matrix of Leadership\|Creation Matrix]], and his machinations would influence events in the comic right up until its end in 1991.

	Now, despite being the ur-examples of the "Bludgeon effect", both Bludgeon and Thunderwing were available on shelves around the same time as they were appearing in fiction. The characters' reputation and their toys' value are intrinsically tied to the rise of the internet and online fandom. As awareness of their comic exploits spread online, demand for the singular toys of each character shot up on sites such as the fledgling [[eBay]]. The takeaway from this is that the "Bludgeon effect" is not necessarily caused by ''new'' fiction, simply the new ''appreciation'' of fiction. (Though they ''did'' also appear in new fiction courtesy of Furman, with both seeing central roles in the ''[[The Transformers: Stormbringer\|Stormbringer]]'' miniseries in 2006.)		Now, despite being the ur-examples of the "Bludgeon effect", both Bludgeon and Thunderwing were available on shelves around the same time as they were appearing in fiction. The characters' reputation and their toys' value are intrinsically tied to the rise of the internet and online fandom. As awareness of their comic exploits spread online, demand for the singular toys of each character shot up on sites such as the fledgling [[eBay]]. The takeaway from this is that the "Bludgeon effect" is not necessarily caused by ''new'' fiction, simply the new ''appreciation'' of fiction. (Though they ''did'' also appear in new fiction courtesy of Furman, with both seeing central roles in the ''[[The Transformers: Stormbringer\|Stormbringer]]'' miniseries in 2006.)

Aaggggh1244567 at 18:37, 12 February 2025

2025-02-12T18:37:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:37, 12 February 2025
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	Now, despite being the ur-examples of the "Bludgeon effect", both Bludgeon and Thunderwing were available on shelves around the same time as they were appearing in fiction. The characters' reputation and their toys' value are intrinsically tied to the rise of the internet and online fandom. As awareness of their comic exploits spread online, demand for the singular toys of each character shot up on sites such as the fledgling [[eBay]]. The takeaway from this is that the "Bludgeon effect" is not necessarily caused by ''new'' fiction, simply the new ''appreciation'' of fiction. (Though they ''did'' also appear in new fiction courtesy of Furman, with both seeing central roles in the ''[[The Transformers: Stormbringer\|Stormbringer]]'' miniseries in 2006.)		Now, despite being the ur-examples of the "Bludgeon effect", both Bludgeon and Thunderwing were available on shelves around the same time as they were appearing in fiction. The characters' reputation and their toys' value are intrinsically tied to the rise of the internet and online fandom. As awareness of their comic exploits spread online, demand for the singular toys of each character shot up on sites such as the fledgling [[eBay]]. The takeaway from this is that the "Bludgeon effect" is not necessarily caused by ''new'' fiction, simply the new ''appreciation'' of fiction. (Though they ''did'' also appear in new fiction courtesy of Furman, with both seeing central roles in the ''[[The Transformers: Stormbringer\|Stormbringer]]'' miniseries in 2006.)

	The desire for Bludgeon and Thunderwing somewhat subsided when new toys were released that closely evoked (and dare we say improved upon) their original appearances. A [[Bludgeon (ROTF)#Voyager\|Bludgeon toy]] was released in the [[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)\|''Revenge of the Fallen'' toyline]] in 2009, complete with skeletal face and samurai swords, and a faithful update of [[Thunderwing (G1)#Generations\|Thunderwing]] came out in the [[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#Original line (2010–2011)\|''Generations'' toyline]] in 2010. New toys of [[Bludgeon (disambiguation)\|various Bludgeons]] would continue to surface over the years.		The desire for Bludgeon and Thunderwing somewhat subsided when new toys were released that closely evoked (and dare we say improved upon) their original appearances. A [[Bludgeon (ROTF)#Voyager\|Bludgeon toy]] was released in the [[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)\|''Revenge of the Fallen'' toyline]] in 2009, complete with skeletal face and samurai swords, and a faithful (if undersized) update of [[Thunderwing (G1)#Generations\|Thunderwing]] came out in the [[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#Original line (2010–2011)\|''Generations'' toyline]] in 2010. New toys of [[Bludgeon (disambiguation)\|various Bludgeons]] would continue to surface over the years.
	{{--}}		{{--}}

Saix at 23:42, 5 December 2024

2024-12-05T23:42:47Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:42, 5 December 2024
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	[[File:MTMTE-Dreamwave-Bludgeon-Pretender.jpeg\|upright=1.66\|thumb\|The "Bludgeon effect" presupposes that a toy of a guy that looks like this needed any additional help selling. Strange but true!]]		[[File:MTMTE-Dreamwave-Bludgeon-Pretender.jpeg\|upright=1.2\|thumb\|The "Bludgeon effect" presupposes that a toy of a guy that looks like this needed any additional help selling. Strange but true!]]

	Pleased to present for your consideration a portrait of a ''Transformers'' fan: [[you]]. Age: youthful. Income: slim. Your tastes lean towards toy robots, animation for children, and comic books. It is the latter that captures you now. You find yourself charmed by one of its ''dramatis personae'': a modern reinvention and reinvigoration of a character given little to do in the past. Inspired, you feverishly search online auction houses and dealer halls, but you find that the toy that no-one batted an eyelid at during its original shelf life has now risen in demand–and price–beyond your wildest imagination.		Pleased to present for your consideration a portrait of a ''Transformers'' fan: [[you]]. Age: youthful. Income: slim. Your tastes lean towards toy robots, animation for children, and comic books. It is the latter that captures you now. You find yourself charmed by one of its ''dramatis personae'': a modern reinvention and reinvigoration of a character given little to do in the past. Inspired, you feverishly search online auction houses and dealer halls, but you find that the toy that no-one batted an eyelid at during its original shelf life has now risen in demand–and price–beyond your wildest imagination.

	You have just encountered '''~~the~~ Bludgeon ~~Effect~~'''.		You have just encountered the '''Bludgeon effect'''.

	[[Twilight Zone\|Ahem]]. Put simply, we define the "Bludgeon effect" as being when the aftermarket prices of an inconsequential character's toy(s) skyrocket after said character gets an important, memorable, or sympathetic appearance in fiction. This differs from the usual [[To sell toys\|toy-shilling methods]] in that, more often than not, there ''isn't'' a concurrently available toy... though sometimes, it can lead to new toy releases later down the road.		[[Twilight Zone\|Ahem]]. Put simply, we define the "Bludgeon effect" as being when the aftermarket prices of an inconsequential character's toy(s) skyrocket after said character gets an important, memorable, or sympathetic appearance in fiction. This differs from the usual [[To sell toys\|toy-shilling methods]] in that, more often than not, there ''isn't'' a concurrently available toy... though sometimes, it can lead to new toy releases later down the road.
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	The desire for Bludgeon and Thunderwing somewhat subsided when new toys were released that closely evoked (and dare we say improved upon) their original appearances. A [[Bludgeon (ROTF)#Voyager\|Bludgeon toy]] was released in the [[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)\|''Revenge of the Fallen'' toyline]] in 2009, complete with skeletal face and samurai swords, and a faithful update of [[Thunderwing (G1)#Generations\|Thunderwing]] came out in the [[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#Original line (2010–2011)\|''Generations'' toyline]] in 2010. New toys of [[Bludgeon (disambiguation)\|various Bludgeons]] would continue to surface over the years.		The desire for Bludgeon and Thunderwing somewhat subsided when new toys were released that closely evoked (and dare we say improved upon) their original appearances. A [[Bludgeon (ROTF)#Voyager\|Bludgeon toy]] was released in the [[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)\|''Revenge of the Fallen'' toyline]] in 2009, complete with skeletal face and samurai swords, and a faithful update of [[Thunderwing (G1)#Generations\|Thunderwing]] came out in the [[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#Original line (2010–2011)\|''Generations'' toyline]] in 2010. New toys of [[Bludgeon (disambiguation)\|various Bludgeons]] would continue to surface over the years.
	{{-}}		{{--}}

	===''Beast Wars'' Razorbeast===		===''Beast Wars'' Razorbeast===
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	Despite this boost in profile, there has yet to be another toy of Razorbeast since the original. That said, the popularity of ''The Gathering'' and ''The Ascending'' has dwindled as time has gone on.		Despite this boost in profile, there has yet to be another toy of Razorbeast since the original. That said, the popularity of ''The Gathering'' and ''The Ascending'' has dwindled as time has gone on.
	{{-}}		{{--}}

	===''The Transformers''/''Generation 2'' Ironfist===		===''The Transformers''/''Generation 2'' Ironfist===
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	[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a ''[[Combiner Wars (toyline)\|Combiner Wars]]'' toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).		[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a ''[[Combiner Wars (toyline)\|Combiner Wars]]'' toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).
	~~{{-}}~~

	==What the Bludgeon effect is not==		==What the Bludgeon effect is not==

S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent 47 at 17:47, 22 September 2024

2024-09-22T17:47:22Z

Randall xCain: /* Beast Wars Razorbeast */

2024-05-23T15:31:00Z

Beast Wars Razorbeast

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:31, 23 May 2024
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	[[Razorbeast]] was a [[Size class\|Basic Class]] toy released in the first wave of ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (toyline)\|Beast Wars]]'' product in 1996. A simple affair at US$5, Razorbeast transformed from a wild boar whose tusks gleam in the night into robot mode and back using a [[Autotransformation\|spring-loaded mechanism]]. Appearing in only [[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!\|one piece of contemporary fiction]], Razorbeast was quickly overshadowed by wavemates that would appear prominently in the [[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)\|''Beast Wars'' cartoon]], like [[Rattrap (BW)\|Rattrap]] and [[Terrorsaur (BW)\|Terrorsaur]], leaving him desirable only to kids and completist collectors like [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7y8AdUmSxYE Will Smith].		[[Razorbeast]] was a [[Size class\|Basic Class]] toy released in the first wave of ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (toyline)\|Beast Wars]]'' product in 1996. A simple affair at US$5, Razorbeast transformed from a wild boar whose tusks gleam in the night into robot mode and back using a [[Autotransformation\|spring-loaded mechanism]]. Appearing in only [[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!\|one piece of contemporary fiction]], Razorbeast was quickly overshadowed by wavemates that would appear prominently in the [[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)\|''Beast Wars'' cartoon]], like [[Rattrap (BW)\|Rattrap]] and [[Terrorsaur (BW)\|Terrorsaur]], leaving him desirable only to kids and completist collectors like [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7y8AdUmSxYE Will Smith].

	In 2006, Razorbeast was chosen for the main character role in the comic miniseries ''[[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering\|Beast Wars: The Gathering]]'' (and later its sequel, ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending\|The Ascending]]''). Once again, a comic by Furman caused this nobody of a character, who had received precisely one toy ten years prior, to become a fandom darling–though Furman admits that had he actually ''seen'' the toy first, he might have picked a someone else.		In 2006, Razorbeast was chosen for the main character role in the comic miniseries ''[[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering\|Beast Wars: The Gathering]]'' (and later its sequel, ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending\|The Ascending]]''). Once again, a comic by Furman caused this nobody of a character, who had received precisely one toy ten years prior, to become a fandom darling–though Furman admits that had he actually ''seen'' the toy first, he might have picked someone else.

	Despite this boost in profile, there has yet to be another toy of Razorbeast since the original. That said, the popularity of ''The Gathering'' and ''The Ascending'' has dwindled as time has gone on.		Despite this boost in profile, there has yet to be another toy of Razorbeast since the original. That said, the popularity of ''The Gathering'' and ''The Ascending'' has dwindled as time has gone on.
	{{-}}		{{-}}

	===''The Transformers''/''Generation 2'' Ironfist===		===''The Transformers''/''Generation 2'' Ironfist===
	[[File:G1-toy-Ironfist.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|And unlike ''some'' people I don't [[Rotorstorm (G1)\|snap my rotors]] or [[Pyro (G1)\|disintegrate]]!]]		[[File:G1-toy-Ironfist.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|And unlike ''some'' people I don't [[Rotorstorm (G1)\|snap my rotors]] or [[Pyro (G1)\|disintegrate]]!]]

TheLastGherkin: /* The Transformers/Generation 2 Ironfist */ Too many endears

2024-02-01T09:57:15Z

The Transformers/Generation 2 Ironfist: Too many endears

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:57, 1 February 2024
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	[[Ironfist (G1)\|Ironfist]] was an Autobot [[Lightformer]] released only in Europe, first in the [[The Transformers (European toyline)\|''Transformers'' toyline]] in 1993 and then in ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)\|Generation 2]]'' in 1994. Turning into a Humvee with a massive, [[gimmick]]-loaded turret, Ironfist was innocuous among a particularly strong selection of toys.		[[Ironfist (G1)\|Ironfist]] was an Autobot [[Lightformer]] released only in Europe, first in the [[The Transformers (European toyline)\|''Transformers'' toyline]] in 1993 and then in ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)\|Generation 2]]'' in 1994. Turning into a Humvee with a massive, [[gimmick]]-loaded turret, Ironfist was innocuous among a particularly strong selection of toys.

	In 2010, IDW Publishing released ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers\|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', a comic series considered an oasis in a particularly [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron\|dismantled]] and [[The Transformers (IDW)\|decompressed]] desert. The book's writing duo of [[Nick Roche]] and [[James Roberts]] grew up in the right time and place to (correctly) recognise the appeal of early 90s Euro-''Transformers'', and so many such characters appeared in ''Last Stand''. In particular, Ironfist received an endearing, sympathetic, and tragic characterisation that quickly ~~endeared him to~~ fans. As you might guess from his inclusion on this page, suddenly his toy became a lot harder to come by.		In 2010, IDW Publishing released ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers\|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', a comic series considered an oasis in a particularly [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron\|dismantled]] and [[The Transformers (IDW)\|decompressed]] desert. The book's writing duo of [[Nick Roche]] and [[James Roberts]] grew up in the right time and place to (correctly) recognise the appeal of early 90s Euro-''Transformers'', and so many such characters appeared in ''Last Stand''. In particular, Ironfist received an endearing, sympathetic, and tragic characterisation that quickly charmed fans. As you might guess from his inclusion on this page, suddenly his toy became a lot harder to come by.

	[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).		[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).
	{{-}}		{{-}}

	==What the Bludgeon effect is not==		==What the Bludgeon effect is not==
	*[[To sell toys]]		*[[To sell toys]]

TheLastGherkin: TheLastGherkin moved page User:TheLastGherkin/Bludgeon effect to Bludgeon effect

2024-01-31T20:40:06Z

TheLastGherkin moved page User:TheLastGherkin/Bludgeon effect to Bludgeon effect

← Older revision	Revision as of 20:40, 31 January 2024
(No difference)

TheLastGherkin at 20:39, 31 January 2024

2024-01-31T20:39:47Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:39, 31 January 2024
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	[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).		[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).
	{{-}}		{{-}}
	==~~=''The Transformers'' Tailgate=~~==		==What the Bludgeon effect is not==
	[[~~File~~:~~G1-toy Tailgate.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb~~]]		*[[To sell toys]]
	~~{{-}}~~		*[[Shortpacking]]
			*[[Chase figure]]

			[[Category:Toys]]
			[[Category:Fan terminology]]

TheLastGherkin at 17:59, 18 August 2023

2023-08-18T17:59:39Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:59, 18 August 2023
Line 33:		Line 33:
	[[Ironfist (G1)\|Ironfist]] was an Autobot [[Lightformer]] released only in Europe, first in the [[The Transformers (European toyline)\|''Transformers'' toyline]] in 1993 and then in ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)\|Generation 2]]'' in 1994. Turning into a Humvee with a massive, [[gimmick]]-loaded turret, Ironfist was innocuous among a particularly strong selection of toys.		[[Ironfist (G1)\|Ironfist]] was an Autobot [[Lightformer]] released only in Europe, first in the [[The Transformers (European toyline)\|''Transformers'' toyline]] in 1993 and then in ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)\|Generation 2]]'' in 1994. Turning into a Humvee with a massive, [[gimmick]]-loaded turret, Ironfist was innocuous among a particularly strong selection of toys.

	In 2010, IDW Publishing released ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers\|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', a comic series considered an oasis in a particularly [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron\|dismantled]] and [[The Transformers (IDW)\|decompressed]] desert. The book's writing duo of [[Nick Roche]] and [[James Roberts]] grew up in the right time and place to recognise the appeal of early 90s Euro-''Transformers'', and ~~they were correct~~ to ~~do so~~.		In 2010, IDW Publishing released ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers\|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', a comic series considered an oasis in a particularly [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron\|dismantled]] and [[The Transformers (IDW)\|decompressed]] desert. The book's writing duo of [[Nick Roche]] and [[James Roberts]] grew up in the right time and place to (correctly) recognise the appeal of early 90s Euro-''Transformers'', and so many such characters appeared in ''Last Stand''. In particular, Ironfist received an endearing, sympathetic, and tragic characterisation that quickly endeared him to fans. As you might guess from his inclusion on this page, suddenly his toy became a lot harder to come by.

			[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).
	{{-}}		{{-}}
	===''The Transformers'' ~~Swerve and~~ Tailgate===		===''The Transformers'' Tailgate===
	[[File:G1-toy Tailgate.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]		[[File:G1-toy Tailgate.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]
	{{-}}		{{-}}

TheLastGherkin at 13:58, 18 August 2023

2023-08-18T13:58:03Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:58, 18 August 2023
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	===''Beast Wars'' Razorbeast===		===''Beast Wars'' Razorbeast===
	[[File:BW Razorbeast toy.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]		[[File:BW Razorbeast toy.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]
			[[Razorbeast]] was a [[Size class\|Basic Class]] toy released in the first wave of ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (toyline)\|Beast Wars]]'' product in 1996. A simple affair at US$5, Razorbeast transformed from a wild boar whose tusks gleam in the night into robot mode and back using a [[Autotransformation\|spring-loaded mechanism]]. Appearing in only [[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!\|one piece of contemporary fiction]], Razorbeast was quickly overshadowed by wavemates that would appear prominently in the [[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)\|''Beast Wars'' cartoon]], like [[Rattrap (BW)\|Rattrap]] and [[Terrorsaur (BW)\|Terrorsaur]], leaving him desirable only to kids and completist collectors like [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7y8AdUmSxYE Will Smith].

			In 2006, Razorbeast was chosen for the main character role in the comic miniseries ''[[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering\|Beast Wars: The Gathering]]'' (and later its sequel, ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending\|The Ascending]]''). Once again, a comic by Furman caused this nobody of a character, who had received precisely one toy ten years prior, to become a fandom darling–though Furman admits that had he actually ''seen'' the toy first, he might have picked a someone else.

			Despite this boost in profile, there has yet to be another toy of Razorbeast since the original. That said, the popularity of ''The Gathering'' and ''The Ascending'' has dwindled as time has gone on.
	{{-}}		{{-}}
	===''The Transformers''/''Generation 2'' Ironfist===		===''The Transformers''/''Generation 2'' Ironfist===
	[[File:G1-toy-Ironfist.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]		[[File:G1-toy-Ironfist.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|And unlike ''some'' people I don't [[Rotorstorm (G1)\|snap my rotors]] or [[Pyro (G1)\|disintegrate]]!]]
			[[Ironfist (G1)\|Ironfist]] was an Autobot [[Lightformer]] released only in Europe, first in the [[The Transformers (European toyline)\|''Transformers'' toyline]] in 1993 and then in ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)\|Generation 2]]'' in 1994. Turning into a Humvee with a massive, [[gimmick]]-loaded turret, Ironfist was innocuous among a particularly strong selection of toys.

			In 2010, IDW Publishing released ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers\|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', a comic series considered an oasis in a particularly [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron\|dismantled]] and [[The Transformers (IDW)\|decompressed]] desert. The book's writing duo of [[Nick Roche]] and [[James Roberts]] grew up in the right time and place to recognise the appeal of early 90s Euro-''Transformers'', and they were correct to do so.

	{{-}}		{{-}}
	===''The Transformers'' Swerve and Tailgate===		===''The Transformers'' Swerve and Tailgate===
	[[File:G1-toy Tailgate.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]		[[File:G1-toy Tailgate.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]
	{{-}}		{{-}}

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:50, 16 January 2026
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	The namesake for this phenomenon is the "[[The Transformers (toyline)\|Generation 1]]" [[Pretender]] [[Bludgeon (G1)\|Bludgeon]]. Part of the [[1989]] "small Pretender" assortment, Bludgeon was comprised of an inner robot that transformed into a small tank and a Pretender shell styled after a skeletal samurai. On its own, this was no more remarkable than other toys in the same assortment, such as the [[Longtooth\|monster walrus guy]] or the [[Octopunch (G1)\|octopus bell suit diver]]. As a result of appearing as a badass martial artist in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|stories penned by Furman]], however, he commands a handsome tuppence on the aftermarket.		The namesake for this phenomenon is the "[[The Transformers (toyline)\|Generation 1]]" [[Pretender]] [[Bludgeon (G1)\|Bludgeon]]. Part of the [[1989]] "small Pretender" assortment, Bludgeon was comprised of an inner robot that transformed into a small tank and a Pretender shell styled after a skeletal samurai. On its own, this was no more remarkable than other toys in the same assortment, such as the [[Longtooth\|monster walrus guy]] or the [[Octopunch (G1)\|octopus bell suit diver]]. As a result of appearing as a badass martial artist in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|stories penned by Furman]], however, he commands a handsome tuppence on the aftermarket.

	The same is true of another toy from the same year: [[Thunderwing (G1)\|Thunderwing]]. Part of the new [[Mega Pretender]] assortment, Thunderwing had an oni-styled Pretender shell that itself could transform and combine with his inner robot to form a starship. Again, under Furman's pen, Thunderwing would appear in the comics as a ruthless Decepticon warrior with an obsession for the [[Matrix of Leadership\|Creation Matrix]], and his machinations would influence events in the comic right up until its end in 1991.		The same is true of another toy from the same year: [[Thunderwing (G1)\|Thunderwing]]. Part of the new [[Mega Pretender]] assortment, Thunderwing had an [[oni]]-styled Pretender shell that itself could transform and combine with his inner robot to form a starship. Again, under Furman's pen, Thunderwing would appear in the comics as a ruthless Decepticon warrior with an obsession for the [[Matrix of Leadership\|Creation Matrix]], and his machinations would influence events in the comic right up until its end in 1991.

	Now, despite being the ur-examples of the "Bludgeon effect", both Bludgeon and Thunderwing were available on shelves around the same time as they were appearing in fiction. The characters' reputation and their toys' value are intrinsically tied to the rise of the internet and online fandom. As awareness of their comic exploits spread online, demand for the singular toys of each character shot up on sites such as the fledgling [[eBay]]. The takeaway from this is that the "Bludgeon effect" is not necessarily caused by ''new'' fiction, simply the new ''appreciation'' of fiction. (Though they ''did'' also appear in new fiction courtesy of Furman, with both seeing central roles in the ''[[The Transformers: Stormbringer\|Stormbringer]]'' miniseries in 2006.)		Now, despite being the ur-examples of the "Bludgeon effect", both Bludgeon and Thunderwing were available on shelves around the same time as they were appearing in fiction. The characters' reputation and their toys' value are intrinsically tied to the rise of the internet and online fandom. As awareness of their comic exploits spread online, demand for the singular toys of each character shot up on sites such as the fledgling [[eBay]]. The takeaway from this is that the "Bludgeon effect" is not necessarily caused by ''new'' fiction, simply the new ''appreciation'' of fiction. (Though they ''did'' also appear in new fiction courtesy of Furman, with both seeing central roles in the ''[[The Transformers: Stormbringer\|Stormbringer]]'' miniseries in 2006.)

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:47, 22 September 2024
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	[[File:G1-toy Bludgeon.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|...Well, OK, looking at the toy, maybe I can see it.]]		[[File:G1-toy Bludgeon.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|...Well, OK, looking at the toy, maybe I can see it.]]
	[[File:G1Thunderwing toy.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|]]		[[File:G1Thunderwing toy.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|]]
	The namesake for this phenomenon is the "Generation 1" [[Pretender]] [[Bludgeon (G1)\|Bludgeon]]. Part of the 1989 "small Pretender" assortment, Bludgeon was comprised of an inner robot that transformed into a small tank and a Pretender shell styled after a skeletal samurai. On its own, this was no more remarkable than other toys in the same assortment, such as the [[Longtooth\|monster walrus guy]] or the [[Octopunch (G1)\|octopus bell suit diver]]. As a result of appearing as a badass martial artist in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|stories penned by Furman]], however, he commands a handsome tuppence on the aftermarket.		The namesake for this phenomenon is the "[[The Transformers (toyline)\|Generation 1]]" [[Pretender]] [[Bludgeon (G1)\|Bludgeon]]. Part of the [[1989]] "small Pretender" assortment, Bludgeon was comprised of an inner robot that transformed into a small tank and a Pretender shell styled after a skeletal samurai. On its own, this was no more remarkable than other toys in the same assortment, such as the [[Longtooth\|monster walrus guy]] or the [[Octopunch (G1)\|octopus bell suit diver]]. As a result of appearing as a badass martial artist in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|stories penned by Furman]], however, he commands a handsome tuppence on the aftermarket.

	The same is true of another toy from the same year: [[Thunderwing (G1)\|Thunderwing]]. Part of the new [[Mega Pretender]] assortment, Thunderwing had an oni-styled Pretender shell that itself could transform and combine with his inner robot to form a starship. Again, under Furman's pen, Thunderwing would appear in the comics as a ruthless Decepticon warrior with an obsession for the [[Matrix of Leadership\|Creation Matrix]], and his machinations would influence events in the comic right up until its end in 1991.		The same is true of another toy from the same year: [[Thunderwing (G1)\|Thunderwing]]. Part of the new [[Mega Pretender]] assortment, Thunderwing had an oni-styled Pretender shell that itself could transform and combine with his inner robot to form a starship. Again, under Furman's pen, Thunderwing would appear in the comics as a ruthless Decepticon warrior with an obsession for the [[Matrix of Leadership\|Creation Matrix]], and his machinations would influence events in the comic right up until its end in 1991.
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	The desire for Bludgeon and Thunderwing somewhat subsided when new toys were released that closely evoked (and dare we say improved upon) their original appearances. A [[Bludgeon (ROTF)#Voyager\|Bludgeon toy]] was released in the [[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)\|''Revenge of the Fallen'' toyline]] in 2009, complete with skeletal face and samurai swords, and a faithful update of [[Thunderwing (G1)#Generations\|Thunderwing]] came out in the [[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#Original line (2010–2011)\|''Generations'' toyline]] in 2010. New toys of [[Bludgeon (disambiguation)\|various Bludgeons]] would continue to surface over the years.		The desire for Bludgeon and Thunderwing somewhat subsided when new toys were released that closely evoked (and dare we say improved upon) their original appearances. A [[Bludgeon (ROTF)#Voyager\|Bludgeon toy]] was released in the [[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)\|''Revenge of the Fallen'' toyline]] in 2009, complete with skeletal face and samurai swords, and a faithful update of [[Thunderwing (G1)#Generations\|Thunderwing]] came out in the [[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#Original line (2010–2011)\|''Generations'' toyline]] in 2010. New toys of [[Bludgeon (disambiguation)\|various Bludgeons]] would continue to surface over the years.
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	===''Beast Wars'' Razorbeast===		===''Beast Wars'' Razorbeast===
	[[File:BW Razorbeast toy.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]		[[File:BW Razorbeast toy.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb]]
	[[Razorbeast]] was a [[Size class\|Basic Class]] toy released in the first wave of ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (toyline)\|Beast Wars]]'' product in 1996. A simple affair at US$5, Razorbeast transformed from a wild boar whose tusks gleam in the night into robot mode and back using a [[Autotransformation\|spring-loaded mechanism]]. Appearing in only [[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!\|one piece of contemporary fiction]], Razorbeast was quickly overshadowed by wavemates that would appear prominently in the [[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)\|''Beast Wars'' cartoon]], like [[Rattrap (BW)\|Rattrap]] and [[Terrorsaur (BW)\|Terrorsaur]], leaving him desirable only to kids and completist collectors like [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7y8AdUmSxYE Will Smith].		[[Razorbeast]] was a [[Size class\|Basic Class]] toy released in the first wave of ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (toyline)\|Beast Wars]]'' product in [[1996]]. A simple affair at US$5, Razorbeast transformed from a wild boar whose tusks gleam in the night into robot mode and back using a [[Autotransformation\|spring-loaded mechanism]]. Appearing in only [[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!\|one piece of contemporary fiction]], Razorbeast was quickly overshadowed by wavemates that would appear prominently in the [[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)\|''Beast Wars'' cartoon]], like [[Rattrap (BW)\|Rattrap]] and [[Terrorsaur (BW)\|Terrorsaur]], leaving him desirable only to kids and completist collectors like [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7y8AdUmSxYE Will Smith].

	In 2006, Razorbeast was chosen for the main character role in the comic miniseries ''[[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering\|Beast Wars: The Gathering]]'' (and later its sequel, ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending\|The Ascending]]''). Once again, a comic by Furman caused this nobody of a character, who had received precisely one toy ten years prior, to become a fandom darling–though Furman admits that had he actually ''seen'' the toy first, he might have picked someone else.		In 2006, Razorbeast was chosen for the main character role in the comic miniseries ''[[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering\|Beast Wars: The Gathering]]'' (and later its sequel, ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending\|The Ascending]]''). Once again, a comic by Furman caused this nobody of a character, who had received precisely one toy ten years prior, to become a fandom darling–though Furman admits that had he actually ''seen'' the toy first, he might have picked someone else.
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	===''The Transformers''/''Generation 2'' Ironfist===		===''The Transformers''/''Generation 2'' Ironfist===
	[[File:G1-toy-Ironfist.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|And unlike ''some'' people I don't [[Rotorstorm (G1)\|snap my rotors]] or [[Pyro (G1)\|disintegrate]]!]]		[[File:G1-toy-Ironfist.jpg\|upright=1\|thumb\|And unlike ''some'' people I don't [[Rotorstorm (G1)\|snap my rotors]] or [[Pyro (G1)\|disintegrate]]!]]
	[[Ironfist (G1)\|Ironfist]] was an Autobot [[Lightformer]] released only in Europe, first in the [[The Transformers (European toyline)\|''Transformers'' toyline]] in 1993 and then in ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)\|Generation 2]]'' in 1994. Turning into a Humvee with a massive, [[gimmick]]-loaded turret, Ironfist was innocuous among a particularly strong selection of toys.		[[Ironfist (G1)\|Ironfist]] was an Autobot [[Lightformer]] released only in Europe, first in the [[The Transformers (European toyline)\|''Transformers'' toyline]] in [[1993]] and then in ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)\|Generation 2]]'' in [[1994]]. Turning into a Humvee with a massive, [[gimmick]]-loaded turret, Ironfist was innocuous among a particularly strong selection of toys.

	In 2010, IDW Publishing released ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers\|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', a comic series considered an oasis in a particularly [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron\|dismantled]] and [[The Transformers (IDW)\|decompressed]] desert. The book's writing duo of [[Nick Roche]] and [[James Roberts]] grew up in the right time and place to (correctly) recognise the appeal of early 90s Euro-''Transformers'', and so many such characters appeared in ''Last Stand''. In particular, Ironfist received an endearing, sympathetic, and tragic characterisation that quickly charmed fans. As you might guess from his inclusion on this page, suddenly his toy became a lot harder to come by.		In 2010, [[IDW Publishing]] released ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers\|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', a comic series considered an oasis in a particularly [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron\|dismantled]] and [[The Transformers (IDW)\|decompressed]] desert. The book's writing duo of [[Nick Roche]] and [[James Roberts]] grew up in the right time and place to (correctly) recognise the appeal of early 90s Euro-''Transformers'', and so many such characters appeared in ''Last Stand''. In particular, Ironfist received an endearing, sympathetic, and tragic characterisation that quickly charmed fans. As you might guess from his inclusion on this page, suddenly his toy became a lot harder to come by.

	[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).		[[Fun Publications]] took notice of this clamour and, in short order, released a ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]]'' version of [[Ironfist (Animated)#Toys\|Ironfist]] at [[BotCon 2011]] and an [[Aligned continuity family\|"Aligned" continuity]] "[[Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys\|Fisitron]]" via their [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service\|Figure Subscription Service]]. Hasbro also attempted to produce a ''[[Combiner Wars (toyline)\|Combiner Wars]]'' toy representing Ironfist on a more obtainable scale, but plans changed (see [[Ironclad#Notes\|Ironclad]] for more information).
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