The Transformers (toyline): Difference between revisions
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{{bigquote|Look! Two more Transformers to add to our collection!|[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] is excited to find [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]|"[[Starscream's Brigade]]"}} | {{bigquote|Look! Two more Transformers to add to our collection!|[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] is excited to find [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]|"[[Starscream's Brigade]]"}} | ||
'''''The Transformers''''' (retroactively called '''Generation 1''' or '''G1''') started as a joint venture between two companies: [[Hasbro]] of America and [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] of [[Japan]]. After an idea to rebrand and sell Takara's ''[[Diaclone]]'' and ''[[Micro Change|Microchange]]'' [[Toy|robot toys]] as a whole new line with a new concept behind it, Hasbro unknowingly would wind up creating what would be one of its longest-running [[franchise]]s. | '''''The Transformers''''' (retroactively called '''Generation 1''' or '''G1''') started as a joint venture between two companies: [[Hasbro]] of America and [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] of [[Japan]]. After an idea to rebrand and sell Takara's ''[[Diaclone]]'' and ''[[Micro Change|Microchange]]'' [[Toy|robot toys]] as a whole new line with a new concept behind it, Hasbro unknowingly would wind up creating what would be one of its longest-running [[franchise]]s. | ||
[[File:Seekers ad.jpg|upright=1.95|thumb|Ahh, 1984's book of dreams.]] | [[File:Seekers ad.jpg|upright=1.95|thumb|Ahh, 1984's book of dreams.]] | ||
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In addition to the toy and its weapons and accessories, Generation 1 toys typically included a sticker sheet, instructions showing how to transform the toy and apply the stickers, and a [[Catalog|toy catalog flyer]] showing the entire year's toy line. In the early years of the line, a red plastic "tech spec decoder" and various [[Pack-in material#Mail-order flyers|mail-away offers]] were included as well. | In addition to the toy and its weapons and accessories, Generation 1 toys typically included a sticker sheet, instructions showing how to transform the toy and apply the stickers, and a [[Catalog|toy catalog flyer]] showing the entire year's toy line. In the early years of the line, a red plastic "tech spec decoder" and various [[Pack-in material#Mail-order flyers|mail-away offers]] were included as well. | ||
The line began with toys already designed by Takara and other companies, but over time it expanded into numerous original designs and concepts. | The line began with toys already designed by Takara and other companies, but over time it expanded into numerous original designs and concepts. While its run ostensibly ended after seven years with the advent of ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (franchise)|Generation 2]]'', it was resurrected almost a decade later in Japan via the ''[[The Transformers Collection]]'' line of reissues, supplemented by [[e-HOBBY]]-exclusive reissues and new creations. A year later, Hasbro began retooling many of those reissues and selling them in North America as the ''[[The Transformers: Generation One Commemorative Series|Commemorative Series]]''. Even after Hasbro discontinued that line, TakaraTomy continued selling reissues under the ''[[Transformers Encore|Encore]]'' label. This toyline has changed direction and focus so many times that a year-by-year breakdown is the only way to get the full picture. | ||
See also: | See also: | ||
* Japanese Generation 1 mini-franchise toylines: | *Japanese Generation 1 mini-franchise toylines: | ||
** 1985—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)]]'' | **1985—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)]]'' | ||
** 1986—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers 2010 (toyline)]]'' | **1986—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers 2010 (toyline)]]'' | ||
** 1987—''[[Transformers: The Headmasters (toyline)|The Headmasters (toyline)]]'' | **1987—''[[Transformers: The Headmasters (toyline)|The Headmasters (toyline)]]'' | ||
** 1988—''[[Transformers: Super-God Masterforce (toyline)|Super-God Masterforce (toyline)]]'' | **1988—''[[Transformers: Super-God Masterforce (toyline)|Super-God Masterforce (toyline)]]'' | ||
** 1989—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Victory (toyline)|Victory (toyline)]]'' | **1989—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Victory (toyline)|Victory (toyline)]]'' | ||
** 1990—''[[Transformers: Zone (toyline)|Zone (toyline)]]'' | **1990—''[[Transformers: Zone (toyline)|Zone (toyline)]]'' | ||
** 1991—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Return of Convoy (toyline)|Return of Convoy (toyline)]]'' | **1991—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Return of Convoy (toyline)|Return of Convoy (toyline)]]'' | ||
** 1992—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Operation Combination (toyline)|Operation Combination (toyline)]]'' | **1992—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Operation Combination (toyline)|Operation Combination (toyline)]]'' | ||
* ''[[The Transformers (European toyline)]]'' | *''[[The Transformers (European toyline)]]'' | ||
* ''[[The Transformers (Chinese toyline)]]'' | *''[[The Transformers (Chinese toyline)]]'' | ||
==1984== | ==1984== | ||
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The first two years of ''Transformers'' product in America mostly consisted of toys from the two Takara lines. A wide range of sizes and price points, from $3 Mini-Vehicles up to larger toys costing $20 or more, ensured that every kid could pick up at least a few Transformers, and still have a few left for the Christmas wishlist — a marketing strategy that continues up to the present day. | The first two years of ''Transformers'' product in America mostly consisted of toys from the two Takara lines. A wide range of sizes and price points, from $3 Mini-Vehicles up to larger toys costing $20 or more, ensured that every kid could pick up at least a few Transformers, and still have a few left for the Christmas wishlist — a marketing strategy that continues up to the present day. | ||
The early G1 toys were largely marked by attention to vehicle mode detail, rubber tires, the frequent use of [[die-cast]] metal (particularly on larger toys), and a variety of loose parts which had to be kept track of and attached separately. The early toys were also marked by a lack of posability — not a single one of the [[Autobot Cars|Autobot cars]] had knee joints, and most had feet that were fused together. The Decepticon jets couldn't do anything but raise their arms forward. | The early G1 toys were largely marked by attention to vehicle mode detail, rubber tires, the frequent use of [[die-cast]] metal (particularly on larger toys), and a variety of loose parts which had to be kept track of and attached separately. The early toys were also marked by a lack of posability — not a single one of the [[Autobot Cars|Autobot cars]] had knee joints, and most had feet that were fused together. The Decepticon jets couldn't do anything but raise their arms forward. | ||
The combination of heavy die-cast and the brittle plastics of the time also made many of the toys fragile; toys such as Prowl and Mirage are infamous for winding up broken. | The combination of heavy die-cast and the brittle plastics of the time also made many of the toys fragile; toys such as Prowl and Mirage are infamous for winding up broken. | ||
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{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] | *[[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] | ||
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]] | *[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]] | ||
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)/toys|Cliffjumper]] | *[[Cliffjumper (G1)/toys|Cliffjumper]] | ||
* [[Gears (G1)|Gears]] | *[[Gears (G1)|Gears]] | ||
* [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] | *[[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] | ||
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]}} | *[[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]}} | ||
{{note|Although the official catalogs and the box artwork depict Bumblebee in yellow and Cliffjumper in red, both toys were actually available in both colors. Additionally, a third toy of a similar design was also available in yellow, and sold on Cliffjumper cards. That toy was not officially marketed by Hasbro as a separate character, but was later dubbed "Bumblejumper" by fans, which was shortened to just "[[Bumper (G1)|Bumper]]" by the time he was officially integrated into the fiction as a character in his own right.}} | {{note|Although the official catalogs and the box artwork depict Bumblebee in yellow and Cliffjumper in red, both toys were actually available in both colors. Additionally, a third toy of a similar design was also available in yellow, and sold on Cliffjumper cards. That toy was not officially marketed by Hasbro as a separate character, but was later dubbed "Bumblejumper" by fans, which was shortened to just "[[Bumper (G1)|Bumper]]" by the time he was officially integrated into the fiction as a character in his own right.}} | ||
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'''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | '''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Bluestreak (G1)/toys|Bluestreak]] | *[[Bluestreak (G1)/toys|Bluestreak]] | ||
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] | *[[Hound (G1)|Hound]] | ||
* [[Ironhide (G1)/toys|Ironhide]] | *[[Ironhide (G1)/toys|Ironhide]] | ||
* [[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]] | *[[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]] | ||
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] | *[[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] | ||
* [[Prowl (G1)/toys|Prowl]] | *[[Prowl (G1)/toys|Prowl]] | ||
* [[Ratchet (G1)/toys|Ratchet]] | *[[Ratchet (G1)/toys|Ratchet]] | ||
* [[Sideswipe (G1)/toys|Sideswipe]] | *[[Sideswipe (G1)/toys|Sideswipe]] | ||
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)/toys|Sunstreaker]] | *[[Sunstreaker (G1)/toys|Sunstreaker]] | ||
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] | *[[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] | ||
* [[Wheeljack (G1)/toys|Wheeljack]]}} | *[[Wheeljack (G1)/toys|Wheeljack]]}} | ||
'''Autobot Commander''' | '''Autobot Commander''' | ||
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] | *[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] | ||
===Decepticons=== | ===Decepticons=== | ||
'''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Cassettes]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Cassettes]]''' | ||
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] & [[Laserbeak (G1)/toys|Laserbeak]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] & [[Laserbeak (G1)/toys|Laserbeak]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] & [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] & [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
{{note|Another Decepticon Cassette, Buzzsaw, was available with Soundwave.}} | {{note|Another Decepticon Cassette, Buzzsaw, was available with Soundwave.}} | ||
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'''[[Decepticon Planes]]''' | '''[[Decepticon Planes]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]] | *[[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]] | ||
* [[Thundercracker (G1)/toys|Thundercracker]] | *[[Thundercracker (G1)/toys|Thundercracker]] | ||
* [[Skywarp (G1)/toys|Skywarp]]}} | *[[Skywarp (G1)/toys|Skywarp]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon Communications''' | '''Decepticon Communications''' | ||
* [[Soundwave (G1)/toys|Soundwave]] (with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]) | *[[Soundwave (G1)/toys|Soundwave]] (with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]) | ||
'''Decepticon Leader''' | '''Decepticon Leader''' | ||
* [[Megatron (G1)/toys|Megatron]] | *[[Megatron (G1)/toys|Megatron]] | ||
{{-}} | {{-}} | ||
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'''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle]]s''' | '''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] | *[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] | ||
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] | *[[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] | ||
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] | *[[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] | ||
* [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]] | *[[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]] | ||
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]]}} | *[[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]]}} | ||
{{note|The "Mini-Cars" were renamed into "Mini-Vehicles" beginning with 1985. The 1984 Mini-Cars/Mini-Vehicles were re-released. 1985 Mini-Vehicles were briefly available with extra [[Mini-spy|Mini-Spies]], later shipments replaced the Autobot symbols with rubsigns like the ones first featured on the Mini-Spies, and still later shipments of the rubsign versions were available with iron-on patches. Bumblebee and Cliffjumper still featured color variants. The Bumper mold was no longer available.}} | {{note|The "Mini-Cars" were renamed into "Mini-Vehicles" beginning with 1985. The 1984 Mini-Cars/Mini-Vehicles were re-released. 1985 Mini-Vehicles were briefly available with extra [[Mini-spy|Mini-Spies]], later shipments replaced the Autobot symbols with rubsigns like the ones first featured on the Mini-Spies, and still later shipments of the rubsign versions were available with iron-on patches. Bumblebee and Cliffjumper still featured color variants. The Bumper mold was no longer available.}} | ||
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'''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | '''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] | *[[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] | ||
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] | *[[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] | ||
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] | *[[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] | ||
* [[Skids (G1)|Skids]] | *[[Skids (G1)|Skids]] | ||
* [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] | *[[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] | ||
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] | *[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] | ||
* [[Grapple (G1)|Grapple]]}} | *[[Grapple (G1)|Grapple]]}} | ||
{{note|The 1984 Autobot Cars were re-released, but unusually, the Autobot Cars assortment was released in two different cases: One mixed the 1985 figures Skids, Red Alert, Grapple and Hoist with the 1984 figures Sunstreaker, Bluestreak, Ratchet, Jazz and Trailbreaker, whereas the other one mixed the 1985 figures Smokescreen, Inferno and Tracks with the 1984 figures Sideswipe, Hound, Mirage, Prowl, Ironhide and Wheeljack. All of the re-released 1984 figures were packed one per case, whereas the 1985 figures were all packed two per case, with the exception of Skids, who got the short end of the stick. All figures released in the 1985 assortments sported rubsigns.}} | {{note|The 1984 Autobot Cars were re-released, but unusually, the Autobot Cars assortment was released in two different cases: One mixed the 1985 figures Skids, Red Alert, Grapple and Hoist with the 1984 figures Sunstreaker, Bluestreak, Ratchet, Jazz and Trailbreaker, whereas the other one mixed the 1985 figures Smokescreen, Inferno and Tracks with the 1984 figures Sideswipe, Hound, Mirage, Prowl, Ironhide and Wheeljack. All of the re-released 1984 figures were packed one per case, whereas the 1985 figures were all packed two per case, with the exception of Skids, who got the short end of the stick. All figures released in the 1985 assortments sported rubsigns.}} | ||
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'''[[Powerdasher]]s''' | '''[[Powerdasher]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* "[[Zetar (G1)|Zetar]]" ("Drill Type") | *"[[Zetar (G1)|Zetar]]" ("Drill Type") | ||
* "[[Aragon]]" ("F-1 Type") | *"[[Aragon]]" ("F-1 Type") | ||
* [[Cromar]] ("Jet Type") }} | *[[Cromar]] ("Jet Type") }} | ||
{{note|The Powerdashers were only available via mail-order. Figure names are in quotes because these figures were not given individual names at the time. Only Cromar/Jet Type has received one in the years since.}} | {{note|The Powerdashers were only available via mail-order. Figure names are in quotes because these figures were not given individual names at the time. Only Cromar/Jet Type has received one in the years since.}} | ||
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'''Promotional toys''' | '''Promotional toys''' | ||
* "[[PepsiCo|Pepsi]]" Optimus Prime | *"[[PepsiCo|Pepsi]]" Optimus Prime | ||
{{note|A limited-edition variant of Optimus Prime was available with additional "Pepsi" stickers on the trailer. The [[Canada|Canadian]] version sported yet another variant with a large sticker covering the entire side of the trailer.}} | {{note|A limited-edition variant of Optimus Prime was available with additional "Pepsi" stickers on the trailer. The [[Canada|Canadian]] version sported yet another variant with a large sticker covering the entire side of the trailer.}} | ||
* "Cookie Crisp" Jazz | *"Cookie Crisp" Jazz | ||
{{note|A variant of the Jazz toy was available as a Cookie Crisp promotional premium via mail order. Unlike the regular version, the "Martini" decals are missing from the doors.}} | {{note|A variant of the Jazz toy was available as a Cookie Crisp promotional premium via mail order. Unlike the regular version, the "Martini" decals are missing from the doors.}} | ||
====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
* The entire 1984 lineup was still available in 1985, only now sporting [[rubsign]]s. | *The entire 1984 lineup was still available in 1985, only now sporting [[rubsign]]s. | ||
===Decepticons=== | ===Decepticons=== | ||
'''[[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]''' | '''[[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] | *[[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] | ||
* [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] | *[[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] | ||
* [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]}} | *[[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]}} | ||
'''[[Insecticon (G1)|Deluxe Insecticons]]''' | '''[[Insecticon (G1)|Deluxe Insecticons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Barrage (Insecticon)|Barrage]] | *[[Barrage (Insecticon)|Barrage]] | ||
* [[Chop Shop (G1)|Chop Shop]] | *[[Chop Shop (G1)|Chop Shop]] | ||
* [[Ransack (G1)|Ransack]] | *[[Ransack (G1)|Ransack]] | ||
* [[Venom (G1)|Venom]]}} | *[[Venom (G1)|Venom]]}} | ||
'''[[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]''' | '''[[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] | *[[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] | ||
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] | *[[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] | ||
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] | *[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] | ||
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] | *[[Hook (G1)|Hook]] | ||
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] | *[[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] | ||
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] | *[[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] | ||
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (giftset)}} | *[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (giftset)}} | ||
'''[[Triple Changer]]s''' | '''[[Triple Changer]]s''' | ||
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====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
* The entire 1984 assortment of Decepticons was still available in 1985, in updated packaging, now also sporting rubsigns. | *The entire 1984 assortment of Decepticons was still available in 1985, in updated packaging, now also sporting rubsigns. | ||
==1986== | ==1986== | ||
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===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[File:Protectobots-collectallfive.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Collect all five! The little ones are cheap, and you can bug your mom to buy you the big one!]] | [[File:Protectobots-collectallfive.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Collect all five! The little ones are cheap, and you can bug your mom to buy you the big one!]] | ||
1986 broke more ground with multiple [[combiner]] teams, two large "city" robots, and a full-length feature film to push a new crop of toys. By this point, Hasbro had gone through almost all of the "suitable" ''Diaclone'' and ''Microman'' toys, and were using up the last of the pre-existing (yet previously unmade) Takara design concepts, mostly in the form of the [[Scramble City (toyline)|Scramble City]]-style combiner teams and the two citybots; thus the toys for ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' became the first original designs developed by Hasbro (and also the first of a ''very'' few times that characters' in-fiction designs predated their toy designs). That year also marked the end of rubber tires and die-cast metal in the toys, as shipping and manufacturing costs dictated an all-plastic approach; many toys from that year were available both with and without rubber and die-cast. | 1986 broke more ground with multiple [[combiner]] teams, two large "city" robots, and a full-length feature film to push a new crop of toys. By this point, Hasbro had gone through almost all of the "suitable" ''Diaclone'' and ''Microman'' toys, and were using up the last of the pre-existing (yet previously unmade) Takara design concepts, mostly in the form of the [[Scramble City (toyline)|Scramble City]]-style combiner teams and the two citybots; thus the toys for ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' became the first original designs developed by Hasbro (and also the first of a ''very'' few times that characters' in-fiction designs predated their toy designs). That year also marked the end of rubber tires and die-cast metal in the toys, as shipping and manufacturing costs dictated an all-plastic approach; many toys from that year were available both with and without rubber and die-cast. Though many fans regard this as a drop in quality, it had the effect of creating much sturdier toys. | ||
Starting with 1986, the first Transformers toys - the Mini-Cassettes, the Triple Changers, the newly introduced Special Teams Mini-Vehicles and the [[Special Teams]] Large Vehicles - were available in mixed assortments that contained both Autobot and Decepticon characters. The 1986 toys are still listed as Autobots and Decepticons for simplicity's sake. | Starting with 1986, the first Transformers toys - the Mini-Cassettes, the Triple Changers, the newly introduced Special Teams Mini-Vehicles and the [[Special Teams]] Large Vehicles - were available in mixed assortments that contained both Autobot and Decepticon characters. The 1986 toys are still listed as Autobots and Decepticons for simplicity's sake. | ||
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'''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Vehicles]]''' | '''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Vehicles]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] | *[[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] | ||
* [[Hubcap (G1)|Hubcap]] | *[[Hubcap (G1)|Hubcap]] | ||
* [[Outback (G1)|Outback]] | *[[Outback (G1)|Outback]] | ||
* [[Pipes (G1)|Pipes]] | *[[Pipes (G1)|Pipes]] | ||
* [[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]] | *[[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]] | ||
* [[Tailgate (G1)|Tailgate]]}} | *[[Tailgate (G1)|Tailgate]]}} | ||
{{note|Bumblebee, Beachcomber, Seaspray, Cosmos, Powerglide and Warpath were re-released. All twelve 1986 Mini-Vehicles were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch.}} | {{note|Bumblebee, Beachcomber, Seaspray, Cosmos, Powerglide and Warpath were re-released. All twelve 1986 Mini-Vehicles were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch.}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | '''Autobot [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | ||
* [[Rewind (G1)|Rewind]] & [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Rewind (G1)|Rewind]] & [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] & [[Eject (G1)|Eject]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] & [[Eject (G1)|Eject]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
'''[[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]''' | '''[[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] | *[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] | ||
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] | *[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] | ||
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] | *[[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] | ||
* [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] | *[[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] | ||
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] | *[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] | ||
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (giftset)}} | *[[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (giftset)}} | ||
'''[[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]]''' | '''[[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] | *[[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] | ||
* [[Groove (G1)|Groove]] | *[[Groove (G1)|Groove]] | ||
* [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] | *[[Blades (G1)|Blades]] | ||
* [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] | *[[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] | ||
* [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] | *[[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] | ||
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (giftset)}} | *[[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (giftset)}} | ||
{{note|The smaller Aerialbots and Protectobots were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Silverbolt and Hot Spot have never been found with a poster.}} | {{note|The smaller Aerialbots and Protectobots were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Silverbolt and Hot Spot have never been found with a poster.}} | ||
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'''[[Triple Changer]]s''' | '''[[Triple Changer]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] | *[[Springer (G1)|Springer]] | ||
* [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] | *[[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] | ||
* [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]}} | *[[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]}} | ||
{{note|All 1986 Triple Changers were alternatively available with or without a poster.}} | {{note|All 1986 Triple Changers were alternatively available with or without a poster.}} | ||
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'''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | '''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] | *[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] | ||
* [[Hot Rod/toys|Hot Rod]] | *[[Hot Rod/toys|Hot Rod]] | ||
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]}} | *[[Kup (G1)|Kup]]}} | ||
{{note|All three 1986 Autobot Cars were alternatively available with or without a poster.}} | {{note|All three 1986 Autobot Cars were alternatively available with or without a poster.}} | ||
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'''Heroes''' | '''Heroes''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Hot Rod/toys|Rodimus Prime]] | *[[Hot Rod/toys|Rodimus Prime]] | ||
* [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]]}} | *[[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[City Commander]]''' | '''Autobot [[City Commander]]''' | ||
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]] | *[[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]] | ||
{{note|A variant version of Ultra Magnus was available exclusively from KB Toys stores, replacing the diecast parts and rubber tires with plastic parts and sporting unpainted heads.}} | {{note|A variant version of Ultra Magnus was available exclusively from KB Toys stores, replacing the diecast parts and rubber tires with plastic parts and sporting unpainted heads.}} | ||
'''Motorized Autobot Space Shuttle''' | '''Motorized Autobot Space Shuttle''' | ||
* [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] | *[[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] | ||
'''Autobot [[City-bot|City]]''' | '''Autobot [[City-bot|City]]''' | ||
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] with [[Six-Gun (G1)|Six-Gun]], [[Slammer]], and [[Scamper (G1)|Scamper]] | *[[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] with [[Six-Gun (G1)|Six-Gun]], [[Slammer]], and [[Scamper (G1)|Scamper]] | ||
====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
* A limited edition version of Optimus Prime was available with a "Movie Edition" certificate. | *A limited edition version of Optimus Prime was available with a "Movie Edition" certificate. | ||
* Sunstreaker, Mirage, Ratchet and Wheeljack, none of which were shipping to regular stores anymore by this point, were made available again via mail order. | *Sunstreaker, Mirage, Ratchet and Wheeljack, none of which were shipping to regular stores anymore by this point, were made available again via mail order. | ||
===Decepticons=== | ===Decepticons=== | ||
'''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | ||
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] & Frenzy (available as a two-pack) | *[[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] & Frenzy (available as a two-pack) | ||
{{note|Frenzy was a re-release of the 1984 Decepticon Cassette, now available as a two-pack with the new sculpt Ratbat rather than with Laserbeak. The two-pack of Ravage and Rumble was also re-released.}} | {{note|Frenzy was a re-release of the 1984 Decepticon Cassette, now available as a two-pack with the new sculpt Ratbat rather than with Laserbeak. The two-pack of Ravage and Rumble was also re-released.}} | ||
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'''[[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]]''' | '''[[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] | *[[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] | ||
* [[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] | *[[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] | ||
* [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] | *[[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] | ||
* [[Drag Strip (G1)|Drag Strip]] | *[[Drag Strip (G1)|Drag Strip]] | ||
* [[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] | *[[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] | ||
* [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] (giftset)}} | *[[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] (giftset)}} | ||
'''[[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]''' | '''[[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] | *[[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] | ||
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] | *[[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] | ||
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] | *[[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] | ||
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] | *[[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] | ||
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]]}} | *[[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]]}} | ||
{{note|While packaged samples might exist, [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] was presumably never officially released in giftset form in the USA.<br />The smaller Stunticons and Combaticons were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Motormaster and Onslaught have never been found with a poster.}} | {{note|While packaged samples might exist, [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] was presumably never officially released in giftset form in the USA.<br />The smaller Stunticons and Combaticons were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Motormaster and Onslaught have never been found with a poster.}} | ||
| Line 343: | Line 343: | ||
'''[[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]]''' | '''[[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] | *[[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] | ||
* [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] | *[[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] | ||
* [[Headstrong (G1)|Headstrong]] | *[[Headstrong (G1)|Headstrong]] | ||
* [[Tantrum (G1)|Tantrum]] | *[[Tantrum (G1)|Tantrum]] | ||
* [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]]}} | *[[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]]}} | ||
{{note|[[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]] was never available in giftset form outside of Japan.}} | {{note|[[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]] was never available in giftset form outside of Japan.}} | ||
'''[[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]]''' | '''[[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]]''' | ||
* [[Gnaw (G1)|Gnaw]] | *[[Gnaw (G1)|Gnaw]] | ||
{{note|All five Predacons as well as Gnaw were alternatively available with or without a poster.}} | {{note|All five Predacons as well as Gnaw were alternatively available with or without a poster.}} | ||
'''[[Triple Changer]]s''' | '''[[Triple Changer]]s''' | ||
* [[ | *[[Octane]] | ||
{{note|Blitzwing and Astrotrain were re-released. All 1986 Triple Changers were alternatively available with or without a poster, and Astrotrain and Blitzwing are very difficult to find.}} | {{note|Blitzwing and Astrotrain were re-released. All 1986 Triple Changers were alternatively available with or without a poster, and Astrotrain and Blitzwing are very difficult to find.}} | ||
| Line 363: | Line 363: | ||
'''Decepticon Planes''' | '''Decepticon Planes''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] | *[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] | ||
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]}} | *[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]}} | ||
{{note|Starscream, Dirge, Ramjet and Thrust were re-released. Only Scourge and Cyclonus have been found with or without a poster. The other four jets in the asortment have never been found with a poster.}} | {{note|Starscream, Dirge, Ramjet and Thrust were re-released. Only Scourge and Cyclonus have been found with or without a poster. The other four jets in the asortment have never been found with a poster.}} | ||
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'''[[Battlecharger]]s''' | '''[[Battlecharger]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Runabout (G1)|Runabout]] | *[[Runabout (G1)|Runabout]] | ||
* [[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]]}} | *[[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[City Commander]]''' | '''Decepticon [[City Commander]]''' | ||
* [[Galvatron (G1)/toys|Galvatron]] | *[[Galvatron (G1)/toys|Galvatron]] | ||
'''Motorized Decepticon [[City-bot|City]]''' | '''Motorized Decepticon [[City-bot|City]]''' | ||
* [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] with [[Brunt (G1)|Brunt]] and [[Full-Tilt]] | *[[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] with [[Brunt (G1)|Brunt]] and [[Full-Tilt]] | ||
'''[[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]]''' | '''[[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]]''' | ||
| Line 388: | Line 388: | ||
====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
* A limited edition version of Megatron was available with a "Movie Edition" certificate. | *A limited edition version of Megatron was available with a "Movie Edition" certificate. | ||
* Thundercracker, who was no longer shipping to regular stores by this point, was made available again via mail order. | *Thundercracker, who was no longer shipping to regular stores by this point, was made available again via mail order. | ||
==1987== | ==1987== | ||
| Line 397: | Line 397: | ||
[[File:Technobots-specialteams.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|28 dollars?! But in 1987, that was like... um... factor inflation... multiply by 2.1314159... carry the 1... um... a LOT!]] | [[File:Technobots-specialteams.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|28 dollars?! But in 1987, that was like... um... factor inflation... multiply by 2.1314159... carry the 1... um... a LOT!]] | ||
1987 was dominated by two sublines, the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] and [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmasters]]. It also marked the peak of the line's ambition, as it introduced the two-foot-tall [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] toy — which would remain the largest Transformer ever produced for over 25 years and, at nearly $100 in 1987 dollars, is still one of the most expensive. | 1987 was dominated by two sublines, the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] and [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmasters]]. It also marked the peak of the line's ambition, as it introduced the two-foot-tall [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] toy — which would remain the largest Transformer ever produced for over 25 years and, at nearly $100 in 1987 dollars, is still one of the most expensive. | ||
At the other end of the price scale, the $3 Mini-Vehicles of previous years were replaced by the [[Throttlebot]]s. Apart from them, the line was dominated for the first time by fictional vehicle modes (variously explained as "Cybertronian" or "futuristic") and mechanical monsters and beasts. | At the other end of the price scale, the $3 Mini-Vehicles of previous years were replaced by the [[Throttlebot]]s. Apart from them, the line was dominated for the first time by fictional vehicle modes (variously explained as "Cybertronian" or "futuristic") and mechanical monsters and beasts. | ||
| Line 406: | Line 406: | ||
'''[[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s''' | '''[[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] | *[[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] | ||
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] | *[[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] | ||
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] | *[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] | ||
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] | *[[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] | ||
* [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] | *[[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] | ||
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (giftset)}} | *[[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (giftset)}} | ||
{{note|The Aerialbots and Protectobots were also re-released. All individual Aerialbots, Protectobots and Technobots were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.}} | {{note|The Aerialbots and Protectobots were also re-released. All individual Aerialbots, Protectobots and Technobots were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.}} | ||
| Line 417: | Line 417: | ||
'''[[Throttlebot]]s''' | '''[[Throttlebot]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Goldbug]] | *[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Goldbug]] | ||
* [[Chase (G1)|Chase]] | *[[Chase (G1)|Chase]] | ||
* [[Freeway (G1)|Freeway]] | *[[Freeway (G1)|Freeway]] | ||
* [[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]] | *[[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]] | ||
* [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]] | *[[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]] | ||
* [[Wideload (G1)|Wideload]]}} | *[[Wideload (G1)|Wideload]]}} | ||
{{note|The Throttlebots were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.}} | {{note|The Throttlebots were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]]''' | '''Autobot [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]]''' | ||
* [[Fastlane]] & [[Cloudraker (G1)|Cloudraker]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Fastlane]] & [[Cloudraker (G1)|Cloudraker]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
'''Autobot [[:Category:Spies|Double Spy]]''' | '''Autobot [[:Category:Spies|Double Spy]]''' | ||
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch-Counterpunch]] | *[[Punch (G1)|Punch-Counterpunch]] | ||
'''[[Monsterbot]]s''' | '''[[Monsterbot]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Grotusque]] | *[[Grotusque]] | ||
* [[Doublecross]] | *[[Doublecross]] | ||
* [[Repugnus (G1)|Repugnus]]}} | *[[Repugnus (G1)|Repugnus]]}} | ||
'''Large [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] Autobots''' | '''Large [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] Autobots''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Pointblank (G1)|Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]] | *[[Pointblank (G1)|Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]] | ||
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]] | *[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]] | ||
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]] | *[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]] | ||
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]] | *[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]] | ||
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] | *[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] | ||
* [[Hot Rod/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}} | *[[Hot Rod/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}} | ||
'''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots''' | '''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] with [[Stylor]] | *[[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] with [[Stylor]] | ||
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] with [[Duros]] | *[[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] with [[Duros]] | ||
* [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] with [[Arcana]] | *[[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] with [[Arcana]] | ||
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] with [[Gort]]}} | *[[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] with [[Gort]]}} | ||
'''Headmaster Autobot [[City-bot|Base]]''' | '''Headmaster Autobot [[City-bot|Base]]''' | ||
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] with [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Cog (G1)|Cog/Gasket/Grommet]] | *[[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] with [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Cog (G1)|Cog/Gasket/Grommet]] | ||
====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
* Metroplex, Rodimus Prime, Wreck-Gar, Ultra Magnus and Sky Lynx were also still available. | *Metroplex, Rodimus Prime, Wreck-Gar, Ultra Magnus and Sky Lynx were also still available. | ||
* The Autobot Mini-Cassette two-packs of Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject were re-released. | *The Autobot Mini-Cassette two-packs of Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject were re-released. | ||
===Decepticons=== | ===Decepticons=== | ||
'''[[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]]''' | '''[[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] | *[[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] | ||
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] | *[[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] | ||
* [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]] | *[[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]] | ||
* [[Blot (G1)|Blot]] | *[[Blot (G1)|Blot]] | ||
* [[Hun-Gurrr (G1)|Hun-Gurrr]]}} | *[[Hun-Gurrr (G1)|Hun-Gurrr]]}} | ||
{{note|[[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] was never officially released in giftset form in the USA.}} | {{note|[[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] was never officially released in giftset form in the USA.}} | ||
| Line 475: | Line 475: | ||
'''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | ||
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]] & [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]] & [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
{{note|The two-pack of Ratbat and Frenzy was also re-released.}} | {{note|The two-pack of Ratbat and Frenzy was also re-released.}} | ||
| Line 481: | Line 481: | ||
'''[[Duocon]]s''' | '''[[Duocon]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Battletrap]] | *[[Battletrap]] | ||
* [[Flywheels]]}} | *[[Flywheels]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]]''' | ||
* [[Pounce]] & [[Wingspan]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Pounce]] & [[Wingspan]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
'''Decepticon [[Six Changer]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Six Changer]]''' | ||
* [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]] | *[[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]] | ||
'''Large [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] Decepticons''' | '''Large [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] Decepticons''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]] | *[[Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]] | ||
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] | *[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] | ||
* [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]] | *[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]] | ||
* [[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (Cyclonus)|Nightstick]] | *[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (Cyclonus)|Nightstick]] | ||
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}} | *[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}} | ||
'''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons''' | '''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]] with [[Grax]] | *[[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]] with [[Grax]] | ||
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] with [[Vorath]] | *[[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] with [[Vorath]] | ||
* [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]] with [[Monzo]]}} | *[[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]] with [[Monzo]]}} | ||
'''Headmaster [[Horrorcon]]s''' | '''Headmaster [[Horrorcon]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Apeface]] with [[Spasma]] | *[[Apeface]] with [[Spasma]] | ||
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] with [[Krunk]]}} | *[[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] with [[Krunk]]}} | ||
'''Headmaster Decepticon [[City-bot|Base]]''' | '''Headmaster Decepticon [[City-bot|Base]]''' | ||
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] with [[Zarak (G1)|Zarak]] and [[Fasttrack (Scorponok)|Fasttrack]] | *[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] with [[Zarak (G1)|Zarak]] and [[Fasttrack (Scorponok)|Fasttrack]] | ||
====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
* Galvatron, Trypticon, the Predacons and the Sharkticon figure Gnaw were also still available. | *Galvatron, Trypticon, the Predacons and the Sharkticon figure Gnaw were also still available. | ||
==1988== | ==1988== | ||
| Line 521: | Line 521: | ||
[[File:G1Bomb-Burst toy.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Bomb-Burst, a typical full-sized Pretender.]] | [[File:G1Bomb-Burst toy.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Bomb-Burst, a typical full-sized Pretender.]] | ||
[[File:PowermasterOptimusPrime toy.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Finally! They're selling Optimus Prime again!]] | [[File:PowermasterOptimusPrime toy.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Finally! They're selling Optimus Prime again!]] | ||
1988 introduced a new logo design and tagline (More... MUCH more than meets the eye), but otherwise continued the directions of 1987, with a new line of Headmasters and the new [[Powermaster]] gimmicks, and a mixture of realistic and fanciful vehicle forms. | 1988 introduced a new logo design and tagline (More... MUCH more than meets the eye), but otherwise continued the directions of 1987, with a new line of Headmasters and the new [[Powermaster]] gimmicks, and a mixture of realistic and fanciful vehicle forms. | ||
1988 also introduced the [[Pretender]]s, bringing non-transforming figures into the line for the first time. The Pretenders tended to have ''very'' simplified transformations and often unconvincing vehicle modes, though their designs make them among the most well-articulated of all G1 toys. The outer shells, by contrast, rarely featured any articulation beyond a swivel joint at the shoulders. | 1988 also introduced the [[Pretender]]s, bringing non-transforming figures into the line for the first time. The Pretenders tended to have ''very'' simplified transformations and often unconvincing vehicle modes, though their designs make them among the most well-articulated of all G1 toys. The outer shells, by contrast, rarely featured any articulation beyond a swivel joint at the shoulders. | ||
Other sublines of note included the [[Triggercon]]s, [[Triggerbot]]s, [[Sparkabot]]s and [[Firecon]]s, which took the Throttlebots' place as the line's low-end offerings. | Other sublines of note included the [[Triggercon]]s, [[Triggerbot]]s, [[Sparkabot]]s and [[Firecon]]s, which took the Throttlebots' place as the line's low-end offerings. | ||
| Line 534: | Line 534: | ||
'''[[Sparkabot]]s''' | '''[[Sparkabot]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Fizzle]] | *[[Fizzle]] | ||
* [[Sizzle (G1)|Sizzle]] | *[[Sizzle (G1)|Sizzle]] | ||
* [[Guzzle (G1)|Guzzle]]}} | *[[Guzzle (G1)|Guzzle]]}} | ||
'''[[Triggerbot]]s''' | '''[[Triggerbot]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Backstreet (G1)|Backstreet]] | *[[Backstreet (G1)|Backstreet]] | ||
* [[Override (G1)|Override]] | *[[Override (G1)|Override]] | ||
* [[Dogfight (G1)|Dogfight]]}} | *[[Dogfight (G1)|Dogfight]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|Cassettes]]''' | '''Autobot [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|Cassettes]]''' | ||
* [[Grand Slam (G1)|Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Grand Slam (G1)|Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
{{note|The Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject two-packs were also re-released once again.}} | {{note|The Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject two-packs were also re-released once again.}} | ||
| Line 551: | Line 551: | ||
'''Small [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] Autobots''' | '''Small [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] Autobots''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer]] | *[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer]] | ||
* [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer (G1)|Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]] | *[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer (G1)|Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]] | ||
* [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Nebulan)|Tracer]]}} | *[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Nebulan)|Tracer]]}} | ||
{{note|The Large Targetmaster Autobots Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs were also still available.}} | {{note|The Large Targetmaster Autobots Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs were also still available.}} | ||
| Line 559: | Line 559: | ||
'''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots''' | '''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] with [[Muzzle]] | *[[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] with [[Muzzle]] | ||
* [[Siren (G1)|Siren]] with [[Quig]] | *[[Siren (G1)|Siren]] with [[Quig]] | ||
* [[Hosehead (G1)|Hosehead]] with [[Lug]]}} | *[[Hosehead (G1)|Hosehead]] with [[Lug]]}} | ||
{{note|The Large Headmaster Autobots Chromedome, Hardhead, Brainstorm and Highbrow and the Headmaster Autobot Base Fortress Maximus were also still available.}} | {{note|The Large Headmaster Autobots Chromedome, Hardhead, Brainstorm and Highbrow and the Headmaster Autobot Base Fortress Maximus were also still available.}} | ||
| Line 567: | Line 567: | ||
'''[[Powermaster]] Autobots''' | '''[[Powermaster]] Autobots''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Getaway]] with [[Rev]] | *[[Getaway]] with [[Rev]] | ||
* [[Slapdash (G1)|Slapdash]] with [[Lube]] | *[[Slapdash (G1)|Slapdash]] with [[Lube]] | ||
* [[Joyride (G1)|Joyride]] with [[Hotwire (G1)|Hotwire]]}} | *[[Joyride (G1)|Joyride]] with [[Hotwire (G1)|Hotwire]]}} | ||
'''Powermaster Autobot Leader''' | '''Powermaster Autobot Leader''' | ||
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] with [[Hi-Q]] | *[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] with [[Hi-Q]] | ||
'''Autobot [[Six Changer]]''' | '''Autobot [[Six Changer]]''' | ||
* [[Quickswitch (G1)|Quickswitch]] | *[[Quickswitch (G1)|Quickswitch]] | ||
'''Large Autobot [[Pretender]]s''' | '''Large Autobot [[Pretender]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] | *[[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] | ||
* [[Cloudburst]] | *[[Cloudburst]] | ||
* [[Waverider]] | *[[Waverider]] | ||
* [[Groundbreaker]] | *[[Groundbreaker]] | ||
* [[Sky High (Pretender)|Sky High]] | *[[Sky High (Pretender)|Sky High]] | ||
* [[Splashdown]]}} | *[[Splashdown]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Pretender Beast]]s''' | '''Autobot [[Pretender Beast]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Chainclaw (G1)|Chainclaw]] | *[[Chainclaw (G1)|Chainclaw]] | ||
* [[Catilla (G1)|Catilla]]}} | *[[Catilla (G1)|Catilla]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Pretender Vehicle]]s''' | '''Autobot [[Pretender Vehicle]]s''' | ||
* [[Gunrunner (G1)|Gunrunner]] | *[[Gunrunner (G1)|Gunrunner]] | ||
{{note|The Autobot Double Spy Punch-Counterpunch, the Autobot Clones two-pack of Fastlane/Cloudraker and the Monsterbots Grotusque, Doublecross and Repugnus were also still available. The Technobots were re-released.}} | {{note|The Autobot Double Spy Punch-Counterpunch, the Autobot Clones two-pack of Fastlane/Cloudraker and the Monsterbots Grotusque, Doublecross and Repugnus were also still available. The Technobots were re-released.}} | ||
| Line 600: | Line 600: | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Cindersaur (G1)|Cindersaur]] | *[[Cindersaur (G1)|Cindersaur]] | ||
* [[Flamefeather (G1)|Flamefeather]] | *[[Flamefeather (G1)|Flamefeather]] | ||
* [[Sparkstalker]]}} | *[[Sparkstalker]]}} | ||
'''[[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]]''' | '''[[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]] | *[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]] | ||
* [[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]] | *[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]] | ||
* [[Nautilator (G1)|Nautilator]] | *[[Nautilator (G1)|Nautilator]] | ||
* [[Skalor (G1)|Skalor]] | *[[Skalor (G1)|Skalor]] | ||
* [[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]] | *[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]] | ||
* [[Snaptrap (G1)|Snaptrap]] | *[[Snaptrap (G1)|Snaptrap]] | ||
* [[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]] (giftset)}} | *[[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]] (giftset)}} | ||
{{note|The Piranacon giftset only included five of the six individual Seacons; Nautilator was left out for reasons unknown.}} | {{note|The Piranacon giftset only included five of the six individual Seacons; Nautilator was left out for reasons unknown.}} | ||
| Line 620: | Line 620: | ||
'''[[Triggercon]]s''' | '''[[Triggercon]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]] | *[[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]] | ||
* [[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]] | *[[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]] | ||
* [[Windsweeper]]}} | *[[Windsweeper]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon Cassettes''' | '''Decepticon Cassettes''' | ||
* [[Squawktalk (G1)|Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox (G1)|Beastbox]] (available as a two-pack) | *[[Squawktalk (G1)|Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox (G1)|Beastbox]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
{{note|The Slugfest/Overkill two-pack was also re-released.}} | {{note|The Slugfest/Overkill two-pack was also re-released.}} | ||
| Line 631: | Line 631: | ||
'''Small [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] Decepticons''' | '''Small [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] Decepticons''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe (G1)|Singe]] | *[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe (G1)|Singe]] | ||
* [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]] | *[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]] | ||
* [[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}} | *[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}} | ||
{{note|The Large Targetmaster Decepticons Triggerhappy, Slugslinger and Misfire were also still available.}} | {{note|The Large Targetmaster Decepticons Triggerhappy, Slugslinger and Misfire were also still available.}} | ||
| Line 639: | Line 639: | ||
'''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons''' | '''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Horri-Bull (G1)|Horri-Bull]] with [[Kreb]] | *[[Horri-Bull (G1)|Horri-Bull]] with [[Kreb]] | ||
* [[Fangry (G1)|Fangry]] with [[Brisko]] | *[[Fangry (G1)|Fangry]] with [[Brisko]] | ||
* [[Squeezeplay (G1)|Squeezeplay]] with [[Lokos]]}} | *[[Squeezeplay (G1)|Squeezeplay]] with [[Lokos]]}} | ||
{{note|The Large Headmaster Decepticons Skullcruncher, Mindwipe and Weirdwolf, the Headmaster Horrorcons Apeface and Snapdragon and the Headmaster Decepticon Base Scorponok were also still available.}} | {{note|The Large Headmaster Decepticons Skullcruncher, Mindwipe and Weirdwolf, the Headmaster Horrorcons Apeface and Snapdragon and the Headmaster Decepticon Base Scorponok were also still available.}} | ||
| Line 647: | Line 647: | ||
'''[[Powermaster]] Decepticons''' | '''[[Powermaster]] Decepticons''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] with [[Hi-Test]] | *[[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] with [[Hi-Test]] | ||
* [[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] with [[Throttle (G1)|Throttle]]}} | *[[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] with [[Throttle (G1)|Throttle]]}} | ||
'''Powermaster Mercenary''' | '''Powermaster Mercenary''' | ||
* [[Doubledealer]] with [[Knok]] and [[Skar (Decepticon)|Skar]] | *[[Doubledealer]] with [[Knok]] and [[Skar (Decepticon)|Skar]] | ||
'''Large Decepticon [[Pretender]]s''' | '''Large Decepticon [[Pretender]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Skullgrin]] | *[[Skullgrin]] | ||
* [[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] | *[[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] | ||
* [[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]] | *[[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]] | ||
* [[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]] | *[[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]] | ||
* [[Bugly (G1)|Bugly]] | *[[Bugly (G1)|Bugly]] | ||
* [[Finback]]}} | *[[Finback]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[Pretender Beast]]s''' | '''Decepticon [[Pretender Beast]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] | *[[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] | ||
* [[Snarler]]}} | *[[Snarler]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[Pretender Vehicle]]s''' | '''Decepticon [[Pretender Vehicle]]s''' | ||
* [[Roadgrabber]] | *[[Roadgrabber]] | ||
{{note|The Deception Clones two-pack of Pounce/Wingspan and the Decepticon Six Changer Sixshot were also still available.}} | {{note|The Deception Clones two-pack of Pounce/Wingspan and the Decepticon Six Changer Sixshot were also still available.}} | ||
| Line 679: | Line 679: | ||
By 1989, Hasbro's Transformers releases had been effectively split into two almost distinct sub-lines - Pretenders and Micromasters - that were available concurrently, a separation that was stronger from a marketing standpoint than the Autobot/Decepticon distinction from previous years. | By 1989, Hasbro's Transformers releases had been effectively split into two almost distinct sub-lines - Pretenders and Micromasters - that were available concurrently, a separation that was stronger from a marketing standpoint than the Autobot/Decepticon distinction from previous years. | ||
The Pretender subline expanded to include [[Pretender Monster|a combiner team]] and increasingly complex gimmicks, including robots with multiple shells, and outer shells which could transform themselves and even combine with their inner robots. | The Pretender subline expanded to include [[Pretender Monster|a combiner team]] and increasingly complex gimmicks, including robots with multiple shells, and outer shells which could transform themselves and even combine with their inner robots. | ||
The 1-inch-tall [[Micromaster]]s attempted to capitalize on the popularity of [[Galoob]]'s ''[[Micro Machines]]'' toy line. They were originally sold in carded 4-member "patrols", and later with various bases and vehicles. | The 1-inch-tall [[Micromaster]]s attempted to capitalize on the popularity of [[Galoob]]'s ''[[Micro Machines]]'' toy line. They were originally sold in carded 4-member "patrols", and later with various bases and vehicles. Micromasters tended to have realistically styled vehicle forms. Though the first five patrols featured relatively diverse transformation schemes, as the subline proliferated, their designs would become extremely standardized. | ||
===Pretenders=== | ===Pretenders=== | ||
| Line 687: | Line 687: | ||
'''Small Autobot [[Pretender]]s''' | '''Small Autobot [[Pretender]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Pincher (G1)|Pincher]] | *[[Pincher (G1)|Pincher]] | ||
* [[Doubleheader]] | *[[Doubleheader]] | ||
* [[Longtooth]]}} | *[[Longtooth]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Classic Pretender]]s''' | '''Autobot [[Classic Pretender]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]] | *[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]] | ||
* [[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]] | *[[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]] | ||
* [[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]]}} | *[[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Legends (G1)|Legends]]''' | '''Autobot [[Legends (G1)|Legends]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* Bumblebee | *Bumblebee | ||
* Grimlock | *Grimlock | ||
* Jazz}} | *Jazz}} | ||
{{note|The Legends figures were identical to the Pretender Classics' inner robots, but lacking the Pretender shell. They were exclusively available from KMart stores. Curiously, Jazz and Bumblebee appear to have switched weapons.}} | {{note|The Legends figures were identical to the Pretender Classics' inner robots, but lacking the Pretender shell. They were exclusively available from KMart stores. Curiously, Jazz and Bumblebee appear to have switched weapons.}} | ||
| Line 707: | Line 707: | ||
'''Autobot [[Mega Pretender]]s''' | '''Autobot [[Mega Pretender]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]] | *[[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]] | ||
* [[Vroom (G1)|Vroom]]}} | *[[Vroom (G1)|Vroom]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Ultra Pretender]]s''' | '''Autobot [[Ultra Pretender]]s''' | ||
* [[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]] | *[[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]] | ||
=====Notes===== | =====Notes===== | ||
* Powermaster Optimus Prime, the Autobot Cassette two-packs of Rewind/Steeljaw, Ramhorn/Eject and Grand Slam/Raindance and the Large Autobot Pretenders were also still available. | *Powermaster Optimus Prime, the Autobot Cassette two-packs of Rewind/Steeljaw, Ramhorn/Eject and Grand Slam/Raindance and the Large Autobot Pretenders were also still available. | ||
====Decepticons==== | ====Decepticons==== | ||
'''[[Pretender Monster]]s''' | '''[[Pretender Monster]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Icepick (G1)|Icepick]] | *[[Icepick (G1)|Icepick]] | ||
* [[Bristleback]] | *[[Bristleback]] | ||
* [[Wildfly]] | *[[Wildfly]] | ||
* [[Scowl (G1)|Scowl]] | *[[Scowl (G1)|Scowl]] | ||
* [[Slog (G1)|Slog]] | *[[Slog (G1)|Slog]] | ||
* [[Birdbrain]]}} | *[[Birdbrain]]}} | ||
{{note|[[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]] was never available in giftset form anywhere!}} | {{note|[[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]] was never available in giftset form anywhere!}} | ||
| Line 730: | Line 730: | ||
'''Small Decepticon [[Pretender]]s''' | '''Small Decepticon [[Pretender]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]] | *[[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]] | ||
* [[Stranglehold]] | *[[Stranglehold]] | ||
* [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]}} | *[[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[Classic Pretender]]s''' | '''Decepticon [[Classic Pretender]]s''' | ||
* [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]] | *[[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]] | ||
'''Decepticon [[Legends (G1)|Legends]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Legends (G1)|Legends]]''' | ||
* Starscream | *Starscream | ||
{{note|The Legends figures were identical to the Pretender Classics' inner robots, but lacking the Pretender shell. They were exclusively available from KMart stores.}} | {{note|The Legends figures were identical to the Pretender Classics' inner robots, but lacking the Pretender shell. They were exclusively available from KMart stores.}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[Mega Pretender]]s''' | '''Decepticon [[Mega Pretender]]s''' | ||
* [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] | *[[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] | ||
'''Decepticon [[Ultra Pretender]]s''' | '''Decepticon [[Ultra Pretender]]s''' | ||
* [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] | *[[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] | ||
=====Notes===== | =====Notes===== | ||
* The Decepticon Cassette two-packs of Slugfest/Overkill and Squawktalk/Beastbox and the Large Decepticon Pretenders were also still available. | *The Decepticon Cassette two-packs of Slugfest/Overkill and Squawktalk/Beastbox and the Large Decepticon Pretenders were also still available. | ||
===Micromasters=== | ===Micromasters=== | ||
| Line 755: | Line 755: | ||
====Autobots==== | ====Autobots==== | ||
'''[[Micromaster]] Autobot Patrols''' | '''[[Micromaster]] Autobot Patrols''' | ||
* [[Off Road Patrol]] ([[Highjump (G1)|Highjump]], [[Mudslinger (G1)|Mudslinger]], [[Powertrain]] & [[Tote]]) | *[[Off Road Patrol]] ([[Highjump (G1)|Highjump]], [[Mudslinger (G1)|Mudslinger]], [[Powertrain]] & [[Tote]]) | ||
* [[Race Car Patrol]] ([[Tailspin]], [[Free Wheeler]], [[Roadhandler (G1)|Roadhandler]] & [[Swindler]]) | *[[Race Car Patrol]] ([[Tailspin]], [[Free Wheeler]], [[Roadhandler (G1)|Roadhandler]] & [[Swindler]]) | ||
* [[Rescue Patrol (G1)|Rescue Patrol]] ([[Seawatch]], [[Stakeout (G1)|Stakeout]], [[Fixit (G1)|Fixit]] & [[Red Hot]]) | *[[Rescue Patrol (G1)|Rescue Patrol]] ([[Seawatch]], [[Stakeout (G1)|Stakeout]], [[Fixit (G1)|Fixit]] & [[Red Hot]]) | ||
* [[Battle Patrol]] ([[Big Shot]], [[Sidetrack]], [[Sunrunner]] & [[Flak (G1)|Flak]]) | *[[Battle Patrol]] ([[Big Shot]], [[Sidetrack]], [[Sunrunner]] & [[Flak (G1)|Flak]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]''' | '''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]''' | ||
* [[Erector (G1)|Erector]] (with [[Crane]]) | *[[Erector (G1)|Erector]] (with [[Crane]]) | ||
* [[Overload (G1)|Overload]] (with [[Car carrier trailer]]) | *[[Overload (G1)|Overload]] (with [[Car carrier trailer]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Autobot Stations''' | '''Micromaster Autobot Stations''' | ||
* [[Hot House]] (with [[Fire station]]) | *[[Hot House]] (with [[Fire station]]) | ||
* [[Ironworks]] (with [[Construction station]]) | *[[Ironworks]] (with [[Construction station]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Autobot Bases''' | '''Micromaster Autobot Bases''' | ||
* [[Groundshaker]] (with [[ATV]]) | *[[Groundshaker]] (with [[ATV]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base''' | '''Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base''' | ||
* [[Countdown (G1)|Countdown]] (with [[Rocket Base|Rocket base]]) | *[[Countdown (G1)|Countdown]] (with [[Rocket Base|Rocket base]]) | ||
====Decepticons==== | ====Decepticons==== | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Patrols''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Patrols''' | ||
* [[Air Strike Patrol]] ([[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]], [[Storm Cloud (G1)|Storm Cloud]], [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] & [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind]]) | *[[Air Strike Patrol]] ([[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]], [[Storm Cloud (G1)|Storm Cloud]], [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] & [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind]]) | ||
* [[Sports Car Patrol]] ([[Detour (G1)|Detour]], [[Blackjack]], [[Hyperdrive (Micromaster)|Hyperdrive]] & [[Road Hugger (G1)|Road Hugger]]) | *[[Sports Car Patrol]] ([[Detour (G1)|Detour]], [[Blackjack]], [[Hyperdrive (Micromaster)|Hyperdrive]] & [[Road Hugger (G1)|Road Hugger]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]''' | ||
* [[Flattop (Decepticon)|Flattop]] (with [[Aircraft carrier]]) | *[[Flattop (Decepticon)|Flattop]] (with [[Aircraft carrier]]) | ||
* [[Roughstuff]] (with [[Military transport]]) | *[[Roughstuff]] (with [[Military transport]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Stations''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Stations''' | ||
* [[Greasepit (G1)|Greasepit]] (with [[Gas station]]) | *[[Greasepit (G1)|Greasepit]] (with [[Gas station]]) | ||
* [[Airwave (G1)|Airwave]] (with [[Airport]]) | *[[Airwave (G1)|Airwave]] (with [[Airport]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Bases''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Bases''' | ||
* [[Skyhopper]] (with [[Helicopter]]) | *[[Skyhopper]] (with [[Helicopter]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center''' | ||
* [[Skystalker (G1)|Skystalker]] (with [[Thunder Arrow|Interstellar shuttle]]) | *[[Skystalker (G1)|Skystalker]] (with [[Thunder Arrow|Interstellar shuttle]]) | ||
==1990== | ==1990== | ||
| Line 798: | Line 798: | ||
===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[File:Actionmaster Jazz.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Action Master Jazz, reintroducing a character from the line's early years.]] | [[File:Actionmaster Jazz.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Action Master Jazz, reintroducing a character from the line's early years.]] | ||
Like 1989 before, 1990 also effectively saw two almost distinct Transformers sub-lines being available concurrently: the vastly-expanded Micromasters, and the non-transforming [[Action Master]] figures. The Micromasters came both in the $5 carded patrols and with transforming bases, some of which were quite large. The Action Masters likewise came as carded figures with small transforming partners, and also with larger boxed vehicles. | Like 1989 before, 1990 also effectively saw two almost distinct Transformers sub-lines being available concurrently: the vastly-expanded Micromasters, and the non-transforming [[Action Master]] figures. The Micromasters came both in the $5 carded patrols and with transforming bases, some of which were quite large. The Action Masters likewise came as carded figures with small transforming partners, and also with larger boxed vehicles. | ||
The [[The Transformers (European toyline)|European version of the "G1" line]], which continued after Hasbro had abruptly cancelled the line in the USA, would furthermore add the "Classics" sub-line to the mix. | The [[The Transformers (European toyline)|European version of the "G1" line]], which continued after Hasbro had abruptly cancelled the line in the USA, would furthermore add the "Classics" sub-line to the mix. | ||
| Line 807: | Line 807: | ||
====Autobots==== | ====Autobots==== | ||
'''[[Micromaster]] Autobot Patrols''' | '''[[Micromaster]] Autobot Patrols''' | ||
* [[Construction Patrol]] ([[Neutro]], [[Groundpounder (G1)|Groundpounder]], [[Crumble]] & [[Takedown]]) | *[[Construction Patrol]] ([[Neutro]], [[Groundpounder (G1)|Groundpounder]], [[Crumble]] & [[Takedown]]) | ||
* [[Air Patrol]] ([[Sky High (Micromaster)|Sky High]], [[Eagle Eye (G1)|Eagle Eye]], [[Blaze Master]] & [[Tread Bolt]]) | *[[Air Patrol]] ([[Sky High (Micromaster)|Sky High]], [[Eagle Eye (G1)|Eagle Eye]], [[Blaze Master]] & [[Tread Bolt]]) | ||
* [[Monster Truck Patrol]] ([[Hydraulic]], [[Slow Poke]], [[Big Hauler]] & [[Heavy Tread]]) | *[[Monster Truck Patrol]] ([[Hydraulic]], [[Slow Poke]], [[Big Hauler]] & [[Heavy Tread]]) | ||
* [[Hot Rod Patrol]] ([[Big Daddy (G1)|Big Daddy]], [[Trip-Up]], [[Greaser]] & [[Hubs]]) | *[[Hot Rod Patrol]] ([[Big Daddy (G1)|Big Daddy]], [[Trip-Up]], [[Greaser]] & [[Hubs]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Combiner|Combiner]] Squads''' | '''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Combiner|Combiner]] Squads''' | ||
* [[Metro Squad]] ([[Wheel Blaze]], [[Roadburner]], [[Oiler]], [[Slide]], [[Power Run]] & [[Strikedown]]) | *[[Metro Squad]] ([[Wheel Blaze]], [[Roadburner]], [[Oiler]], [[Slide]], [[Power Run]] & [[Strikedown]]) | ||
* [[Astro Squad]] ([[Phaser]], [[Blast Master]], [[Moonrock]], [[Missile Master]], [[Barrage (Micromaster)|Barrage]] & [[Heave]]) | *[[Astro Squad]] ([[Phaser]], [[Blast Master]], [[Moonrock]], [[Missile Master]], [[Barrage (Micromaster)|Barrage]] & [[Heave]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Combiner Transport|Combiner Transports]]''' | '''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Combiner Transport|Combiner Transports]]''' | ||
* [[Missile Launcher]] (with [[Retro]] & [[Surge (G1)|Surge]]) | *[[Missile Launcher]] (with [[Retro]] & [[Surge (G1)|Surge]]) | ||
* [[Tanker Truck]] (with [[Pipeline]] & [[Gusher]]) | *[[Tanker Truck]] (with [[Pipeline]] & [[Gusher]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Combiner Autobot Battlefield Headquarters''' | '''Micromaster Combiner Autobot Battlefield Headquarters''' | ||
* [[Battlefield Headquarters]] with [[Full-Barrel]] & [[Overflow]] | *[[Battlefield Headquarters]] with [[Full-Barrel]] & [[Overflow]] | ||
=====Notes===== | =====Notes===== | ||
* The Micromaster Transports Overload and Erector, the Micromaster Stations Hot House and Ironworks and the Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base Countdown were also still available. | *The Micromaster Transports Overload and Erector, the Micromaster Stations Hot House and Ironworks and the Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base Countdown were also still available. | ||
====Decepticons==== | ====Decepticons==== | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Patrols''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Patrols''' | ||
* [[Race Track Patrol]] ([[Roller Force]], [[Barricade (G1)|Barricade]], [[Ground Hog]] & [[Motorhead (Decepticon)|Motorhead]]) | *[[Race Track Patrol]] ([[Roller Force]], [[Barricade (G1)|Barricade]], [[Ground Hog]] & [[Motorhead (Decepticon)|Motorhead]]) | ||
* [[Military Patrol]] ([[Bombshock (G1)|Bombshock]], [[Tracer (G1 Decepticon)|Tracer]], [[Dropshot (G1)|Dropshot]] & [[Growl (G1)|Growl]]) | *[[Military Patrol]] ([[Bombshock (G1)|Bombshock]], [[Tracer (G1 Decepticon)|Tracer]], [[Dropshot (G1)|Dropshot]] & [[Growl (G1)|Growl]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Combiner Squads''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Combiner Squads''' | ||
* [[Battle Squad]] ([[Meltdown (G1)|Meltdown]], [[Half-Track (G1)|Half-Track]], [[Direct-Hit (G1)|Direct-Hit]], [[Power Punch (G1)|Power Punch]], [[Fireshot (G1)|Fireshot]] & [[Vanquish (G1)|Vanquish]]) | *[[Battle Squad]] ([[Meltdown (G1)|Meltdown]], [[Half-Track (G1)|Half-Track]], [[Direct-Hit (G1)|Direct-Hit]], [[Power Punch (G1)|Power Punch]], [[Fireshot (G1)|Fireshot]] & [[Vanquish (G1)|Vanquish]]) | ||
* [[Constructor Squad]] ([[Stonecruncher (G1)|Stonecruncher]], [[Excavator (G1)|Excavator]], [[Sledge (G1)|Sledge]], [[Hammer (G1)|Hammer]], [[Grit (G1)|Grit]] & [[Knockout (G1)|Knockout]]) | *[[Constructor Squad]] ([[Stonecruncher (G1)|Stonecruncher]], [[Excavator (G1)|Excavator]], [[Sledge (G1)|Sledge]], [[Hammer (G1)|Hammer]], [[Grit (G1)|Grit]] & [[Knockout (G1)|Knockout]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Combiner Transports''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Combiner Transports''' | ||
* [[Cannon Transport]] (with [[Terror-Tread]] & [[Cement-Head]]) | *[[Cannon Transport]] (with [[Terror-Tread]] & [[Cement-Head]]) | ||
'''Micromaster Combiner Decepticon Anti-Aircraft Base''' | '''Micromaster Combiner Decepticon Anti-Aircraft Base''' | ||
* [[Anti-Aircraft Base]] with [[Blackout (G1)|Blackout]] & [[Spaceshot]] | *[[Anti-Aircraft Base]] with [[Blackout (G1)|Blackout]] & [[Spaceshot]] | ||
=====Notes===== | =====Notes===== | ||
* The Micromaster Transports Flattop & Roughstuff, the Micromaster Stations Greasepit and Airwave and the Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center Skystalker were also still available. | *The Micromaster Transports Flattop & Roughstuff, the Micromaster Stations Greasepit and Airwave and the Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center Skystalker were also still available. | ||
===Action Masters=== | ===Action Masters=== | ||
| Line 848: | Line 848: | ||
'''Autobot [[Action Master]] Figures''' | '''Autobot [[Action Master]] Figures''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]] with [[Anti-tank cannon]] | *[[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]] with [[Anti-tank cannon]] | ||
* [[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]] with [[Turbo Board]] | *[[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]] with [[Turbo Board]] | ||
* [[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]] | *[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]] | ||
* [[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch]] | *[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch]] | ||
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]] with [[Heli-pack]] | *[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]] with [[Heli-pack]] | ||
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] with [[Flight Pack]] | *[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] with [[Flight Pack]] | ||
* [[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]] | *[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]] | ||
* [[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]] | *[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]] | ||
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] with [[Hydro-Pack]] | *[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] with [[Hydro-Pack]] | ||
* [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] with [[Tyrannitron]] | *[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] with [[Tyrannitron]] | ||
* [[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]] | *[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]] | ||
* [[Kick-Off (G1)|Kick-Off]] with [[Turbo-Pack]]}} | *[[Kick-Off (G1)|Kick-Off]] with [[Turbo-Pack]]}} | ||
'''Autobot Action Master Action Blasters''' | '''Autobot Action Master Action Blasters''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Turbo Cycle (G1)|Turbo Cycle]] with [[Prowl (G1)/toys|Prowl]] | *[[Turbo Cycle (G1)|Turbo Cycle]] with [[Prowl (G1)/toys|Prowl]] | ||
* [[Attack Copter]] with [[Over-Run (G1)|Over-Run]]}} | *[[Attack Copter]] with [[Over-Run (G1)|Over-Run]]}} | ||
'''Action Master Autobot Vehicles''' | '''Action Master Autobot Vehicles''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Turbo Racer]] with [[Wheeljack (G1)/toys|Wheeljack]] | *[[Turbo Racer]] with [[Wheeljack (G1)/toys|Wheeljack]] | ||
* [[Attack Cruiser]] with [[Sprocket (G1)|Sprocket]]}} | *[[Attack Cruiser]] with [[Sprocket (G1)|Sprocket]]}} | ||
'''Action Master Autobot Armored Convoy''' | '''Action Master Autobot Armored Convoy''' | ||
* [[Armored Convoy]] with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] | *[[Armored Convoy]] with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] | ||
====Decepticons==== | ====Decepticons==== | ||
'''Decepticon [[Action Master]] Figures''' | '''Decepticon [[Action Master]] Figures''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Soundwave (G1)/toys|Soundwave]] with [[Wingthing (G1)|Wingthing]] | *[[Soundwave (G1)/toys|Soundwave]] with [[Wingthing (G1)|Wingthing]] | ||
* [[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]] | *[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]] | ||
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] with [[Scorpulator]] | *[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] with [[Scorpulator]] | ||
* [[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]] | *[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]] | ||
* [[Shockwave (G1)/toys|Shockwave]] with [[Fistfight (G1)|Fistfight]] | *[[Shockwave (G1)/toys|Shockwave]] with [[Fistfight (G1)|Fistfight]] | ||
* [[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}} | *[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon Action Master Action Blasters''' | '''Decepticon Action Master Action Blasters''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Off-Road Cycle]] with [[Axer (G1)|Axer]] | *[[Off-Road Cycle]] with [[Axer (G1)|Axer]] | ||
* [[Turbo Jet]] with [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]}} | *[[Turbo Jet]] with [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]}} | ||
'''Action Master Decepticon Attack Vehicles''' | '''Action Master Decepticon Attack Vehicles''' | ||
| Line 902: | Line 902: | ||
[[BotCon 2001]] exclusive [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] was a late addition to the ''Transformers'' franchise. | [[BotCon 2001]] exclusive [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] was a late addition to the ''Transformers'' franchise. | ||
===Autobots=== | ===Autobots=== | ||
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] | *[[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] | ||
==2002== | ==2002== | ||
Revision as of 09:40, 27 February 2016
| This article is about the original toyline. For the 2010 toyline simply known as "Transformers", see Transformers (2010 toyline). For a list of other meanings, see Transformers (disambiguation). |
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| “ | Look! Two more Transformers to add to our collection! | ” |
—Starscream is excited to find Dirge and Ramjet, "Starscream's Brigade" | ||
The Transformers (retroactively called Generation 1 or G1) started as a joint venture between two companies: Hasbro of America and Takara of Japan. After an idea to rebrand and sell Takara's Diaclone and Microchange robot toys as a whole new line with a new concept behind it, Hasbro unknowingly would wind up creating what would be one of its longest-running franchises.
In contrast to today's franchises, which tend by design to run 12 to 18 months, Generation 1 was essentially an unbroken line from 1984 to 1991; its logo and packaging format only underwent one major change in that time. Toys tended to linger longer in the line; a few (Starscream, Bumblebee) were even sold for three years in a row (the record for non-re-issues is four years, set by cassettes Frenzy, Rewind, Steeljaw, Ramhorn, and Eject). The changing circumstances of retail have made this a thing of the past; toy lines now require yearly rebranding.
The Generation 1 line introduced a number of concepts which would stay with subsequent iterations of the brand. Most prominent among these were package art showing the character's robot form, Tech Specs rating the character's abilities, bios giving a personality profile of the character represented by the toy, and (in the Japanese toylines) ID numbers for each figure to identify them. Other "premiums" which didn't survive the 1980s included Robot Points and various mail order exclusives.
In addition to the toy and its weapons and accessories, Generation 1 toys typically included a sticker sheet, instructions showing how to transform the toy and apply the stickers, and a toy catalog flyer showing the entire year's toy line. In the early years of the line, a red plastic "tech spec decoder" and various mail-away offers were included as well.
The line began with toys already designed by Takara and other companies, but over time it expanded into numerous original designs and concepts. While its run ostensibly ended after seven years with the advent of Generation 2, it was resurrected almost a decade later in Japan via the The Transformers Collection line of reissues, supplemented by e-HOBBY-exclusive reissues and new creations. A year later, Hasbro began retooling many of those reissues and selling them in North America as the Commemorative Series. Even after Hasbro discontinued that line, TakaraTomy continued selling reissues under the Encore label. This toyline has changed direction and focus so many times that a year-by-year breakdown is the only way to get the full picture.
See also:
- Japanese Generation 1 mini-franchise toylines:
1984
Overview
The first two years of Transformers product in America mostly consisted of toys from the two Takara lines. A wide range of sizes and price points, from $3 Mini-Vehicles up to larger toys costing $20 or more, ensured that every kid could pick up at least a few Transformers, and still have a few left for the Christmas wishlist — a marketing strategy that continues up to the present day.
The early G1 toys were largely marked by attention to vehicle mode detail, rubber tires, the frequent use of die-cast metal (particularly on larger toys), and a variety of loose parts which had to be kept track of and attached separately. The early toys were also marked by a lack of posability — not a single one of the Autobot cars had knee joints, and most had feet that were fused together. The Decepticon jets couldn't do anything but raise their arms forward.
The combination of heavy die-cast and the brittle plastics of the time also made many of the toys fragile; toys such as Prowl and Mirage are infamous for winding up broken.
Due to products coming from different preexisting product lines, the 1984 toys were highly inconsistent in terms of relative scale. Later years would not do much to mitigate this issue.
Many of the 1984 toys included the pack-in brochure "Reinforcements from Cybertron!".
Autobots
Autobot Mini-Cars
Although the official catalogs and the box artwork depict Bumblebee in yellow and Cliffjumper in red, both toys were actually available in both colors. Additionally, a third toy of a similar design was also available in yellow, and sold on Cliffjumper cards. That toy was not officially marketed by Hasbro as a separate character, but was later dubbed "Bumblejumper" by fans, which was shortened to just "Bumper" by the time he was officially integrated into the fiction as a character in his own right.
Autobot Commander
Decepticons
Decepticon Cassettes
Another Decepticon Cassette, Buzzsaw, was available with Soundwave.
Decepticon Communications
Decepticon Leader
1985
- For the toyline released in Japan this year comprising many of these toys and the 1984 figures, see: Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)
Overview
The initial toyline was wildly successful, making "Transformers" a household word for the rest of the 1980s and leading to an ever-expanding product line. 1985's offerings more than doubled those of 1984. Additional cars, jets, and mini-vehicles were released; many of the standard cars and jets were retooled versions of 1984 toys (or of each other, in the case of Grapple and Inferno).
The line also veered into mechanical dinosaurs and insects, and futuristic vehicles. Some of these toys were designed and manufactured by companies in competition with Takara, among them Jetfire, the Deluxe Insecticons and the Deluxe Vehicles. These toys are among the few G1 toys with good articulation. However, their conflicting origins doomed most of them never to appear in the cartoon, as Takara did not wish to sponsor a show advertising its competitor's products. See Jetfire for more.
This year's toys' primary pack-in brochures were "Earthlings: THE S.T.A.R.S. need your help now!", and later "Have the Decepticons defeated us once and for all?".
In 1985, the Transformers line (with a few deletions) was ported back to Japan, as Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers.
Autobots
Autobot Mini Vehicles
The "Mini-Cars" were renamed into "Mini-Vehicles" beginning with 1985. The 1984 Mini-Cars/Mini-Vehicles were re-released. 1985 Mini-Vehicles were briefly available with extra Mini-Spies, later shipments replaced the Autobot symbols with rubsigns like the ones first featured on the Mini-Spies, and still later shipments of the rubsign versions were available with iron-on patches. Bumblebee and Cliffjumper still featured color variants. The Bumper mold was no longer available.
The 1984 Autobot Cars were re-released, but unusually, the Autobot Cars assortment was released in two different cases: One mixed the 1985 figures Skids, Red Alert, Grapple and Hoist with the 1984 figures Sunstreaker, Bluestreak, Ratchet, Jazz and Trailbreaker, whereas the other one mixed the 1985 figures Smokescreen, Inferno and Tracks with the 1984 figures Sideswipe, Hound, Mirage, Prowl, Ironhide and Wheeljack. All of the re-released 1984 figures were packed one per case, whereas the 1985 figures were all packed two per case, with the exception of Skids, who got the short end of the stick. All figures released in the 1985 assortments sported rubsigns.
Autobot Deluxe Vehicles
Autobot Air Guardian
Autobot Communicator
Autobot Scientist
Autobot Motorized Defense Base
The Powerdashers were only available via mail-order. Figure names are in quotes because these figures were not given individual names at the time. Only Cromar/Jet Type has received one in the years since.
The Omnibots were only available via mail order.
Promotional toys
- "Pepsi" Optimus Prime
A limited-edition variant of Optimus Prime was available with additional "Pepsi" stickers on the trailer. The Canadian version sported yet another variant with a large sticker covering the entire side of the trailer.
- "Cookie Crisp" Jazz
A variant of the Jazz toy was available as a Cookie Crisp promotional premium via mail order. Unlike the regular version, the "Martini" decals are missing from the doors.
Notes
- The entire 1984 lineup was still available in 1985, only now sporting rubsigns.
Decepticons
- Bonecrusher
- Scavenger
- Scrapper
- Hook
- Long Haul
- Mixmaster
- Devastator (giftset)
Decepticon Planes
Decepticon Military Operations Commander
Notes
- The entire 1984 assortment of Decepticons was still available in 1985, in updated packaging, now also sporting rubsigns.
1986
- For the nearly-identical toyline (minus Sky Lynx) released in Japan this year, see: Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers 2010 (toyline)
Overview
1986 broke more ground with multiple combiner teams, two large "city" robots, and a full-length feature film to push a new crop of toys. By this point, Hasbro had gone through almost all of the "suitable" Diaclone and Microman toys, and were using up the last of the pre-existing (yet previously unmade) Takara design concepts, mostly in the form of the Scramble City-style combiner teams and the two citybots; thus the toys for The Transformers: The Movie became the first original designs developed by Hasbro (and also the first of a very few times that characters' in-fiction designs predated their toy designs). That year also marked the end of rubber tires and die-cast metal in the toys, as shipping and manufacturing costs dictated an all-plastic approach; many toys from that year were available both with and without rubber and die-cast. Though many fans regard this as a drop in quality, it had the effect of creating much sturdier toys.
Starting with 1986, the first Transformers toys - the Mini-Cassettes, the Triple Changers, the newly introduced Special Teams Mini-Vehicles and the Special Teams Large Vehicles - were available in mixed assortments that contained both Autobot and Decepticon characters. The 1986 toys are still listed as Autobots and Decepticons for simplicity's sake.
Some assortments of the movie character toys included one of four free posters promoting the Decipher the Decepticon contest. Many toys included the S.T.A.R.S. advertisement You Have Been Chosen. Mini Vehicles included an iron-on patch promoting the Prizes in Disguise contest.
Autobots
Autobot Mini-Vehicles
Bumblebee, Beachcomber, Seaspray, Cosmos, Powerglide and Warpath were re-released. All twelve 1986 Mini-Vehicles were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch.
Autobot Mini-Cassettes
- Air Raid
- Skydive
- Fireflight
- Slingshot
- Silverbolt
- Superion (giftset)
The smaller Aerialbots and Protectobots were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Silverbolt and Hot Spot have never been found with a poster.
All 1986 Triple Changers were alternatively available with or without a poster.
All three 1986 Autobot Cars were alternatively available with or without a poster.
Heroes
Autobot City Commander
A variant version of Ultra Magnus was available exclusively from KB Toys stores, replacing the diecast parts and rubber tires with plastic parts and sporting unpainted heads.
Motorized Autobot Space Shuttle
Autobot City
Notes
- A limited edition version of Optimus Prime was available with a "Movie Edition" certificate.
- Sunstreaker, Mirage, Ratchet and Wheeljack, none of which were shipping to regular stores anymore by this point, were made available again via mail order.
Decepticons
Decepticon Mini-Cassettes
- Ratbat & Frenzy (available as a two-pack)
Frenzy was a re-release of the 1984 Decepticon Cassette, now available as a two-pack with the new sculpt Ratbat rather than with Laserbeak. The two-pack of Ravage and Rumble was also re-released.
- Dead End
- Breakdown
- Wildrider
- Drag Strip
- Motormaster
- Menasor (giftset)
While packaged samples might exist, Bruticus was presumably never officially released in giftset form in the USA.
The smaller Stunticons and Combaticons were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Motormaster and Onslaught have never been found with a poster.
The smaller Stunticons and Combaticons were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Motormaster and Onslaught have never been found with a poster.
Predaking was never available in giftset form outside of Japan.
All five Predacons as well as Gnaw were alternatively available with or without a poster.
Blitzwing and Astrotrain were re-released. All 1986 Triple Changers were alternatively available with or without a poster, and Astrotrain and Blitzwing are very difficult to find.
Decepticon Planes
Starscream, Dirge, Ramjet and Thrust were re-released. Only Scourge and Cyclonus have been found with or without a poster. The other four jets in the asortment have never been found with a poster.
Decepticon City Commander
Motorized Decepticon City
Reflector was only available via mail order.
Notes
- A limited edition version of Megatron was available with a "Movie Edition" certificate.
- Thundercracker, who was no longer shipping to regular stores by this point, was made available again via mail order.
1987
- For the marginally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: Transformers: The Headmasters (toyline)
Overview
1987 was dominated by two sublines, the Headmasters and Targetmasters. It also marked the peak of the line's ambition, as it introduced the two-foot-tall Fortress Maximus toy — which would remain the largest Transformer ever produced for over 25 years and, at nearly $100 in 1987 dollars, is still one of the most expensive.
At the other end of the price scale, the $3 Mini-Vehicles of previous years were replaced by the Throttlebots. Apart from them, the line was dominated for the first time by fictional vehicle modes (variously explained as "Cybertronian" or "futuristic") and mechanical monsters and beasts.
The smaller carded toys were sometimes available with a rubber decoy figure, as well as a bonus mini-comic. Larger toys included the pack-in mail-away brochure Rodimus Prime remembers the Transformers greatest battle on Earth.
Autobots
- Afterburner
- Nosecone
- Strafe
- Lightspeed
- Scattershot
- Computron (giftset)
The Aerialbots and Protectobots were also re-released. All individual Aerialbots, Protectobots and Technobots were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.
The Throttlebots were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.
Autobot Clones
- Fastlane & Cloudraker (available as a two-pack)
Autobot Double Spy
Large Targetmaster Autobots
- Pointblank with Peacemaker
- Sureshot with Spoilsport
- Crosshairs with Pinpointer
- Blurr with Haywire
- Kup with Recoil
- Hot Rod with Firebolt
Large Headmaster Autobots
- Chromedome with Stylor
- Hardhead with Duros
- Brainstorm with Arcana
- Highbrow with Gort
Headmaster Autobot Base
- Fortress Maximus with Cerebros, Spike and Cog/Gasket/Grommet
Notes
- Metroplex, Rodimus Prime, Wreck-Gar, Ultra Magnus and Sky Lynx were also still available.
- The Autobot Mini-Cassette two-packs of Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject were re-released.
Decepticons
Abominus was never officially released in giftset form in the USA.
The Stunticons and Combaticons were also re-released. All individual Stunticons, Combaticons and Terrorcons were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.
Decepticon Mini-Cassettes
The two-pack of Ratbat and Frenzy was also re-released.
Decepticon Clones
Decepticon Six Changer
Large Targetmaster Decepticons
- Triggerhappy with Blowpipe
- Slugslinger with Caliburst
- Misfire with Aimless
- Cyclonus with Nightstick
- Scourge with Fracas
Large Headmaster Decepticons
Headmaster Horrorcons
- Apeface with Spasma
- Snapdragon with Krunk
Headmaster Decepticon Base
Notes
- Galvatron, Trypticon, the Predacons and the Sharkticon figure Gnaw were also still available.
1988
- For the noticeably different toyline released in Japan this year, see: Transformers: Super-God Masterforce (toyline)
Overview
1988 introduced a new logo design and tagline (More... MUCH more than meets the eye), but otherwise continued the directions of 1987, with a new line of Headmasters and the new Powermaster gimmicks, and a mixture of realistic and fanciful vehicle forms.
1988 also introduced the Pretenders, bringing non-transforming figures into the line for the first time. The Pretenders tended to have very simplified transformations and often unconvincing vehicle modes, though their designs make them among the most well-articulated of all G1 toys. The outer shells, by contrast, rarely featured any articulation beyond a swivel joint at the shoulders.
Other sublines of note included the Triggercons, Triggerbots, Sparkabots and Firecons, which took the Throttlebots' place as the line's low-end offerings.
G1 tended to be extremely non-self referential; until 1988, only one existing character, Bumblebee, had ever been revived with a new toy after having his older toy discontinued. That year, however, Hasbro seemingly began to realize the strength of the characters they had developed, as the line featured the return of Optimus Prime in Powermaster form following his death in Transformers: The Movie two years prior. The following two years would see more 1984/1985 characters return in Pretender and Action Master form.
This year's toys included the pack-in mail-away brochure The Autobots Are Under Attack!.
Autobots
Autobot Cassettes
- Grand Slam & Raindance (available as a two-pack)
The Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject two-packs were also re-released once again.
Small Targetmaster Autobots
The Large Targetmaster Autobots Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs were also still available.
Small Headmaster Autobots
The Large Headmaster Autobots Chromedome, Hardhead, Brainstorm and Highbrow and the Headmaster Autobot Base Fortress Maximus were also still available.
Powermaster Autobots
Powermaster Autobot Leader
- Optimus Prime with Hi-Q
Autobot Six Changer
Large Autobot Pretenders
Autobot Pretender Beasts
Autobot Pretender Vehicles
The Autobot Double Spy Punch-Counterpunch, the Autobot Clones two-pack of Fastlane/Cloudraker and the Monsterbots Grotusque, Doublecross and Repugnus were also still available. The Technobots were re-released.
Decepticons
The Piranacon giftset only included five of the six individual Seacons; Nautilator was left out for reasons unknown.
The Terrorcons were also re-released.
Decepticon Cassettes
- Squawktalk & Beastbox (available as a two-pack)
The Slugfest/Overkill two-pack was also re-released.
Small Targetmaster Decepticons
- Spinister with Hairsplitter and Singe
- Needlenose with Sunbeam and Zigzag
- Quake with Tiptop and Heater
The Large Targetmaster Decepticons Triggerhappy, Slugslinger and Misfire were also still available.
Small Headmaster Decepticons
- Horri-Bull with Kreb
- Fangry with Brisko
- Squeezeplay with Lokos
The Large Headmaster Decepticons Skullcruncher, Mindwipe and Weirdwolf, the Headmaster Horrorcons Apeface and Snapdragon and the Headmaster Decepticon Base Scorponok were also still available.
Powermaster Decepticons
Powermaster Mercenary
- Doubledealer with Knok and Skar
Large Decepticon Pretenders
Decepticon Pretender Beasts
Decepticon Pretender Vehicles
The Deception Clones two-pack of Pounce/Wingspan and the Decepticon Six Changer Sixshot were also still available.
1989
- For the totally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: Victory (toyline)
Overview
By 1989, Hasbro's Transformers releases had been effectively split into two almost distinct sub-lines - Pretenders and Micromasters - that were available concurrently, a separation that was stronger from a marketing standpoint than the Autobot/Decepticon distinction from previous years.
The Pretender subline expanded to include a combiner team and increasingly complex gimmicks, including robots with multiple shells, and outer shells which could transform themselves and even combine with their inner robots.
The 1-inch-tall Micromasters attempted to capitalize on the popularity of Galoob's Micro Machines toy line. They were originally sold in carded 4-member "patrols", and later with various bases and vehicles. Micromasters tended to have realistically styled vehicle forms. Though the first five patrols featured relatively diverse transformation schemes, as the subline proliferated, their designs would become extremely standardized.
Pretenders
Autobots
Small Autobot Pretenders
Autobot Classic Pretenders
Autobot Legends
- Bumblebee
- Grimlock
- Jazz
The Legends figures were identical to the Pretender Classics' inner robots, but lacking the Pretender shell. They were exclusively available from KMart stores. Curiously, Jazz and Bumblebee appear to have switched weapons.
Autobot Mega Pretenders
Autobot Ultra Pretenders
Notes
- Powermaster Optimus Prime, the Autobot Cassette two-packs of Rewind/Steeljaw, Ramhorn/Eject and Grand Slam/Raindance and the Large Autobot Pretenders were also still available.
Decepticons
Monstructor was never available in giftset form anywhere!
Small Decepticon Pretenders
Decepticon Classic Pretenders
Decepticon Legends
- Starscream
The Legends figures were identical to the Pretender Classics' inner robots, but lacking the Pretender shell. They were exclusively available from KMart stores.
Decepticon Mega Pretenders
Decepticon Ultra Pretenders
Notes
- The Decepticon Cassette two-packs of Slugfest/Overkill and Squawktalk/Beastbox and the Large Decepticon Pretenders were also still available.
Micromasters
Autobots
Micromaster Autobot Patrols
- Off Road Patrol (Highjump, Mudslinger, Powertrain & Tote)
- Race Car Patrol (Tailspin, Free Wheeler, Roadhandler & Swindler)
- Rescue Patrol (Seawatch, Stakeout, Fixit & Red Hot)
- Battle Patrol (Big Shot, Sidetrack, Sunrunner & Flak)
Micromaster Autobot Transports
- Erector (with Crane)
- Overload (with Car carrier trailer)
Micromaster Autobot Stations
- Hot House (with Fire station)
- Ironworks (with Construction station)
Micromaster Autobot Bases
- Groundshaker (with ATV)
Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base
- Countdown (with Rocket base)
Decepticons
Micromaster Decepticon Patrols
- Air Strike Patrol (Nightflight, Storm Cloud, Whisper & Tailwind)
- Sports Car Patrol (Detour, Blackjack, Hyperdrive & Road Hugger)
Micromaster Decepticon Transports
- Flattop (with Aircraft carrier)
- Roughstuff (with Military transport)
Micromaster Decepticon Stations
- Greasepit (with Gas station)
- Airwave (with Airport)
Micromaster Decepticon Bases
- Skyhopper (with Helicopter)
Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center
- Skystalker (with Interstellar shuttle)
1990
- For the totally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: Transformers: Zone (toyline)
Overview
Like 1989 before, 1990 also effectively saw two almost distinct Transformers sub-lines being available concurrently: the vastly-expanded Micromasters, and the non-transforming Action Master figures. The Micromasters came both in the $5 carded patrols and with transforming bases, some of which were quite large. The Action Masters likewise came as carded figures with small transforming partners, and also with larger boxed vehicles.
The European version of the "G1" line, which continued after Hasbro had abruptly cancelled the line in the USA, would furthermore add the "Classics" sub-line to the mix.
Waning popularity led to the line's cancellation at this point; Transformers disappeared from shelves for two years, not returning until the debut of Generation 2.
Micromasters
Autobots
Micromaster Autobot Patrols
- Construction Patrol (Neutro, Groundpounder, Crumble & Takedown)
- Air Patrol (Sky High, Eagle Eye, Blaze Master & Tread Bolt)
- Monster Truck Patrol (Hydraulic, Slow Poke, Big Hauler & Heavy Tread)
- Hot Rod Patrol (Big Daddy, Trip-Up, Greaser & Hubs)
Micromaster Autobot Combiner Squads
- Metro Squad (Wheel Blaze, Roadburner, Oiler, Slide, Power Run & Strikedown)
- Astro Squad (Phaser, Blast Master, Moonrock, Missile Master, Barrage & Heave)
Micromaster Autobot Combiner Transports
- Missile Launcher (with Retro & Surge)
- Tanker Truck (with Pipeline & Gusher)
Micromaster Combiner Autobot Battlefield Headquarters
Notes
- The Micromaster Transports Overload and Erector, the Micromaster Stations Hot House and Ironworks and the Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base Countdown were also still available.
Decepticons
Micromaster Decepticon Patrols
- Race Track Patrol (Roller Force, Barricade, Ground Hog & Motorhead)
- Military Patrol (Bombshock, Tracer, Dropshot & Growl)
Micromaster Decepticon Combiner Squads
- Battle Squad (Meltdown, Half-Track, Direct-Hit, Power Punch, Fireshot & Vanquish)
- Constructor Squad (Stonecruncher, Excavator, Sledge, Hammer, Grit & Knockout)
Micromaster Decepticon Combiner Transports
- Cannon Transport (with Terror-Tread & Cement-Head)
Micromaster Combiner Decepticon Anti-Aircraft Base
- Anti-Aircraft Base with Blackout & Spaceshot
Notes
- The Micromaster Transports Flattop & Roughstuff, the Micromaster Stations Greasepit and Airwave and the Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center Skystalker were also still available.
Action Masters
Autobots
Autobot Action Master Figures
- Grimlock with Anti-tank cannon
- Jazz with Turbo Board
- Rad with Lionizer
- Rollout with Glitch
- Bumblebee with Heli-pack
- Blaster with Flight Pack
- Jackpot with Sights
- Mainframe with Push-Button
- Inferno with Hydro-Pack
- Snarl with Tyrannitron
- Skyfall with Top-Heavy
- Kick-Off with Turbo-Pack
Autobot Action Master Action Blasters
- Turbo Cycle with Prowl
- Attack Copter with Over-Run
Action Master Autobot Vehicles
- Turbo Racer with Wheeljack
- Attack Cruiser with Sprocket
Action Master Autobot Armored Convoy
Decepticons
Decepticon Action Master Figures
- Soundwave with Wingthing
- Treadshot with Catgut
- Devastator with Scorpulator
- Krok with Gatoraider
- Shockwave with Fistfight
- Banzai-Tron with Razor-Sharp
Decepticon Action Master Action Blasters
- Off-Road Cycle with Axer
- Turbo Jet with Starscream
Action Master Decepticon Attack Vehicles
2000
- For the line of Generation 1 reissues begun in Japan this year, see: The Transformers Collection
2001
- For the supplementary, store-exclusive Japanese line of Generation 1 reissues and new creations begun this year, see: e-HOBBY
Overview
BotCon 2001 exclusive Arcee was a late addition to the Transformers franchise.
Autobots
2002
- For the North American counterpart to the Japanese Generation 1 revival, see: The Transformers: Generation One Commemorative Series
2006
- For the Titanium Series toys with a "Generation 1" sub-label, see: Titanium Series
2007
- For the line of Generation 1 reissues begun in Japan this year, see: Transformers Encore
2008
- For the "Generation 1 Series" toys, see: Universe
Innovations and lasting effects
Naturally, the original toy line introduced the original "gimmick" of transforming converting. Aside from that and introducing a plethora of "classic" characters, there were other notable features coming out of the original line:
- Like transformation itself, spring-fired projectiles were a common feature from the get-go (except where the springs were removed for safety reasons).
- 1985 saw the introduction of the combiner concept. 1986 expanded on that with the introduction of Scramble City-style combiners with interchangeable limbs.
- 1985 also introduced Triple Changers, the first toys with multiple alternate modes. 1987 went a step further with the introduction of Six Changers.
- Furthermore, 1985 introduced rubsigns.
- In the early years, every new toy was designed and marketed as an entirely new character. Hasbro's policy in this regard changed gradually: 1987's Goldbug was the first toy to be clearly designed as the same character as 1984's Bumblebee; but despite being marketed as such, he was still sold under a different name. In 1988, Powermaster Optimus Prime was the first new toy to be designed as a new version of an older character and which sported the same name. This was followed by the Classic Pretender line-up in 1989, and then half the Action Master line-up in 1990.
- In the early years, Hasbro also released a plethora of different gimmicks in multiple assortments each year, some of them shipping in Autobot- or Decepticon-specific assortments and others in mixed assortments. It wasn't until 1989 that Hasbro made their first attempt at streamlining the brand into unified gimmicks with mixed Autobot/Decepticon assortments (excluding larger toys that shipped all by themselves), in this case "Pretenders" and "Micromasters". The releases for 1990 followed suit, with the year's entire Transformers output divided into "Micromasters" and "Action Masters".
