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{{disambig2|The original toyline|other uses of ''The Transformers''|Transformers (disambiguation)}} | {{disambig2|The original toyline|other uses of ''The Transformers''|Transformers (disambiguation)}} | ||
{{Nav-G1}} | |||
{{quote|Look! Two more Transformers to add to our collection!|Starscream is excited to find [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]|"[[Starscream's Brigade]]"}} | |||
'''''The Transformers''''' (retroactively called '''Generation One''' 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 ''[[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. | |||
[[Image:Seekers ad.jpg|left|350px|thumb|Ahh, 1984's book of dreams.]] | |||
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 (G1)|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 spec]]s rating the character's abilities, [[bio]]s giving a personality profile of the character represented by the toy, and (in the Japanese toylines) [[Japanese ID number list|ID numbers]] for each figure to identify them. Other "premiums" which didn't survive the 1980s included [[robot point]]s and various mail order exclusives. | |||
The Generation 1 line introduced a number of concepts which would stay with subsequent iterations of the brand. Most prominent among these were [[ | |||
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 materials|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 materials|mail-away offers]] were included as well. | ||
The line began with toys already designed by Takara and other companies, and over time expanded into numerous original designs and concepts through its seven-year run. | The line began with toys already designed by Takara and other companies, and over time expanded into numerous original designs and concepts through its seven-year run. The line 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 toylines. | * Japanese toylines. | ||
* 1985—''[[ | * 1985—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)]]'' | ||
* 1986—''[[ | * 1986—''[[Transformers 2010 (toyline)]]'' | ||
* 1987—''[[ | * 1987—''[[The Headmasters (toyline)]]'' | ||
* 1988—''[[ | * 1988—''[[Super-God Masterforce (toyline)]]'' | ||
* 1989—''[[ | * 1989—''[[Victory (toyline)]]'' | ||
* 1990—''[[ | * 1990—''[[Zone (toyline)]]'' | ||
* 1991—''[[ | * 1991—''[[Return of Convoy (toyline)]]'' | ||
* 1992—''[[ | * 1992—''[[Operation Combination (toyline)]]'' | ||
* ''[[ | * ''[[Generation 1 Europe (toyline)]]'' | ||
* ''[[ | * ''[[Generation 1 China (toyline)]]'' | ||
==1984== | ==1984== | ||
===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[Image:G1Prowl toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Prowl, one of the 1984 line | [[Image:G1Prowl toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Prowl, one of the 1984 line's more iconic toys. In today's secondary market, he's usually found with his roof broken off. Prowl was redecorated to make two other characters as well, which was pretty common in the first two years.]] | ||
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 [[ | 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. | ||
Due to products coming from different pre-existing product lines, the 1984 toys were highly inconsistent in terms of relative [[ | Due to products coming from different pre-existing 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=== | ===Autobots=== | ||
'''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Cars]]''' | '''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Cars]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] | * [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] | ||
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] | * [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] | ||
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] | * [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Gears]] | ||
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] | * [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] | ||
* [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] | * [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]]}} | ||
{{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.}} | ||
'''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | |||
* [[ | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Bluestreak]] | |||
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] | * [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] | ||
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] | * [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] | ||
| Line 115: | Line 73: | ||
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] | * [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] | ||
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] | * [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] | ||
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] | * [[Wheeljack (G1)|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)|Laserbeak]] (available as a two-pack) | |||
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] & [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (available as a two-pack) | |||
{{note|Another Decepticon Cassette, Buzzsaw, was available with Soundwave.}} | |||
[[Image:Redeco.jpg|right|150px|thumb|L to R: Skywarp, Starscream, Thundercracker]] | [[Image:Redeco.jpg|right|150px|thumb|L to R: Skywarp, Starscream, Thundercracker]] | ||
'''Decepticon [[Seeker|Planes]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Seeker|Planes]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] | * [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] | ||
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] | * [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] | ||
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] | * [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon Communications''' | '''Decepticon Communications''' | ||
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]) | * [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]) | ||
'''Decepticon Leader''' | '''Decepticon Leader''' | ||
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] | * [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] | ||
{{-}} | {{-}} | ||
| Line 155: | Line 105: | ||
===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[Image:1985catalogue-diorama.jpg|right|250px|thumb|The 80s! When toy companies actively encouraged you to play with fire!]] | [[Image:1985catalogue-diorama.jpg|right|250px|thumb|The 80s! When toy companies actively encouraged you to play with fire!]] | ||
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. | 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 Autobots. 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 (G1)|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=== | ===Autobots=== | ||
'''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Vehicles]]''' | '''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Vehicles]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] | * [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] | ||
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] | * [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Powerglide]] | ||
* [[ | * [[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 replaced the Autobot symbols with rubsigns like the ones first featured on the Mini-Spies, and later shipments of the rubsign versions were available with iron-on patches. The versions of Bumblebee and Cliffjumper that came with the Mini-Spies were available in both yellow and red; the rubsign versions 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 replaced the Autobot symbols with rubsigns like the ones first featured on the Mini-Spies, and later shipments of the rubsign versions were available with iron-on patches. The versions of Bumblebee and Cliffjumper that came with the Mini-Spies were available in both yellow and red; the rubsign versions still featured color variants. The Bumper mold was no longer available.}} | ||
'''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | |||
* [[ | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Tracks]] | |||
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] | * [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] | ||
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] | * [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] | ||
| Line 186: | Line 134: | ||
* [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] | * [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] | ||
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] | * [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Grapple]]}} | ||
{{note|The 1984 Autobot Cars were re-released. All 1985 Autobot Cars sported rubsigns. The European version of Tracks released by Milton Bradley was originally available in red.}} | {{note|The 1984 Autobot Cars were re-released. All 1985 Autobot Cars sported rubsigns. The European version of Tracks released by Milton Bradley was originally available in red.}} | ||
'''[[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]]''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
*[[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] | *[[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] | ||
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] | *[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] | ||
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] | *[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] | ||
*[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] | *[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] | ||
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] | *[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]}} | ||
'''[[Jumpstarter|Jumpstarters]]''' | '''[[Jumpstarter|Jumpstarters]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]] | *[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Twin Twist]]}} | ||
'''Autobot Deluxe Vehicles''' | '''Autobot Deluxe Vehicles''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
*[[Roadbuster]] | |||
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]}} | |||
*[[ | |||
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]] | |||
'''Autobot Air Guardian''' | '''Autobot Air Guardian''' | ||
*[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] | *[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] | ||
'''Autobot Communicator''' | '''Autobot Communicator''' | ||
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] | *[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] | ||
'''Autobot Scientist''' | '''Autobot Scientist''' | ||
*[[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] | *[[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] | ||
'''Autobot Motorized Defense Base''' | '''Autobot Motorized Defense Base''' | ||
*[[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] | *[[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] | ||
'''[[Powerdasher | '''[[Powerdasher]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* "Drill Type" | * "Drill Type" | ||
* "F-1 Type" | * "F-1 Type" | ||
* "Jet Type" | * "Jet Type"}} | ||
{{note|The Powerdashers were only available via mail order. Figure names are in quotes because these figures were not officially named. Names are taken from the Diaclone versions.}} | {{note|The Powerdashers were only available via mail order. Figure names are in quotes because these figures were not officially named. Names are taken from the Diaclone versions.}} | ||
'''[[Omnibot]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
*[[Camshaft (G1)|Camshaft]] | *[[Camshaft (G1)|Camshaft]] | ||
*[[Downshift (G1)|Downshift]] | *[[Downshift (G1)|Downshift]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Overdrive]]}} | ||
{{note|The Omnibots were only available via mail order.}} | {{note|The Omnibots were only available via mail order.}} | ||
'''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 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 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 [[ | * The entire 1984 lineup was still available in 1985, only now sporting [[rubsign]]s. | ||
* Because of copyright issues, Whirl and Roadbuster were never featured in the cartoon. | * Because of copyright issues, Whirl and Roadbuster were never featured in the cartoon. | ||
* Curiously, though animation models exist, Topspin and Twin Twist were also not shown in the cartoon, or even animated for commercials. | * Curiously, though animation models exist, Topspin and Twin Twist were also not shown in the cartoon, or even animated for commercials. | ||
===Decepticons=== | ===Decepticons=== | ||
'''[[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]''' | '''[[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] | * [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] | ||
* [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] | * [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Bombshell]]}} | ||
'''Deluxe Insecticons''' | '''Deluxe Insecticons''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Barrage (Insecticon)|Barrage]] | * [[Barrage (Insecticon)|Barrage]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Chop Shop]] | ||
* [[Ransack (G1)|Ransack]] | * [[Ransack (G1)|Ransack]] | ||
* [[Venom (G1)|Venom]] | * [[Venom (G1)|Venom]]}} | ||
'''[[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]''' | '''[[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] | * [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] | ||
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] | * [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] | ||
| Line 296: | Line 230: | ||
* [[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''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
*[[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] | *[[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] | ||
*[[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] | *[[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[Seeker|Planes]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Seeker|Planes]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
*[[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] | *[[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] | ||
*[[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] | *[[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] | ||
*[[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] | *[[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon Military Operations Commander''' | '''Decepticon Military Operations Commander''' | ||
*[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] | *[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] | ||
| Line 324: | Line 252: | ||
==1986== | ==1986== | ||
===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[Image:Protectobots-collectallfive.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Collect all five! | [[Image:Protectobots-collectallfive.jpg|right|200px|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 [[ | 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]] 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. | |||
The 1986 line was sold in Japan as [[Transformers 2010]], minus Sky Lynx. | |||
===Autobots=== | ===Autobots=== | ||
'''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Vehicles]]''' | '''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Vehicles]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Wheelie]] | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[Hubcap (G1)|Hubcap]] | * [[Hubcap (G1)|Hubcap]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Outback]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Pipes]] | ||
* [[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]] | * [[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]] | ||
* [[ | * [[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]]''' | ||
* [[ | * [[Rewind]] & [[Steeljaw]] (available as a two-pack) | ||
* [[Ramhorn]] & [[Eject]] (available as a two-pack) | |||
'''[[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]''' | '''[[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]''' | ||
{{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]] | ||
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] | * [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] | ||
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (giftset) | * [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (giftset)}} | ||
'''[[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]]''' | '''[[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] | * [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] | ||
* [[Groove (G1)|Groove]] | * [[Groove (G1)|Groove]] | ||
* [[ | * [[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.}} | ||
'''[[Triple Changer]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] | * [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] | ||
* [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] | * [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] | ||
* [[Sandstorm (Autobot)|Sandstorm]] | * [[Sandstorm (Autobot)|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.}} | ||
'''[[Autobot Cars]]''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] | * [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Hot Rod]] | ||
* [[ | * [[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.}} | ||
'''Heroes''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Hot Rod|Rodimus Prime]] | * [[Hot Rod|Rodimus Prime]] | ||
* [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]] | * [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[City Commander|City Commander]]''' | '''Autobot [[City Commander|City Commander]]''' | ||
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|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''' | |||
* [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] | * [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] | ||
'''Autobot [[City-bot|City]]''' | '''Autobot [[City-bot|City]]''' | ||
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] with [[Six-Gun]], [[Slammer]], and [[Scamper]] | |||
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] with [[ | |||
====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
| Line 423: | Line 345: | ||
===Decepticons=== | ===Decepticons=== | ||
'''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | ||
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] & Frenzy (available as a two-pack) | |||
{{note|Frenzy was a re-release of the 1986 Decepticon Cassette, now available as a two-pack with the new mold Ratbat rather than with Laserbeak. The two-pack of Ravage and Rumble was also re-released.}} | {{note|Frenzy was a re-release of the 1986 Decepticon Cassette, now available as a two-pack with the new mold Ratbat rather than with Laserbeak. The two-pack of Ravage and Rumble was also re-released.}} | ||
'''[[Stunticon]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] | * [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] | ||
* [[Breakdown|Breakdown]] | * [[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Wildrider]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Drag Strip]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Motormaster]] | ||
* [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] (giftset) | * [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] (giftset)}} | ||
'''[[Combaticon]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] | * [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] | ||
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] | * [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] | ||
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] | * [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Blast Off]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Onslaught]]}} | ||
{{note|While packaged samples might exist, Bruticus was presumably never officially released in giftset form in the USA. | {{note|While packaged samples might exist, 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.}} | ||
'''[[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]]''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] | * [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] | ||
* [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] | * [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Headstrong]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Tantrum]] | ||
* [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]] | * [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]]}} | ||
{{note|Predaking was never available in giftset form outside of Japan.}} | {{note|Predaking was never available in giftset form outside of Japan.}} | ||
'''[[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]]''' | '''[[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]]''' | ||
* [[Gnaw]] | |||
{{note|All five Predacons as well as Gnaw were alternatively available with or without a poster.}} | |||
'''[[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.}} | ||
'''Decepticon Planes''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] | * [[Cyclonus (G1)|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.}} | |||
'''[[Battlecharger]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Runabout]] | |||
* [[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]]}} | |||
'''Decepticon [[City Commander]]''' | |||
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] | * [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] | ||
'''Motorized Decepticon [[City-bot|City]]''' | '''Motorized Decepticon [[City-bot|City]]''' | ||
* [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] with [[Brunt]] and [[Full-Tilt]] | |||
'''[[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]]''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
*[[Spectro]] | |||
*[[Spyglass]] | |||
*[[Viewfinder]]}} | |||
{{note|Reflector was only available via mail order.}} | |||
====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. | ||
| Line 512: | Line 433: | ||
==1987== | ==1987== | ||
:''For the marginally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[ | :''For the marginally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[The Headmasters (toyline)]]'' | ||
===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[Image:Technobots-specialteams.jpg|right|250px|thumb|28 dollars?! But in 1987, that was like... um... factor inflation... multiply by 2.1314159... carry the 1... um... a LOT!]] | [[Image:Technobots-specialteams.jpg|right|250px|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 | 1987 was dominated by two sublines, the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] and [[Targetmaster]]s. It also marked the peak of the line's ambition, as it introduced the two-foot-tall [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] toy -- still the largest Transformer ever produced and, at nearly $100 in 1987 dollars, 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. | |||
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 [[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]]. | |||
===Autobots=== | ===Autobots=== | ||
'''[[Technobot | '''[[Technobot]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] | * [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Nosecone]] | ||
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] | * [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] | ||
* [[Lightspeed (Technobot)|Lightspeed]] | * [[Lightspeed (Technobot)|Lightspeed]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Scattershot]] | ||
* [[ | * [[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]].}} | |||
'''[[Throttlebot]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]] | * [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Chase]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Freeway]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Searchlight]] | ||
* [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]] | * [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Wide Load]]}} | ||
{{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) | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Autobot [[:Category:Spies|Double Spy]]''' | '''Autobot [[:Category:Spies|Double Spy]]''' | ||
* [[Punch|Punch-Counterpunch]] | * [[Punch|Punch-Counterpunch]] | ||
'''[[Monsterbot | '''[[Monsterbot]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Grotusque]] | |||
* [[Doublecross]] | |||
* [[ | * [[Repugnus (G1)|Repugnus]]}} | ||
* [[ | |||
* [[Repugnus (G1)|Repugnus]] | |||
'''Large [[Targetmaster]] Autobots''' | |||
* [[ | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[ | * [[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]] | ||
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[ | * [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]] | ||
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[ | * [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Kup]] with [[Recoil]] | ||
* [[Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt]]}} | |||
'''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots''' | '''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Chromedome]] with [[Stylor]] | |||
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] with [[Duros]] | |||
* [[ | * [[Brainstorm]] with [[Arcana]] | ||
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] with [[ | * [[Highbrow]] with [[Gort]]}} | ||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Headmaster Autobot [[City-bot|Base]]''' | '''Headmaster Autobot [[City-bot|Base]]''' | ||
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] with [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], [[Spike Witwicky|Spike]] and [[Cog (G1)|Cog/Gasket/Grommet]] | * [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] with [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], [[Spike Witwicky|Spike]] and [[Cog (G1)|Cog/Gasket/Grommet]] | ||
====Notes==== | ====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. | 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=== | ===Decepticons=== | ||
'''[[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]]''' | '''[[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Rippersnapper]] | |||
* [[Sinnertwin]] | |||
* [[Cutthroat]] | |||
* [[Blot]] | |||
* [[Hun-Gurrr]]}} | |||
{{note|[[Abominus]] was never officially released in giftset form in the USA.}} | |||
{{note|The Stunticons and Combaticons were also re-released. All individual Stunticons, Combaticons and Terrorcons were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.}} | |||
'''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]''' | ||
* [[Slugfest]] & [[Overkill]] (available as a two-pack) | |||
{{note|The two-pack of Ratbat and Frenzy was also re-released.}} | |||
'''[[Duocon]]s''' | |||
* [[ | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[ | * [[Battletrap]] | ||
* [[Flywheels]]}} | |||
'''Decepticon [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]]''' | '''Decepticon [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]]''' | ||
* [[Pounce]] & [[Wingspan]] (available as a two-pack) | |||
'''Decepticon [[Six Changer]]''' | |||
* [[Sixshot]] | |||
'''Large [[Targetmaster]] Decepticons''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe]] | |||
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst]] | |||
* [[Misfire]] with [[Aimless]] | |||
'''Large [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (Decepticon)|Nightstick]] | * [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (Decepticon)|Nightstick]] | ||
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[ | * [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}} | ||
'''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons''' | '''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Skullcruncher]] with [[Grax]] | |||
* [[Mindwipe]] with [[Vorath]] | |||
* [[Weirdwolf]] with [[Monzo]]}} | |||
'''Headmaster [[Horrorcon]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Apeface]] with [[Spasma]] | |||
* [[Snapdragon]] with [[Krunk]]}} | |||
'''Headmaster [[Horrorcon | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Headmaster Decepticon [[City-bot|Base]]''' | '''Headmaster Decepticon [[City-bot|Base]]''' | ||
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] with [[Zarak (Nebulan)|Zarak]] and [[Fasttrack (Scorponok)|Fasttrack]] | * [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] with [[Zarak (Nebulan)|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== | ||
:''For the noticeably different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[ | :''For the noticeably different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[Super-God Masterforce (toyline)]]'' | ||
===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[Image:G1Bomb-Burst toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Bomb-Burst, a typical full-sized Pretender.]] | [[Image:G1Bomb-Burst toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Bomb-Burst, a typical full-sized Pretender.]] | ||
[[Image:PowermasterOptimusPrime toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Finally! They | [[Image:PowermasterOptimusPrime toy.jpg|right|200px|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 [[ | 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. | |||
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. | |||
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=== | ===Autobots=== | ||
'''[[Sparkabot | '''[[Sparkabot]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Fizzle]] | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[Sizzle (G1)|Sizzle]] | * [[Sizzle (G1)|Sizzle]] | ||
* [[Guzzle (G1)|Guzzle]] | * [[Guzzle (G1)|Guzzle]]}} | ||
'''[[Triggerbot]]s''' | |||
* [[ | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[Backstreet]] | |||
* [[Override (G1)|Override]] | * [[Override (G1)|Override]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Dogfight]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|Cassettes]]''' | '''Autobot [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|Cassettes]]''' | ||
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (available as a two-pack) | |||
{{note|The Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject two-packs were also re-released once again.}} | |||
'''Small [[Targetmaster]] Autobots''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer]] | |||
* [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (Nebulan)|Ricochet]] | |||
* [[Scoop]] with [[Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Nebulan)|Tracer]]}} | |||
{{note|The Large Targetmaster Autobots Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs were also still available.}} | |||
'''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots''' | '''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] with [[Muzzle]] | |||
* [[Siren]] with [[Quig]] | |||
* [[Hosehead]] with [[Lug]]}} | |||
{{note|The Large Headmaster Autobots Chromedome, Hardhead, Brainstorm and Highbrow and the Headmaster Autobot Base Fortress Maximus were also still available.}} | |||
'''[[Powermaster]] Autobots''' | |||
* [[ | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[ | * [[Getaway]] with [[Rev]] | ||
* [[Joyride (Autobot)|Joyride]] with [[ | * [[Slapdash]] with [[Lube]] | ||
* [[Joyride (Autobot)|Joyride]] with [[Hotwire]]}} | |||
'''Powermaster Autobot Leader''' | '''Powermaster Autobot Leader''' | ||
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] with [[Hi-Q]] | |||
'''Autobot [[Six Changer]]''' | |||
* [[Quickswitch]] | |||
'''Large Autobot [[Pretender]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
'''Large Autobot [[Pretender | |||
* [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] | * [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Cloudburst]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Waverider]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Groundbreaker]] | ||
* [[Sky High (Pretender)|Sky High]] | * [[Sky High (Pretender)|Sky High]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Splashdown]]}} | ||
{{note|Groundbreaker, Sky High and Splashdown were not released in Japan.}} | |||
'''Autobot [[Pretender Beast]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Chainclaw]] | |||
* [[Catilla]]}} | |||
'''Autobot [[Pretender Vehicle]]s''' | |||
* [[Gunrunner (G1)|Gunrunner]] | * [[Gunrunner (G1)|Gunrunner]] | ||
====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
The Autobot | 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=== | ===Decepticons=== | ||
'''[[Firecon | '''[[Firecon]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[ | * [[Cindersaur]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Flamefeather]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Sparkstalker]]}} | ||
'''[[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]]''' | '''[[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]]''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]] | * [[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]] | ||
* [[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]] | * [[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]] | ||
* [[Nautilator (G1)|Nautilator]] | * [[Nautilator (G1)|Nautilator]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Skalor]] | ||
* [[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]] | * [[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]] | ||
* [[Snaptrap (G1)|Snaptrap]] | * [[Snaptrap (G1)|Snaptrap]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Piranacon]] (giftset)}} | ||
{{note|The Piranacon giftset only included five of the six individual Seacons; Nautilator was left out for reasons unknown.}} | |||
{{note|The Terrorcons were also re-released.}} | |||
'''[[Triggercon]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]] | * [[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]] | ||
* [[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]] | * [[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Windsweeper]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon Cassettes''' | '''Decepticon Cassettes''' | ||
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (available as a two-pack) | |||
{{note|The Slugfest/Overkill two-pack was also re-released.}} | |||
'''Small [[Targetmaster]] Decepticons''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]] | |||
* [[Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]] | |||
* [[Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}} | |||
{{note|The Large Targetmaster Decepticons Triggerhappy, Slugslinger and Misfire were also still available.}} | |||
'''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons''' | '''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Horri-Bull]] with [[Kreb]] | |||
* [[Fangry]] with [[Brisko]] | |||
* [[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.}} | |||
'''[[Powermaster]] Decepticons''' | |||
* [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] with [[ | {{columnlist|3| | ||
* [[ | * [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] with [[Hi-Test]] | ||
* [[Darkwing]] with [[Throttle (G1)|Throttle]]}} | |||
'''Powermaster Mercenary''' | '''Powermaster Mercenary''' | ||
* [[Doubledealer]] with [[Knok]] and [[Skar]] | |||
'''Large Decepticon [[Pretender]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Skullgrin]] | |||
'''Large Decepticon [[Pretender | * [[Bomb-Burst]] | ||
* [[Submarauder]] | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]] | * [[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Bugly]] | ||
* [[Finback | * [[Finback]]}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[Pretender Beast]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Carnivac]] | |||
* [[Snarler]]}} | |||
* [[ | '''Decepticon [[Pretender Vehicle]]s''' | ||
* [[Roadgrabber]] | |||
====Notes==== | ====Notes==== | ||
The Deception Clones two-pack of Pounce/Wingspan and the Decepticon Six Changer Sixshot were also still available. | The Deception Clones two-pack of Pounce/Wingspan and the Decepticon Six Changer Sixshot were also still available. | ||
==1989== | ==1989== | ||
:''For the totally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[ | :''For the totally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[Victory (toyline)]]'' | ||
===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[Image:G1Thunderwing toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Thunderwing, a Mega Pretender. This toy commands shocking secondary market prices as a result of the character | [[Image:G1Thunderwing toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Thunderwing, a Mega Pretender. This toy commands shocking secondary market prices as a result of the character's prominent appearances in the later Generation 1 comics.]] | ||
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 | The 1-inch-tall [[Micromaster]]s attempted to capitalize on the popularity of the Micro Machine toyline. 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=== | ||
====Autobots==== | ====Autobots==== | ||
'''Small Autobot [[Pretender | '''Small Autobot [[Pretender]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Pincher]] | |||
* [[Doubleheader]] | |||
* [[ | * [[Longtooth]]}} | ||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Autobot [[Pretender Classic]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] | * [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] | ||
* [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] | * [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] | ||
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] | * [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Legends (G1)|Legends]]''' | '''Autobot [[Legends (G1)|Legends]]''' | ||
{{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.}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Mega Pretender]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]] | * [[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Vroom]]}} | ||
'''Autobot [[Ultra Pretender]]s''' | |||
* [[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]] | * [[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]] | ||
| Line 944: | Line 788: | ||
====Decepticons==== | ====Decepticons==== | ||
'''[[Pretender Monster | '''[[Pretender Monster]]s''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Icepick]] | |||
* [[Bristleback]] | |||
* [[ | * [[Wildfly]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Scowl]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Slog]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Birdbrain]]}} | ||
* [[ | |||
* [[Birdbrain | |||
'''Small Decepticon [[Pretender]]s''' | |||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Octopunch]] | |||
* [[Stranglehold]] | |||
* [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]}} | |||
'''Decepticon [[Pretender Classic]]s''' | |||
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] | * [[Starscream (G1)|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.}} | ||
'''Decepticon [[Mega Pretender]]s''' | |||
* [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] | * [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] | ||
'''Decepticon [[Ultra Pretender | '''Decepticon [[Ultra Pretender]]s''' | ||
* [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] | * [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] | ||
| Line 989: | Line 822: | ||
* 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=== | |||
[[Image:Micromaster-sportscarpatrol-toys.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Here a novelty; soon an infestation.]] | [[Image:Micromaster-sportscarpatrol-toys.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Here a novelty; soon an infestation.]] | ||
====Autobots==== | ====Autobots==== | ||
'''[[ | '''[[Micromaster]] Autobot Patrols''' | ||
* [[Off Road Patrol]] ([[Highjump (G1)|Highjump]], [[Mudslinger]], [[Powertrain]] & [[Tote]]) | |||
* [[Race Car Patrol]] ([[Tailspin]], [[Free Wheeler]], [[Roadhandler (G1)|Roadhandler]] & [[Swindler]]) | |||
* [[ | * [[Rescue Patrol]] ([[Seawatch]], [[Stakeout]], [[Fixit]] & [[Red Hot]]) | ||
* [[ | * [[Battle Patrol]] ([[Big Shot]], [[Sidetrack]], [[Sunrunner]] & [[Flak]]) | ||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]''' | '''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]''' | ||
* [[Erector]] (with [[Crane]]) | |||
* [[Overload (G1)|Overload]] (with [[Car carrier trailer]]) | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[Overload (G1)|Overload]] (with [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Autobot Stations''' | '''Micromaster Autobot Stations''' | ||
* [[Hot House]] (with [[Fire station]]) | |||
* [[Ironworks]] (with [[Construction station]]) | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Autobot Bases''' | '''Micromaster Autobot Bases''' | ||
* [[Groundshaker]] (with [[ATV]]) | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base''' | '''Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base''' | ||
* [[Countdown (G1)|Countdown]] (with [[Rocket base]]) | |||
* [[Countdown (G1)|Countdown]] (with [[ | |||
====Decepticons==== | ====Decepticons==== | ||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Patrols''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Patrols''' | ||
* [[Air Strike Patrol]] ([[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]], [[Storm Cloud (G1)|Storm Cloud]], [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] & [[Tailwind]]) | |||
* [[Sports Car Patrol]] ([[Detour (G1)|Detour]], [[Blackjack]], [[Hyperdrive]] & [[Road Hugger (G1)|Road Hugger]]) | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Decepticon [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]''' | ||
* [[Flattop (Decepticon)|Flattop]] (with [[Aircraft carrier]]) | |||
* [[Roughstuff]] (with [[Military transport]]) | |||
* [[Flattop (Decepticon)|Flattop]] (with [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Stations''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Stations''' | ||
* [[Greasepit (G1)|Greasepit]] (with [[Gas station]]) | |||
* [[Airwave]] (with [[Airport]]) | |||
* [[Greasepit (G1)|Greasepit]] (with [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Bases''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Bases''' | ||
* [[Skyhopper]] (with [[Helicopter]]) | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center''' | ||
* [[Skystalker]] (with [[Interstellar shuttle]]) | |||
* [[ | |||
==1990== | ==1990== | ||
:''For the totally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[ | :''For the totally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[Zone (toyline)]]'' | ||
===Overview=== | ===Overview=== | ||
[[Image:Actionmaster Jazz.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Action Master Jazz, reintroducing a character from the line | [[Image:Actionmaster Jazz.jpg|right|200px|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 [[ | 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 Actionmasters likewise came as carded figures with small transforming partners, and also with larger boxed vehicles. | ||
The [[Generation 1 Europe (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 [[Generation 1 Europe (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. | ||
Waning popularity led to the line's cancellation at this point; ''Transformers'' disappeared from shelves for two years, not returning until the debut of ''[[ | 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=== | ===Micromasters=== | ||
====Autobots==== | ====Autobots==== | ||
'''[[ | '''[[Micromaster]] Autobot Patrols''' | ||
* [[Construction Patrol]] ([[Neutro]], [[Groundpounder]], [[Crumble]] & [[Takedown]]) | |||
* [[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]]) | ||
* [[ | * [[Hot Rod Patrol]] ([[Big Daddy (G1)|Big Daddy]], [[Trip-Up]], [[Greaser]] & [[Hubs]]) | ||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Autobot Combiner Squads''' | '''Micromaster Autobot Combiner Squads''' | ||
* [[Metro Squad]] ([[Wheel Blaze]], [[Roadburner]], [[Oiler]], [[Slide]], [[Power Run]] & [[Strikedown]]) | |||
* [[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]]) | |||
* [[Tanker Truck]] (with [[Pipeline]] & [[Gusher]]) | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Combiner Autobot Battlefield Headquarters''' | '''Micromaster Combiner Autobot Battlefield Headquarters''' | ||
* [[Battlefield Headquarters]] with [[Full-Barrel]] & [[Overflow]] | |||
* [[ | |||
=====Notes===== | =====Notes===== | ||
| Line 1,094: | Line 898: | ||
====Decepticons==== | ====Decepticons==== | ||
'''[[ | '''[[Micromaster]] Decepticon Patrols''' | ||
* [[Race Track Patrol]] ([[Roller Force]], [[Barricade (G1)|Barricade]], [[Ground Hog]] & [[Motorhead]]) | |||
* [[Military Patrol]] ([[Bombshock (G1)|Bombshock]], [[Tracer (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]]) | |||
* [[Constructor Squad]] ([[Stonecruncher (G1)|Stonecruncher]], [[Excavator (G1)|Excavator]], [[Sledge (G1)|Sledge]], [[Hammer (G1)|Hammer]], [[Grit (G1)|Grit]] & [[Knockout (G1)|Knockout]]) | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Micromaster Decepticon [[Micromaster Combiner Transport|Combiner Transports]]''' | '''Micromaster Decepticon [[Micromaster Combiner Transport|Combiner Transports]]''' | ||
* [[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]] | |||
* [[ | |||
=====Notes===== | =====Notes===== | ||
* The Micromaster Transports Flattop & | * 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=== | ||
====Autobots==== | ====Autobots==== | ||
'''Autobot [[ | '''Autobot [[Action Master]] Figures''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Grimlock (G1) toys|Grimlock]] with [[Anti-Tank Cannon]] | |||
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] with [[Turbo Board]] | |||
* [[Grimlock (G1) toys|Grimlock]] with [[ | * [[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer]] | ||
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] with [[ | * [[Rollout (G1)| Rollout]] with [[Glitch]] | ||
* [[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[ | * [[Bumblebee (G1) toys|Bumblebee]] with [[Heli-pack]] | ||
* [[Rollout (G1)| Rollout]] with [[ | * [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] with [[Flight Pack]] | ||
* [[Bumblebee (G1) toys|Bumblebee]] with [[ | * [[Jackpot]] with [[Sights]] | ||
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] with [[Flight | * [[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] with [[Hydro-Pack]] | ||
* [[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[ | * [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] with [[Tyrannitron]] | ||
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] with [[ | * [[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]] | ||
* [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] with [[ | * [[Kick-Off]] with [[Turbo-Pack]]}} | ||
* [[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Autobot Action Master Action Blasters''' | '''Autobot Action Master Action Blasters''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Turbo Cycle]] with [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] | |||
* [[Helicopter]] with [[Over-Run (G1)|Over-Run]]}} | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Action Master Autobot Vehicles''' | '''Action Master Autobot Vehicles''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Turbo Racer]] with [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] | |||
* [[Attack Cruiser]] with [[Sprocket]]}} | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Action Master Autobot Armored Convoy''' | '''Action Master Autobot Armored Convoy''' | ||
* [[Armored Convoy]] with [[Optimus Prime (G1) toys|Optimus Prime]] | |||
* [[ | |||
====Decepticons==== | ====Decepticons==== | ||
'''Decepticon [[ | '''Decepticon [[Action Master]] Figures''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] with [[Wingthing]] | |||
* [[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]] | |||
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] with [[ | * [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] with [[Scorpulator]] | ||
* [[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[ | * [[Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]] | ||
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] with [[ | * [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] with [[Fistfight]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}} | ||
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] with [[ | |||
* [[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[ | |||
'''Decepticon Action Master Action Blasters''' | '''Decepticon Action Master Action Blasters''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
* [[Off-Road Cycle]] with [[Axer]] | |||
* [[Turbo Jet]] with [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]}} | |||
* [[ | |||
* [[ | |||
'''Action Master Decepticon Attack Vehicles''' | '''Action Master Decepticon Attack Vehicles''' | ||
{{columnlist|3| | |||
*[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s [[Neutro-Fusion Tank]] | |||
*[[Gutcruncher (G1)|Gutcruncher]]'s [[Stratotronic Jet]]}} | |||
*[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s [[ | |||
*[[Gutcruncher (G1)|Gutcruncher]]'s [[ | |||
[[Category:Toys]] | [[Category:Toys]] | ||
[[Category:Generation 1]] | [[Category:Generation 1]] | ||
Revision as of 08:52, 23 March 2009
| This article is about The original toyline. For other uses of The Transformers, 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 One 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, and over time expanded into numerous original designs and concepts through its seven-year run. The line 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 toylines.
- 1985—Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)
- 1986—Transformers 2010 (toyline)
- 1987—The Headmasters (toyline)
- 1988—Super-God Masterforce (toyline)
- 1989—Victory (toyline)
- 1990—Zone (toyline)
- 1991—Return of Convoy (toyline)
- 1992—Operation Combination (toyline)
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 pre-existing 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 Planes
Decepticon Communications
Decepticon Leader
1985
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 Autobots. 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 replaced the Autobot symbols with rubsigns like the ones first featured on the Mini-Spies, and later shipments of the rubsign versions were available with iron-on patches. The versions of Bumblebee and Cliffjumper that came with the Mini-Spies were available in both yellow and red; the rubsign versions still featured color variants. The Bumper mold was no longer available.
The 1984 Autobot Cars were re-released. All 1985 Autobot Cars sported rubsigns. The European version of Tracks released by Milton Bradley was originally available in red.
Autobot Deluxe Vehicles
Autobot Air Guardian
Autobot Communicator
Autobot Scientist
Autobot Motorized Defense Base
- "Drill Type"
- "F-1 Type"
- "Jet Type"
The Powerdashers were only available via mail order. Figure names are in quotes because these figures were not officially named. Names are taken from the Diaclone versions.
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.
- Because of copyright issues, Whirl and Roadbuster were never featured in the cartoon.
- Curiously, though animation models exist, Topspin and Twin Twist were also not shown in the cartoon, or even animated for commercials.
Decepticons
Deluxe Insecticons
- 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.
- The Deluxe Insecticons made no appearances in the animated series.
1986
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 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.
The 1986 line was sold in Japan as Transformers 2010, minus Sky Lynx.
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 1986 Decepticon Cassette, now available as a two-pack with the new mold 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: 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 -- still the largest Transformer ever produced and, at nearly $100 in 1987 dollars, 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 Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction.
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: 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
Groundbreaker, Sky High and Splashdown were not released in Japan.
Autobot Pretender Beasts
Autobot Pretender Vehicles
Notes
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
Notes
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 the Micro Machine toyline. 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 Pretender Classics
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
Small Decepticon Pretenders
Decepticon Pretender Classics
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: 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 Actionmasters 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
- Helicopter 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
