Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)
Transformers: Generation 2 was the name for the toy series that debuted in 1993, two years after the last G1 figures were off the shelves. At its inception, G2 featured re-releases of several Generation 1 figures, with many given new accessories; all figures received updated paint deco. As the line continued, completely new toys began appearing, including the Go-Bots, Hot Wheels-styled figures with simpler transformations and "precision" wheels; the Cyberjets, realistic fighter planes that transformed into robots with newly engineered and enhanced poseability; the Rotor Force, which featured firing plastic rotor weapons; the light-up Laser Rods and Laser Cycles, which featured LED weaponry.
Two new versions of Optimus Prime and Megatron were also released: Optimus Prime received a Laser Rod upgrade, featuring a light-up sword, fully realized battle station enclosed within his trailer, and added poseability. Megatron was re-imagined as a military tank, and featured a missile launcher and electronic voice and sound effects. Later in the line, both Prime and Megatron were re-imagined again, this time featuring air-launched foam missiles.
The series debuted to lackluster sales, despite featuring fan-favorites like the Dinobots and Constructicon. Many fans disliked the overly colorful paint jobs on many figures, which ran the gamut from an orange Aerialbot fighter jet to purple camo on several of the militaristic Combaticon vehicles.
(Note: The Generation 2 toyline exists in the Unicron Trilogy universe.)
