After 5yrs and much venting by fans, the seeker collection can finally be had by all. With Thundercracker's release in the Generations lineup, all 6 of the G1 seekers have now been offered via retail (even if Skywarp was a Target exclusive). But how does it compare to the BotCon version from 4yrs ago?

Bio

Back on Cybertron, Thundercracker was a master of using sound to his advantage. His fear-inducing sonic booms were tuned perfectly to the composition of the atmosphere. Sonic vibrations from his attacks could be felt thousands of miles away, generating panic in those nearby, and deep unease even on the other side of the planet.

Strength     

Intelligence 

Speed        

Endurance    

Rank         

Courage      

Fireblast    

Skill        

Alt Mode

It's actually amazing how similar the Generations version is similar to the BotCon version. All the coloration is consistent between the two, but the striping is changed up just enough to distinguish a difference. There are also less details present with the Gen figure.

Two other differences to note. The missile launchers are black instead of blue. Quality control is also slipping up again, as a seam on the right engine is uneven. You might double-check the figure in the clamshell before bringing yours home.

Alt Mode Summary:No real difference from the BotCon version, except maybe the quality control.

Alt Mode Specs

Length: 6.13in/155.7mm
Wingspan:5.88in/149.4mm
Height:1.38in/35.1mm
Wheels: 4, molded. 2 front are retractable.
Detailed cockpit:N/A

Transformation

Identical to all the other iterations.

Robot Mode

The differences between the Botcon version and Generations version are more prevalent in robot mode. In some areas, such as the legs and waist, the BotCon version is more detailed. However, the body and shoulders of the Generations figure offers more flair.

Sadly, all the other minuses of the basic seeker mold are still there. Joints are pretty brickish and quality control is iffy. After being in three lines (Classics, Universe 2.0 and now Generations) and having 11 different iterations (2 Starscreams, the Coneheads, the 3 BotCon exclusives, Acid Storm, Skywarp and now Thundercracker), it's a good thing that Hasbro can close the door to this mole. The mold is definitely showing it's age.

Articulation

Feet:Stationary (technical)
Knees: Pin hinge, 90 degree bend. Pinned above knees for unlimited lower leg rotation.
Hips: Ball joint, 90 degree bend and 90 degree spread
Waist:Stationary
Shoulders:Dual pin hinges, unlimited rotation and 90 degree spread. Pinned below shoulder for unlimited arm rotation
Elbows:Pin hinge, 90 degree bend
Hands:Pin hinge, 90 degree inward bend
Head:Stationary (technical)
Robot Mode Summary:Toss up between this one and the Botcon version as to which is better.

Robot Mode Specs

Height:558n/139.7mm
Width:3.88in/98.6mm (6in/152.4mm including wings)
Depth:1.5in/38.1mm
Supplied accessories:(2) launchers w/missiles

Value

If you have the BotCon version already, this is an easy pass. There's nothing this TC has that the BC doesn't. In fact, in certain areas, the BotCon version has more. If you're not a Seeker completest, there's really no need to buy a 5yr old mold. This one is simply to quiet the angsty seeker fans.

Summary

For the first time since G1, all 6 seekers have now been offered at the retail level. Sure, you can argue that Skywarp was a hard-to-get Target exclusive, that Sunstorm wasn't issued, etc. Get over it. The point is that this mold has lived it's life and should now be retired. Since Hasbro has finally made good on Starscream, Skywarp, Dirge, Thrust, Ramjet and now Thundercracker, may this mold retire and live in peace without being used ever again.

Verdict

Overall:
Class:Deluxe

MSRP:$12

Reviewer	Blitzwing
Date	June 29th 2011
Score	(7 out of 10)
Reads	4467
Link	Thundercracker via Generations Database

Images

Images 1 to 12 of 26

» View All Gallery Images