
Target seems to be all over the Transformer movie merchandise, so far as I can see. Most of their stores have some ample stock (where I am anyhow). They are also offering an exclusive figure. This review looks at that exclusive figure, known as Robo-Vision Optimus Prime.
Alt Mode

This version of Optimus is a scaled down version of his leader class form, roughly 2/3 scale. Surprisingly, there are several differences between Leader and Voyager class. For one, the grille surround and the Autobot insignia are more pronounced. Another difference is that the sleeper cab is more aerodynamic versus the boxy look on the Leader figure.

On this version, there is also a driver with a cowboy hat in the driver's seat. If you open the driver's side door, the driver flips away from sight. It's an OK gimmick, but they could have at least painted the passenger seat red like the driver's seat so it'd match.

I find it amazing how the same figure can come off looking so different just by a change of class size. I should also note that the blue on this version is a lighter color than on the Leader version. One last difference in Alt mode is that RoboVision Prime has an attack mode.
Attack Mode

By folding down the all plastic smokestacks and spinning the front tanks around, the smokestacks can now be used as laser cannons. The fuel tanks also contain a launchable missile each. A nifty little gimmick, kind of reminds me of RHINO from MASK in a way.
Transformation
His transformation is vastly different from the Leader figure. In a way, it's a little easier. The automorph feature this time is in the legs. Pulling them apart will flip out his feet and fold the sleeper portion against his legs. Quality Control strikes again, though. One leg works, one doesn't. Go fig.
Robot Mode
I actually like the robot version of this figure a bit better. For one, there is less kibble that interferes with the look. That is, unless you count the front end of the tractor that now makes a backpack. There is way more detail in the limbs with this figure as well. I think this one more accurately portrays the movie character. Even the head sculpt is variant of the Leader class. The head includes light piping.
Points of articulation are as follows. Feet: stationary. Knees: screw hinge, 90 degree vertical movement. Hips: screw hinge with 6pt vertical ratcheting, 180 degree vertical and 90 degree horizontal movement. Shoulders: pin and screw hinges, 90 degree horizontal and 360 degree vertical movement, additional pin hinge for unlimited bicep rotation. Elbows: screw hinge, 90 degree movement. Wrist: ball joint, 75 degree inward movement. Head: pin, unlimited horizontal movement. Although his legs aren't jointed as much as the Leader class figure, there is less obstruction. Therefore, it's easier to pull off a pose.
Getting him back into Semi mode is a real pain in the derrière. The legs have a hard time coming back together to form the sleeper and rear section. You have to give some weight to force them into place. That concerns me a bit, even though this seems to be a solid figure. The "robo-vision" feature is nothing more than a red decoder, like the G1 days. On the back of the box, you can place it over Prime's face to reveal ROBOVISION. Ooooooh. Hopefully, more of this 'robo-vision' gimmickry will be used or else it seems like a complete waste. Overall, this is a nice Prime to have.
Reviewer | Blitzwing |
Date | June 3rd 2007 |
Score |         (9 out of 10) |
Reads | 50117 |
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