The first assortment of toys from the 2015 Transformers: Robots in Disguise series is now in stores, and the allure of new plastic 'Bots and 'Cons has proven inescapable. I've been intrigued by the classic aesthetic of the no-nonsense character Strongarm for several months now. I purchased her Warrior Class (deluxe scale) toy without even the slightest hesitation. Let's see if it can live up to my self-imposed hype!
Big 'ol armored boots and shoulder-pads? Sweeping forehead crest? Classic color scheme? Strongarm's design hits a lot of great marks and it translates to plastic quite effectively. It's not a flawless re-creation of the show model, but it's definitely closer than the oddly dainty profile artwork suggests. If there's one omission that really hurts, it's the funky blue lipstick.
Here's the side view. Yeah, she has quite a "backpack" on her, but it's mostly comprised of thin panels that evoke wings akin to those of countless other Transformers. They're more prominent when her shoulders are positioned lower, but I feel the overall proportions take a nasty hit. The configuration I went with feels like an acceptable compromise.
Robot mode heights have proven to be a pretty important factor for lots of Transformers collectors. For those keeping score, Strongarm comes in at a fairly standard 5 inches. The slightly bulky build makes her seem even more substantial. Everything is totally acceptable here in the oft-controversial size department.
You can spot a bit of hollowness on the back of the legs, but look! There's a rifle stored on her back! My goodness, let's get that sucker equipped!
This is honestly a bit run of the mill as far as firearm accessories go. The sculpted blast effect won't be everybody's jam, but I found it of little concern. I was far too busy arranging Strongarm in as many bad-ass bang-bang pew-pew shootin' poses as I could.
As you can see, the articulation is more than adequate. There's enough swiveling limb, rotating waist, and ball-jointed head action to offer plenty of display variety and expressiveness. The only real roadblock for getting swanky poses is the recessed nature of the hands.
I'm not the type to get worked up over this sort of thing these days, but it's an obvious drawback all the same.
Oh, yeah. This Transformer converts into a vehicle form. Crazy concept, right? Strongarm turns into a law enforcement SUV of sorts, an apt choice for a 'Bot that "lives by the rules."
Here's the back view. This is the part where you "ooh" and "ah." I'll wait.
Okay, so it isn't the most exciting vehicle to look at, but it has some serious bulk. It's not heavy, but it's quite large for a "deluxe" vehicle. Despite the transformation requiring a small handful of panels to be lined up just so, it actually holds together quite well. There's really nothing to complain about. The rifle even stores away hassle-free!
Overall, I'm very pleased with Strongarm. Her design has all the makings of a kick-ass figure, and that potential was definitely fulfilled. I would've liked a bit more paint and fully sculpted hands, but I'm happy enough as is. This isn't the best deluxe Transformer toy ever, but it's a welcome addition to the growing ranks all the same.
Warrior Class Strongarm is now available from Amazon and a full Robots in Disguise Warriors Case can be ordered from Entertainment Earth.
Keep track of future Castle Geek-Skull posts on Twitter & Facebook!
No comments:
Post a Comment