Monkey see, Monkey screw you up!

Optimus Primal has had a barrel full of toys. None of themmonkeys!

Toys

Beast Wars

Cheetor.Cheetor. I'm Batman.

• Optimus Primal vs Megatron! (Basic Class versus two-pack, 1996)

• Takara name:Amazon no Taiketsu: Convobat VS Megalligator
• Takara ID number:VS-6
• Accessories: 2 swords
• Known designers:Takio Ejima (TakaraTomy),Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

The firstBeast Wars Optimus Primal is a Basic Class blue bat which can autotransform into a robot by pulling the tail. Two swords are removable from under its wings for use as weaponry inrobot mode. In theHasbro line, he is packaged along with analligator version of Megatron and aBeast Wars mini-comic. The Japanese release of the two-pack, dubbed "Amazon Showdown" (アマゾンの対決), lacks the comic, but does come with individual character bio cards.

Whether this toy can be considered the Optimus Primal character is a matter of debate. Released before the animated series began, which establishes Optimus Primal as a separate entity from Optimus Prime, the accompanying profiles and mini-comic imply that the Beast Wars are a direct progression of the Autobot/Decepticon war. Whether the animated series'sretcon affects this set of toys is probably a matter of personal preference. It can be interpreted as representing one of the more interesting micro-continuities.

The 2007Beast Wars Sourcebook asserts that, inIDW's version of theBeast Wars continuity, Primal's bat form is suggested by theAxalon's computer as a potential alternate mode, but he rejects it in favor of the more powerful gorilla without ever actually reformatting into it. Thus, thismicro-continuity posits bat mode Primal as a theoretical alternate form that never actually comes to be.

This mold was also used to make theOptimus Prime-recolored Convobat (explicitly identified as Optimus Prime), the separate individualConvobat,Onyx Primal as well as inspire the comic characterNyx.

• More information on Optimus Primal (bat) at TFU.info

Yes, missiles come out of his butt.

Brass monkeys.

• Optimus Primal (Ultra Class, 1996/1997/1998)

• Takara name:Convoy
• Takara ID number:C-1
• Accessories: 2 "spinal swords", 4 "mega-blast missiles", "flail"
• Known designers:Yuichiro Hira (TakaraTomy),Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

The second Optimus Primal toy is an ape in the Ultra size class. Though the transformation from primate to humanoid is a relatively simplistic one, the toy compensates with more than a fair share of weaponry and action features. A compartment on his right forearm opens to reveal a skull-shaped "flail" he can hold in his fist. His left forearm can open into a double-barreled "mega-blast missile" launcher. On his back are two more spring-loaded "mega-blast missile cannons"/launchers which auto-flip over each shoulder by pressing a button on his butt. This also reveals the storage for his two swords. By pulling a lever in the center of his back, both arms can either spin at the bicep or bend in and out at the shoulder, depending on the placement of notch-buttons located on either bicep. This gimmick can be used to simulate a gorilla beating its chest while Optimus is inbeast mode, or to make him swing his weapons wildly before himself in robot mode.

Finally, like many first-yearBeast Wars toys, Optimus has a battle mask/"mutant head". The mask is attached to a turntable around the neck, meaning it can either be deployed over Optimus’ robot face (with his forehead vent visible) or over the red backside of his head (with Optimus’ head antennas folded down to resemble tusks). The latter configuration is the intended one, as illustrated in theinstructions and Optimus’ concept art.^[1]

The European version released in English/Spanish/ItalianBeast Wars/Biocombat packaging features the additional alternate name "Black Jack" for the Italian market, whereas theother European version released in French/Dutch/GermanBeast Wars/Ani Mutants packaging is simply named "Optimus Primal".

Takara released the toy under the name of "Convoy" as part of theirBeast Wars line in July of 1997, nearly identical to the Hasbro version. The missiles for the Takara version are thinner and simpler than the original Hasbro version, and would be used in all subsequent releases of the sculpt.

This sculpt wasredecoed intoUniverse Optimus Primal andBeast Wars Telemocha Series DX Convoy, andretooled intoBeast Wars Reborn/Beast Wars Tenth Anniversary versus pack Optimus Primal. Takara also created multiple special variants, including all-gold (fromTV Magazine, only ten awarded), red body with gray head & chest plate (TV Magazine again, but only twenty pieces for lucky draw), and blue-fur (aComic BomBom design-contest prize, only thirty awarded).

• More information on Optimus Primal (gorilla) at TFU.info

• Convobat (Basic, July 1997)

• ID number:C-6
• Accessories: 2 swords

"Convobat" was also available in Japan as a single boxed toy. This release is identical to the two-pack version.

This toy would go without Japanese market fiction until all the way in2021, when it wasfinally characterized... as ayet third guy.At least they're symmetrical now.

Megatron, master of manspreading.

• Saikyō Beast no Taiketsu: Convoy VS Megatron (VS pack, July 1997)

• ID number:VS-1
• Accessories: 2 swords, 4 missiles, flail

In Japan, Ultra "Convoy" was available both individually and in avery large "Strongest Beast Showdown" (最強ビーストの対決Saikyō Beast no Taiketsu) two-pack with UltraMegatron.

Both toys are identical to their individual releases.

• Maximal Orcanoch Micro Playset (Playset, 1997)

• Known designers:Takio Ejima (TakaraTomy),Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

In Europe, theBeast Wars-brandedMicroVerse playsets (see below) were released solely asBeast Wars/Biocombat (English/Spanish/Italian packaging) orBeast Wars/Ani Mutants (French/Dutch/German packaging) products.

This release is entirely identical to theUSMicroVerse release of the toy, aside from the packaging and the branding.

• Convoy (1998)

• ID number:C-1
• Accessories: 2 swords, 4 missiles, flail

In January of 1998, Takara released a redeco of the Ultra Optimus Primal toy, changing the black to dark gray, the blue eyes of Gorilla to red, and the blue to metallic blue, although the packaging is the same as the original release save for a sticker on the front of the box. According to the sticker, this "Special Convoy" (スペシャルコンボイ) is the "Real Gray Type" (リアルグレータイプ) and is meant to celebrate the "20,000,000 Unit Breakthrough Commemoration"—apparently commemorating20 million units of Beast Wars toys sold. Whether this is supposed to represent 20 million worldwide or just in Japan is unclear.

• More information on "Special Convoy Real Gray Type" at TFU.info

"So, I believe I made myself clear."

• Special Convoy Skeleton Type (1998?)

• ID number:C-1
• Accessories: 2 swords, 4 missiles, flail

AToys"R"Us Japan-exclusive redeco of the Ultra figure, Special Convoy Skeleton Type (スペシャルコンボイ スケルトンタイプ) is colorless-clear and black with silver paint detailing. The packaging is the same as the general release except for a sticker on the front of the box giving this release its name.

• More information on Special Convoy Skeleton Type at TFU.info

Grape Ape's lesser-known cousin Cherry Ape. Currently an insurance broker in Oak Park, Illinois.

• Burning Convoy (1998)

• ID number:C-1
• Accessories: 2 swords, 4 missiles, flail

A Takara redeco of the Ultra Class Primal toy in almost entirely semitransparent red plastic with with metallic gold "flame" markings on his fists and gorilla-mode chest.

He was released as a limited-edition figure to promote theBeast Wars Special movie, alongside theFlash Lio Convoy toy. As with the above "Skeleton Type" toy, his packaging and paperwork is identical to the regular retail release; only a sticker on the box window is added to mark the special release.

• More information on Burning Convoy at TFU.info

Check out those abs!

• Optimus Primal (Mega Class Transmetal, 1998)

• Takara name:Metals Convoy
• Takara ID number:C-40
• Accessories: Gun, two clubs/missiles
• Known designers:Jerry Palmer (Hasbro),Takio Ejima (TakaraTomy),Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Transmetal Optimus Primal is a mechanical gorilla that transforms into a partially organic robot. Like all Transmetals, it featured chromed plastic and a third vehicle-inspired mode. In Primal's case, his gorilla mode could transform into a gorilla on ahoverboard. Two maces were stored on his back and could double as missiles for his hip-holstered blaster and the entire back panel with maces attached could be flipped over his shoulders to replicate his turret mode from the cartoon.

Continuing a trend from Generation 1 where Italian releases of toys representing the same characters as previous toys released under the same name were sometimes given names that didn't reflect the Italian market names of those previous releases, the European version released in English/Spanish/ItalianBeast Wars/Biocombat packaging features the additional alternate name "Metal Gorilla" for the Italian market. Like with the Ultra figure, the other European version released in French/Dutch/GermanBeast Wars/Ani Mutants packaging is simply named "Optimus Primal".

Some units feature a chromed purple variant for the Beast Mode chest.

Takara's version of the toy exchanged the brown plastic for translucent maroon; other changes included additional paint on the waist and a different eye color. The figure is also available in a set with Transmetal Megatron.

This mold was used to makeApelinq.

• More information on Transmetal Optimus Primal at TFU.info

It's really about two modes, not four, if you're honest.

• Optimal Optimus (Super Class Transmetal, 1998)

• Takara name:Metals Powered Convoy (メタルスパワードコンボイ)
• Takara ID number:C-47
• Accessories: Rifle, four missiles, six break-away armor plates
• Known designers:Jerry Palmer (Hasbro),Takio Ejima (TakaraTomy),Daniel Sanfilippo (deco artist),Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Transmetal Optimal Optimus is the first toy in the Super size class, featuring electronics and four transformations: robot, ape, jet, and armored transport. When a back section of the cannon module is pulled, the eyes and shoulder-mounted missile launchers lit up and the launchers fired. It came with four missiles, two of which stored on its legs. Its forearms featured blast-away armor plates that could also be pegged to its upper arms. His cockpit perfectly fits aMicroVerse figure in the seat.

Optimal Optimus's on-packagebio states that he has Cybertronian "air guardian" technology and twin scramjet modules, most likely in reference toJetfire, whose function is Air Guardian, and his Tech Specs said he had these same scramjet modules.

The European version released in English/Spanish/ItalianBeast Wars/Biocombat packaging featured the most bizarre choice for the additional alternate name for the Italian market yet, naming this figure "Optimus Primal". The other European version released in French/Dutch/GermanBeast Wars/Ani Mutants packaging is simply named "Optimal Optimus".

This toy wasrepurposed as theBeast Wars: Uprising characterOptimal. This sculpt was also used to makePrimal Prime, with a redesign that had separate triggers for the missile-lighting and missile-launching so users would be less likely to shoot themselves in the eye. This body was also the template forMegatron's (non-toy) "Optimal" body, seen in "Endgame Pt. III: Seeds of the Future".

The Japanese version features several deco changes including: a more yellow shade of orange, no blue paint on the helmet in robot mode, and black tires instead of purple. Also, the translucent missiles are molded slightly differently. This changed mold is also used by Primal Prime.

• More information on Optimal Optimus at TFU.info

• Shukumei no Taiketsu: Metals Convoy VS Metals Megatron (VS pack, 1999)

• ID number:VS-40
• Accessories: Gun, two clubs/missiles

In Japan, Metals Convoy was available both individually and in a "Fateful Showdown" (宿命の対決) two-pack withMetals Megatron. Both toys are identical to their individual releases.

As mentioned below, this two-pack saw a variant release using the Gold Convoy and Silver Megatron toys in their place. While the figures inside the packaging were different, the packaging remained the same.

"Oh? You're approaching me? Instead of running away, you come right to me?"

• Gold Convoy (ゴールドコンボイ, Lucky Draw, 1999)

• ID number:C-40
• Accessories: Gun, two clubs/missiles

A gold version of Metals Convoy sometimes called Gold Metals Convoy (ゴールドメタルスコンボイ) was made available as aLucky Draw figure. While five of it were produced for individual sale^[2], 10 more were awarded in a VS pack withSilver Megatron that were distrituted toKodansha-owned magazines. The December 1999 issue ofTV Magazine^[3] as well in an unknownComic BomBom issue.^[4]

"Buy my DVDs".

• Silver Metals Convoy (シルバーメタルスコンボイ, DVD pack-in, 1999)

• ID number:C-40
• Accessories: Gun, two clubs/missiles

Silver Metals Convoy was available via an offer on aBeast Wars Pioneer DVD. The figure swaps out the blue chrome for silver and replaces the word "Cybertron" with "Pioneer" on his beast mode chest. Silver Metals Convoy was limited to only 100 pieces.

MicroVerse

Seamunky?

• Maximal Orcanoch Micro Playset (Playset, 1997)

• Series:Beast Wars: Transformers
• Known designers:Takio Ejima (TakaraTomy),Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Part of the short-livedMicroVerse toyline (from beforeHasbro's acquisition of rivalGaloob and their micro-toy empire),Orcanoch transforms into a Maximal base. It came with tiny, non-transforming versions of Optimus Primal andTarantulas. These figures were designed to sit in the various mini-vehicles and control modules of theMicroVerse playsets.

• More information onMicroVerse Optimus Primal at TFU.info

Beast Machines

I am the exact opposite of show-accurate.

• Optimus Primal (Deluxe Class, 2000)

• Accessories: Energyshuriken
• Known designers:Yuichiro Hira (TakaraTomy),Tim Bradley (concept artist)

The firstBeast Machines Optimus Primal is a dark bronze and translucent blue technorganic gorilla that transforms into a technorganic robot. Based on early concept art, he has a...loose relationship to show accuracy, with a skeletal beast mode face and entirely different arms. Thankfully his gimmicksare more or less accurate. His right robot mode arm is spring-loaded to throw the shuriken that stores in his left leg (the ape mode's left shoulder). Like allBeast Machines toys, he has a hidden "spark crystal" that displays his faction allegiance; Primal's is in his chest, revealed with the spring-loaded "flexing" motion that also moves his beast mode face up for snarling while posing. His robot mode head also features a changing expression via sliding brow/skullcap.

OfficialHasbro stock photography of this toy shows a differently-molded shuriken, lacking the "energy flame" effect.

• More information on Beast Machines Optimus Primal (Deluxe) at TFU.info

Monkey play in the Jungle
Robot work in the Factory
They will have a Giant Rumble!

• Optimus Primal (Happy Meal toy, 2000)

McDonald'sBeast Machines Optimus Primal is an incredibly simple toy that transforms from a technorganic robot to technorganic ape. Its sculpted detail is based directly that of the television show's model for Primal. It uses translucent plastic for the body, and, like the other McDonald'sBeast Machines toys, there's a sculpted spark crystal on the toy's surface; on Optimus Primal, it is placed on the stomach. Additionally, there are two organic flaps on the toy's back, and in robot mode, nobody's entirely sure exactly what to do with them. Are they rotated all the way down to make his booster jets? Are they rotated out to the sides to make the backs of his shoulder pads? Are they rotated back to where they go in gorilla mode, once you get his heads swapped? We may never know.

• More information on Beast Machines Optimus Primal (McDonald's) at TFU.info

Monkey mates in the Jungle
Robot replicated in Factory
They both love their Mother
Why must they hate each other?

• Blast Punch Optimus Primal (Mega Class, 2001)

• Accessories: Missile
• Known designers:Yuichiro Hira (TakaraTomy)

One of the last toys released in theBeast Machines line (under the "Battle for the Spark" rebranding), "Blast Punch" Optimus Primal transforms into a technorganic gorilla more like the show model, though with a considerably brighter color scheme. His maingimmick is his left arm, which contains a hidden missile launcher. Pushing down on his shoulder armor "winds" the mechanism in his gauntlet. Pushing the spark crystal on his bicep spins his gauntlet around, simultaneously triggering the spring-loaded missile launcher and activating his spring-loaded ramming "blast punch" action, extending his fist forward nearly a full inch. He also has hidden jet thrusters under a panel on his back. In beast mode, a small button on the top of his head pushes his upper face up in a "snarling" action.

Due to the small size of the two gears used to rotate the forearm, manually transforming Optimus's left arm can damage the gimmick to the point of no longer working. The soft plastic used in the gears prevents them from crumbling apart and allowing them to be glued to the pin, but damage can be prevented by using the wind-up mechanism exclusively to transform the arm. If it must be moved by hand, turning the forearm in the same direction as the motor allow the larger gears to safely ratchet to minimize damage.

Blast Punch Optimus Primal wasthe only Japanese release of aBeast Machines toy of Primal, with the only difference between the releases is that Convoy has blue eyes in robot mode.

• More information on Blast Punch Optimus Primal at TFU.info

• Optimus Primal (Jollibee Kids Meal, 2009)

• Accessories: Pen Keeper

Optimus Primal was available as one of three figures in aJollibee promotion. The toy is a greatly simplified version of hisBeast Machines Deluxe toy.

Robots in Disguise (2001)

Monkey versus robot!

• Air Attack Optimus Primal (Supreme Class, 2002)

• Takara release date:August 8, 2002
• Accessories: Disc
• Known designers:Yuichiro Hira (TakaraTomy)

Robots in Disguise Air Attack Optimus Primal is amassive toy based on Primal's show model in theBeast Machines cartoon, transforming into a "technorganic" gorilla. Positively oozing light-and-sound gimmicks in both modes, Optimus Primal doesall sorts'a crazy crap, all of which is first activated by pressing his chest plate. Doing so "turns on" his electronics with a metallic shrieking noise, and the toy proceeds to hum constantly while the chest glows with a red LED. The electronics will eventually "turn off" if the toy is left idle, but you don't want to do that! You want to push his head (in either mode), which activates glowing lights in his eyes and actual speech samples ofGarry Chalk from theBeast Machines cartoon (making Primal the first English-speakingTransformers toy to have speech clips performed by his actual cartoon voice actor). On top of that, the toy also features a pressure-launching disc-shooter in its robot mode stomach (accompanied by blasting sound effect), and a geared right arm with a spring-loaded punch action (and suitably pained electronic grunt).

Thebig feature— the one that gives the toy its name— is his jetpack, which pops out (with translucent blue jet "flames" trailing behind) at the push of a button. This puts the toy into "flight mode", and it constantly produces the sound of whooshing jets, which then rises and falls depending on how the figure is held. Tilt him upwards, and the pitch rises as he ascends! Tilt him down, andzoom! When the jetpack is not deployed, the jet flames are folded up and form Primal's backplate, with the flame blast effect details being repurposed as ape fur.

Also, he has a butt on his head.

Unfortunately, the sparkly brown plastic in this figure's chest and legs suffers from "Gold Plastic Syndrome" and is prone to breaking.

This mold was originally intended for release in theBeast Machines toyline, but that series' early-ish ending meant the toy was eventually released inRobots in Disguise as aToys"R"Usexclusive in June of 2002. As a nod to its origins, the toy's packaging features both an Autobot and Maximal insignia... but the Maximal symbol used, however, is the one used duringBeast Wars rather thanBeast Machines. Whoops.

This toy was released in Japan as a Toys"R"Us-exclusive "USA Edition", sold in Hasbro packaging with some Japanese-language stickers applied for legal information.

• More information on Air Attack Optimus Primal at TFU.info

Universe (2003)

Kinda looks like Don Rickles, don't you think?

• Optimus Primal (Ultra Class, 2003)

• Accessories: Two swords, four missiles, flail

A redeco of theoriginal Ultra Class Optimus Primal mold, with a color scheme that reflects the "infected" look several other toys were sporting in this line, reflecting the events taking place in-fiction. He retains all weapons and gimmicks of the previous releases of this mold, but with a reworked system for his arm mechanism, making his crazy arm swinging much more controlled.

This toy was released in Japan inAugust, 2003 as ane-HOBBY-exclusive "USA Edition".

This deco wasrepurposed as theShattered Glass incarnation ofOptimus Primal.

• More information on Universe Optimus Primal at TFU.info

Robotmasters

There he is, my littler guy.

• Beast Convoy (2004)

• ID number:RM-11
• Release date:August 5, 2004
• Accessories: 2 "Cyber Blades", sword connector, missile launcher, missile

Part of the second wave of Takara'sRobotmasters toys, Beast Convoy is a moreshow-accurate mold primarily based upon the original Ultra Class Optimus Primal figure, and using the original Ultra Class toy's color scheme. The mouthplate features a sculpted mouth, although it is painted silver like the rest of the face, and lacks the Mutant Head from the original figure.

Both forearms contain small, non-firing cannons in them (and thus a skull mace is not included), which can be revealed by flipping up the panels on his arms. Similarly, the missile launchers from the Ultra-class version of the toy have been replaced by non-firing cannons based more closely on the ones from the TV show.

Beast Convoy features open-palmed hands, thus preventing him from holding both of his swords in the same hand, but a small connector-piece is included to connect the swords together, allowing Beast Convoy to hold the lower sword with the upper sword connected.

LikeBeast Megatron andG1 Convoy, Beast Convoy comes with a generic blue missile launcher which can fit in his palm.

• More information on Beast Convoy at TFU.info

• Burning Beast Convoy (2004)

• ID number:RM-21
• Release date:December 28, 2004
• Accessories: 2 "Cyber Blades", missile launcher, missile

Released in the fifth wave ofRobotmasters, this is a redeco of the above Beast Convoy mold using the "Burning Convoy" color scheme from the theater-releaseLio Convoy in Imminent Danger! "movie".

Inexplciably, this release didnot include the tiny sword connector part.

• More information on Burning Beast Convoy at TFU.info

• Beast Convoy Limited Black Version (2005)

• Accessories: 2 "Cyber Blades", sword connector, missile launcher, missile, "Boost Hammer"

Available only via mail order throughHobby Japan magazine, the "Limited Black Version" of Beast Convoy is just that: a straightblack redeco of the Beast Convoy toy. He comes with all his original accessories, appropriately redecoed, as well as a gold-chromed version of the "Boost Hammer"solitarium weapon that came withWrecker Hook.

• More information on Beast Convoy Limited Black Version at TFU.info

Beast Wars Returns

• Convoy (November 18,2004)

• ID number:BR-01
• Accessories: Missile

The Mega ClassBlast Punch Optimus Primal toy was released in Japan in 2004 as "Convoy" as part of theBeast Wars Returns line, exclusive toToys"R"Us stores. The only difference between the releases is that Convoy has blue eyes in robot mode.

• More information on Blast Punch Optimus Primal at TFU.info

Beast Wars 10th Anniversary

Surf monkey / That funky monkey

• Optimus Primal (Beast Wars 10th Anniversary, 2006)

• Accessories: Surfboard, assault blade, missile, Jungle Planet Key,Axalon figurine
• Known designers:Aaron Archer (Hasbro),Takashi Kunihiro (TakaraTomy),Tim Bradley (concept artist),Marcelo Matere (concept artist, packaging artist)

Beast Wars 10th Anniversary Optimus Primal is based loosely on his original ultra ape action figure while pulling some elements from other figures, including a transformation very similar to the Playskool Go-BotGorillabot, which itself was a nod to Optimus Primal'sBeast Machines form. The sculpts for both BWX leader toys were intentionally designed to blend in with the Jungle Planet aesthetic, "in case" they didn't get a Beast Wars Anniversary release (according toAaron Archer's statements atBotCon 2005).

Similar to his Transmetal form, BWX Optimus Primal also comes with a hoverboard with two5mm posts at the base, allowing him to ride it in his gorilla mode, or hold it in robot mode via the 5mm posts on his robot palms/gorilla feet. When aCyber Key is inserted at the rear of the board, a spring-loaded extending "assault blade" (or "ass lt blade" as the instructions call it) deploys, and a trigger is revealed to allow one to use the spring-loaded missile launcher at the tip.

He is also packaged with a mini-comic-sized reprinting ofIDW Publishing'sThe Gathering #1, a smallAxalon ship figurine, and aJungle Planet-style Cyber Key.

This mold wasredecoed intoCybertronOptimus Prime,BotCon 2014Apelinq andPrimal Prime, andUnitedOptimus Primal.

• More information on 10th Anniversary Optimus Primal at TFU.info

• Optimus Primal vs Megatron (Multi-pack, 2006)

• Accessories: Two swords, four missiles, flail

This Toys"R"Us-exclusive set is the Hasbro release of theBeast Wars Reborn set (see below), but in different packaging with a DVD of theBeast Wars episode "Possession". As such, this version of Optimus Primal is identical.

• More information on Optimus Primal (Toys"R"Us Exclusive) at TFU.info

Beast Wars Reborn

The eighth Optimus of the world... PRIMAL!

• Convoy vs Megatron (Multi-pack, 2006)

• ID number:BWR-01
• Accessories: Two swords, four missiles, flail

This release is aretool of the original 1996 Ultra toy, with new beast and robot heads, plus a new robot chest piece sculpted to match the television series's portrayal. The color scheme was also altered to be show-accurate, changing the black to dark gray, much of the light gray to medium gray with hints of bronze, primary red to crimson, and blue to a more dull steel blue. All of the toy's previousgimmicks are retained with the sole exception of the "mutant head."

This figure came packaged with a similarly-remoldedMegatron and aGolden Disk CD-ROM that contains control art for a number ofBeast Wars toys.

G-2

Argh TFWiki headache.

• Battle Convoy (Reissue, 2006)

• ID number:TRF-13
• Accessories: Laser rifle, sword, 5 discs, 3 air power missiles, ripple rocket launcher, 10 rockets

In 1995,Laser Optimus Prime was a newGeneration 2 mold that transformed into mid-1990s Western Star 4964EX, pulling a grey and black fuel tank trailer. On the sides of the trailer is a humorous sticker depicting Laser Optimus Prime using a flamethrower to burn down a forest, with the words "Optimus Prime Octane" over the image.

In robot mode, like Hero Optimus Prime, the bottom of the truck became his familiar windowed chest based upon the original Optimus Prime toy. His main gimmick was light up LED headlights, and alightpipe in the bottom of his right fist, illuminated by an LED in his right forearm, that would illuminate his clear sword or his double-barreled rifle if they were used in that hand. All three LEDs were activated simultaneously by pressing the sunroof-like depression on the roof of the truck.

The trailer unfolds to form a battle station bristling with many firing weapons. Primarily, it can fire an air-powered missile launcher, a ripple rocket launcher with 5 missiles that can be launched individually (this turret can also be mounted in Laser Prime's hand) and a 'disc launcher', that fired several blue plastic discs adorned with theGeneration 2 Autobot sigil. This disc launcher is the only weapon that can be used invehicle mode.

This mold was redecoed in 2000 asCar RobotsBlack Convoy, and slightly retooled as Scourge. After Scourge, the next use of this mold was planned to beUniverseToxitron, which ended up being canceled. The slightly retooled version of this mold was released in 2006 in Japan as reissue Battle Convoy, which was the name of this toy during the JapaneseGeneration 2. The reissue used the2001Robots in Disguise modified tooling, with a slightly modified deco using silver vacuum-metallized plastic on his chest and trailer sides along with additional paint applications and G2 symbols. The mold was also redecoed to create aGeneration 2 version ofUltra Magnus as ane-HOBBY exclusive.

Within theBeast Wars Reborn text story, the reissued Laser Prime toy wasrepurposed as a temporary form for Optimus Primal.

• More information on Laser Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Timelines

Trukk munky?

• Dawn of Future's Past (BotCon 2006 boxset)

• Accessories: Two missiles, MaximalGolden Disk key
• Known designers:Joe Moore (concept artist)^[5]

Aredeco andretool ofCybertron Voyager ClassCrumplezone,Timelines "Axalon Optimus Primal" transforms into a three-wheeled Cybertronic race car with huge turbine thrusters. These thrusters each contain a spring-loaded missile launcher,and can be swung forward in both vehicle and robot mode by plugging aCyber Planet Key into his key-jack. This also activates electronic sound effects - notably, theonly instance of a BotCon-exclusive toy that started out with asoundbox and did not have it removed for cost-cutting reasons. He has a new head that replicates Optimus Primal's firstcharacter model.

Available only in a multi pack with theAxalon versions ofCheetor,Rhinox, andRattrap, as well as theDarksyde version ofDinobot.

Some consider this toy somewhat of an in-joke, because when fans initially saw pics of Crumplezone, they criticised it for looking like a monkey.

• Designer commentary on Axalon Optimus Primal from Joe Moore on Twitter
• More information on Axalon Optimus Primal at TFU.info

Titanium Series

Ready? And... Faceplant!

• Optimal Optimus (6" Cybertron Hero, 2006)

• Accessories: Stand with nameplate
• Known designers:Don Figueroa (concept artist)

Released in the third wave of the 6-inch Cybertron Heroes assortment,Titanium Series Optimal Optimus transforms from robot mode into either his ground vehicle or jet forms, but likely for budgetary reasons, he doesnot have his usual gorilla mode. Also unlike the original toy, his chest cannons can be flipped back into his torso. This toy was denoted as anAutobot both on his stand and on his shoulder, even though Optimal is generally aMaximal.

This figure was going to be used forPrimal Prime, but that toy was ultimately canceled late in its development.

• More information on Titanium Series Optimal Optimus at TFU.info

Binaltech

There! He's a trukk! Ya happy now?

• Black Convoy (2007)

• ID number:BT-17
• Accessories: Engine/blaster

Black Convoy is the firstBinaltech release sinceSkids in early 2006, and was available exclusively in Japan at the winter Wonder Festival in 2007. His plastic colours are different from Nemesis Prime's, with grey plastic replacing the black on his shins, waist, shoulders, and forearms. In addition, Nemesis Prime's windows are tinted red, but Black Convoy's windows are completely clear. His paint deco is based uponKiss Players Convoy's, arranged in the same patterns but using teal, and he has vacuum-metallized wheels and front grill. The paint deco on his head is meant to evoke that ofCar RobotsBlack Convoy. Perhaps the most important differences are that he has die-cast metal parts, and most of his truck body panels are coated in gloss black paint.

Perhaps due to cost-cutting, this toy was released in the large bubble-on-a-tray packaging also used in theAlternators line. However, he came with no character or packaging art.

TheAlternity fictionrepurposes this figure as a new body for Optimus Primal, based on how Primal's disembodied spark had previously taken possession of Nemesis's body earlier in theBinaltech story.

• Archive ofBinaltech Black Convoy's bio and tech specs

Beast Wars Telemocha Series

Anyone else feel like we're going in circles?

• Convoy (2007)

• ID number:TM-01
• Accessories: Two swords

Beast Wars Telemocha Series Convoy is an extensive redeco of theRobotmasters Deluxe-sized Beast Convoy figure in a similar style to theBeast Wars Reborn retool of the original Ultra Class figure.

• More information on Telemocha Convoy at TFU.info

Seriously, we're getting dizzy!

• DX Convoy (2007)

• ID number:TM-SP
• Accessories: Two swords, four missiles, flail

An extensive show-accurate redeco of the original Ultra-class Optimus Primal moldwithout the recently remolded head and chestplate. OhTakaraTomy, you so crazy.

United

Chicks dig hoverboards that turn into giant blasters - right?

• Optimus Primal (February 25,2012)

• ID number:UN-30
• Accessories: Surfboard, assault blade, missile, Jungle Planet Key

Part of the sixth wave ofUnited toys, Optimus Primal (using his Hasbro market name) is arepaint of the Deluxe-sizedBeast Wars 10th Anniversary Optimus Primal toy, and is the first release of the mold in Japan. He features warmer, more yellowish paint for the gorilla chest and face, and relocates theMaximalinsignia to theunderside of his gorilla backsidekibble panel. His hoverboard, meanwhile, uses a darker shade of blue paint for the Cyber Key jack, and the front of the hoverboard features both the "stripes" fromtheCybertron redeco of this toy, and the fully-painted vents from the "10th Anniversary" version.

Like the 5th and 6th wave figures, Optimus Primal's package feature a sticker that said "limited quantity (数量限定)", indicating that this figure is released in limited numbers after its first and only shipment. Both his instructions and packaging brand him as anAutobot.

• More information onUnited Optimus Primal at TFU.info

Legend Commander Collection

The old man's back again.

• Convoy (Beast Wars) (2014)

• ID number:LC-02
• Accessories: Two swords

Part of theLegend Commander Collection sold atTransformers Expo, Convoy (Beast Wars) is a redeco ofRobotmasters Beast Convoy. The toy also features several deco differences: While the paint applications were similar to the firstRobotmasters Beast Convoy toy, the mouth was painted blue like theTelemocha Convoy, the white paint uses on this toy are brighter white compared to the first toy, some of the Robot Mode's chest detailing features lavender white paint details, and the gunmetal paint were used for the Beast Mode face. Like G1 Convoy, Convoy (Beast Wars) doesn't come with the launcher accessory.

Remaining stock of the toy was sold throughTakaraTomy Mall.

Legends

Get up...

• Convoy (Optimus Primal)^[6] (October 25,2014)

• ID number:LG02
• Accessories: Two swords, four missiles, flail

Legends "Convoy" is a redeco of theBeast Wars Reborn retool of theoriginal Ultra Class Optimus Primal toy. While he shares mostly the same paint mask to theReborn figure, some of his parts featured different paint applications; His gunmetal gray chest, face, fingers & chest paint details are now replaced with dark grey. He comes with a leaflet featuring a character profile, tech specs, and theLegends Bonus Edition Volume 2 mini-comic.

Fiction-wise, this toy represents theLegends WorldOptimus Primal after he contractedTransformers sickness for the first time.

..Come on get down with the sickness.

• Convobat (December 19,2016)

• ID number:LG-EX

Available with thee-HOBBY-exclusiveLegendsConvobat figure, Ape X Arms is a redeco ofTitans ReturnApeface's accessory, inOptimal Optimus's colors. Convobat andMegalligator can ride Ape X Arms in robot mode. Ape X Arms can also transform into a 5 mm gun for largerTitans Return or anyLegends Headmaster figures to wield, or combine with either of the two Headmasters to form a jet.

As a redeco of a Titan Master vehicle accessory, care must be taken with the gun mode's handle: the handle fits tightly in many 5 mm-compatible closed hands, and combined with the handle's lack of metal pin running through the joint, removing it by force causes the handle to pop out of the joint.

Platinum Edition

Probably not as fun as a barrel of munkies.

• Optimus Primal (Year of the Monkey exclusive, 2016)

• Accessories: Disc
• Known designers:Ramon Campos (Hasbro)

Sold at the rather expensive price of $140.00 (but often discounted),Platinum Edition "Year of theMonkey" Optimus Primal is a redeco ofRobots in Disguise Air Attack Optimus Primal, with his coloration inspired by an amalgamation ofOptimus Primes and/orPrimal Prime. He retains all the electronic gimmicks from the previous toy, with an exception of the voice clips (unfortunately, only the lines "Optimus Primal" (saidtwice) and "Transformers" are played) and sound effects/music, which was newly recorded. He also sometimes yells "transform!" when pushing his chest, and now growls if you shoot the disc in beast mode or push his monkey head. The chest no longer hums after turning it on.

His stock photos are mistransformed: both his robot and beast mode's chests are inverted, and his beast mode's thumbs are not rotated.

Masterpiece

Best munky ever.

• Convoy (Beast Wars) (October 29,2016)

• ID number:MP-32
• Hasbro release name:Beast Convoy (Optimus Primal)^[7]
• Hasbro release date:June 1,2022
• Accessories: Three ape faces, four robot faces, two Cyber Blades, skull flail (Asia exclusive)
• Known designers:Yuki Ohshima (concept artist)

Released to celebrateBeast Wars's 20th anniversary,Masterpiece Convoy is a faithful recreation of the character as he appeared in the Mainframe animated series.

It's a lost art of weaponry.

Matching his original figure, Convoy has two "cyber blade" swords, which can now be stored on his back in robot mode. Each wrist has cartoon-accurate flip-out "plasma cannons", while his "mega blaster" shoulder cannons have also been recreated. In robot mode, a panel can rotate in his posterior to reveal his "convoy jet".

Convoy has the new gimmick of light-up eyes. These are powered by two computer batteries stored in the beast mode head and activated by pressing down the robot mode head. They stay lit for about ten seconds. Convoy comes with three different gorilla faces: neutral; smiling and angry, and four different robot mode faces: open-mouthed; close-mouthed; smirking and original style mouthless faceplate.

Masterpiece Convoy is an inch or two smaller than his original Ultra Class toy, comparable to Beast Wars NeoBig Convoy. Not shown in the instructions is a peghole in the waist, designed to allow Convoy to be mounted on a flying stand. Another undocumented feature is a peg on his back, that allowsGenerationsRattrap (and laterMasterpiece Rattle) to ride on his back by plugging the aforementioned peg in the hole that is normally used for weapon storage in beast mode.

If bought in Asian countries outside of Japan, he also comes with a die-cast skull flail based on the one that came with the original toy. It comes packaged in a cardboard box designed to look like a crate ofbananas.

Convoy was a candidate in TakaraTomy'sMasterpiece Fan's Choice poll in 2013, which asked fans to determine which Autobot/Maximal leader from the franchise's then-30 year history should receive a newMasterpiece toy. He only placed sixth, with 4.6% of the vote. Good things come to those who wait, we guess.

In2021,Hasbro Pulse revealed that they would be carrying Takara-Tomy's concurrent reissue of Beast Convoy exclusively through their website for a 2022 release date, with other online retailers following a couple of months thereafter. This release is identical to the original 2016 figure, except for two minor differences. First, the "Beast Wars 20th Anniversary" logo on the box front is changed to the standard Masterpiece "Long Life Design" stamp as the 20th anniversary no longer applied. Second, the figure's shoulderpads can now close fully around upper arms for ape mode, a minor error on the original run, and the previously delicate matte paint is now far more durable, no longer scratching off during normal transformation.

• More information on Optimus Primal (Masterpiece) at Transformers-Universe.com

• Cheetus (Beast Wars) (February 25, 2017)

• ID number:MP-34

Preorders ofMasterpieceCheetus supplied by Hasbro Asia come with a die-cast Optimus Primal minifigure, as opposed to thecollector coin typically accompanyingMasterpiece releases from Hasbro Asia.^[8]

Best-er Munkey

• Convoy (Beast Wars) Legendary Leader Ver. (June 24,2017)

• ID number:MP-38
• Accessories: Ape face, masked robot faces, two Cyber Blades, Double Blade, weapon rack, hammer, Beast Mask, backpack,bananas (Asia exclusive)

This Optimus Primal is a redeco of the firstMasterpiece figure above, with the deco greatly resembling his original toy colors and his appearance in theBeast Wars Special "Lio Convoy in Imminent Danger!" He also comes with a combined sword (representing putting both swords in the hand of the original toy), a "weapon rack" to mount said combined sword, an additional skull flail (a new mold from the Asia exclusive accessory that came from the first release), a new mask which is based on his original toy's mutant head, and a new backpack piece that mounts on the back peg to mount the combined swords, the skull mace and the mutant head mask on Primal's back.

If bought in Asian countries outside of Japan, he also comes with a bunch of bananas in a cardboard crate. Each banana is a separate piece that can be removed from the stalk piece.

Super Simian

• Burning Convoy (Beast Wars) (March 25,2020)

• ID number:MP-38+
• Accessories: Ape faces, masked robot faces, two Cyber Blades

Released to accompanyMP-48 Lio Convoy, Burning Convoy is yet another redeco of the firstMasterpiece figure, this time resembling his Burning Convoy appearance from "Lio Convoy in Imminent Danger!" He also has a reduced inventory, with only two of the gorilla and robot faces each.

Due to shipment issues, Hasbro Pulse's release of Burning Convoy was delayed to April 2020.

Burning Convoy was released as an EB Games exclusive in Canada and Australia.

Titans Return

• Optimus Primal (Titan Master,2017)

• Known designers:John Warden (Hasbro)

ForTitans Return, Hasbro apparently intended to release aTitan Master version of Optimus Primal, which would have been a redeco ofApeface with alternate head^[9] and would have been included inwave 5 alongsideRamhorn andToraizer. A listing was first found inToys"R"Us's systems.^[10] Almost a year later, a listing was also found onAmazon's German website;^[11] but ultimately, Ramhorn was the only new Titan Master figure included in wave 5, and it's currently unclear how far the Toraizer and Optimus Primal even made it in the planning stage. AWalmart listing under the UPC barcode assigned to Optimus Primal now reads as "discontinued by vendor".^[12]

Proceed on your way to oblivion. This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

Power of the Primes

If you don't wantBeast Wars to win, don't put it on the ballot!

• Evolution Optimal Optimus (Leader Class,2018)

• TakaraTomy ID number:PP-27
• TakaraTomy release date:August 25, 2018
• Accessories: Evolution Armor, two cannons/clubs,Matrix of Leadership frame, Matrix of Leadership core, 2 blast shields
• Known designers:Aaron Gray andJohn Warden (Hasbro),Shogo Hasui (TakaraTomy)

In accordance with his victory in a poll to choose the nextPrime, Optimus Primal received a toy inPower of the Primes. Like allPower of the Primes Leader Class figures, Optimus is a small Deluxe-sized robot who combines with the armor to form a larger figure based on the "Optimal Optimus" toy from the originalBeast Wars toyline. His smaller robot form transforms into a futuristic cargo ship; according to Hasbro atToy Fair 2018, the inner robot is meant to represent his Cybertronian form.

He includes a Matrix of Leadership accessory with a removable center crystal, allowing anyPrime Master to take its place. The Matrix can store in the cockpit, in reference to theBeast Wars episode "Optimal Situation", as well as two cannons which can be held as clubs or as guns in robot mode, and they can store in the legs of the Evolution Armor in ape mode. The Evolution Armor transforms into Optimal Optimus's gorilla mode, minus his backpack. The gorilla can ride Optimus Primal's ship mode as a surfboard, as a callback to Primal'sTransmetal body andBeast Wars 10th Anniversary Deluxe figure. Optimus Primal can transform into a backpack for the gorilla, or combine with the armor to form a jet; the toy doesnot turn into the wheeled "ground cruiser" mode of the original OpOp. His two cannons can be placed next to his head, or on his chest after moving the cockpit downwards. They can also be left off and combined into a larger rifle or stored on his legs. In combined robot or ape mode, the weapons (individually or as a rifle) can be pegged into a 5mm post hole on either thumb, through there is no real way to do this that isn't awkward due to the placement.

Optimus Prime's belief that "thrones are for Decepticons" isn't shared by Optimus Primal.

• Throne of the Primes (2018)

• TakaraTomy ID number:PP-43
• TakaraTomy release date:January 26,2019
• Accessories: Evolution Armor, two cannons/clubs, Matrix of Leadership frame, Matrix of Leadership core, 2 blast shields, crown,Scepter of Sparks,Throne of the Primes, 4 Prime Master figures
• Known designers:Marcelo Matere (throne designer, packaging artist)

Power of the Primes "Throne of the Primes" Optimal Optimus is aSan Diego Comic-Con 2018-exclusive redeco of Evolution Optimal Optimus. The biggest change in his deco is to the Evolution Armor itself, which features the same colors as the core figure. The waist and backpack of the core figure, along with the blast shields, are cast in same dark gray as his shoulders, chest, and calves. The outer shell of the Matrix core figure is recolored reddish-orange, and the cannons feature additional paint applications.

The additional accessories tie in to Primal's winning of the2017 fan vote for the next Prime. The Scepter of Sparks, modelled after theTransmetal figure's club, which doubles as a mace, can hold up to four Prime Masters, such as the four included in this set. The crown is a new mold, featuring the Maximal logo on the front. Finally, the Throne of the Primes, while a cardboard insert, features artwork of the faces of the eight other competitors in the survey—Arcee,Ultra Magnus,Hound,Shockwave,Megatron,Star Saber,Thunderwing, andUnknown Evil. The Prime Masters can also be stored in theHalo of Primus, a circular rotating plastic tray included on the back of the throne.

The four Primes he comes with areAmalgamous,Nexus,Prima and theThirteenth.

For some odd reason, HasbroToyShop stock photography showed the figure with aMegatronusInfernocard, despite the figure coming with his own special card.

Debuting at SDCC 2018, this set was later made available viaHasbro Toy Shop, but sold out in about 20 minutes. The toy was later released at general retail in Taiwan and Japan.

Encore

Ha, screw youscale!

• Returns Convoy (November 24,2018)

• Accessories: Disc

Encore Returns Convoy is a redeco ofBeast Machines Supreme ClassAir Attack Optimus Primal, featuring a show-accurate deco on the majority of the figure (which had the pleasant side effect of curing the toy ofGold Plastic Syndrome). As a Japanese re-release, Returns Convoy's voice lines are provided byTakehito Koyasu, including one referencing the infamous "Yvonco Pettanko" joke from theBeast Wars Returns episode "The Cost of Victory".

War for Cybertron: Kingdom

New slogan of the year:TRUKKAND MUNKY!

• Optimus Primal (Voyager Class,2020)

• Hasbro ID number:WFC-K8
• TakaraTomy ID number:KD-01
• TakaraTomy release date:March 27, 2021
• Accessories: Two "Cyber Blades"
• Known designers:Lenny Panzica (Hasbro),Yūya Ōnishi (TakaraTomy),Ken Christiansen (concept artist)^[13]

Released to commemorate the 25th anniversary ofBeast Wars,War for Cybertron: Kingdom Optimus Primal transforms from a robot accurate to his appearance in the first season of theBeast Wars cartoon into a realistic gorilla in 22 steps, as well as a cartoon-accurateKing Kong style bipedal gorilla third mode. The figure makes up for its size with above-average articulation, including butterfly shoulder joints, double-jointed knees, opening hands, rotating shins for a foot point, and toe articulation in both modes. Optimus Primal also has fold-out shoulder cannons, two Cyber Blades that store on his back in either mode and pop-out jointed forearm blasters. A rarity for theWar for Cybertron Trilogy, Optimus Primal has no5 mm ports barring his hands, making him largely incompatible with theC.O.M.B.A.T. System. However, he still features 3 mm posts at the end of his blaster tips, as well as his buttflap; helping to replicate his "Primejets" from theBeast Wars cartoon. His hands also feature articulated fingers along with a thumb molded to approximate the 5 mm peghole, although due to this he cannot hold both Cyber Blades in one hand as the original figure could.

Stock renders cast his robot-mode feet in a more show-accurate grey. Hasbro stock photography (right) is mistransformed, with the robot mode's shoulder cannons still extended on the gorilla's shoulders. Some pictures also pose his gorilla legs in a way that makes the flap of thigh-coveringkibble appear like a loincloth, when it can plug into hisflight stand port to sit flush with the legs for a natural appearance. Optimus Primal also comes packaged with his shoulder cannons deployed, although they can be folded away in robot mode. Some specimens have silver paint on the Cyber Blades, others are off-white. It is not known whichvariant is more common.

Due to insufficient clearance in his waist area, it isvery easy to scrape off the white paint on top of his inner thigh by simply manipulating the figure. The most permanent solution would be to disassemble the waist and shave down the contacting surfaces.^[14] Otherwise, exercise lots of caution when moving his hips.

Like allKingdom Voyager figures, Optimus Primal comes with aGolden Disk card that "reveals a possible destiny of a key character", with each character having three possible destiny variants.

• Burning Optimus Primal (Voyager Class,2023)

• ID number:KD-EX
• Release date:January 4, 2024
• Accessories: Two "Cyber Blades"

Released to promoteRise of the Beasts, this Optimus Primal is a redeco of theKingdom Voyager Class figure in his "Burning Convoy" form. He reuses the packaging from the regular release with Japanese text stickers, but does not come with a Golden Disk card.

Burning Optimus Primal was available as a Lawson Ticket exclusive item, where the customers had to buy a special ticket for the film along with the figure. He was also sold individually, unlike the concurrently releasedNemesis Prime.

Orders for Burning Optimus Primal began shipping out in January 2024.

War for Cybertron Trilogy

Reject 1984; Return to Munky

• Optimus Primal (Battle 2-pack,2021)

• TakaraTomy ID number:WFC-19
• TakaraTomy release date:December 29, 2021
• Accessories: Two "Cyber Blades"

War for Cybertron Trilogy Optimus Primal is a minor redeco of the Kingdom figure, with the only major differences being show accurate grey feet, lighter eyes in beast mode, and all-around darker colours. Gunmetal replaces all light silver on the figure and light silver replaces the metallic blue on the inner chest section. Primal is packaged with a similarly redecoedRattrap figure.

In addition to same the paint-scraping hips as before, his hands are now almost completely covered in black paint, and paint in the 5mm palms can wear off over time.

Vintage Beast Wars

You have seen this toyso many times on this page.

• Optimus Primal (Reissue, 2021)

• Accessories: Two swords, four missiles, flail

In celebration of the 25th anniversary ofBeast Wars, the original 1996 Ultra Class Optimus Primal was reissued under theVintage Beast Wars lineup. Optimus Primal features all the same accessories and functionality as the latest mold use of the original toy but differs slightly in deco, having a slate blue instead of regular blue for the missiles, swords, and mace handle. The front and back of the head are now cast in gray plastic, painted dark metallic blue and the faceplate is thenpainted flat gray over that—as opposed to the original, where the back was cast in red plastic and the front was flat gray plastic with the helmet painted blue. The lack of bare red plastic on the back of the head affects the look of the mutant face in its intended configuration (specifically, the red mutant eyes and red mutant mouth no longer have a matching red mutant forehead, since the back of the head - which the mask is meant to cover - is now blue). The robot mode chest is also lacking any inner red paint applications from the original.

Much likeVintage G1, Optimus Primal is packaged in a box styled after the originalBeast Wars toy packaging,package art and all. Also similar toVintage G1, the time disparity since the original release has the toy reasonably set at over double the price of the toy's 1996 release, $52.99 USD versus $20, and is exclusive toWalmart in the United States and Canada. Due to accommodating multiple languages, the bio card was also drastically changed, displaying fewer attributes as well as the numerical stats of the originalBeast Wars cards being replaced with the stat icons used onTitans Return tech spec cards. Thecross-sell forCheetor andRattrap label them both inaccurately as Mega Class figures, instead of Deluxe Class and Basic Class, respectively (though bothare priced the same).

Classic Heroes Team

• Optimus Primal (All Star Rescan,2022)

• Known designers:Marcelo Matere (packaging artist)

Classic Heroes Team Optimus Primal is aRescue Bots-style Rescan figure, featuring a simple conversion from gorilla to robot mode. He features a pair of (non-firing) missile launchers on his back in both modes.

Somewhat of a rarity amongTransformers toys, both the toy itself and its packaging lack insignias or any kind of mention to what faction the character belongs to.

• Optimus Primal (All Star Rescan,2024)

• Known designers:Marcelo Matere (packaging artist)

A redeco of the figure above in a darker color scheme and with more blue accents than red. The color shades are closer to those of theAuthentics figure below.

The packaging art has not been recolored to reflect the changes in the toy itself.

Authentics

King Kong Adventure Phock.

• Optimus Primal (Titan Changer, 2022)

Authentics Titan Changer Optimus Primal is a 28 cm figure with a very simple conversion from robot to gorilla.

• Optimus Primal (Bravo, 2023)

• Accessories: 2 Blasters

Released in the sixth wave ofAuthentics "Bravo" figures, Optimus Primal is a smaller version (about the size of a Scout Class figure) of the character. He comes with two (rubbery) blasters that he can hold, mount on his robot-mode shoulders, or mount on his back in gorilla mode. Unlike most of the "Bravo" figures, Primal features fairly decent articulation, though the elbows are rather limited due to the forearm's single-direction socket joint. Like the Titan Changer, this Optimus Primal isnot designed to have a bipedal gorilla form, though it still can be approximated by standing his gorilla mode up, though it leaves visible gaps on each leg and the head looking up due to being hindered by the chest panel.

Beast Wars Again

Stampy: "Take one more step on that rope and I'll cut it!"
Primal: *pulls the entire continent over to him*

• Kōkyū Beast no Taiketsu (August 26,2023)

• ID number:BWVS-01
• Accessories: Two "Cyber Sabers"
• Known designers:Hisashi Yuki (TakaraTomy),Hidetsugu Yoshioka (packaging artist)

Released as part of theBeast Wars Again line, the "Eternal Beast Showdown" (恒久ビーストの対決) set contains Convoy andMegatron. Convoy is a redeco ofKingdom Optimus Primal in a slavishly cartoon-accurate deco based on his appearance in the first season of theBeast Wars cartoon. Unlike the previous two uses of the mold, this version of Primal solves the paint-scraping hip issue by molding the thighs themselves in white plastic, instead painting the gorilla fur details on the outsides of the thighs black.

MixMashers

• Optimus Primal (2025)

• Accessories: 2 Cyber Blades, Stinger Cannon

MixMashers Optimus Primal is a 5-inch non-transforming action figure modeled after his evergreen design, and he features 10 detachable base body parts (which includes the shoulders, something that is not featured in theHero Mashers line), all of which use the same clip-peg/hole joint with soft ratchets. Apart from his signature Cyber Blades, Primal also comes with a rather fiery orange "Stinger Cannon" arm piece, which is intended for this line's Bumblebee. Unlike the previousHero Mashers, Primal features removable shoulder parts, though it retains the single-plane swivel articulation.

The Skull Flail arm from the same line's Starscream serves as an additional accessory for Primal himself.

Swapticons

• Wild Jungle Mission (Multi-pack,2025)

Part of the firstSwapticons five-pack, Optimus Primal transforms into the back half of a semi-organic/semi-robotic gorilla. While his nominal placement is as the back half of a full robo-ape with his pack-in partnerApelinq, he can attach to any other Swapticon, front or back, to make whatever silly abomination you feel like unleashing.

Primal's arms are not composed of any of his beast-mode body parts, and are meant to simply blend in as patches of fur. However, his bright blue hands are clearly visible. His robot mode is primarily based on his original ape design, with the cannons on his beast mode hips based on the hidden missile launchers of his 1996 toy.

The set also comes with the DecepticonsSkullcruncher,Megatron Gator, andScorponok (theBeast Wars one, not theGeneration 1 Scorponok, he's in another set).

Merchandise

Beast Wars Transformers Slide Puzzle

• Beast Wars Transformers Slide Puzzle (1996)

Released to advertiseBeast Wars' airing in Japan, a small, hand-held slide-puzzle depicting Optimus Primal in robot mode, brandishing a sword, one arm cannon deployed, and looking very dynamic.

Beast Wars Transformers Mutating Card Game

• Beast Wars Transformers Mutating Card Game (1997)

Optimus Primal was one of the 24 beast warriors to receive a battle card representation for theBeast Warscard game.

Beast Wars Transformers Sneakers

• Beast Wars Transformers Sneakers (1997)

A pair of red, black and white sneakers, with theBeast Wars logo printed on the sole, a photo of Primal's beast mode head on the toe, and the name "OPTIMUS PRIMAL" repeated around the shoe's lateral.

Kabaya

Grape ape.

• Convoy vs Megatron (candy toy, 1997)

• ID number:1

Part ofKabaya'sBeast Wars Choco line ofcandy toys, this small soft-rubber figurine of Optimus Primal—known in Japan as akeshigomu—came in a set with a similar figure of Megatron, along with a bio card and candy-covered chocolates. The figures were available in either translucent purple or smoky grey rubber.

Little Apetimus Prime

• Convoy (candy toy, 1997)
  • ID number:1
  • Accessories: Mace, two swords

A snap together model kit of Optimus Primal was available as part ofKabaya'sBeast Wars Gum line ofcandy toys. Based on his original Ultra-class gorilla toy, the kit was sculpted from purple and black plastic with some sparse stickers for details, and could transform from robot to beast mode by being broken down into its component parts, then rebuilt into a new mode. It came with a stick of gum.

• Convoy (1997)

A nontransformable figurine of bat-body Primal, sculpted in a sword-wielding action pose across a blue base. Figure is painted.

• Convoy (candy toy, 1997)

A tiny plastic Convoy figurine in his gorilla body and molded onto an irregularly-shaped stand was released by Kabaya. Labeled toy 1 of 6, the other characters in his wave were Dinobot, Rattrap, Megatron, Cheetor, and Rhinox. As always, terrible candy is included.

• Transmetal Convoy (1999, Standard Kit)

Another small transformable figure was based on his first Transmetal body. It was multicolored and also came with gum.

• Transmetal Convoy (1999, Standard Kit)

A second, but non-transformable figure of Transmetal Optimus Primal was made in clear plastic, blue, and gray. Gum!

1999 Summer Toei Anime Fair

There's two and they're blue, with a back-view showing details just for you!

• Metals Convoy Clear-Type Figure (Toei Anime Fair present, 1999)

Released along with Arthur from theTiny Giant Microman anime, this Metals Convoy figurine is a small, rubbery, transparent light-blue figurine based on his Transmetal form.

Each figurine was packed in a semi-translucent-gray baggie, sealed with a single piece of tape. Included inside the baggie was also a sheet of paper with warnings and choking hazards on it.

He and Arthur were available for the boy's section of the pre-screening purchase of the1999 Summer Toei Anime Fair. Metals Convoy was limited to 100 pieces.

Metal Monument

Pelvic thrust: ON! Hungh!

• Metal Monument Convoy (TAKARA, 1999)

As the name suggests, the product is adie-cast statue of Optimus Primal. The head is convertible/removable in order to change the normal one with the battle mask/mutant head. Thebox art and the design of the product are both done byHirofumi Ichikawa.

Real Figure

The Transmetal monkey says "blow it."

• Real Figure Metals Convoy (TAKARA, 1999)
  • Accessories: 2 shoulder panels

A pocket-sized version of Transmetal Optimus Primal was released in Japan by Takara in 1999. The tiny figure is fully transformable from gorilla to robot, though the shoulder panels need to be removed and placed on the gorilla mode sides. The figure is low on articulation, only having movable elbows and knees, though the latter is for his transformation. It lacks the "flying surfboard" mode of the larger toy.

This Real Figure is the only one to be transformable, as subsequent releases were merely mini-figures with limited articulation.

Titanium Series

This Primal wasn't built—it waspoured!

• Optimus Primal (3" Robot Master figurine, 2006)
  • Accessories: Stand, swords

This 3-inch die-cast and plastic figurine of Optimus Primal features him in hisBeast Wars season 1 appearance, with swords drawn in an action pose. The swords can be removed from his hands if you feel like it. He came with anAutobot figure stand, weirdly enough.

• More information on Titanium Series Optimus Primal at TFU.info

First 4 Figures

This Primal wasn't built.

• Optimus Primal (2006 unreleased)

• Known designers:Henry Cheng

First revealed in 2006 at both the UK^[15] and New YorkToy Fairs,^[16] this was to be an 8-inch tall resin bust of Optimus Primal released as part of aBeast Wars tenth anniversary series by model companyFirst 4 Figures. Primal is depicted from the pelvis and upwards and mounted on a Maximal-themed base, and is sculpted in a style generally accurate to theBeast Wars cartoon series, though with the all-blue sword of theoriginal Ultra Class toy (and a product listing that bizarrely noted an influence fromDreamwave Productions).^[17]

Mini busts in the plannedBeast Wars line were designed to reflect the scale of the characters as seen in the cartoon, and each was set to be limited to 1,996 pieces, in a nod to the franchise's year of origin.^[18] Primal was among the first intended to be released (likelythe first, given both finalised stock images and a full product listing) in July 2006, though after a series of delays, he and the rest of theBeast Wars bust line were cancelled, with First 4 Figures citing a challenging marketplace and lack of retailer interest.

Proceed on your way to oblivion. This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

3D Battle-Card Game

All your favorite 3D action!

• Optimus Primal (2007)

A 52-point "rare" character in the3D Battle-Card Game's "Energon Wars" expansion, Optimus Primal "transforms" into a black ape. He uses the same parts layout asCheetor,Ravage, andRampage, although the figure's beast mode is assembled differently. Optimus Primal is nominally the leader of the Autobots in the set. The surface of the figure uses images of the original Ultra ape toy.

Robot Heroes

Primal mocks Tarantulas's inability to display jazz hands.

• Optimus Primal & Predacon Tarantulas (Two-pack, 2008)

• Known designers:Bill Rawley (Hasbro),Marcelo Matere (concept artist)

Part of the second wave ofUniverseRobot Heroes, this PVC figurine of Optimus Primal's original gorilla body has articulation in the shoulders and neck. He was available only in a "Beast Wars Series" two-pack withTarantulas (amusingly enough, thePredacon he also came with in theMicroVerseOrcanoch playset).

• More information on Robot Heroes Optimus Primal at TFU.info

The next Bio-Force Ape? Only time will tell.

• Optimus Primal & Jetstorm (Two-pack,2009)

• Known designers:Bill Rawley (Hasbro),Marcelo Matere (concept artist)

Optimus Primal would have come withJetstorm in this "Beast Machines Series" set. Like the other laterRobot Heroes waves, this toy was cancelled because retailers only wantedRevenge of the Fallen toys. Some managed to trickle out into the wild - the picture seen here comes from an eBay auction. He looks... Unhinged, to say the least.

Proceed on your way to oblivion. This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

Forever Clever

• Clip Charms Optimus Primal (2024)

Released in blind bags,Clip Charms features a keychain of Optimus Primal's face on a rectangular background with PRIME written underneath.

Squeezelings

• Optimus Primal (Series 2, 2023)

Squeezelings Optimus Primal is asuper deformed, non-posable figure made of soft plastic, released byForever Clever. He was released in a gift set alongsideOptimus Prime,Bumblebee andMegatron, inblind bags, or on blister card individually. He was later rereleased in Squeezelings Sidekicks, where he came with a comic.

Prime 1 Studio

Premium Masterline

• Optimus Primal (2017)
  • ID Number:PMTFBW-01 /01EX (exclusive)
  • Accessories: Base, alternate head, battle mask (exclusive)

Prime 1 StudioPremium Masterline Optimus Primal is a highly detailed statue of Primal's robot mode posing over the bits of a destroyedWaspinator. He features LED lights on his eyes.

The statue comes with an alternate head with an angry expression. The exclusive version also comes with another head with his face covered by his battle mask.

The standard version was limited to 500 pieces, while the exclusive version was limited to 200 pieces.

Cutie1

• Optimus Primal (2022)
  • ID Number:No:058
  • Accessories: Stand

Cutie1 Optimus Primal is a soft vinyl figure stylized as a button-eyed doll with chibi proportions.

Flame Toys

Furai Action

• Optimus Primal (June 2021)

If you build it, they will play. Thistoys & merchandise-related article is astub. You can helpTransformers Wiki byexpanding it.

Furai Model

• Optimus Primal (20??)

• Known designers:Akira Amemiya (concept artist)

This item is currently scheduled for release, but is not yet available at mass retail.

R.E.D. [Robot Enhanced Design]

• Optimus Primal (2021)
  • Accessories: 2 Cyber Blades, 2 alternate hands

• Known designers:Dennis Chan (sculptor)

Released in the fourth wave of theTransformers R.E.D. line, Optimus Primal is a 6-inch action figure akin to the ones from theMarvel Legends andStar Wars The Black Series lines. He features over 30 points of articulation and extensive paint operations in an attempt atshow-accuracy.

Optimus Primal includes two closed fists, and a pair of open hands to hold his two Cyber Blade accessories; the blades can connect end to end at the hilt to create a double-ended weapon. A blaster is hidden in each of his forearms, which are revealed by pushing underneath his wrists. Additionally, he features a pair of blasters that flip forward over his shoulders.

As with allR.E.D. toys, Optimus Primal was a Walmart exclusive in Canada and the United States, and was later made available onHasbro Pulse in limited quantities.

Transformers Character Card

• Convoy (Beast Wars) and Megatron (Beast Wars) Set (April 14,2022)
  • ID number:15 & 16

Released as part of the third wave of thee-HOBBY exclusiveTransformers Character Card series, this pair of holographic trading cards depict super-deformed art of "Convoy" andMegatron along withcharacter profiles andtech specs.

• Translation of Optimus Primal's Transformers Character Card

• Convobat & Megaligator[sic] Set (November 1 2022)
  • ID number:29 & 30

• Known designers:Shōji Imaki (illustration)

Released as part of the fifth wave of thee-HOBBY exclusiveTransformers Character Card series, this pair of holographic trading cards depict super-deformed art of "Convobat" and"Megaligator" (distinct from the separate charactersConvobat andMegalligator) in their Wave 1 Basic Class bodies along withcharacter profiles andtech specs. Optimus Primal is specifically depicted in his "Bat Primal" body.

• Translation of Beast Wars Convobat's Transformers Character Card

• Throne of the Primes & Fallen Set (June,2024)
  • ID number:89 & 90

Released as part of the twelfth wave of thee-HOBBY exclusiveTransformers Character Card series, this pair of holographic trading cards depict super-deformed art of Optimus Primal in his souped up "Throne of the Primes" form and theFallen along withcharacter profiles andtech specs.

• Translation ofThrone of the Primes Optimus Primal's Transformers Character Card

Jada Toys

Nano Metalfigs

• Transformers Series 2 18-pack (4cm Die Cast Figure Multipack, 2022)

Released byJada Toys,Nano Metalfigs Optimus Primal is an incredibly small die-cast figurine molded doing an action pose. He has a little base attached to his feet for balancing reasons.

He is marketed as an Autobot instead of a Maximal and comes in an impressive multipack withseventeen other figurines.

• Transformers Series 3 18-pack (4cm Die Cast Figure Multipack, 2023)

Nano Metalfigs Optimus Primal was re-released with no noticeable changes inanother impressive multipack withseventeen other figurines.

Metalfigs

• Optimus Prime / Bumblebee / Optimus Primal / Megatron (2 3/4" Die Cast Figure 4-pack, 2022)

Metalfigs Optimus Primal is a static die-cast figurine of super deformed proportions. He is available in a 4-pack alongsideOptimus Prime,Bumblebee andMegatron.

• Optimus Primal (2 3/4" Die Cast Figure, 2023)

The same super deformed Optimus Primal from the 4-pack above is also available in individual packaging.

Authentics

Reversible Plushie

• Reversible Plushie Optimus Primal (2025)

Released byTeeTurtle,Reversible Plushie Optimus Primal is a round,super deformed plush, that can be turned inside out to reveal a gorilla alternate mode. It is 3 inches tall and exclusively available from blind boxes, where it is noted as being rare.

ReAction

• Optimus Primal (2023)

• Accessories: 2 swords

Released in the seventh wave ofSuper7's line of multi-property 3.75-inch "retro" action figures,ReAction Optimus Primal is a non-converting figure based on his originalMainframecharacter model, with five points of articulation (swivel neck, shoulders, hips). He even has his shoulder-launchers/jetpack-thrusters in back, but they arenot articulated so don't even try. Oddly, his legs are molded with a slight lean-back to them at the ankle, meaning his torso has to lean forward a tiny bit for the figure to stay upright without the use of a stand.

He includes his two curved swords, though the shape of the handles and the way his hands grip make them tricky to work into place; it's likely that repeated accesorizing/de-accessorizing may stress the plastic of his hands.

Optimus Primal comes packaged on a small cardback that mixes the design of the originalBeast Wars packaging with some nostalgic elements resemblingKenner'sStar Wars action figures from the late 1970s to early '80s.

• Optimus Primal Hyper Steel (2023)

• Accessories: 2 swords, spark

A redeco ofReAction Optimus Primal cast in translucent black plastic, an odd choice for a "steel"-named deco, though all of his paint is metallic. This release also adds a new accessory, a floatingspark which can be held via a slot and hole that correspond to the fingers and thumb on his right hand.

This figure was aTargetexclusive alongside the similarMegatron Hyper Steel, released at the same time as the regularBeast Wars ReAction wave.

Curiously, the Super7 website lists this toy as "Optimus Primal (Metallic)".

• Optimus Primal Burning Red (2023)

• Accessories: 2 swords

Yet another Target exclusive redeco ofReAction Optimus Primal, this one is based on the "Burning Convoy" redeco of the original Ultra-class toy, cast in transparent red plastic with metallic gunmetal and gold paint accents. Veryspecifically the toy deco, not the anime model that theMasterpiece toy used.

This figure also cost an extra two dollars over the previous exclusive's price tag, despite coming with less stuff. Good ol' greedflation.

Milestone

• Optimus Primal (2023)

Designed byDiamond Select, this "Milestone" statue of Optimus Primal was to represent his season 1 body. The statue stood 14 inches tall, posed to look as though it were suspended in midair by Primal's jet exhaust. Listing pages described a production run of 1,000 and an MSRP of $500, but it went unreleased.

Proceed on your way to oblivion. This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

Beyblade X

SHARK NOT MUNKY

• Optimus Primal and Starscream Multipack Set (2024)

Optimus Primal 3-60F was available in a two-pack withStarscream 3-80N, which was exclusive to Amazon in Hasbro territories, and exclusive B4-sponsored stores in Takara-Tomy territories. It consists of three pieces that can be interchanged with those ofotherBeyblade X tops; an attacking "Blade" primarily made of metal, a "Ratchet" that locks parts together and determines height, and a "Bit" that touches the ground and determines movement.

The "Optimus Primal" Blade features evergreen art of Optimus Primal on its central Gear Chip and is a retool of the mainlineBeyblade X Blade "Keel Shark". The Ratchet (3-60) and Bit (Flat) are recolored parts from otherBeyblade X tops.

In Hasbro territories, a QR Code sticker hidden underneath the Blade can be scanned into theBeyblade X companion app. In Takara-Tomy territories, the QR Code stickers are omitted in favor of a Beycode Card packed with the instructions. However, scanning any of these QR codes only awards the player with in-app points, and will not unlock the Beyblade for in-game use like it would for any mainlineBeyblade X tops.

Blokees

• Optimus Primal (2025)

• Series:Defender Version 06 - Brutal Fang
• Pull rate: 1/24

Sold as part ofBlokees' 6th wave of Defender Version blind-boxed kits, this Optimus Primal (in his Robot Mode) is a 2.2-inch (5.5 cm) figure, a few inches smaller than theGalaxy/Shining Version kits, but still articulated. The pegs on the lower rear were meant for storing the Cyber-blades, which were included in the Special Armor Type release of the kit.

• Optimus Primal - Gorilla (2025)

• Series:Defender Version 06 - Brutal Fang
• Pull rate: 1/12

This Defender Version kit of Optimus Primal is molded in his alternate Gorilla mode. He is also one of only two Defender Version kits to include pre-assembled hinge joints from the 5thGalaxy Version wave; in Primal's case, they function as his elbow joints.

Not exactly Transmetal, but close enough.

• Special Galaxy Type Optimus Primal (2025)

• Series:Defender Version 06 - Brutal Fang
• Pull rate: 5/144

One of the four chase figures of the line, the "Special Galaxy Type" Optimus Primal is a metallic redeco of the figure above, and he also features additional details to make him more accurate to the show, such as the red upper thighs and the painted blue lips.

• Special Armor Type Optimus Primal (2025)

• Series:Defender Version 06 - Brutal Fang
• Pull rate: 1/144
• Accessories: 2 Cyber-swords, Mutant face head

The "Special Armor Type" version of the Optimus Primal kit is an alternate version of the Special Galaxy Type chase figure, decked out in metallic paint, and comes with new tooling such as the cannon-mounted forearms, and the additional armaments such as the Cyber-swords. Additionally, the figure includes a new extra head based on the Mutant face from the original toy.

Notes

“Yeah? Well, you know, that's just like uh, Prime, man.”

• Early inBeast Wars development, Hasbro conceived manta ray toys of "Optimus Prime" (before the cartoon made Primal a separate character) to go with "Megatron" as a sea turtle. The resultingMcDonald's toy (at right) diverged in the final stage to become the separate characterManta Ray.
• In addition to the bat and manta concepts, Hasbro also conceived of an "Optimus Prime" lion retool of "Prowl", the early form ofCheetor which spun off to becomePanther. While the lion McDonald's toy did not come to fruition, the concept may have inspired Takara to createLio Convoy.
• The design of Optimus Primal's bat form is anhomage toBatman, an action figure license also held at the time byKenner.^[19]
• According to Bob Forward at a BotCon panel, the "Flight Mode" Primal has in the first season of theBeast Wars animation is a vestigial reference to the bat-form, the concept being that Primal and Megatron would each have had 4(!) modes, able to transform freely between them. This was ultimately considered too difficult to animate, and the concept was dropped, Primal's "Prime Jets" being a way to prevent re-writing the flight-related parts of the scripts.
• Primal's gorilla mode, paired againstMegatron'sT. rex mode, was inspired by the showdown in the filmKing Kong.^[20]
• Speaking of King Kong and perKōjin Ōno, the reason Takara retained the name "Convoy" (コンボイ) for, well, a gorilla, is that the Beast Wars design team used it as a shortened play on... "Kong Boy" (コングボーイ).^[21]
• According to the control art of Optimus Primal's first gorilla toy, his chest originally seemed to be a kind of launcher instead of being an homage to theMatrix.^[22]
• The Basic class bat Optimus Primal toy, named "Convobat" in Japan, was homaged in the2016e-HOBBY-exclusiveConvobat toy, which is characterized as a separate individual from Optimus Primal.
• Concept art exists for a triple changer Transmetal Optimus Primal that would have transformed into a gorilla and an eagle.^[23]

References