Awwwwww yeah......

Since 1984,Generation 1Optimus Prime has received the largest number of toys for any singleTransformers character, a testament to the character's enduring popularity and status as a hero to many fans.

Due to the popularity of the character and the evergrowingGeneration 1 continuity family, this article had become far too large, causing internet browsers to struggle loading all of its contents, and—in the most extreme cases—crashing entirely. For the sake of a nice clean split, we have opted to move all of Optimus Prime'sGenerations toys into a separate article which can be foundhere.

The Transformers

From theDiaclone Battle Convoy came Optimus Prime and all his subsequent incarnations.

• Optimus Prime (Autobot Commander, 1984-1986)

• Takara ID number:01
• Accessories: "Laser Blaster", left & right fists, trailer/"Combat Deck", "Roller", 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump
• Known designers:Hiroyuki Obara (TakaraTomy),Shōji Kawamori (Studio Nue),Jeffrey Mangiat (packaging art, Hasbro),Shin Ueda (packaging art, TakaraTomy)

Released in the first year of theoriginalTransformers toyline, Optimus Prime transforms into a White Freightliner WFT-8664T cabover semi-trailer truck with an additional trailer unit. In robot mode, his fists are separate accessories that must plug into his wrists; the fists do not store securely anywhere in vehicle mode, but can fit easily in Prime's chest/drivers' compartment. He is armed with a black laser rifle that, by design, he cannot hold straight. His articulation is relatively high for the era due to his transformation, and even has functioning knees, though their use is restricted by his lack of forward hip movement. His smokestacks can rotate, but are seemingly a form ofanti-breakage move.

Prime'strailer opens up into hisCombat Deck, containing the scout drone,Roller. The interior of the Combat Deck features three raised holes that can accommodate Prime's laser rifle, fuel pump and nozzle accessories. The Combat Deck's central feature is a missile-armed repair drone pod mounted upon a boom lift arm, which can be extended through square holes in the trailer's roof and front end when it is closed. While the drone has spring-loaded missile launchers, the springs have been severely weakened in the Hasbro release. Situated in the base of the boom arm is a spring-loaded launcher that can launch Roller out of the Combat Deck and into action. Roller features a port that can accommodate either Prime's rifle or the fuel pump. The interior space of the trailer allows storage room for one standardAutobot Car, which can also be shot forward by the launcher.

The toy started life as the TakaraDiaclone "Battle Convoy" toy, a piloted mecha, thus the numerous spots across the toy's components with little seats for Diaclone pilots that Optimus did not come with.

Most people would be happy with justone Optimus Prime, but noooooo...

Optimus was subject to several molding and color variations in his early days. The earliest release of the figure featured large rounded fists, a hefty rifle with a large rounded barrel, a thick fuel pump with a detailed nozzle, silver rockets, silver Roller, silver Combat Deck launcher, and metal plates in the floor of the Combat Deck (a holdover from theDiaclone version of the toy, to which the magnetic feet of the pilots could cling). In short order, new-yet-almost-identicalmolds were created, presumably to refresh the tooling as the original had already been heavily used forDiaclone and so a wider range of factories (going from only Japan to Japan, China, Macau, and more) could produce more units to meet demand quickly, a common practice at the time. Prime's fists were resculpted to be smaller and more angular, the gun's silhouette was heavily revised, the fuel pump and nozzle were simplified, the rockets and launcher recast in black plastic, the Combat Deck's metal plates (and their clips) were removed, and the outer trailer detailing and door hinges were altered. Roller and the Combat Deck's drone pod color was swapped to a light blue, though a third running change soon followed that saw them restored to their original darker blue. The revised mold would be used by subsequent reissues of the Optimus toy, though Roller still fluctuates back and forth between grey and dark blue, depending on howshow-accurate each reissue wants to be.

The Japanese 1985 release of the figure also underwent the accessory changes, but never featured a silver Roller. Instead, Takara's original release of Prime featured aDiaclone-style Roller without the two rear pegs, and the differently-shaped launcher that accommodated him, before a running change switched over to the Hasbro version. It also had fully-functional missile launchers on the drone.

Finally, in some European countries, Prime sported red feet, as opposed to his traditional blue; this version of the figure is also known in some cases to feature a differently-painted forehead crest which leaves the three central indentations unpainted blue. For the mainland EuropeMilton Bradley release, there were twovariants of Optimus Prime available: the first version, manufactured by Takara, sported blue feet like most other versions; the second version, manufactured byJoustra's parent companyCeji, sported red feet instead.^[1] On top of that, the Italian release of "Commander" byGiG eventually featured alater variant that replaced the rubber tires anddie-cast feet with plastic parts, similar to the USKB Toys variant ofUltra Magnus.

Having been removed from toy store shelves after 1985, Optimus Prime was made available as a mail-away toy in the "Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction" offer in the US in 1986 to coincide with theTransformers movie premiering that year. He cost $21.50 and 5Robot Points. He was also offered in "The Autobots Have a Special Mission for:" mail-away pamphlet, and came with a special "Movie Edition Certificate" and a round sticker that read " Movie . Edition . Transformer" with the Autobot symbol in the middle; this edition of the toy is consideredparticularly rare.

Over forty-plus years, there have been abajillion releases of this mold, some identical to the original toy, and some featuring significant variants with notably different paint jobs, color schemes, accessories and other pack-ins. We have striven to list all these variants on this page under their respective series; for a quick-reference list of all variants and releasescheck here. The cab robot has also been used sparingly to represent different characters; outfitted with different trailers, it has become Generation 1Ultra Magnus andPepsi Convoy.

• More information on Generation 1 Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Pepsibots, roll out!

• Optimus Prime (Autobot Commander, 1985)

• Accessories: "Laser blaster", left & right fists, trailer/"Combat Deck", "Roller" (dark blue), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

A limited edition version of the Optimus Prime toy was sold as a mail-away exclusive byPepsiCo in North America in 1985. This version of the figure came with a small fold-out leaflet glued to the top-right of the packaging, which contained two Pepsi logo stickers for the buyer to attach to Prime, mid-way through the traditional silver-and-blue stripe on his trailer.Canada also got a version of this promotional figure, but with much larger stickers that were the full length and height of the trailer.

This promotion would go on to serve as the inspiration for the Japanese character ofPepsi Convoy, who would in turn be released by Hasbro as a new "Pepsi Optimus Prime" in 2007.

Megatron, what are we doing in the same box?!

• Convoy vs. Megatron (Multi-pack, 1985)

• ID number:VSX
• Accessories: "Laser blaster", left & right fists, trailer/"Combat Deck", "Roller", 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

This Japanese-exclusive release of Optimus Prime came with the Japanese release ofMegatron. There are no differences between this release of Convoy and the individually-released toy.

He's not leaving! He's right behind you!

• Good Bye Convoy (Multi-pack, 1986)

• Accessories: "Laser blaster", left & right fists, trailer/"Combat Deck", "Roller" (dark blue), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

Commemorating the death of Optimus Prime inThe Transformers: The Movie, this set contains a special version of the original Optimus Prime figure with show-inspired translucent blue windows.

It was packaged withLigier andAlert, in an apparent homage to the similarDiaclone "Powered Convoy DX" giftset that packaged the "Powered Convoy" version of the Optimus mold with figures using the molds of Ligier and Alert.

Honkimus Prime.

• Ultra Magnus (City Commander, 1986)

• Takara ID number:C-69
• Accessories: Large robot head, rifle, chest plate, 2 trailer connectors/waist plates, left & right small robot fists, left & right large robot fists, 2 missile launchers, 4 missiles
• Known designers:Hiroyuki Obara (Takara),Shōji Kawamori (Studio Nue)

Ultra Magnus is aredeco of theDiaclone "Powered Convoy" figure, itself a redeco and slight retool of "Battle Convoy", the toy that became the original Optimus Prime figure, sporting a new trailer. One of the last fewDiaclone toys to be released in theTransformers toyline, Magnus was recolored from the original toy's dark blue, red and black color scheme into a more patriotic red, white and blue, though his chestplate, which was rendered white in his package art followed a more the blue color scheme of his shoulders. He transforms into a Freightliner COE, towing a car-carrier trailer capable of transporting up to four normal-sized Autobot cars. As with Optimus Prime, his cab transforms into a small robot, which can then combine with the trailer to form a "super robot", although all original Generation 1 fiction prior to the 21st century ignored this and simply rendered the super robot as Magnus's default robot form. To facilitate this combination, Magnus sports a slightly longer front axle than Prime, thereby creating tabs on either side of the cab that slide into grooves in the trailer to help lock the small robot into place. He is armed with a rifle sporting two handles that allow either of hisrobot modes to hold it, and two shoulder-mounted missile launchers, whose spring-loaded firing mechanism was removed for the Hasbro release of the figure.

TheDiaclone Powered Convoy figure had several additional features and modes which were mostly excised or left unmentioned for theTransformers release of Ultra Magnus. Principally, Powered Convoy came packaged with "Powered Buggy", who was left out of Magnus's release (seenotes below for further details). Omitted from Magnus's instructions is the ability of his chestplate and super robot head to combine to form a small vehicle; the Powered Convoy version of the figure included small rolling wheels on the underside of the chestplate which were removed for Ultra Magnus. Additionally, three additional modes were included in theDiaclone instructions that Hasbro left out: a "preparation base" mode and an "Autobot base" mode were excluded entirely, while the third, a "catapult launcher" mode originally intended and proportioned to accommodate theDiaclone Jet Robo figure that becameStarscream, was shown only on the front of his packaging, interacting withSilverbolt. The Japanese release of Ultra Magnus—released as part of theScramble City sub-line—did include instructions for the preparation base and catapult launcher modes, but replaced the original Autobot base mode with a new configuration.

The original Ultra Magnus figure has been reissued and redecoed several times down the years, and this article strives to list each edition of the figure under its own heading. The first alteration to Magnus, however, was arunning change made while he was still on shelves: Originally, his tires were made ofrubber and he sported paint on both his small and large robot heads, but this version was soon replaced with one featuring plastic tires and no paint on either head. In addition, the clear yellow plastic that formed his windows was removed from the cab, leaving just holes instead; and his thighs and fuel tanks were left white, as opposed to the vacuum metalized chrome ones of the original release.

The small robot component, as well as being part of Optimus Prime, was also released with a different trailer asPepsi Convoy.

• More information on Ultra Magnus at TFU.info

My Japanese release has a lot more bling. And shorter stacks.

• Optimus Prime (Powermaster, 1988)

• Accessories: Hi-Q Powermaster unit, 2laser rifles, 2 twinparticle beam cannons, super robot head
• Known designers:Richard Marcej (packaging)

Sold in the fifth year of the Hasbro USTransformers line (fourth in European markets), Powermaster Optimus Prime was the first new toy of the Autobot leader since the original toy's release in 1984. He is an all-new design, featuring thePowermaster gimmick: His partner figure,Hi-Q, must be transformed into an engine and attached to Prime's vehicle mode in order to enable the transformation into robot mode.

Like the original figure, Powermaster Prime is composed of two major components: his truck cab, which transforms into Prime himself, and his trailer, which is essentially a heavily-armed version of the original. The trailer has a fold-down ramp to allow the storage of a smaller Transformer, or perhaps spare accessories. The trailer transforms into a battle station armed with two long black rifles and two grey double-barreled cannons (featuring seating for Powermaster engine figures), all of which Optimus Prime can also wield in his fists.

Aside from the Powermaster feature itself, the maingimmick of the toy is the ability of the truck cab to combine with the trailer to form the larger "Super Optimus Prime" figure. This is essentially accomplished by standing the trailer up, folding the cab in half and inserting it into the empty cavity in the trailer's torso, forming an imposing—if almost entirely unposeable—robot form armed with all four weapons. The head of this super robot form is a separate piece which can be stored in the rear of Prime's trailer when not in use. While Hi-Q was always shown plugged into Prime's chest in artwork of this mode (as seen in the picture here), this was actually entirely unnecessary as transforming into Super Optimus Prime didn't require the standard Prime toy's legs to be unlocked.

The Japanese release of Powermaster Optimus Prime actually represented a new character namedGinrai, and featured several retools: the cab featured die-cast metal, shortened smokestacks, vacuum-metalized plastic and clear blue windows, while the trailer was given retractable super robot fists. This Japanese version was eventually issued by Hasbro in 2003 as part of theCommemorative Series collection (see below).

This toy was later redecoed into the Japanese-exclusive Super Convoy.

There were several different prototypes made for this toy.See a list here.

• More information on Powermaster Optimus Prime on TFU.info

Eastbound and Down.

• Armored Convoy with Optimus Prime (Action Master, 1990)

• Accessories: trailer, 2 laser guns, 4 blaster cannons, 2 Energon exhaust stacks,photon bazooka
• Known designers:Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Sold in the seventh and final year of the original line (sixth and not-final in Europe),Action Master Optimus Prime is a non-transforming 3¾-inch action figure closely based on hischaracter model, albeit with a coloration that seems to have been based largely on the cab robot of his Powermaster body. His construction is broadly similar to that used by theG.I. Joe figures of the time, having a swivel neck, shoulders and knees, plus limited ball-jointed hips attached via a steel rod internally secured by a rubber "o-ring". His hands have standard 3 mm holes which allow him to hold any other accessory in the Action Master line, plus his feet have holes in the bottom to secure him to larger vehicles. On top of that, the hole in his back is compatible with5 mm posts. Curiously, Optimus also has a 3mm hole directly above the 5mm one, an extra feature only found onone other Action Master. In Optimus' case, it's likelya leftover from an aborted gimmick for which the figure was a test case.

The toy shown in the Action Masters commercial shows gray paint operations on Prime's upper legs that the final toy lacks.

He was only available with the "Armored Convoy", a large, heavily armed tractor trailer, and the largest Action Master vehicle set offered.

The Action Master Optimus Prime figure was later redecoed with a moreshow-accurate color scheme and included in the Japanese-exclusive "New Year" reissue of the original Optimus Prime toy in 2002. The Armored Convoy was later redecoed in white and transparent green as theMicroman:LED Powers toyMicro Trailer – sans Optimus Prime, natch – which also received two separateLucky Draw toys as the transparent blackDark Trailer and transparent redFlame Trailer.

• More information on Action Master Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Original Optimus Prime (Original Autobot Leader, 1990)

• Accessories: laser blaster, left & right fists, trailer/"Combat Deck", "Roller", 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

This straight reissue of the original Optimus Prime figure was released in Hasbro's European markets in the early 1990s, at the same time as many other Generation 1 figures were being re-released as "Classics". Oddly, although he shares their golden packaging, Prime is not actuallyidentified as a "Classics" figure anywhere on his box, but is generally considered to be part of the sub-line for simplicity's sake.

• Convoy (reissue, 2000)
  

  
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: laser blaster, 2 fists (left & right), trailer/Combat Deck, Roller (grey), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

The first in what would be a deluge of reissues of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime figure in the 21st century, this Japanese release sported a golden sticker on his packaging announcing the celebration of the Transformers' 15th anniversary in the country. This version of the mold was retooled to have the same longer front axle introduced on Ultra Magnus. It also featured slightly modified fists to help hold the gun better.

Simultaneously, this figure was available as a black convention-exclusive redeco, and a golden-chromed "Lucky Draw figure" (see below).

Not the firstblack Convoy, but the first that wasn't a clone.

• Convoy Black Version (2000)
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: laser blaster, 2 fists (left & right), trailer/Combat Deck, Roller (black), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pum

Released concurrently with the 2000 reissue of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime toy, thisblack redeco of the original Prime was available exclusively at the Japanese convention JAFCON.Everything about it is black, including all of the Combat Deck and Roller.

• More information on JAFCON Convoy at TFU.info

Prime's a gold digger/way over Cybertron.

• Convoy Gold Version (2000)
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: laser blaster, 2 fists (left & right), trailer/Combat Deck, Roller (gold), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

Released concurrently with the 2000 reissue of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime toy, this "Lucky Draw" redeco of the original Prime replaced all of the figure's silver chromed parts and stickers with golden ones, and even included a blinged-out Roller. The figure is extremely rare; apparently only 25 are known to exist.

Epic Black repaints are the right of all toy collecting beings.

• Super Convoy (2001)
  • ID number:C-307X
  • Accessories: Hi-Q Powermaster unit, 2 laser rifles, 2 twin particle beam cannons, super robot head

• Known designers:Hirofumi Ichikawa (deco artist)

This redeco of the Ginrai tooling of the Powermaster Optimus Prime figure (released concurrently with the 2001 reissue of the Ginrai figure) was a ToysR Us Japanexclusive black repaint, made to represent the original Optimus Prime equipped for a special mission. All of his red and blue plastics were changed to black, his clear blue windows were now tinted red, making his overall colour scheme very reminiscent of the now-familiar 'Black Convoy' color schemes.

• More information on Super Convoy at TFU.info

• Convoy (Tokubetsu Shiyō) (2002)
  • ID number:01
    

    
  • Accessories: 2 laser blasters, 2 fists (left & right), trailer/Combat Deck, Roller (dark blue), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump, Action Master Optimus Prime figure,Matrix of Leadership, chain, Autobot sticker sheet, mouse pad

Labeled "2002 New Year Special", this Japanese-exclusive "Special Specification" (特別仕様Tokubetsu Shiyō) of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime figure featured tinted blue windows, like those sported by the "Goodbye Convoy" edition of the toy, as well as show-accurate blue eyes. Prime came with all his original accessories, includingboth versions of his rifle, as well as a new die-cast metal Matrix of Leadership accessory, which can be tabbed into his chest. Additionally, the set included a show-accurate redeco of the Action Master Optimus Prime figure, a sheet of Autobotinsignia stickers of varying sizes, and a mouse pad decorated with the Autobot symbol.

The Matrix accessory was later recolored in gold chrome for inclusion with the 2005Galvatron reissue toy, and in green chrome as theCreation Matrix for thee-HOBBY-exclusiveGalvatron II toy. It returned to its original silver coloration when it was included, sans chain, in the 2010Transformers: Reveal the Shield "Battle in Space" 2-pack.

• More information on New Year Special Convoy at TFU.info

TRUKK...AND MUNKY?

• Convoy Reissue BAPE Ver. (A Bathing Ape exclusive, 2011)
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: laser blaster, 2 fists (left & right), Trailer/Combat Deck, Roller, 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

Available exclusively from Japanese clothing companyA Bathing Ape in July 2011, concurrently with a range of exclusive Transformers t-shirts, "Convoy Reissue BAPE Ver." (コンボイ復刻版 BAPE® Ver.) is a redeco of the original Optimus Prime toy sporting a unique new green color scheme, along with a tan trailer decorated with a camouflage pattern. Both trailer and Prime himself feature the A Bathing Ape logo in place of an Autobot symbol, while the floor of the trailer's Combat Deck mode features new Bathing Ape-themed labels. The figure comes in a recolored version of the original Japanese Optimus Prime packaging.

• Convoy Reissue BAPE Ver. on BAPE.com

Prime at his audition forThe Artist.

• Convoy Reissue BAPE Ver. BLACK^[2] (A Bathing Ape exclusive, 2012)
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: laser blaster, 2 fists (left & right), Trailer/Combat Deck, Roller, 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

Available exclusively from Japanese clothing companyA Bathing Ape in April 2012, "Convoy Reissue BAPE Ver. BLACK" (コンボイ復刻版 BAPE® Ver. BLACK) is a redeco of the original Optimus Prime toy sporting a unique new grey color scheme, along with a grey trailer decorated with a camouflage pattern. Both trailer and Prime himself feature the A Bathing Ape logo in place of an Autobot symbol, while the floor of the trailer's Combat Deck mode features new Bathing Ape-themed labels. The figure comes in a recolored version of the original Japanese packaging.

Three times faster than the original BAPE version.

• Convoy Reissue BAPE VERSION RED CAMO^[3] (A Bathing Ape exclusive, 2013)
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: laser blaster, 2 fists (left & right), Trailer/Combat Deck, Roller, 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

Available exclusively from Japanese clothing companyA Bathing Ape in March 2013, "Convoy Reissue BAPE VERSION RED CAMO" (コンボイ復刻版 BAPE® VERSION RED CAMO) is a redeco of the original Optimus Prime toy sporting a unique new red color scheme, along with a red trailer decorated with a camouflage pattern. Both trailer and Prime himself feature the A Bathing Ape logo in place of an Autobot symbol, while the floor of the trailer's Combat Deck mode features new Bathing Ape-themed labels. The figure comes in a recolored version of the original Japanese packaging.

• Convoy Reissue BAPE VERSION RED CAMO on BAPE.com

For the people who wanted this for the S.T.A.R.S. kit, I have bad news for you.

• Transformers 35th Anniversary Commander Convoy (2019)
  • Accessories: laser blaster, 2 fists (left & right)

Released as part of the "Transformers 35th Anniversary Commander Convoy Box Crowdfunding Project" kickstarted by TakaraTomy andTV-Kun, this Convoy is a gold-chrome-and-redeco of theGeneration 1 Optimus Prime figure, featuring a more balanced deco compared to theGold Convoy Trophy (at least untilthe second prototype reveals that the entire body is chromed). Despite being etched on a trophy stand, Convoy is able to transform into truck mode, albeit facing upwards.

In addition, the set also comes with a replica of theS.T.A.R.S. supply kit, a S.T.A.R.S. badge, a Transformers Fan Club card, a poster, and a Transformers Mook.

Crowdfunding began onJuly 1st untilAugust 31st, with a total of 2000 backers needed. Unfortunately, it only reached 840 backers with a total of 16,650,000 yen out of 33,600,000 yen needed.

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

Transform Jr

Prime's kid brother.

• Convoy (1985)
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: 2 fists (left and right), head, laser blaster, cardboard trailer

As one of the firstTransform Jr toys, this version of Optimus Prime was released under the early name for the series,Transform Gōkin. As a smaller, simplified version of the original Generation 1 Prime figure intended as a low-cost alternative for younger children, Prime features a similar transformation, with a removable head in addition to fists, but lacks rubber tires and translucent windows. As with most otherTransform Jr figures, he lacked any of his major accessories, coming only with his rifle and a cardboard replacement for his trailer that had to be assembled by the buyer.

The true Heroes of Cybertron

• 3 Heroes Set (multipack, 1987)
  • Accessories: 2 fists (left and right), head, laser blaster, cardboard trailer

TheTransform Jr version of Prime was re-released a few years later in a "Hero" set alongside theJr versions ofChromedome, andFortress Maximus.

• 5 Years of Leaders Set (multipack, 1989)
  • Accessories: 2 fists (left and right), head, Laser Blaster, cardboard trailer

Prime was again re-released several years later in a lucky Draw "5 Years of Leaders" set alongside theJr versions of Rodimus Convoy,Fortress Maximus, God Ginrai, and Star Saber.

Return of Convoy

The most badassbrick.

• Star Convoy (Cybertron, 1991)

• ID number:C-372
• Accessories: "Galaxy bomber" rifle,Micro Trailer, Microcarrier, small cannon, cannon turret stand, radar, connector, 2 ramps
• Known designers:Takashi Kunihiro (TakaraTomy)

Released in the JapaneseReturn of Convoy part of theoriginal TakaraFight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers toyline, and the final new-design Optimus Prime toy from the original Generation 1 era, Star Convoy was a significant departure from previous versions. This incarnation of Prime transforms into an extended-hood cab truck of made-up model pulling an implausibly large trailer, incorporating the motorized "Microcarrier".Powered by four AA batteries, the Microcarrier drives Star Convoy either forward or backward, spinning a radar dish mounted on the rear of his trailer as he rolls along. Prime's teammate in theBattlestars,Grandus, can link up to the rear of Star Convoy's vehicle mode and be pulled along behind him;Sky Garry can then land atop Grandus, forming a giant vehicle.

Unlike previous Optimus Prime toys, the cab section does not separate from the trailer for transformation, instead forming the arms of his imposing 12-inch tall robot mode. He lacks any sort of leg articulation in this mode, but the Microcarrier comes into play again, allowing Prime to roll either forward or backward into action.

Additionally, Star Convoy transforms into a large battle station that interacts with theMicromasters that made up the vast majority of theTransformer toyline at the time. His chest contains a peg that allows Micromaster figures to stand inside it in either robot or base modes, and he comes with a unique Micromaster version ofHot Rod not available on its own. He features storage space in his legs for two spring-loaded figure-launchingMicro Trailers, and comes with one of his own, decorated in a unique black and orange color scheme. In this mode, two ramps are connected to the Microcarrier; when the carrier's treads are set rolling, they do not move the base, but instead act as conveyor belts that carry Micromaster figures down the ramps. The Microcarrier also spins a gun turret mounted between the conveyors, on which Micromaster figures can stand. Finally, a special connector packaged with Star Convoy allows the Microcarrier to be connected up to Grandus's base mode, powering his moving elevator.

On an odd note, despite being best known as a Japanese exclusive, Star Convoy was also released across several stores inPortugal during the early nineties: most notably amongst these being Jumbo (now rebranded into Auchan since the 2010s), one of the country's largest hypermarket chains.^[4] Weirdly, he came in his original Takara packaging - thus retaining all the Japanese text that was eventually illegible to most Portuguese consumers - which suggests that he was most likely a direct import from the original batch of figures rather than a localized version likeGiG'sGalaxy Shuttle. It is unknown exactly what circumstances led to this one Japanese figure reaching widespread retail in a single European country, but as a result, he tends to pop up surprisingly often on the Portuguese secondary market.

• More information on Star Convoy at TFU.info

The most badass brick, now with shinier bits.

• Star Convoy (Cybertron, 2005)

• ID number:C-372
• Accessories: "Galaxy bomber" rifle,Micro Trailer, Microcarrier, small cannon, cannon turret stand, radar, connector, 2 ramps

Star Convoy was reissued by Takara in 2005, with some notable alterations to his deco: his white plastic was replaced with metallic silver, and the yellow star on his chest was chromed golden. Star Convoy himself retained some of his original decals, but most notably his "simulated head lights" and "wind shield panels" were tampographed on him; similarly,Hot Rod's stickers were all replaced with tampograph deco. Additionally, where the original toy had been packaged in robot mode in a tall box decorated with the standard Japanese package art of the time, the reissue was packaged in vehicle mode, in a long, wide box more reminiscent of the original Generation 1 toys.

The stickers for this reissue have been found to deteriorate over time, with the silver portions showing a prominent fading effect. This was even present in asealed copy.^[5]

• More information on reissue Star Convoy at TFU.info

Generation 2

I AM OPTIMUS PRIME.

• Optimus Prime (Leader,1992)

• Accessories: "Laser blaster", left & right fists, light & sound module, 2 rocket launchers, 4 rockets, "Roller" scout car, hose, nozzle, fuel pump, trailer, 4 missiles

Part of the very first assortment ofGeneration 2 product released just in time for the 1992 holiday season, this Optimus Prime is aredeco of the original figure release with some notable new additions to catch him up to the radical 1990s. While his cab robot retained his original red and dark blue color scheme, his trailer was recast in black, with the original blue and silver striped sticker replaced with a red and silver one displaying Optimus's name. On the first release of the trailer, the internal components and Roller matched the blue of the cab robot. Later, the internal components and Roller were changed to a lighter blue. Anothersecond running change followed, making the dark blue of the cab robot match this lighter shade. A bright yellow "Autobot"tampograph was also added to the back of his right leg, present in all versions of the toy.

Generation 2 Optimus Prime comes with all his original accessories and play features... yes, even theseverely-weakened missile launchers on the Combat Deck, the only recycled toy inGeneration 2 to retain the old launching mechanisms. But Optimus also has two major new play features. To increase his arsenal, Optimus is now armed with a pair of large, black handheld missile launchers that fire red missiles. These launchers were retooled from the 1992G.I. Joe figureBarricade.

Second, he comes with an electronic "sound and lights module" that can either plug into the front of the trailer (where it resembles a trailer refrigeration unit), or hook onto Optimus's back inrobot mode via a new slot retooled into the cab robot. Unfortunately, the soundbox is heavy enough that doing so can often overpower Prime's hip joints, causing him to topple backward. The soundbox features a large,vacuum metalized Autobot symbol on its front, and three grey buttons which trigger two flashing red LEDs on either side of the module, anda trio of sound effects: a truck engine noise, a laser gun sound effect, and a very loud "I am Optimus Prime!". The module also features ports on either side into which the missile launchers can peg. How the sound module handles batteries is an oddity among Transformers before or since: as Optimus came out during a transitional period where button cell batteries were still fairly expensive, the module uses AA batteries by default, but was originally packed with a small bracket for included LR44 batteries that overrides the AA compartment completely to support the "Try Me!" feature in the box. The original intent is to discard the bracket once the LR44s run out and switch to several AA batteries, but if one were to keep it, the electronics can work equally well solely off far fewer button cell batteries.

• More information on Generation 2 Optimus Prime at TFU.info

BE A HEEEERO

• Optimus Prime (Hero, 1994)

• Takara name:Convoy Missile Trailer (コンボイミサイルトレーラー)
• Takara ID number:TRF-1
• Accessories: Rifle, 2 rockets
• Known designers:Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Released in the second year ofGeneration 2,Hero Optimus Prime was the first new-mold Optimus Prime toy created for theGeneration 2 line. He transforms into a long-nose Volvo N12 truck and trailer. The trailer has a permanently-attached massive rocket launcher powered by an air bellows: slide one of his rockets over the barrel, then slam down on the bellows to launch the rocket. The launcher also features a5 mm post to attach a smaller rifle. The rockets and bellows all clip neatly onto the trailer as well.

In robot mode, the launcher remains permanently affixed to Optimus's right arm, and retains its functionality. The air bellows and rockets mount on his back. This was also one of the firstTransformers toys to feature expandedarticulation in robot mode, though they hadn't really perfected the formula so soon and he ends up fairly back-heavy and heel-strut-needing.

A similar air-launching system with identical missiles was used by the simultaneously-releasedHero Megatron, and by Laser Optimus Prime the following year (see below).

This mold was also used to createSureshot and theKB Toys-exclusiveDestructiconScourge.

• More information on Hero Optimus Prime at TFU.info

What was that about shoulder-speakers, Jazz?

• Laser Optimus Prime (Leader,1995)

• Takara name:Battle Convoy (バトルコンボイ)
• Takara ID number:TRF-13
• Accessories: "Laser cannon", "saber weapon", missile launcher, 10 missiles, 5 discs, 2 rockets
• Known designers:Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Released in the final year ofGeneration 2, Laser Optimus Prime (released in Europe under the name "Laser Rod Optimus Prime") transforms into a mid-1990s Western Star 4964EX, pulling a grey and black fuel tank trailer. The sides of the trailer are decorated with a sticker depicting Prime using a flamethrower to burn down a banner with the words "Optimus Prime Octane" on it. The truck is armed with a disc launcher on the roof of its trailer, which launches five blue discs bearing theGeneration 2 Autobot insignia as a knob is turned. Like the other "Laser" toys released this year, Prime features electronics powered by two button-cell batteries; in truck mode, pressing the button on the cab's roof causes his headlight to light up with yellow LEDs.

In the grand Optimus tradition, the cab of Laser Optimus Prime disconnects to become the highly poseable robot mode of Prime himself. Like Powermaster Prime and Hero Prime, the toy features the iconic windshield pecs and grill abs, despite not actually being formed from the actual truck components they emulate. In robot mode, pressing the button on Prime's cab (now on his back) activates a red LED in his right fist which illuminates his clear-plastic sword (which stores beneath his legs in truck mode).

Prime's trailer unfolds via a spring-loaded transformation mechanism in a battle station that is positivelybristling with varied weaponry. In addition to the disc launcher, it is armed with a "ripple-fire" missile launcher that fires five missiles, an air-powered rocket launcher like the one previously seen on Hero Optimus Prime, and a small laser cannon that mounts on the base's main tower. Both the missile launcher and laser cannon can disconnect and be held by Prime; his LED-fist will illuminate the laser cannon like it does his sword. Additional missiles and a second rocket are stored in grooves inside the sides of the trailer.

This mold was redecoed by Takara in 2000 asCar RobotsBlack Convoy, and later by Hasbro as Black Convoy's2001Robots in Disguise franchise counterpart Scourge. It was also used to make thee-HOBBY exclusiveLaser Ultra Magnus. It was planned to be used to makeUniverseToxitron, but that was canceled.

In addition to being possibly the most popularGeneration 2 figure, Laser Optimus Prime was, prior to 2003, a regular contender for most popularTransformers toyever, back in the days of the annualalt.toys.transformers fan awards; the toy won twice, and actually lost once to his redeco, Scourge.

• More information on Laser Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Sweet ride, Prime. (Hasbro release)

• Optimus Prime (Go-Bot, 1995)

• Accessories: Gun
• Known designers:Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Part of the second wave ofGo-Bots, this Optimus is a redeco ofFirecracker, transforming into aHot Wheels-sized 1:64-scale Lamborghini Diablo. Like most Go-Bots, he features high speed axles and can roll very well across smooth surfaces, but lacks the weight to propel him quickly, and is broadly compatible withHot Wheels andMatchbox style tracks and playsets.

The plastic colors are a "solid" version of Firecracker's color layout, substituting opaque red for transparent red plastic, but also adding blue paint to his helmet for that little extra touch of Optimus. (All of the toys from the first wave that had transparent plastics were released in this wave with opaques instead;Blowout and Firecracker became new versions ofMegatron and Optimus Prime respectively, whileGearhead andMotormouth stayed themselves.)

In Europe, this deco was sold as Firecracker himself rather than Optimus Prime (at least in the French/Dutch/German packaging variant).

(Takara release)

Optimus was one of only three Go-Bots sold in the TakaraG-2 line, but it was a... weird release. His hood was tampographed with a stylized "T" with theTransformers logo set within the top bar, the same deco that appears on Go-BotsSoundwave, as well as the Japanese release of Go-BotsMegatron. On top of that, his yellow plastics are now the same bright fluorescent yellow as found on Soundwave, thanks to thegang-molding process used to make this batch. He keeps the blue helmet though. These three toys were sold on cards that were nigh-identical to the Hasbro cards on the front, rather than the usualG-2 style packaging, with only a small bit of Japanese text on the front in the logo. The back side is stylistically close to theGeneration 2 packaging, but a "generic" cardback used for all three toys and entirely in Japanese. It's unclear why these toys were released this way; it's possible these were sold in convenience stores or some other similar outlet rather than in conventional toy stores/departments; these toys do not appear on the normalG-2 catalogs either. Even more oddly, the Optimus shown on the cross-sell is actually aSideswipe with the car panels hand-painted red, and lacks the "T" on the hood... and yes, he's labeled "Optimus Prime" in Japanese as well, making this the first instance of the characternot being named "Convoy" in Japan.

The sculpt was later redecoed again for the third wave of Go-Bots to becomeSideswipe, and later still into the2001Robots in DisguiseSpychangerR.E.V..

• More information on Go-Bot Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Delta Magnus fans still haven't recovered from this cancellation.

• Optimus Prime (Hero,1995)

• Accessories: Gun, 2 rockets

This Optimus Prime was to be a redeco of Hero Optimus Prime (above) in dark blue and red. Packaged samples of this toy were produced, but it was ultimately never released. The packaged samples feature a "traditional" color scheme for the head, with a silvermouthplate; the prototype depicted in the official catalog image seen on the right sports an unusualred mouthplate, which inspired several later toys.

Since much of the advertising for the ultimately-unreleased redeco used an older, outdated name for the "Heroes" assortment, "Combat Heroes", Optimus and an equally unreleased redeco of "Hero" Megatron are commonly referred to by fans as "Combat Heroes" compared to the original "Heroes" releases, although all evidence suggests that Hasbro had never actually intended such a distinction, instead treating them as mere colorvariants. Though the packaging is mostly unchanged (including a reuse of the existing packaging art depicting the original release's color scheme), one of the few minor alterations sees the addition of the name "Hero" (rather than "Combat Hero") to Optimus Prime's name above the (otherwise unchanged) UPC barcode.

A finished sample of the Hero Optimus Prime redeco was among the rare toys auctioned off for charity atBotCon 1996, along with several other unreleasedGeneration 2 items.

• "Combat Hero" Optimus Prime in packaging at Super Toy Archive
• "Combat Hero" Optimus Prime in packaging at Transformers @ The Moon
• "Combat Hero" Optimus Prime in and out of packaging at Seibertron

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

• General Optimus Prime (Auto Roller,1995)

• Accessories: Four missiles

"General" Optimus Prime would have been a redeco of the DecepticonAuto RollerDirtbag, transforming into an "earth mover" mining dumper/haul truck in green camo, ironically bearing a closer resemblance toHound's color scheme than the also-unreleased"Sgt. Hound" Auto Roller.

the mold has anauto-transforminggimmick activated by rolling his rear wheels; roll forward to go torobot mode, and back to dump truck. A switch on his back end separates the gears of the gimmick, allowing him to roll freely in either mode. In robot mode, he has a twin spring-loaded missile launcher in his right arm, and a clamping "stun gun" claw on the left. In vehicle mode, his missiles can peg onto the front end of the dump-bed for storage.

This mold was also used to makeAutostinger.

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

Daddy's back.

• Battle Convoy (reissue,2006)

• ID number:TRF-13
• Accessories: "Laser cannon", "saber weapon", missile launcher, 10 missiles, 5 discs, 2 rockets

This reissue of the originalGeneration 2 Laser Optimus Prime figure was made using the modified version of the mold created forRobots in Disguise Scourge, lacking the sculptedGeneration 2 Autobot insignias on the disks featured on the original. It sports a modified deco, with the flat grey plastic on both the trailer and Prime's chest now replaced with silver chrome; additionally, new Autobot symbol tampographs were added to the doors of Prime's cab mode and the front end of his trailer, and a pair of new chest-window stickers featuring an illustration of the Matrix of Leadership replaced the original decals.

This version of the mold was used to create thee-HOBBY exclusiveLaser Ultra Magnus, and somewhat more perplexingly, was brieflyrepurposed by thesecondBeast Wars Reborn text story as a temporary body forOptimus Primal!

ToonTown

Hi, I'm originally a bootleg who might or might also not be a bootleg still!Buy me!

• Battle Supplier (1997)

• Accessories: Rifle, left & right fists, Roller

An oddball South Korean-exclusive provided by company ToonTown with thepresumably legitimate copyright of Hasbro International, the nameless 'Battle Supplier' - per his packaging description - is actually nothing less than a repackaging of an old, likely Taiwanese-madeknockoff ofDiaclone Battle Convoy. Copies of these bootlegs have been reported since the mid-80s (a handful ofItalian companies like Globo distributed them as back as far as 1987^[6]), but if his copyright date is correct then it would only be in 1997 when this specific release would land on Korean stores.

This figure features quite a few alterations from its original Diaclone tooling; like the truck windshield not being split in half, the left smokestack being replaced by a ladder, and the rifle being based on that ofDorvack Jeeps (AKA the later Generation 1Roadbuster). He also lacks the Auto-Launcher in his Combat Deck, as well as his other accessories. His color scheme is also odd, with his red being less vibrant than the original and his legs and feet having two very obviously distinct shades of blue. A similar version to this release with nearly-identical packaging but translated into English also showed up in Canada during 1998, but this time bearing the name "Battle Supbot" without the Transformers logo and without any mention of Hasbro licensing.^[7] Some traits for his packaging design have also been seen on other bootlegs of Taiwanese origin.

Considering the amount of times we've mentioned "bootleg" on this entry, it should go without saying that the authenticity of this mold as a genuineTransformers product is often disputed: more about this conundrumcan be read on ToonTown's page, but in short; despite his knockoff origins, this release is one of many toys distributed by the aforementioned company presumably under the licensing of Hasbro, and to this day there still isn't a consensus as to whether theyactually legitimately did or did not have that license. Surprisingly, it isn't unseen in theTransformers brandfor a bootleg to be sold as anofficial toy, but this "Battle Supplier", more than any other ToonTown release, is on such a blatant level of sketchiness that it invites extra skepticism. Maybe not a red flag, but dark orange. Perhaps someday Hasbro will provide us with answers!

I might or might not also be a bootleg, but I'm bigger and prettier, so buy me too!

• Optimus Prime (1997)

• Accessories: Laser blaster, left & right fists, light & sound module, 2 rocket launchers, 4 rockets, "Roller" scout car, hose, nozzle, fuel pump, trailer, 4 missiles

Another South Korean ToonTown release with presumably official Hasbro co-branding, albeit one that oozes a more legitimate aura compared to the previous entry, this version of Optimus Prime - now adequately named - was actually manufactured under ToonTown's licensing by a different company called LALA Industry Co., which also produced a handful ofGeneration 2 merchandise during this time. He's a fairly high-quality and accurate copy of his first 1992Generation 2 toy, bearing an all-new deco in black and white with red accents (that's surprisingly similar toa later Optimus Prime release), with his trailer and Roller also receiving a new dose of yellow to boot. His soundbox works, but now makes laser gun sounds rather than the infamous "I am Optimus Prime" voiceline - perhaps a change for the better, all things considered. And... He's also massively upscaled, with estimates suggesting that he's about 50% bigger than the original toy.

As with the previous release, it is still up in the air whether or not this is an official toy. Considering that LALA seemed to be a more reputable company in general (they even had enough of a budget to run toy commercials advertising theirTransformers merchandise during the 90s!) and that he features markings on the packaging seemingly promoting a national TV run of theGeneration 2 cartoon, the legitimacy of this Optimus Prime seems significantly more believable, but for lack of official Hasbro comment we cannot know with absolute certainty.

Beast Wars

• Optimus Primal vs Megatron! (Basic versus two-pack, 1996)
  • Takara ID number:C-6
    

    

    I'm Batman, and I can breathe in space.
  • Accessories: 2 swords

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

The firstBeast WarsOptimus Primal is a Basic size class blue bat which could autotransform into a robot by pulling the tail. Two swords were removable from under its wings for use as weaponry inrobot mode. It was packaged along with an alligator version of Megatron and aBeast Wars mini-comic.

This figure was released during the short-lived period when Hasbro was treating the Beast Wars as an extension of the Autobot/Decepticon war, and Optimus Primal was presented as being the same character as Optimus Prime. This was soon relegated to the realms ofmicro-continuity when theBeast Wars animated series began and clearly established that the two Optimuses were different characters, but the toy remains one that was officially branded as Prime, and is consequently listed here.

This mold was also used to make the less ambiguousOptimus Prime-recolored Convobat, the separate individualConvobat,Onyx Primal as well as inspire the comic characterNyx.

• More information on Optimus Primal at TFU.info

Well, that's just Prime.

• Optimus Primal (Ultra, 1996/1997/1998)
  • Takara ID number:C-1
  • Accessories: 2 "spinal swords", 4 "mega-blast missiles", "mace whip"

• Known designers:Yuichiro Hira (TakaraTomy),Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

The second Optimus Primal toy was an ape in the Ultra size class. Though the transformation from primate to humanoid was a relatively simplistic one, the toy compensated with more than a fair share of weaponry and action features. A compartment on his right forearm opened to reveal a skull-shaped "mace whip" he could hold in his fist. His left forearm could open into a double-barreled "mega-blast missile" launcher. On his back were two more spring-loaded "mega-blast missile cannons"/launchers which auto-flipped over each shoulder. By pulling a lever in the center of his back, both arms would either spin at the bicep or bend in and out at the elbow, depending on the placement of notch-buttons located on either bicep. This gimmick was shown to be an effort to simulate a gorilla beating its chest while Optimus was inbeast mode, but could also be used in robot mode, making him swing his weapons wildly before himself. And finally, like many first-yearBeast Wars toys, a battle mask/"mutant head" could be deployed over his robot head.

Takara released the toy 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 mold.

Just like Optimus Primal's basic bat toy, this figure was released during the short-lived period when the Beast Wars was still considered to be an extension of the Autobot/Decepticon war, and Optimus Primal was the same character as Optimus Prime. This was soon relegated to the realms ofmicro-continuity when theBeast Wars animated series began and clearly established that the two Optimuses were different characters, but the toy remains one that was officially branded as Prime, and is consequently listed here.

This mold 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 and gray (TV Magazine again, but onlyone awarded), and blue-fur (aComic BomBom design-contest prize, only five awarded).

• More information on ape Optimus Primal at TFU.info

Freedom is the right of all superstitious, cowardly lots. Wait, no, that's not right...

• Amazon Showdown Special Version (1997)
  • ID number:VS-S1
  • Accessories: 2 swords

Available only in a special CD-ROM two-pack with apurple redeco of "Megaligator", this redeco of "Convobat" takes his colors fromthe firstG-2 Convoy toy released in Japan and retains his previous gimmickry. His back features a silver Maximalfaction symbol plus "C-ROM", as in "Cybertron", get it? Huh? And Megatron has the "D-ROM"? See what they did there?

The toy'sbio clarifies that this Convobat is Optimus Prime, having had a trailer truck alternate mode and later scanning a bat to fight Megatron.

The included CD-ROM includes the bios from wave 1 of theBeast Wars toyline, thefirstBeast Wars commercial, and a coloring game.

This mold was also used to makeOnyx Primal.

• More information on CD-ROM Convobat at TFU.info
• Review including CD-ROM images at aburachoujin's blog

Machine Wars

Most Autobotsaspire to be Optimus Prime, Optimus Prime aspires to beThunder Clash.

• Optimus Prime (Ultra, 1997)
  • Accessories: Laser rifle, 2 missiles

Available only atKB Toys,Machine Wars Optimus Prime is aredeco and slightretool of the European Generation 1 exclusiveTurbomaster leaderThunder Clash. It's easy to see why Thunder Clash was chosen to become the new Optimus Prime, given his adherence to Prime tradition: the truck cab disconnects to become the robot, while the trailer unfolds to become an assault tower with twin missile racks. On the original Thunder Clash version of the mold, the racks operated on a gravity-feed system where a new missile drops into the launcher from above each time one was fired, allowing for twelve to be fired in rapid succession using a pinball launcher style mechanism.

ForMachine Wars Prime, this feature had to be retooledfor safety reasons, sealing the gravity feed slot and cutting the original launcher plungers down to just the handles, which do not move. The small missiles were replaced with much larger new molds to prevent choking hazards and triggers were added to the sides of the launchers, becoming regular spring loaded (and unusually powerful) single-firing weapons. There seems to have been some disconnect between the deco artist and whoever handled the redone Thunder Clashstickers, as some stickers replicate details already handled by paint on the figure. Not noted in the instructions is that the handgun is meant to serve as the drive shaft for the cab, storing between the legs on the backside. On a minor note, the redeco eliminates allgold plastic from the toy, making it much more durable than Thunder Clash's original release.

Thepackage art for this toy is a retouched version of the art forGeneration 2 Laser Optimus Prime (see above), but now positioned so one robot arm is always "off the edge" of the box and unseen - conveniently hiding the sword this toy has never had, yet leaving the Laser Prime faceplate intact.

This version of the mold was planned to beredecoed intoMenasor for theUniverse line, but the release was canceled.

• More information onMachine Wars Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Choro-Q Robo

• Convoy TV Version (2001)
  • ID Number:Q/01
  • Accessories: Laser rifle

• Known designers:Kazutami Abiko (TakaraTomy)

Choro-Q Robo Convoy is a small, cutesified transforming figure of Optimus Prime that changes from trailer-pulling truck directly torobot mode. The toy features a working pull-back motor, and is decorated in a color scheme based on Prime's appearance in the original Generation 1 cartoon, with blue eyes and windows and a grey stripe on the trailer.

• Move information on Convoy TV Version at TFU.info

• Convoy Metallic Version (2001)
  • ID Number:Q/02
  • Accessories: Laser rifle

This version ofChoro-Q Robo Convoy is a redeco of the first, featuring glittering metallic plastic, and a deco based upon the original toy, with yellow eyes, black windows, and a silver-and-blue stripe on the trailer.

Commemorative Series

The snip that launched a thousand snits.

• Optimus Prime (2002/2012)
  • Accessories: Laser Blaster, 2 fists (left & right), trailer/Combat Deck, Roller (grey), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

The first reissue of the original Optimus Prime toy in North America since the Generation 1 toyline reached its end, this "Commemorative Series" edition of the figure was a Toys"R"Us exclusive. It wasmostly identical to the original figure, save for some necessary modifications madefor safety reasons. In the first instance of what would become a recognizable alteration to the mold, the toy's smokestacks were shortened. The Combat Deck's firing missiles were elongated to prevent potential choking, as was the case with all other Commemorative Series figures' firing missiles, and now plug into the Combat Deck via a "keyed" locking tab mechanism that reissues of the original figure continue to use to this day. This release also had the trailer's launching feature removed.

In 2012, a reissue of the Commemorative Series toy was released. Though the "Commemorative Series" label was not printed anywhere on the packaging, the included instructions retained the name. The toy itself is a mix of different versions. The cab has the safety modifications of the originalCommemorative Series release, including the shortened smokestacks and longer missiles (and thicker rifle), but also has the modified hitch of the 2011Chronicle two-pack (see below). Meanwhile, the trailer features the lighter gray plastic colors used for the 2008Universe release, and the Autobot insignias on the robot's shoulders are tampographed (like on Takara'sEncore version and Hasbro'sUniverse 25th Anniversary release). This version also seems to suffer frommold deterioration.

• More information on Commemorative Series Optimus Prime at TFU.info

The real one has a longer missile

• Powermaster Optimus Prime with Apex Armor (2003, 2012)
  • Accessories: Hi-Q Powermaster unit, 2 Laser Rifles, 2 Twin Particle Beam Cannons, Super Robot head, missile launcher, 2 missiles,Apex Bomber chest/trailer top, 2 legs (left & right), 2 arms (left and right), Armor chest/trailer front, 2 wings (left & right)

• Known designers:Kōjin Ōno (TakaraTomy),Ban Magami (concept artist)

Marketed as a reissue of Powermaster Optimus Prime, this Toys"R"Us-exclusive Commemorative Series figure is in truth based on the Ginrai tooling on the toy that had previously been exclusive to Japan. It features a die-cast metal cab with translucent blue windows, and shortened, chrome smokestacks, and comes packaged with the droneApex Bomber (formerly Ginrai's partnerGodbomber), who splits into several components and combines with Prime to form "Apex Armor". As with all other Commemorative Series figures, Prime's new spring-loaded missile launcher featured an elongated missile.

The figure was re-released in Hasbro's Asian markets in 2012, with no known changes to the figure itself but several modifications to the packaging that makes it easy to tell the two releases apart: The flap containing thepackage art is omitted entirely, the "Commemorative Series II" label is missing, the age recommendation and safety warning labels, the "Changes from double tractor trailer to battle station to super robot!" call-out and the name of the toy have all been shuffled around (with the words "battle" and "super" being omitted in the process), and most notably, the toy is no longer named "Powermaster Optimus Prime with Apex Armor", but simply "Optimus Prime", with Apex Bomber's existence no longer acknowledged anywhere on the packaging.

• More information on Powermaster Prime with Apex Armor at TFU.info

The Transformers Collection

• Convoy (2002)
  • ID Number:0
  • Accessories: Laser Blaster, 2 fists (left & right), trailer/Combat Deck, Roller (dark blue), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump,energon-axe

• Known designers:Pat Lee (packaging artist)

As yet another in an increasingly large number of reissues of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime toy, this entry in the Japanese-exclusiveThe Transformers Collection line of reissues added a few extra goodies to spice things up. Chiefly, the figure was armed with a newenergon-axe, based on the weapon used by Prime in the Generation 1 cartoon episode, "More than Meets the Eye, Part 2", which plugs into either of the headlight-holes that normally accommodate Prime's fists. Additionally, Prime came packaged with a ring binder folder designed to hold the pull-out character file sheets that were included with all the otherTransformers Collection reissues. Notably, this figure reinstated the original, thick version of Prime's rifle as the standard for all future Japanese reissues.

• More information on Transformers Collection Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Starscream (2003)
  • ID Number:9

This redeco of the original Generation 1Starscreamtoy came packaged with a remolded right fist for Optimus Prime. This fist featured additional pegs that allowed it to holdthe pistol mode Megatron accessory which was also included with Starscream.

• More information on Transformers Collection Starscream at TFU.info

Smallest Transforming Transformers

You didn't find my trailer, did you? Haw haw.

• Convoy (2003)
  • ID Number:GTF 01A
  • Accessories: Laser Blaster

Standing only two-and-a-quarter inches tall,Smallest Transforming Transformers Optimus Prime was the smallest fully transforming G1 Optimus toy. He features an accurate transformation sequence based on the original full-sized toy, replacing the detachable hands with actual sculpted fists, and even including a tiny version of his laser rifle. Unsurprisingly, he also has little articulation and is only capable of moving his arms and legs.

His trailer and Roller were also available as a separate set in the same wave, as a rareshortpacked figure with the ID number "GTF-01B". It is a simplified version of the original Combat Deck, lacking features like the interior deco and the lift arm of the artillery robot, but still nonetheless looking fairly accurate to the original toy.

• More information on Smallest Transforming Convoy at TFU.info

• Convoy (Anime Version) (2004)
  • ID Number:GTF 06
  • Accessories: Laser Blaster

Smallest Transforming Prime was redecoed the following year for the second wave of the line, into a color scheme based on his Generation 1 cartoon appearance featuring brighter reds and blues, white thighs, yellow details on his bumper, and blue eyes and windows. This version of the figure was made available for a second time in the next wave ("Wave 2.5"), with a new anime-decorated version of the Combat Deck now available as a rare "chase" figure.

• More information on Convoy (Anime Version) at TFU.info

• Convoy (White) (2004)
  • ID Number:GTF X-4
  • Accessories: Laser Blaster

Another version of Prime was also available in the second wave of theSmallest Transforming Transformers series as a chase figure. This almost entirely white version of the figure is clearly based on the version of the original Prime cab robot used in the Generation 1 Ultra Magnus figure, but was nonetheless sold as Optimus Prime for theSmallest line.

• More information on Convoy (White) at TFU.info

Can't you guys ever get along?

• Convoy vs Megatron (multipack, 2004)
  • ID Number:VSX
  • Accessories: Laser Blaster

Available exclusively as a freebie through the September 2004 issue ofDengeki Hobby magazine, thisSmallest Transforming Transformers two-pack contains both Optimus Prime and Megatron, in homage to the original 1984 "VSX" giftset containing the original versions of the two leaders.

Mini Toy Shop Collection

'Cause we got a li'l ol' convoy, rockin' through the night...

• Convoy (2004)
  • ID Number:01

At about 2/3 the size of theSmallest Transforming Transformers, this diminutive version of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime toy is the smallest figure of the Autobot leader made to date. It was sold as part of Takara's blindpackedMini Toy Shop Collection line, a series of miniaturized figures from numerous classic Takara toylines, includingTransformers,Microman,Licca-chan,Choro-Q and others. Both of Prime's modes are represented by non-transforming individual figures, which come together in a two-pack. In-box, his truck form is even packed in a miniature recreation of his original Japanese packaging, which also includes a shrunken version of his sticker sheet. A tiny version of the original Takara Transformers catalog completes the set.

• More information on Mini Collection Convoy at tformers.com

Masterpiece

And the fandom rejoiced.(Takara Masterpiece Version Pictured)

(20th Anniversary Version Pictured)

• Optimus Prime/Convoy (December 11,2003/2004)
  • ID number:MP-1
  • Accessories: Ion blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, gun mode Megatron, Megatron's scope, stock and silencer, energon-axe, cardboard trailer (Japanese release only)

• Known designers:Aaron Archer (Hasbro),Hironori Kobayashi (TakaraTomy),Don Figueroa (concept artist)

20th Anniversary Optimus Prime was produced for the stated milestone of theTransformers brand. So successful was the figure thatToyFare magazine ultimately ranked it #1 in their quest for "Best Toy Ever".^[8]

Created with the specific purpose of producing an Optimus Prime as accurate to the original animated series as possible, the toy is exceptionally poseable compared to toys prior, partially constructed from die-cast metal, features rubber tires and vacuum-metalized plastic and is heavily detailed, with sliding pistons in its joints and working spring-loaded suspension in vehicle mode. The figure also contains multiple non-intrusive gimmicks, such as a movingmouthplate to emulate Prime's traditional method of speech, flip-up communications panels on the forearms depicting images ofBumblebee andStarscream, and an opening, light-up Matrix chamber in the chest, which contains a removable vacuum-metalized Matrix of Leadership that can also be pulled open. The Matrix is housed within a removable gray battery box which can light up the matrix core when activated.

Optimus Prime comes with many accessories in addition to the aforementioned Matrix, including the character's traditional laser rifle, now termed (and henceforth known as) anion blaster. The initial release of the figure cast the ion blaster in grey plastic, but later assortments recast it in its more familiar black coloration. Other accessories include a transparent orange energon-axe that plugs into either wrist when Prime's fist is retracted, and even a non-transforming gun mode Megatron weapon, with removable stock, silencer, and scope accessories, in homage toseveralinstances in the Generation 1 cartoon when Prime was forced to wield his enemy. Pack-in bonuses that came with the figure included an inner cardboard tray illustrated to resemble the interior of Prime's Combat Deck, and in later releases, a small poster drawn byPat Lee.

Optimus has a hidden sculpted mouth underneath his face mask, though attempts at removing the mask from the head may entirely damage the action feature.

Takara's version of the figure was released in their markets slightly earlier, as the first of their long-runningMasterpiece line. In addition to coming with a cardboard trailer that the buyer could assemble to "complete" Prime's truck mode, Takara's release differed from Hasbro's by featuring longer smokestacks (kept short on the Hasbro versionfor safety reasons), and lacking the black scorch-marked "battle damage" paint applications Hasbro included on the figure's shoulders, wrists, and abdomen. In Western markets, the figure was intended to complement theAlternators line.^[9]

This sculpt was redecoed by Takara into a golden Lucky Draw figure and later released in its original coloration with a trailer as a "Perfect Edition" (see below for both), while Hasbro would later redeco it into theirClassics-branded "20th Anniversary DVD Edition". The mold was also used to makeMasterpieceUltra Magnus and "Convoy Black Version", representing one of many drones built in Prime's image, rather than Prime himself.

InTransformers History Collection, ablind-packed Transformers trading figure line, Takara released an add-on hand forMasterpiece Convoy as aChase figure. The hand holds aSpike Witwicky figure and clips on to the end of Optimus Prime's arm, making the arm slightly longer than normal.

• More information on 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime at TFU.info

We salute the brave soul who transformed this thing in order to photograph it.

• Convoy (Lucky Draw figure,2004)
  • ID number:MP-1
  • Accessories: Ion blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, gun mode Megatron, Megatron's scope, stock and silencer, energon-axe, cardboard trailer

Offered as part of a Lucky Draw campaign in August 2004, this extremely rare version ofMasterpiece Convoy is almost entirely vacuum-metalized gold, lacking any other painted detail or stickers. The parts which are not viable are molded in a flat golden plastic; the only exceptions are its rubber tires, the core of the Matrix and the energon-axe, which remain black, blue and orange, respectively. Whether or not the figure was intended to evoke Optimus Prime'sentirely-golden appearance in the cartoon episode "The Golden Lagoon", when he was coated withelectrum, is unknown; given that entirely chroming a figure gold is a fairly standard deco for Lucky Draw figures, it may just be happy coincidence more than anything else.

The figure comes packaged in the standardMasterpiece Convoy box, with the only telltale sign of its fabled contents being the replacement of the traditionally silver foil lettering on the box with gold. It's not clear how many were made, but it is thought to be no more than 10 or 20.

• More information on goldMasterpiece Convoy at GoldOptimusPrime.com (via Internet Wayback Machine)

You just paid $170 for a big box on wheels.

• Convoy Perfect Edition (September 28, 2006/2009)
  • ID number:MP-4
  • Accessories: Trailer/Combat Deck, ion Blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, gun mode Megatron, Megatron's scope, stock and silencer, energon-axe, cardboard trailer

• Known designers:Hisashi Yuki (TakaraTomy)

For this re-release ofMasterpiece Convoy, Takara submitted to the biggest desire fans had for the figure and produced a full-size, fully transforming plastic and die-cast metal trailer. The trailer opens up into Convoy's Combat Deck, with storage for its accessories and a functional repair drone, though Roller is conspicuous by its absence. Like the original Combat Deck, the drone can extend through holes in the roof and front of the closed trailer, and the interior has enough room to accommodate oneAlternators figure invehicle mode. Some reports suggest that the paint on this figure's chest chips more easily than past editions. The red paint on the cab is also a slightly lighter color than on MP01.

This version of Convoy, and Hasbro's 20th Anniversary DVD version of the toy depictsMegatron andGrimlock on its communicators rather than Bumblebee and Starscream.

Continuating the trend begun by their previous release ofMasterpiece Ultra Magnus in 2005, HasbroAustralia released Convoy Perfect Edition as a Target Australiaexclusive in 2008. Takara themselves then made the figure available for a second time in October 2009.

Remember that scene from the movie that made you cry and traumatised you as a kid? Well now you can display me doing just that!

• Convoy Sleep Mode (2010)
  • ID number:MP-4S
  • Accessories: Trailer/Combat Deck, ion Blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, gun mode Megatron, Megatron's scope, stock and silencer, energon-axe

Released by TakaraTomy as part of theirWelcome to Transformers 2010 anniversary line honoring the "future era" of the original cartoon (which was set in 2010 in Japanese continuity, you see!), this exceptionally morbid re-release of theMasterpiece Convoy figure recolors the Autobot leader inblacks and greysvery low-saturated reds and blues, representinghis dead body fromThe Transformers: The Movie—but don't worry, kids, it's actually a "sleep mode", according to the figure's name! Limited to 2010 pieces in Japan (see what they did there?), it comes with all its customary accessories, including the Perfect Edition trailer, redecoed where appropriate: the trailer itself has become translucent, its energon-axe is now transparent grey, and Megatron, in another movie homage, is rendered in translucent purple, evoking the scene depicting his transformation intoGalvatron. The figure was also released in other parts of Asia as a limited edition of 2010 as well, combined with the Japanese edition for 4020 total. The Japanese version denotes "Serial Number in Japan: ####/2010" on its bio card with the number out of 2010, while the Asian version denotes "C1 - ####/2010" with the number out of 2010 on its bio card.

This version of Convoy depictsHot Rod andUltra Magnus on its communicators.

Well, it had to endsome day...

• Convoy Last Production (March 26,2011)
  • ID number:MP-1L
  • Accessories: Ion blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, gun mode Megatron, Megatron's scope, stock and silencer, energon-axe, sound stage

"Convoy Last Production" was the final re-use of theMasterpiece toy mold before it was at last retired after numerous re-releases and redecos. The figure is essentially identical to the original Japanese MP-1 release, aside from a slightly brighter red, and the addition of the words "LAST SHOT" in Transformers typeface molded into the small of Convoy's back, hidden beneath its headlight-flaps inrobot mode. Lacking the trailer of MP-4, the figure instead comes with a redecoed version of the electronic base included with Hasbro's "DVD Edition" of the figure from five years prior, which now features a collection of sixteen soundbytes of Convoy delivering famous lines from the Japanese version of the Generation 1 cartoon, recited by the character's original Japanese voice actorTesshō Genda. The base was promoted as containing a hint as to the identity of the nextMasterpiece toy; as it would turn out, this was a new version of Convoy himself (see below), foreshadowed by a sound clip on the base which played only intermittently, and which had Convoy announce that he would "soon be reborn".

For its release in Korea, Hasbro Asia provided acollector coin featuring truck-mode Optimus Prime on one side and "MP-01L" on the other. The coin came mounted on a card featuring lineart of the Autobot leader's head, the stark black design of which could be mistaken for promoting the earlier "Sleep Mode" release. The limited release (and general lack of enthusiasm for the collector coins in Korea) makes this one of the more difficult Masterpiece coins to find.

Here we go again...

• Convoy (September 24, 2011, 2016)
  • ID number:MP-10
  • Accessories:Ion blaster,Matrix of Leadership,energon-axe,trailer/Combat Deck,Roller,Spike Witwicky figurine

• Known designers:Shogo Hasui (TakaraTomy),Junichi Akutsu (concept artist)

MP-10 Convoy, advertised as a "perfect new model" on its packaging, is an entirely new tooling of Generation 1 Optimus Prime. Convoy is now smaller, making him more in-scale with other recentMasterpiece toys, such asRodimus, and comes with a trailer and various accessories. While the front of the vehicle mode's cab is an accurate depiction of a mid-to-late-1980s Freightliner FLT cabover, the back half, (which is, as usual, made out of Convoy's legs) is much larger and robot-leggier in proportion. (So much that they sculpt a ladder on each side.)

Many of the small features and electronics of the originalMasterpiece mold are left out. Instead, this Convoy features better overall cartoon accuracy (chest interior, head, etc.), an extensive red paint job that covers much of his red plastic, corrected robot mode proportions, improved articulation, and its gun can now collapse and store inside a compartment on its back in either mode. In addition to Convoy's trailer, which can transform into Combat Deck, it also comes with Roller, a small Spike Witwicky figurine, a die-cast metal Matrix of Leadership (with a clear blue plastic center), and an energy axe that slips over Convoy's right hand. Spike can fit inside the cab in vehicle mode, ride in Roller's seat, or fit into any of the seating compartments inside Convoy's trailer. Roller has options to plug in Convoy's gun or pull Convoy's trailer, and the trailer itself can store Convoy's weapons in any mode. Although not easily breakable, care must be taken for posing the index fingers; extending the finger even far would cause it to pop off.

MP-10 immediately became the gold standard in terms of scale for the Masterpiece line, with all subsequent releases being sized to best match him for nearly a decade.

The trailer from this mold can be towed byMPM-04 Optimus Prime andLegendary Optimus Prime though this feature is undocumented on these toys.

This figure was re-released in 2016, with the packaging now advertising the "Long Life Design" award which theMasterpiece line won that same year.^[10] This mold was also used to makeMP-10B Black Convoy.

See also:MP-10 Hasbro andHasbro Masterpiece.

In the jungle / the mighty jungle / the Convoy sleeps tonight

• Convoy (BAPE ver.) (2014-07-19)
  • ID number:MP-10A
  • Accessories:Ion Blaster,Matrix of Leadership,Energon axe

Available exclusively from Japanese clothing companyA Bathing Ape in 2014, Convoy (BAPE Ver.) is a trailer-less redeco of the MP-10 mold sporting a green color scheme matching theConvoy Reissue BAPE Ver. of the original G1 toy, with "BAPE's famous camouflage pattern" and an ape head print on the shoulder replacing the usual faction symbol.

Unlike Shinji, this guy won't go strangling his girlfriend or dating his mother's clone, if he even has a mother...

• Convoy Mode "Eva" (2014-11-28)
  • ID number:MP-10
  • Accessories:Ion Blaster,Matrix of Leadership,Energon axe,trailer/Battle Station,Roller,Spike Witwicky figurine

Exclusive to theTakaraTomy Mall and limited to 1,000 pieces, this figure was released as part of theTransformers × Evangelion crossover. It uses the MP-10 mold with all the same accessories, decoed in the green and purple color scheme ofEva-01. The trailer, Roller, and Spike figure are done up inNerv-themed colors.

Because one overpriced clothing store exclusive MP10 repaint wasn't enough. Anyone like to give the odds for a BAPE Ver. BLACK in 2017 then?

• Convoy (BAPE REDCAMO ver.) (2015-11)
  • ID number:MP-10R
  • Accessories: Ion Blaster, Matrix of Leadership, Energon axe

Available exclusively from Japanese clothing companyA Bathing Ape in 2015, Convoy (BAPE REDCAMO Ver.) is a trailer-less redeco of the MP-10 mold sporting a unique deep red color scheme matching theConvoy Reissue BAPE Ver. Red of the original G1 toy, with "BAPE's famous camouflage pattern" and an ape head print on the shoulder replacing the usual faction symbol.

• Optimus Prime Mini Die-Cast figure (2016-11-26)
  • ID number:1
  • Included withMP-33 Inferno

Replacing the collector coins in previous releases, the Asia release ofMasterpiece Inferno comes with a mini Optimus Prime figure, the first in a range of non transformable collectables made fromlost art Die-Cast metal and based on the corresponding Masterpiece figure (MP10).

As predicted. What's the chances of a new BAPE color scheme? Teal Blue or Burnt Gold would be nice if you're reading this, BAPE.

• Convoy (BAPE BLACKCAMO ver.) (2017)
  • ID number:MP-10K
  • Accessories: Ion Blaster, Matrix of Leadership, Energon axe

Available exclusively from Japanese clothing companyA Bathing Ape in 2017, MP Convoy BAPE BLACKCAMO Ver. is a trailer-less redeco of the MP-10 mold sporting a unique black color scheme matching theConvoy Reissue BAPE Ver. BLACK of the original G1 toy, with "BAPE's famous camouflage pattern" and an ape head print on the shoulder replacing the usual faction symbol.

At your 7-Eleven, freedom's waiting for you.

• Convoy (7-Eleven ver.) (February 28,2018)
  • ID number:MP-711
  • Accessories: Ion blaster, Matrix of Leadership, energon-axe, trailer, Roller, Spike Witwicky figurine

Available exclusively from Japanese 7-11 stores, MP-711 is anUltra Magnus-decoed Convoy—white with green and blue highlighting—themed with7-Eleven logos. Unlike most MP-10 redecos, he comes with a trailer, Roller, and Spike figure, who is sporting a 7-Eleven uniform. Roller and the combat deck come with 7-Eleven logos, however Convoy's shoulder logos are stickers with the option of a green 7-Eleven logo or the standard Autobot logo on either shoulder.

Anyone up for a game ofbasketrek?

• Convoy (atmos safari LeBron Ver.) (March 15,2019)
  • ID number:MP-10ASL
  • Accessories: Ion Blaster, Matrix of Leadership, Energon axe

Exclusive to Japanese Atmos stores, this deco of Optimus matches Atmos Safari LeBron James sneakers, in a fetching scheme of vibrant orange plus black and gray with extra details and logos. Unfortunately he does not come with aballobot accessory.

All this for the low, low price of an arm, a leg, and your firstborn son! (Note:Basketball accessory not included.)

• Convoy Ver.3.0 (August 31,2019)
  • ID number:MP-44
  • Accessories: Ion Blaster, 2 beam effect parts, Matrix of Leadership, Energon axe, damaged head, alternate head, Starscream head, Starscream shoulder intakes, damaged chestpiece, jetpack, trailer, Roller,Spike Witwicky figurine,Sparkplug Witwicky figurine,Carly figurine

• Known designers:Yuki Ohshima (concept artist)

An entirely new mold released to commemorate the brand's 35th anniversary,Masterpiece "Convoy Ver.3.0" is a much more complex and cartoon-accurate figure than previous releases. At 50,000 yen (approximately $450 USD), this Convoy had the highest MSRP of any mass-marketTransformers toy untilWar for CybertronUnicron's $575 price tag was announced.

Alongside the Trailer (which retains the same function and can hold 4 standard-sized Autobot cars at a time when open), Roller, the Ion Blaster, Matrix of Leadership, and Energon Axe, the Combat Deck's base can be removed and with the new flip-out wheels, Roller (now cast in stark grey with silver rims) can tow it around. The cannon and arm section can also be removed so it can function as a flight stand, while an adapter forMP-41 Dinobot's display stand is also included, and the Ion Blaster now has 2 effect parts, which can simulate blaster fire and when used with the Sideswipe rocket pack included, can be used as booster flames. He also comes with a fuel hose like that on the original figure, as well as a soundbox feature that can be switched between recorded lines by the character's original Japanese (Tesshō Genda) and English (Peter Cullen) voice actors, with transformation effects (though the ascending and descending transformation sounds are spliced together in his English voice) and Douglas Walsh music to boot! As to note, Cullen's clips are closer to the recentAligned portrayals.

LikeMP-36 Megatron, Convoy includes a battle-damaged head and an abdomen cover to replicate the war wounds in the climatic battle in the movie, and alongside a newly designed figure of Spike, he comes with two of Sparkplug and Carly, any of them capable of riding inside via 2 small doors on the side of the cab. A second alternate head is based on his head's rounder design seen in the first season of the cartoon and the Marvel Comics. His accessories can be stored in the trailer's removable undercarriage.

This figure, with the included intakes and alternate head in place, also doubles asStarscream from "Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1".

Unfortunately, Convoy has been known to suffer from differing quality control issues. Because of a design flaw, certain plastic parts in his lower ratcheted knee joints tend to build stress during movement and eventually break. Furthermore, grey and yellow paint in parts that tend to get scratched and bumped during transformation have been prone to paint chipping. Some units have come with theirsoft plastic ear antennas on different heads warped in-package. The human minifigures can have their ball-jointed limbs rather easily popping out of their sockets and misassembled (in this case, Carly with her groin part in reverse from the front).

Unlike MP-01 and MP-10, this version of Convoy did not get a fully localized Hasbro release for English-speaking markets. However, it is being imported by Hasbro through numerous retail outlets with additional branding using the localized Optimus Prime name and presumably with the same Hasbro-branded slipcover and English safety sheet given to other contemporaryMasterpiece releases. In Canada, the figure is being released as an EB Games exclusive, where he'll cost even more than the game consoles sold there! Hasbro's online product description neglects to mention the voice box gimmick, possibly due to English-speaking audiences' unfamiliarity with JapaneseTransformers media and the fairly late reveal of his English-language voice clips.

This mold was redecoed asBlack Convoy, with the sound gimmick removed, and without the trailer, battle damaged, and Starscream parts.

The trailer from this mold can be towed byMPM-12 Optimus Prime andBrave Commander Optimus Prime, though this feature is undocumented on these toys.

As reported by TakaraTomy's employees atCybertron Con 2024, this Optimus hassold poorly during its debut, which stems from his complex transformation and possibly design flaws.

• Convoy (atmos duckcamo Ver.) (March 26,2020)
  • ID number:MP-10DC
  • Accessories: Ion Blaster, Matrix of Leadership, Energon axe

Exclusive to Japanese Atmos stores, this deco of Optimus matches Atmos Safari Duck sneakers, in a fetching scheme of greens plus vibrant orange.

Let's see what you can see... This article is in need of images.

• Convoy (atmos ELEPHANT CAMO Ver.) (black plus vibrant teal)

• Convoy (atmos VIOTECH CAMO Ver.)(light grey plus light gold)

• Convoy (atmos TIGER CAMO BLACK Ver.) (black plus shocking green and gold)

• Convoy (atmos TIGER CAMO YELLOW Ver.) (yellow and black tiger stripes plus white)

Optimus Prall, Masterpiece flavored!

• Skyfire (2023)
  • ID number:MP-57

• Known designers:Kōjin Ōno (TakaraTomy),Yuki Ohshima (concept artist)

Included with the massiveMasterpiece Skyfire is an articulated,cartoon-accurate figurine of "Convoy", made to scale with Skyfire's jet mode.

You know, Optimus Prime, the superhero from America.

• Optimus Prime (February2024)
  • ID number:MP-44S
  • Accessories: Ion Blaster, beam effect part, Matrix of Leadership, Energon axe, alternate head

• Known designers:Kōjin Ōno (TakaraTomy)^[11]

Released in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of theTransformers brand,Masterpiece MP-44S Optimus Prime is a redeco of "Convoy Ver.3.0", featuring colors based on theoriginalThe Transformers toy. Among the heaps of accessories included with the original release of Convoy, Optimus retains only his Ion Blaster (with its beam effect), Energon Axe, and the more rounded head styled after season 1 of the cartoon (here passing the squint test for the toy head). These accessories are the same as MP-49, but now includes the Transformers power base stand adapter. New for this release is a sheet of stickers to reproduce the, erm, sheet of stickers, included withThe Transformers Optimus Prime. As with the previous trailer-lessMP-49 Black Convoy, the soundbox has been neutered for this release.

This redeco has noticeably different tolerance changes, with the joints being much tighter than both MP-44 and MP-49. Also unlike MP-49, the entire figure is painted albeit in a lighter, more resistive coat compared to MP-44. The "round head" was given blue eyes (a change from the promotional photos). With the adjusted tolerances in mind, the clips that hook the leg-stored cab panels into the gas tanks have been removed.

Instead of the standard "Convoy" of Japanese releases based on older media, this toy uses the "Optimus Prime" name. It is explained as a name made popular by Hollywood movies—referring to thelive-action film series, which does not change character names in Japanese localization.

Robotmasters

My vehicle mode is dangerous and unroadworthy!

• G1 Convoy (2004)

• ID number:RM-01
• Release date:July 15, 2004
• Accessories: "Convoy Gun", missile launcher, missile, energon-axe, 4 fists (2 left, 2 right)

Part of the first wave ofRobotmasters toys, "G1 Convoy" (as he is amusingly referred to even in fiction) visibly takes some design cues from20th Anniversary Optimus Prime, featuring a similar sculpt, but sharing few to none of the larger toy's other attributes.

G1 Convoy comes with two sets of fists, each pair featuring differently-shaped fist holes: one pair with square holes to hold the figure's "Convoy Gun" (as his ion blaster is called), and the other with round 3 mm-compatible holes to hold the spring-loaded translucent blue missile launcher (a generic accessory also available withRobotmastersBeast Megatron andBeast Convoy). The fists are swapped out by simply popping them out of the wrist-hinge that holds them in place; the figure also includes an energon-axe that can be inserted into the wrist instead of a fist.

Due to being molded in translucent plastic, the waist section is prone to breakage, so exercise some caution.

• More information on G1 Convoy at TFU.info

I'm shiny!

• G1 Convoy + DVD (2004)

• ID number:RM-10
• Release date:July 15, 2004
• Accessories: "Convoy Gun", missile launcher, missile, energon-axe, 4 fists (2 left, 2 right)

Also in the first wave ofRobotmasters, this special edition release of G1 Convoy is decked out in metallic paint and a tint of yellow for his eyes, with an extra Autobot insignia tampographed onto his right shoulder, and a black Convoy Gun. The figure comes packed with a DVD containing the first episode of theRobotmasters cartoon, "Fight! The Group of the Strongest Commanders!".

• More information on G1 Convoy + DVD at TFU.info

I'm blacky!

• G1 Convoy Limited Black Version (2005)

• ID number:RM-01
• Accessories: "Convoy Gun", missile launcher, missile, energon-axe, 4 fists (2 left, 2 right), Calamity Defenser

Available only via mail-order throughDengeki Hobby magazine, the "Limited Black Version" of G1 Convoy is just that: a straightblack redeco of the G1 Convoy toy. He comes with all his original accessories, appropriately redecoed (including a silver version of his axe), as well as a gold-chromed version of the "Calamity Defenser"solitarium weapon that came withPsycho-Orb.

• More information on G1 Convoy Limited Black Version at TFU.info

The third one is totallyShattered Glass Prime!

• G1 Convoy (Lucky Draw figure, 2005)

• ID number:RM-01
• Accessories: "Convoy Gun", missile launcher, missile, energon-axe, 4 fists (2 left, 2 right)

WhenRobotmasters G1 Convoy was turned into a Lucky Draw figure, the color scheme into which he was redecoed was chosen through a children's coloring contest held in the pages of the December 2004 issue ofTV Magazine. The winning entry was a...startling mixture of blue, orange and two shades of green, earning the toy thefan-appointed nickname of "Crayola Convoy". As with all Lucky Draws, it is extremely rare, with only ten units produced.

• More information on "Crayola Convoy" at LuckyDrawTransformers.com (via Internet Wayback Machine)

Universe (2003)

Why won't they repaint my full-size toy in these colours?!?

• Optimus Prime (Spy Changer, 2004)

Universe "Spy Changer" Optimus Prime is aredeco of theRobots in DisguiseSpychangerScourge toy, transforming into a Western Star 4964EX truck. He replaces most of the black plastic with predominantly red and blue, with silver for detailing. Like most Spy Changers, he features high speed axles and can roll very well across smooth surfaces, but lacks the weight to propel him quickly.

Originally aKB Toys exclusive, the first release of this toy (and the others in the assortment) did not have any sub-line designation at all, but later releases for other chains, most notably "budget" chains like Family Dollar, marked them asUniverse product.

This mold was also redecoed intoa Spy Changer version of the live-action movie Optimus Prime.

• More information on Universe Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Collector's Edition

"Welcome to The Past!"

• Orion Pax (2-pack, 2005)

• ID number:67
• Accessories: "Barrelroller" robot/"electromagnetic lift handle", "laser rifle"

ThisCollector's Edition Japanesee-HOBBY exclusive is aredeco ofTargetmasterKup, released in conjunction withKup's 2005 reissue inThe Transformers Collection. He transforms into a Cybertronian pickup truck, and is colored to representOrion Pax as he appeared in theGeneration 1 television series episode "War Dawn".

Like the Kup reissue, he comes with both the original release's gun and aTargetmaster, in this caseBarrelroller, a redeco ofRecoil. The original-release rifle has been slightly retooled to fit in the wider fist-holes of the Targetmaster vesion of the mold.

Just as the reissued Kup came with a reissue ofWheelie, this set also included a redeco of Wheelie as Orion's best friend,Dion. It shipped to buyers in September 2005.

In later years, other Kup toys would be repainted into Orion Paxunder theTribute line, and also theLegacy "A Hero Is Born" double pack.

• More information on Orion Pax at TFU.info

Hybrid Style

• Convoy (2006)
  • ID number:T.H.S.-02
    

    

    Expensive and tiny.
  • Accessories: Trailer/Combat Deck, Roller, ion blaster, gas pump, energon-axe, Autobot Matrix of Leadership,rocket pack, 8 hands (4 left, 4 right), Autobot insignia stand

• Known designers:Shōji Kawamori (TakaraTomy)

Hybrid Style Optimus Prime is aninsanely detailed and complex transforming toy, created under the supervision of famed mecha designerShōji Kawamori. Standing only three and three-quarter inches tall in robot mode, the figure is partially constructed from die-cast metal and features one of the most complex transformation sequences ever seen on aTransformers figure of its size. Alas, the small size of the figure also works against it, as it required several design concessions that resulted in (if we're being nice about it) an unimpressive cab mode.

Prime is loaded with a ridiculous number of features and accessories. The robot itself is highly poseable, and both the smokestacks on Prime's shoulders and the fuel tanks on his legs can be rotated forward to act as guns, even featuring sculpted detail to this effect. As ever, he comes with a trailer that opens up into his crazy-detailed Combat Deck, featuring more action features than ever before. In trailer mode alone, it features a flip-down support stand so it can stand alone, a spring-loaded pop-out ramp instead of a fold-down one, and when the trailer is split for transformation, the traditional support legs underneath automatically swing out into place. The trailer houses most of Prime's accessories, including his ion blaster (with a moveable ammo clip to allow for multiple poses) and energon-axe, as well as his classic gas pump accessory, now with a poseable wire instead of a rubber hose. Two fold-out compartments provide storage space for six of Prime's interchangeable fists, while the other two remain attached the robot: two clenched, two open, a pointing right fist, a tilted left fist (for holding the ion blaster's ammo clip), and two fists with slots to grip the miniscule Matrix of Leadership that fits in a tiny chamber in Prime's chest. The Combat Deck's artillery robot features two flip-out handles that Prime can grip as if aiming the drone's guns, and Roller is also included, with three different 3 mm ports to hold Prime's gun and gas pump. Lastly, Prime comes with a rocket pack like those used by the Autobots in such Generation 1 cartoon episodes as "Dinobot Island", and a stand shaped like the Autobot insignia that allows him to be displayed in mid-air, as if in flight. The rocket pack also has 3 mm ports for Prime's weapons, and stores on the front of the trailer in vehicle mode.

Purchase of aHybrid Style Optimus Prime at a JapaneseToys"R"Us store allowed the buyer the option of also purchasing the exclusiveSmallest Transforming TransformersHot Rod toy.

The toy also received a Hasbro release 11 years later under thePlatinum Edition line.

• More information on Hybrid Style Convoy on TFU.info

Yanigerlicious!

• Convoy Black Version (2006)
  • ID number:T.H.S.-02B
  • Accessories: Trailer/Combat Deck, Roller, ion blaster, gas pump, energon-axe, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, rocket pack, 8 fists (4 left, 4 right), Autobot insignia stand, 2 missile launchers, 2 heads

Available exclusively through e-HOBBY, this black and teal repaint ofHybrid Style Convoy features the traditional "Nemesis Prime" color scheme, but represents a version of Optimus Prime himself. In addition to all the original accessories, the toys also includes several more deliciously metatextual goodies, themed around theGeneration 2 toy and comics: two new large guns patterned after the new weapons wielded by theGeneration 2 Optimus Prime toy, and two additional (blue) Prime heads that can be swapped with the figure's regular noggin, sculpted explicitly in the style ofGeneration 2 comic artistDerek Yaniger. One head is pristine, the other decorated to match the battle damage seen on the cover of thefirstGeneration 2 issue.

As the more franchise-savvy TransFans may realise, these extra parts, plus the black trailer of Convoy Black Version, can all be used to modify the original, redHybrid Style Optimus Prime into a comic-accurateGeneration 2 version, complete with a black trailer, trailer-mounted guns and your choice of Yaniger-style heads.

This figure came in a unique box, packaged with amini-comic, both illustrated byHidetsugu Yoshioka.

Texas tea.

• Convoy Black Gold Version (November 25, 2013)
  • ID number:T.H.S.-02
  • Accessories: Trailer/Combat Deck, Roller, ion blaster, gas pump, energon-axe, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, rocket pack, 8 fists (4 left, 4 right), Autobot insignia stand, 2 missile launchers

Availableonly in China markets, Convoy Black Gold Version is yet another black repaint of the firstHybrid Style Convoy figure, with some gold detailing. Convoy Black Gold Version does not include any extra accessories unlike the Black Version release above.

Alternators

ButStan Bush did a song for Toyota, not Dodge...
(Hasbro version stock images)

(Takara version stock images)

• Dodge Ram SRT-10 Optimus Prime (Alternator, 2006)

• Alternators ID number:21
• Binaltech name:Convoy
• Binaltech ID number:BT-22
• Binaltech release date:October 2, 2008
• Accessories: Engine/gun
• Known designers:Steve Bono (Hasbro),Marcelo Matere (packaging artist)

Alternators Optimus Prime transforms into an accurate 1:24 scale Dodge Ram SRT-10. The vehicle mode features rubber tires, functional steering, opening hood, tail gate and doors with a detailed cabin interior. Several of the details of hisrobot mode body are based on the sculpt of the 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime figure, but the head itself shares more similarities with the Powermaster mold. He is armed with a small pistol which transforms into his vehicle mode engine.

This figure was originally conceived by Hasbro to be another character (exactly who is unknown), rather than Optimus Prime, but Takara insisted that the toy be made into Optimus to help it sell well in their markets, as the vehicle mode was no particular draw, given its scarcity in Japan. Reportedly, the figure cost twice as much as other Alternators to construct, so Hasbro had to bow to this demand so Takara would help fund it. Ironically, Takara eventually wound up soliciting the figurenot as Prime, but as hisSuper-God Masterforce lookalike,Ginrai (perhaps connected to the Powermasteresque headsculpt), before its Japanese release was cancelled and moved over into theKiss Players toyline (see below).

It took two further years, but this figure was eventually released as part of the Japanese counterpart to theAlternators line (Binaltech) in 2008.Binaltech Convoy features some additional paint details, like his silver pelvis, additional patterns on his shoulders, and red paint on his engine-gun, and like allBinaltech figures, he also includes die-cast metal pieces. Unlike previous Binaltech releases, a bio-card was not included.

This sculpt was also used to createAlternatorsNemesis Prime.

• Archive ofBinaltech Convoy's bio and tech specs
• More information on Alternators/Binaltech Convoy at TFU.info

Kiss Players

• Convoy × Melissa (2006)
  • Accessories: Engine/gun, "Surfblade" surfboard/sword weapon,Marissa Faireborn figurine with stand and 2 pairs of arms and legs

• Known designers:Yuki Ohshima (concept artist)

Kiss Players Convoy is a redeco ofAlternators Optimus Prime. While the figures may appear similar at first glance, given thatKiss Players Prime is still red, blue and black, there are many subtle differences, not least of all the replacement of theAlternators figure's bare, flat red plastic with a deep metallic red paint. Several of his body parts are cast in different colors of plastic (for example, his shins, formerly black, are now blue, while his formerly-blue hands are now black), and he features more intricate paint applications on his shoulders, and especially his pelvis, which is decorated to look like Prime's traditional bumper.

In addition to the small engine-pistol of hisAlternators figure, Prime comes with the "Surfblade", a pink surfboard that can be reconfigured into either two small knives or a large double-bladed sword. As with all theKiss Players figures, Prime also comes with aPVC figurine of a cute girl: in this case, Marissa Faireborn, who can perch upon his shoulder or sit in his driver's seat, and comes with two pairs of interchangeable arms and legs. Additionally, the set includes a CD featuring the first five episodes of theKiss Players radio drama, as well as the exclusive bonus audio adventure, "Someday, Beneath the Sun."

This set was originally intended to be released under theBinaltech Asterisk line, as "Black Convoy meets Marissa", but this release was cancelled before it was officially even announced.

Titanium Series

Well heis a car... in a carcrash.

• Optimus Prime (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
  • Accessories:Ion blaster, display stand

• Known designers:Don Figueroa (concept artist)

Released in the first wave ofTitanium Series 6-inch Cybertron Heroes figures, this figure is based on Optimus Prime'sCybertronian form as seen in theDreamwave comic book "The War Within". Prime transforms into a comic-accurate Cybertronian truck in a few steps, and his ion blaster can be slotted in the back of the truck mode cab for storage.

The figure was personally designed by comic artistDon Figueroa, who created the original comic design in the first place, and his signature is left on the figure in the most literal way: the word "DON" can be seen sculpted into the barrel of his silver ion blaster. The paint on the handle of his ion blaster scuffs rather easily when placed into his hands.

As aTitanium figure, Prime is made in large part from die-cast metal, but like so many of the other toys in theTitanium line, his plastic joints have trouble supporting his heavy metal weight. For that reason, the tiny insufficient clips that hold his shoulders in place are highly prone to breaking off, leaving his shoulders floppy and unable to be secured in robot mode. He comes with the generic display stand shared by all of the 6" "Cybertron Heroes", with a unique removable nameplate.

• More information on Titanium Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Now we just need adam....

• War Within Optimus Prime vs. War Within Megatron (two-pack, 2007)
  • Accessories: Ion blaster

ThisToys"R"UsexclusiveTitanium two-pack includes the previously-releasedWar Within Optimus Prime figure along with theWar WithinMegatron Megatron figure and an exclusivevariant cover ofThe War Within#5.

As the mass retail release of the last waves of theTitanium "Cybertron Heroes" figures was delayed for several months, the two-pack version of Megatron was at least initially more widely available than the individually packaged one.

Despite being mentioned in the jointinstructions leaflet for the set, neither figure includes their display base.

There appears to be a variant of this two-pack: One version has the Optimus Prime figure more or less identical to its individual release, whereas the other one drops the additional black paint weathering, making him much cleaner-looking.

Classics

The definitive Generation 1 Optimus Prime mold of 2006.
And 2008.And 2012.And 2014.And 2016.

• Optimus Prime (Voyager Class, 2006)
  • Accessories: Smokestacks/laser cannon, wind vane/ion blaster

• Known designers:Eric Siebenaler (Hasbro),Takio Ejima andAlex Kubalsky (TakaraTomy),Don Figueroa (concept artist)

Classics Optimus Prime is based upon the original Optimus Prime, as is the intention for theClassics toyline. He transforms into a modern cab-over style truck of made up model, dominated by a large wind vane on his roof. As with mostClassics toys, he features a heat-sensitiverubsign.

Inrobot mode, his wind vane transforms into a large ion blaster, and his smokestacks transform into a smaller laser cannon. Additionally, both weapons can combine together to form a double-barrelled over-shoulder weapon. The toy has a trailer hitch but does not come with a trailer.

Unfortunately, the yellow paint on his forearms tends to flake off.

• More information on Classics Voyager Optimus Prime at TFU.info

They did me right,once.

• The Ultimate Battle (Multi-pack, 2006)
  • Accessories: Laser rifle

• Known designers:Eric Siebenaler (Hasbro),Joe Kyde (deco artist)

Classics "Ultimate Battle" Optimus Prime is a Deluxe Class figure and transforms into a flat-nosed truck cab. The figure is armed with a tommy gun-shaped laser rifle that transforms into a turret-like configuration and mounts on the rear of his truck mode, and features a spinning "power punch" action that sees the whole upper half of his torso spin when a button on his back is pressed. Pressing the button "unlocks" the spinning mechanism; pullhard on the button, and you can lock the torso back into place.

In the United States, Prime was only available in a special two-pack with a similarly uniqueClassicsMegatron toy, and the specially-produced "The Ultimate Battle" DVD (which is, inappropriately enough, entirely about theUnicron Trilogy). The two-pack (including the DVD) was also available as aWalmartexclusive "Bonus Value" version with two randomly selected members of theCybertronGiant Planet Mini-Con Team, in the combinationsOvercast/Longarm, Overcast/Deepdive and Deepdive/Longarm. International markets, including European countries, saw the two-pack in a considerably smaller, differently-shaped box that was lacking the DVD case (the DVD was instead made available separately). In addition, Mexico, Singapore and some European countries such as the Netherlands and Hungary also received the two figures on individual cardbacks. For the United States market, the two-pack wasrebranded and re-released in2003Universe-branded packaging later in 2007, available from Dollar General, Big Lots andKB Toys, andagain in2010Transformers-branded packaging in 2011, this time available from Dollar General and Big Bad Toy Store.

This figure was lateralso made available without redeco as part of the "Leader for the Ages" two-pack released under thelive-action movie line (see below) and saw several redecos forUniverse ("Special Edition", below),Welcome to Transformers 2010 ("Sons of Cybertron", below) andUnited (below).

• More information on Classics Deluxe Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Discounted at a Walmart near you.

• Optimus Prime (20th Anniversary DVD Edition, 2006)
  • Accessories: Ion blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leader, gun mode Megatron, Megatron's scope, stock and silencer, energon-axe, display stand

Produced to coincide with the 20th anniversary ofThe Transformers: The Movie and its release on DVD bySony, this edition of Prime is a redeco of his20th Anniversary figure. It replaces the original's metallic paint with flatter colors and does away with any and all vacuum-metalized plastic, as well as altering several other small details across the body, like the color of the lights on his feet and chest.

Prime comes with all the accessories of his previous release, although his ever-changing ion blaster is now somewhat confusingly cast in blue plastic. He features one major additional accessory: an electronic display base sculpted with the image of the Matrix and the Autobot insignia. Pressing the insignia's crest triggers a series of electronic soundbytes, mostly quotes from the movie recited not by original actorPeter Cullen, but by Hasbro's in-house actor,Ron Hayden: "Autobots, transform and roll out!", "I want you to make a special run to Autobot City," "Megatron must be stopped!", "All we need is a little energon, and a lot of luck," and two samples of the classictransformation sound effect, one ascending, one descending.

The display stand itself was later redecorated as a mail-in prize for Takara Tomy's "Welcome to Transformers 2010" promotion, was intended to be used withRodimus Convoy from "Masterpiece", and was also redecorated in the "final production" run of the Masterpiece Optimus Prime toys and as an Optimus Prime voiced stand for the Second Prize in theArms Up Campaign.

• More information on DVD Edition Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Subservience to Corporate America is the duty of all servile beings.

• Pepsi Optimus Prime (Autobot, 2007)
  • Accessories: Left & right fists, ion blaster, trailer

Inspired by the1985 promotional version of Optimus Prime that featured Pepsi stickers on his trailer, this outlandish incarnation of Prime is a slightly altered version of Takara's 2005Pepsi Convoy figure (which represented a different character to Prime). The figure was only sold byHasbro Toy Shop at various conventions, and given away as a promotional prize by Pepsi, via theirMountain Dew brand.

A redeco of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime cab robot sporting an egregious number of Pepsi-themed paint masks and details, Pepsi Prime's differences from Pepsi Convoy are minimal: he features the shortened smokestacks previously seen on theCommemorative Series release of the mold, the blue pattern on his decals are different (matching the American Pepsi can/bottle look at the time rather than the one used in Japan), and also has a different layout for the Pepsi logo on his left shoulder. Like Pepsi Convoy, he comes with an entirely new trailer unit, specially designed to carry either a single 500ml (16.9 oz) sizesoft drink bottle, three 350ml cans, or 12 bottle caps (bottle cap figurines being a common and popular collectible item in Japan). In a first for the Prime mold, the figure's fists store in holes on the underside of the trailer while he is in vehicle mode. His ion blaster (which also stores under the trailer) is the first Hasbro reissue to feature the original, thick-barrel sculpt, which was reinstated to the mold by theTransformers Collection release of Prime a few years prior.

• More information on Pepsi Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus (Multi-pack, 2007)

• Accessories: Smokestacks/laser cannon, wind vane/ion blaster

In Asian markets, such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines, Voyager Class Optimus Prime was also made available as part of a special two-pack with Voyager Class Ultra Magnus in late 2007. Aside from the unique packaging, the toys are identical to their single releases.

Sports Label

Comfortableyet stylish jogging is the right of all fashionable beings.

• Convoy featuring Nike Free 7.0 (2007)
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: Ion blaster

• Known designers:Hironori Kobayashi (TakaraTomy)

Surely one of the strangest examples of licensedTransformers products,Sports Label Convoy transforms into ashoe. Something of ashellformer, this baffling incarnation of Prime is colored primarily white and red in his alt mode of a realistic-looking (if notably undersized) Nike Free 7.0 sneaker, complete with gratuitously long real fabric shoelaces. Inrobot mode, he is made instantly recognizable by his incorporation of some additional blue and silver in predictable areas, and a traditionally Prime-styled head. Less traditionally, and somewhat perversely, Prime's feet are sculpted in the likeness of his own sneaker mode, making it seem like he's wearing himself!

His gun splits into two halves and stores inside hiskibble in shoe mode; in an undocumented feature, it has two handle pegs on opposite sides, so that it can be held either at its far end or halfway along its length. The gun halves can also be plugged together in two different ways.

This figure was, in fact, theonly mold in theSports Label line. It was redecoed into the "Marine Free" version of Prime himself (see below), and given a new head to createSports LabelMegatron

• More information on Sport Label Convoy at TFU.info

Prime's secret Magnus cosplay.

• Convoy featuring Nike Free 7.0 Marine Version
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: Ion blaster

A redeco of the firstSports Label Convoy, this figure transforms into a white, navy, and grey sneaker. Promotional images for the figure depicted its robot mode as white and aqua-blue, but the finished product was visibly darker, produced in shades of off-white and dark teal. In either coloration, it sure as hecklooks like it should beUltra Magnus, but for whatever reason... it ain't.

Encore

• Convoy (2007)
  • ID number:01
  • Accessories: Laser Blaster, 2 fists (left & right), trailer/Combat Deck, Roller (grey), 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump

A new series of reissues means a new release of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime figure, and Takara'sEncore series proved no different. This edition of the figure featured no extra accessories, but it did include the original, thick-barrelled version of Prime's rifle, as reinstated to the mold by theTransformers Collection version of the toy a few years prior. Both his blue and red plastics are lighter than normal, though not to the extent of Hasbro's subsequent 25th Anniversary release.

Notably, this edition addresses the small but persistent issue of the Autobot insignias on Prime's shoulders: Ever since 1984, applying the stickers evenly had been a challenge due to small bumps the figure's shoulders are textured with. Like thePepsi Convoy figure released two years prior,Encore Convoy replaces the stickers withtampographs.

Music Label

You just paid 140 bucks for a new headsculpt, didn't you? I bet you don't evenown an iPod...

• Convoy —playing iPod speaker— (2007)
  • Accessories: Trailer/iPod dock, 2 fists (left and right), ion blaster

Hot on the heels of their licensing deals with Pepsi and Nike, TakaraTomy got themselves a slice of Apple™ pie and released Convoy —playingiPod speaker— as part of their small, musically-themedMusic Label line. This version of Prime is an all-white redeco of the original Generation 1 cab robot, which (much like the "Marine Version" of Prime from theSports Label line) makes it seem like he ought to be Ultra Magnus. The figure is actually even derived from the retool of the mold created for the original Ultra Magnus figure, as distinguished by the elongated hubcap pegs on the front wheels. Like Pepsi Prime before it, the figure's fists now store in peg holes on the under side of its trailer. The toy lacks any of the original Prime's stickers (even the silver stripe on his chest is now apaint operation) and includes the original thick-barrelled version of Prime's blaster. The toy features a brand new headsculpt based on the20th Anniversary Prime figure, given additional poseability not previously seen on the figure by being mounted on aball joint.

This, of course, is all secondary to the main draw of the figure: it pulls an all-white trailer, which transforms into a working iPod speaker dock by rotating a substantial wedge of its full length 90 degrees . The dock features three working buttons; power, volume up and volume down, as well as an Autobot sigil indicator light. Included is a wall-plugging (Japanese) A/C adaptor with a long lead that plugs into the reverse of the trailer. Although American importers shouldn't have too much trouble, those living in parts of the world using higher strength A/C current outlets should be warned NOT to simply plug the A/C adaptor in with only a socket adapter, as this will overload the device and fry it completely. Buying the appropriate kind of universal A/C adaptor with advice from an electronics specialty shop is recommended.

• More information on Music Label Convoy at TFU.info

I'm gonna call you Peanut.

• Optimus Prime —speakers for iPod— (2008)
  • Accessories: Trailer/iPod dock, 2 fists (left and right), ion blaster

Designated "Optimus Prime" rather than the traditional Japanese "Convoy", this figure is a redeco of the previousMusic Label Convoy figure into the character's traditional red, blue and silver color scheme. Unlike previous re-issues of the mold, iPod Optimus Prime's sports a paint application similar to KissPlayers Convoy, having its ABS/PVC parts painted over with a thin layer of his iconic red, white (silver if you will) and blue motif paint applications (with the exception of his iPod docking trailer). This includes his trailer, though the effect is somewhat marred by the large, visible gap on one side. When reconfigured into dock mode, the interior surfaces surrounding the speakers are decorated with black-on-silver techno-patterns as well as three "Optimus Prime" logos. The recessed space also features a stylised, almostFrank Milleresque, high-contrast portrait of Prime's face, although this is largely covered when an iPod is inserted. The figure comes in identical packaging to the originalMusic Label Convoy, save for the addition of a sticker illustrating the different color of its contents.

The right of all sentient beings is... um... what am I promoting now? Wait, a Japanese pop band? Are you kidding me? I need a new agent.

• EXILE x TRANSFORMERS —speakers for iPod— (2008)
  • Accessories: Trailer/iPod dock, 2 fists (left and right), ion blaster

Exclusive toLDH Shop, this redeco of theMusic Label Convoy toy is utterly ridiculous and was created as a promotion for the Japanese pop bandEXILE. While Convoy himself has EXILE written on his right forearm, his trailer sports the "Love Dream Happiness" tagline of LDH Inc.[1], as well as the "EXILE Perfect Year 2008" logo of the "EXILE Perfect Year 2008 Ultimate Best Box" boxset, which was released some months after he was.

Transformers (2007)

The more things change, the more they, uh, get bigger guns.

• Leader for the Ages (Wal*Mart exclusive two-pack, 2007)
  • Accessories: Laser rifle

This Wal*Mart-exclusive two-pack pairs the deluxe-sizeClassics Optimus Prime figure withlive-action movie line'sFast Action BattlersPower Hook Optimus Prime toy. Both toys are identical to their original releases, and together represent the Optimus Primes of the oldest and newest generations (at the time) ofTransformers, respectively. The movie Prime is designated "2007 Optimus Prime", while theClassics figure is dubbed "1984 Optimus Prime" (referring not, of course, to the toy, which was produced in 2006, but to the character).

Diablock

• Diablock Convoy (2007)
  • ID number:01 (Mecha Builder Vol.03)
    

    

    We have the technology. We canrebuild him. Except, uh.. for hisface.
  • Accessories: Ion blaster

Rounding out a bumper year of Japanese-exclusive Generation 1 Optimus Primes, the Takara-licensed Kawada brandDiablock Convoy is a fully transformableLEGO-style block building figure similar in premise to the earlier AmericanBuilt to Rule! sets. TheDiablock figure, however, easily outstrips theBuilt to Rule! sets by both being an accurate representation of the toy on which it is based, and being able to transform between modeswithout having to be partially disassembled and put back together first.

Forming a roughly 11-inch figure when fully assembled,Diablock Convoy is highly articulated, save for his head, which is only able to move up and down. Said head is also by far the most stylised aspect of the figure, with no real attempt to approximate Prime's face or mouthplate, instead featuring only a reversed block that gives the odd impression of a cycloptic eye. It is possibly intended to actually represent his forehead grill, as a yellow block inside his head construction remains barely-visible through a slit in his face, possibly intended to represent the classic toy's yellow eyes.

The figure'stransformation scheme is based on the original G1 figure, the only differences being that the fists are not removed but become the headlights, and instead of flipping backwards inside the chest,Diablock Convoy's noggin flips forwards with the aid of opening chest windows. A "laser rifle" in the shape of his ion cannon can be built from black bricks, and stickers bearing the Autobotfaction symbol can be placed on his shoulders, although this is not recommended as it is designed to permanently stick to multiple tiles which dislodge easily and may damage the sticker.

Henkei! Henkei!

• Convoy (March 13, 2008)
  • ID number:C-01
  • Accessories: Smokestacks/Prime Gun, wind vane/ion blaster

Henkei! Henkei! Transformers Convoy is a redeco ofClassics Voyager Class Optimus Prime. He features a significantly altered colour scheme, generally to make the toy more closely resemble his appearance in the Generation 1 cartoon and the original toyline. His truck mode features less silver paint striping, but compensates with avacuum-metalized grill/fender area. Inrobot mode all of his previously grey plastic is replaced with red plastic, with a majority of it being painted silver, chromed, or painted gunmetal gray. He features a different shade of red, blue, and clear blue plastic than the Classics version. SinceHenkei! toys do not feature a heat-sensitive rubsign,Henkei Convoy has two Autobot sigils tampographed onto his shoulders.

• Convoy Clear Version (June 19, 2008)
  • Accessories: Smokestacks/Prime Gun, wind vane/ion blaster

This redeco ofHenkei Convoy is cast almost entirely in translucent colored plastic. Also known by the nickname "Crystal Convoy" among fans, it was first released as an exclusive for the Japanese convention Tokyo Toy Fair 2008, limited to 1000 pieces at the event, but was later made available throughe-HOBBY. It was sold in a monochrome-blue version ofHenkei Convoy's regular packaging.

• More information on Convoy Clear Version at TFkenkon.com

• Convoy (2008)
  • Accessories: Smokestacks/Prime Gun, wind vane/ion blaster

Chromed entirely in gold like many otherLucky Draw figures before it, this version of Prime was available only through aTV Magazine mail-in promotion held in December 2008, and was limited to only five units, making it one of the rarest officially available Transformers toys in the world.

Unfortunately, this toy has become the target of severalknockoffs aimed at gullible collectors. Most of the fake ones can be told apart from the real deal by various details not matching up. The real one is cast in gold plastic, painted over in gold chrome and sports small red Autobotlogos on both shoulders.

• Gallery of (hopefully) a genuine Gold Convoy at TFormers.com

• Convoy (2008)
  • Accessories: Smokestacks/Prime Gun, wind vane/ion blaster

A (technically)unreleased"black" redeco ofHenkei Voyager-sized Convoy using the same plastic layout and paint mask but replacing red and blue with black, silver with gray, leaving the previously vacuum-metalized grill/fender area unpainted, changing the blue tint for the windows to red and changing all silver and yellow paint operations to blue. The red Autobot insignias would have remained unchanged.^[12]

The figure would have come in a monochrome version of the standardHenkei! Henkei! Convoy's packaging, still named "Convoy" but now labeled as part of theGentei! Gentei range of exclusives.^[13] Reportedly, this figure was intended as a Wonderfest exclusive, but was canceled because, according tooTakaraTomy designerShogo Hasui, it was too similar toUniverseNemesis Prime.Knockoffs were later made available, so buyers beware!

A minor redeco (replacing the Autobot insignias with Decepticon insignias, adding silver paint to the grill/fender area and changing the blue paint operations to teal)was eventually released as aTokyo Toy Show 2012 exclusive, now marketed as part of theUnited line.

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

Universe (2008)

And the block has returned!!!

• Optimus Prime (2008)
  • Series: G1
  • Accessories: Laser Blaster, 2 fists (left & right), trailer/Combat Deck, Roller, 4 rockets, hose, nozzle, fuel pump, sound effects module, comic, DVD

• Known designers:Marcelo Matere (packaging artist)

Sold at the rather exorbitant price of $75, this re-release of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime toy is actually one of the most visually different from the other "straight" reissues of the mold, despite Hasbro's assurance that this is the toy you had as a kid. Positivelyanemic in comparison with the original toy, this Prime's red parts are visibly paler than usual, while his blue parts are much lighter (although the version released at Canadian retail reportedly sports a deeper shade of red again). This shade of blue extends to both Roller (a lighter blue than his traditional dark shade, yet darker than the lightest the figure has been in its history) and the internal workings of his Combat Deck, which is itself a much flatter shade of light grey, compared to its normal dark, swirled metallic silver color. In addition, the toy features the now-customary shortened smokestacks, and the elongated missiles seen on theCommemorative Series release, while the Autobot insignias on his shoulders are no longer stickers, but rather tampographs, like on Takara'sEncore release. While all reissues of the Prime mold since 2003 have used the original thick-barreled mold for his ion blaster, this version includes the slender sculpt instead.

As a 25th anniversary set, Prime includes several new pack-in bonuses: a reprint of thefirst issue of the originalMarvelcomic book, a DVD containing all three parts of theanimated series pilot"More than Meets the Eye", and three desktop wallpapers, and a battery-powered Autobot symbol that plays transforming sound effects, part of the first version of theTransformerstheme song, and three voice clips performed by Peter Cullen: "I am Optimus Prime!", "Autobot, transform and roll out!" and "Megatron must be stopped, no matter the cost." There are some reports that the Autobot symbol could be worn out or damaged during the time of purchase.

Outside the United States, this set was available in a thinner rectangular box. It contained all the original accessories from the American release, but not the DVD. An English-only version of this packaging format was available in Asia and Australia (initially only available at Myer stores, but later also at Toys"R"Us, Kmart and Target, eventually at drastically reduced prices), while a bilingual English/French packaging variant was available in Canada, still including—though not advertised on the packaging—the (English only) comic book.

• More information on 25th Anniversary Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Deluxe Class

• Optimus Prime (Deluxe Class: Special Edition, 2008)
  • ID Number:SE-01
  • Accessories: Laser rifle

• Known designers:Marcelo Matere (packaging artist)

"Special Edition" Optimus Prime is a redeco of theClassics multi-pack toy, featuring some minor paint detail changes, bluer translucent plastic, darker and cooler gray plastic, and darker metallic flake red and blue plastic, with his (previously black-only) rifle body most notably now being cast in both blueand black plastic. He came in special "book box" style packaging with black-and-white boxart, and was only available at retail in Australian and Asian markets. North American customers could later buy him viaHasbro Toy Shop.

• More information on Special Edition Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Titanium Series

Yawn... Hey, wait! Am IDelta Magnus now?

• Optimus Prime (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2009)
  • Accessories: Ion blaster, display stand

ATarget-exclusiveredeco of War Within Optimus Prime inlive-action film-inspired colors. The bio on the back of the packaging only fills up half of the allotted space, as if thewriter was tired of describing Optimus Primes.

• More information on Target-exclusive Titanium Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Alternity

It's like G2 Go-bots all over again...but cooler!

• Convoy [Ultimate Metal Silver] (February 26, 2009)
  • ID number:A-01

• Known designers:Hironori Kobayashi (TakaraTomy),Hirofumi Ichikawa (concept artist)

Alternity Convoy transforms into a 1:32 scale 2007 Nissan GT-R, featuring die-cast metal parts, an opening hood, trunk and doors, as well as an interior, complete with his feet and thighs being sculpted to form the back seats. This complex figure stands at 6.5" tall, and is armed with a pair of blasters on each arm. In the hyper-dimensional world of the oft-confusingAlternity fiction, this figure specifically represents theOptimus Prime ofuniversal streamPrimax 903.0 Beta.

The mold suffers from aminor design oversight, wherein the rear Nissan badge collides with his left leg strut when the left foot is hinged over and pegged into a clear plastic socket during transformation, with the results being that the connection is slightly crooked, isn't very secure, and sometimes pops off, and that the crooked pegging often causes the socket to crack.

Alternity Convoy was simultaneously available in both this silver coloration, and a deco based on his traditional appearance termed "Vibrant Red" (see below). The figure was later redecoed to create "Convoy [Super Black]" (representing not Optimus Prime, butUniverseNemesis Prime),AlternityUltra Magnus, andAlternityDai Atlas. It was retooled intoTransformers GTGT-R Prime,GT-R Saber,GT-R Megatron andGT-R Maximus.

• Convoy [Vibrant Red] (February 26, 2009)
  • ID number:A-01

"Vibrant Red"Alternity Convoy is a redeco of the "Ultimate Metal Silver" figure in the much more traditional red and blue Prime color scheme, representing the Optimus Prime of universal streamPrimax 109.0 Beta. The figure was available simultaneously with the Ultimate Metal Silver version, sharing the same packaging and pack-in materials, save for the color of the illustration on the front of the box, and a sticker that identified the figure within.

Transformers (2010)

• Sons of Cybertron (Multi-pack, 2010)

• Accessories: Machine gun turret/rifle

Released as part ofTakaraTomy'sWelcome to Transformers 2010 campaign, the "Sons of Cybertron" set includes a redeco of the 2006Classics "Ultimate Battle" pack Deluxe classOptimus Prime, cast mostly in translucent plastic (his shoulders remain opaquePolyoxymethylene (POM)).

He comes packaged with a similarly translucentRodimus.

The set is a counterpart to TakaraTomy's simultaneously-availableTransformers Animated Sons of Cybertron set, which also features translucent versions of that line's DeluxeOptimus Prime andRodimus figures. It was intended as an exclusive for the Japanese Chara Hobby 2010 festival, but was also initially offered as a raffle prize at the 2010 "Autobot Alliance" event in the Philippines.,^[14] and was later available for purchase atCybertron Con 2010 inShanghai.

YOU'LL NEVER GUESS HIS TRUE ALLEGIANCE!

• Optimus Prime (Legends Class, 2011)

• Known designers:Joe Kyde (Hasbro)

Released in the first wave of the2010Transformers line'sReveal the Shield subline'sLegends Class toys, Optimus Prime is based on his original Generation 1 appearance, with a transformation scheme reminiscent of past figures such as theRobotmasters and theClassics Deluxe Class figures. He features afake grill for his robot mode, and his large legs result in a fairly thick and compact truck bed. Hisrubsign is located on the left side of the truck/his left elbow.

This figure was redecoed and retooled intoGenerationsMotorbreath andTransformers (2014)Ultra Magnus.

• More information on "Reveal the Shield" Legends Optimus Prime at TFU.info

We see a red truck, and we want it paintedblack.

• Optimus Prime (Deluxe Class, 2011)

• Accessories:Sword
• Known designers:Hisao Nishimoto (TakaraTomy)

Part of the sixth wave ofTransformers Deluxes (the second and final wave ofReveal the Shield), this Optimus Prime is a Deluxe Class mold based on the originalGeneration 2 Laser Optimus Prime toy (see above). Transforming into an International 8200 truck, he has some influences from thelive-action movie Optimus Prime, including the more defined flames on his hood, athleticrobot mode proportions and a more aggressive-looking translucent orange sword that can be held with both hands for maximum extreme chopitude. Optimus Prime features extensive use of translucent plastic in his arms, head and upper torso for alight-piping effect. Optimus also has a (non-detachable) matrix gimmick in robot mode that is formed by a relief pattern on the inside of the cab's side windows and is visible through the windshield/chest in robot mode. Like the Legends toy, he's part ofReveal the Shield and features arubsign, this time on the roof. He is alsovery articulated and poseable, even featuring ankles and wrists that are bothball-jointedandhinged.

The original Hasbrostock photos depict him as having redpaint operations on his kneecaps and the sunken ridges around his blue abs that the final product lacks. The photos on the cardback show him with a red Autobot symbol on his truck door and blue plastic instead of grey for the piece just in front of his rear tires. The back photo also depicts his side windows as being the same translucent orange as the front ones, when they are, in reality, a garish solid orange.

Multiple reports suggest that the toy suffers from adesign flaw, inferior plastic quality, or both: due to his hands having peg-holes that are a bit too small to accommodate5 mm posts, they have a tendency to show stress marks on the inside after pegging his sword handle (or most other pegs) inside. Stress marks also tend to appear near his tiny hinged wrists. Fortunately, there have been no reports of the hands actuallybreaking on either location thus far.

This toy was redecoed intoTimelines/Shattered GlassOptimus Prime andTimelinesScourge, and was retooled intoTimelines/Shattered GlassUltra Magnus.

• More information on "Reveal the Shield" Deluxe Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Standing tall and proud with his smokestacks erect.

• Masterpiece Optimus Prime (Masterpiece, 2012 / 2014)

• Accessories:Ion cannon,Matrix of Leadership,Energon axe,trailer/Battle Station/Maintenance Dock,Autobot Roller,Spike Witwicky figurine
• Known designers:Andrew Franks (deco artist)

The HasbroToys"R"Us-exclusive release ofMP-10 Convoy features brighter blue plastic and paint, brighter unpainted non-metallic red plastic, painted yellow lights above the front truck windshields, painted light blue eyes, and lacks silver paint for the trailer's interior. Roller is now blue.

In the Philippines, this was only available as a Toys"R"Us "Limited Edition" figure in the Trinoma mall from August 23–26, with customers having to sign up to reserve their figure. It was limited to 48 units total, and was limited to one per customer.

Hasbro Asia re-released this in 2014. It came with an exclusive addition—theKey to Vector Sigma. In 2017 it wasbasically reissued underGenerations co-branding.

Stock photos show his vehicle mode mistransformed.

• Optimus Prime (Legends Class, 2012)

• Accessories: Sword (running change variant only)

TheReveal the Shield Legends Class Optimus Prime sculpt, in the deco from the firstChronicle EZ Collection wave (see below) was released as a "dollar store" exclusive (available at stores such as Dollar General and Big Lots) in generic 2010Transformers packaging packaging alongsideStarscream,Bumblebee andMegatron.

The initial release saw the copyright year removed, while a laterrunning change variant featured the new tooling originally used forGenerations Legends ClassMotorbreath, with not only the retooled hands and a hole on the back of his head/top of hisvehicle mode compatible with3 mm posts, but also Motorbreath's sword accessory.

United

See?! War for Cybertronis G1!

• Optimus Prime Cybertron Mode (December 25, 2010)
  • ID number:UN-01
  • Accessories: "Assault rifle"

The first toy in TakaraTomy'sUnited toyline is aredeco of theWar for Cybertron Deluxe ClassOptimus Prime, transforming into a Cybertronic "armored truck". He now sports a metallic red paint job, with brighter pink paint applications and cooler grey parts, and features several additional paint details to those present on the Hasbro figure in the form of black chest windows and pink lines on his face mask. His rifle transforms as well, folding and plugging into the roof of the vehicle mode. The rifle can also peg into his forearms, and, in its compact configuration, can attach to his shoulders via peg holes on the backs of his front tires or stored behind his back inrobot mode.

This mold was also used to makeUnitedDarkside Optimus Prime.

No, my legs won't retract. Now buy me.

• Optimus Prime (December 25, 2010)
  • ID number:UN-06
  • Accessories: Laser rifle

The second Optimus Prime toy in TakaraTomy'sUnited toyline is another redeco of theClassics multi-pack Deluxe-sized toy (the first release in Japan), this time featuring an extensive metallic red paint job on the majority of the red plastic, and he features metallic sheen on the unpaintable red plastic and his blue plastic is now brighter. While the paint masks are identical to the Special Edition release,United Optimus Prime features additional paint operations on the hip, the stomach grille, the fold-up waist panels, the lower chest piece (at least in the front), and the forehead.

Although the stock photo (pictured from the right) shows both of his biceps painted silver with his Autobot insignia tampographed on the left shoulder, the final product omits the paint operation (due to being molded with unpaintable plastic) and the insignia is placed on his left forearm, just like hisClassics figure.

• Laser Optimus Prime (March 26, 2011)
  • ID number:UN-22
  • Accessories: "Laser Rod" sword

The thirdUnited Optimus Prime toy is a redeco and slight retool of theDeluxe Class figure from Hasbro's 2010Transformers toyline, itself an homage to Prime'sGeneration 2"Laser" form. The toy features translucent blue plastic as opposed to Hasbro's orange, red paint is used on the biceps instead of blue paint, extra red paint applications on the knees like the original's sticker detail, and more broken-up red apps on the shoulders. Silver detailing was added to the cab mode on the grill, the bumper, and near the doors. The blue plastic in cab mode is now black plastic to make the figure more accurate to theGeneration 2 original. The gray plastic is changed from the Hasbro version to more closely match the2006 reissue of Laser Optimus Prime. Black paint was applied to the cab mode to mimic the fade from red to black on the original Laser Optimus, but still includes a flame deco like the Hasbro version, only in a different design. It lacks the roof-mounted rubsign of the Hasbro version, instead including Autobot insignias on the cab doors. (Disappointingly, they are Generation 1 insignias, rather thanGeneration 2 ones!) Additionally, a retool was made to the peg on the inside of his right shoulder, to make it shorter and wider than the Hasbro version, allowing it to move freely without hitting the torso, unlike the Hasbro release.

Shouldn't be hard for him to fit in with the Decepticons... There's like,twoother "evil Optimus Prime" guys in their ranks.

• Black Optimus Prime (June 16, 2012)
  • Accessories: Smokestacks/blaster, wind vane/cannon

Availableexclusively at theTokyo Toy Show 2012 (along withPrime Shining Optimus Prime), Black Optimus Prime is a very minor redeco of the previously unreleasedGentei! Gentei! black version ofHenkei! Henkei! Convoy, itself a redeco of theClassics Voyager Class toy. As such, Black Optimus Prime is mostly cast in black plastic, with some gray parts, translucent red windows and teal paint operations.

The only differences with the unreleased version, aside from the packaging, are that silver paint has been added to the previously unpainted grill/fender area, the blue paint operations have been changed to teal, and the red Autobot insignias have been replaced by purple Decepticon ones. Prime'sbio apparently explains that he took on this new color scheme in order to infiltrate the Decepticon ranks, in response to recent attacks by some new Decepticon forces pretending to be Autobots.

• Black Optimus Prime at Alfes's Toy Blog (part 1)
• Black Optimus Prime at Alfes's Toy Blog (part 2)

Chronicle

• G1 & Movie Sōshireikan Set (multi-pack, 2011)
  • ID number:CH01
  • Accessories:Laser rifle, trailer

This reissue of the original Generation 1 Optimus Prime figure comes in a two-pack with the Deluxe-ClassDark of the MoonOptimus Prime figure. Prime himself is almost identical to theEncore release, save for his trailer hitch which was retooled to allow a peg to be inserted within it while still being able to be inserted into the trailer itself (making it compatible with his G1 trailer and the new trailer included). Like the Encore release, he features lighter colors and tampographed shoulder symbols (which vary slightly from the Encore release).

His original trailer is not included with the set; instead, he comes witha new deluxe-scaled trailer, not available with any other figure, based on the one towed by Prime inDark of the Moon. The trailer is compatible with both figures, and sports5 mm post-holes that will hold (among many other things) G1 Prime's laser rifle and theMechTech weapon Movie Prime is armed with.

Oddly, for their officialpromotional photography, Takara took an existing photo of Optimus Prime's robot mode that was at least a decade old, having previously been used as a very early (and inaccurate) illustration for Hasbro's then upcomingCommemorative Series reissue of the figure.

• Convoy (EZ Collection, 2011)

Aveeery slightrepaint of the2010 Reveal the Shield Legends figure, the firstChronicle Prime replaces that figure's rubsign with a tiny tampographed Autobot symbol on his left bicep. He was one of eight figures available in the first wave of "EZ Collection" blindpacked figures.

Not aGilthor deco.

• Convoy (EZ Collection, 2011)

TheReveal the Shield Legends Prime mold was redecoed again for the second EZ Collection wave. This version of the figure replaces the blue on the head with black, and the blue paint on the legs is stripped off, revealing the black plastic underneath. and like the Megatron redeco in the same wave, features aGeneration 2 Autobot symbol instead of a Generation 1 insignia.

Kre-O

If you eventhought about Transformers in 2011, you probably have two of me.

• Matrix Optimus Prime (2011)
  • Pieces:10
  • Accessories: Optimus rifle

Intended to beexclusive toBotCon 2011, this redeco of the regular Optimus Prime Kreon has an open chest showing theMatrix of Leadership within. He comes with a G1 inspired gun and a black brick display stand.

We say "intended", because in actuality, the thing appears to have been produced in such huge quantities that it's wound up being made available inloads of other places—it was handed out atSan Diego Comic-Con 2011, offered as a free giveaway with any order that included Transformers toys onHasbro Toy Shop), as a free gift on the cover of theAwesome Autobots Activity Book, and came as a free gift attached to, of all things, issue #240 of theUK children's comic,Doctor Who Adventures (but not the UK'sTransformers comic, you'll note!).

A supposed factory error even caused this version (minus display stand) to be included in the larger Optimus Prime kit (see below). This problem has (presumably) been fixed, but it was awesome while it lasted.

• More information on Matrix Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Nigh-infinite configuration possibilities, and somehow a WORSE base mode than pretty much every other Optimus's trailer-bases. Wow.

• Optimus Prime (2011)
  • Set number:30689
  • Pieces:542
  • Kreons: Optimus Prime, Bluestreak, Skywarp, two Stunt Drivers
  • Accessories: Optimus rifle, weapons sprue (sniper rifle, pistol, submachinegun, handcuffs, radio, ammo box), large tool sprue (shovel, hammer, electric drill, clamp), small tool sprue (socket wrench, screwdriver, wrench, hatchet), 2 traffic cones

Naturally, Optimus Prime got the biggest of the sets in the first year ofKre-O. The set can be built into a large long-nose tractor-trailer rig with a removable "sleeper" cab that hides a computer station, and a trailer that can carry the set's two motorcycles or open up to carry larger car builds. The robot mode build includes a huge Optimus, based largely on thelive-action movie Optimus, though with a head based almost directly on theClassics Voyager Optimus. He is armed with a distressingly plain brick that fires pressure-launched missiles (aka his smokestacks). Most of the leftover parts in robot mode become a "headquarters" which is mostly just a random assemblage of mismatched-color panels and a pair of barricades. Both main builds leave numerous parts unused if you go expressly by the instructions, but hey, it's a building kit, surely you can findsomeplace to apply most of them.

The set comes with a bevy ofKreons, including Optimus Prime (this one based heavily on Generation 1 Optimus),Bluestreak,Skywarp, and a pair of humanStunt Drivers. A packaging error resulted in some releases of this set to come with the promotional "Matrix chest" Optimus (see above) rather than the normal version pictured here.

Speaking of errors, the instruction manuals (he has two) both have errors in their parts listings, showing numerous pieces in the wrong colors or not making it clear that some parts are, well, clear. Making things more confusing, not all of these miscolors are reflected in the step-by-step instructions, while a couple new ones are added there.

• More information on Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Kneedom is the right of all sentient beings.

• Optimus Prime (2011)
  • Set number:31143
  • Pieces:90

The smaller of the two Optimus Prime kits in year one, this version is based more on theoriginal Optimus Prime. The small cabover-style tractor-trailer truck build is solid, unable to seat any Kreons inside. The robot mode is heavily restricted in its articulation, with no knees, and only single-direction-swivel elbows and shoulders.

This is one of the fewKre-O Transformers sets to not come with any Kreons whatsoever, the other being the similarly-sizedBumblebee kit.

• More information on "small" Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Optimus Prime (Custom Kreon, 2013)
  • Set number:A6085
  • Pieces:41
  • Accessories: Rack, large rifle, ray pistol, robot sword, wing-backpack, rocket-backpack

Part of the first assortment of "Custom Kreons", this version of Optimus Prime comes with a buildable parts rack on which to hang/store his many many extra pieces. Histampographs are much more heavily-detailed than the original Kreons, based on theoriginal Optimus Prime toy. His "normal" helmet (and small sword) arechromed, plus he comes with an extra clear-plastic helmet, torso and legs. He also has a pair of extra arms (originally from theKre-O Battleship aliens), plus a buildable large rifle, a buildable wing-pack, and a ray pistol (originally anAndorian blaster fromKre-O Star Trek).

• Orion Pax (2014)
  • Pieces:10
  • Accessories: Optimus rifle, transparent block, brick display stand

Available only with theTransformers: Kre-O Character Encyclopedia, Orion Pax is a Kreon version of Orion Pax from "War Dawn". He uses theIronhide helmet and the original Optimus Prime Kreon's gun. The transparent block which he can hold has "KREO" written on it inAutobot text.

• More information on Orion Pax at TFU.info

Givemeyour face?

• Elite Optimus Prime (2014)
  • Pieces:43
  • Acessories: Optimus rifle

A polybag with buildable Optimus Prime with larger hands and legs on a Kreon sized torso, much like the Galvatron in the Factory Battle set. His helmet is completely unpainted.

This figure was a freebie given away at Canadian Toys"R"Us stores during a build-a-figure event, and also available at the "Transformers Exhibition" event in Taipei, Taiwan fromJune 27 toJuly 6.

Voted Most Likely toGIVE MEYOUR FACE Succeed

• Kreon Class of 1984 (Kreon figure set, 2014)
  • Set number:B0090
  • Voted: Most Likely To Succeed
  • Accessories: Optimus rifle

This version of Optimus, part of theKreon Class of 1984, lays heavy on the toy-based tampographs (though they are completely different from the other iterations), and like the others in the set, has a more animation-model-inspired face deco, what with having a nose and all.

He was only available in a pack of 30 Kreons dubbed "Class of 1984". This set was made for sale atSan Diego Comic-Con 2014. Remaining stock was to be sold atHasbro Toy Shop online after the convention, but as the set sold out at the show, that never happened.

• More information on Class of 1984 Optimue Prime at TFU.info

• Total Commander Optimus Prime (Convoy) (Gacha capsule Kreon, 2014)
  • Accessories: Ray pistol

In late 2014, twelve Kreons were sold throughTakaraTomy's "TakaraTomy A.R.T.S"Gacha capsule-toy machines in Japan. Thankfully for the rest of the world, these Kreons are all basically identical to previously-released ones in the Hasbro lines. The Gacha release of Optimus Prime is basically the baseCustom Kreon Optimus using his clear-plastic helmet and carrying the small ray pistol, lacking his leg-wheels, smokestacks and backpack (and of course all those other parts and accessories).

• Brick Box (2016)
  • Set Number:B2963
  • Pieces:82
  • Accessories: Optimus Rifle

Released in the third wave of "Brick Box" sets, and found only at Dollar General stores, this version of Optimus Prime uses the new 2015 style of Kreon hips and torso, with a hollow hip-peg and a central post inside the torso for increased grip... which also makes the torso incompatible with about four years' worth of Kreons. Nice. His face and torso tampographs are new.

The set comes with two bags of Kre-O parts, one coming from the first-year Sideswipe set (mostly all the small bits and the now-useless neck joint), the other "new" with some basic bricks and plates. The set has no instructions, as it's just a box of bricks to make whatever with.

Battle Changers

It remains to be seen if Optimus' pieces can be rebuiltinto an alligator.

• Optimus Prime (Battle Changers, 2015)
  • Set Number:B0715
  • Pieces:89
  • Accessories: Optimus rifle

• Known designers:Evan Brooks (Hasbro)^[15]

Part of the first wave of "Battle Changers", this version of Optimus Prime is aseverely built-up Kreon that transforms from truck into a robot and back without removing any parts! However, the sheer chunkiness of his limbs hanging off a Kreon torso make for awkward positioning and questionable balljoint grip strength.

Like the rest of the Battle Changers, he was available in selected Asian countries in December 2014. These sets only appeared in the US through closeout chains like Ross and TJ Maxx in 2015.

• Optimus Prime VS Megatron (Battle Changers 2-pack, 2015)
  • Set Number:B1506
  • Pieces:198
  • Accessories: Optimus rifle, trailer

• Known designers:Evan Brooks (Hasbro)^[15]

This version of Battle Changers Optimus was only available in a two pack set withBattle Changer Megatron. He islargely the same construction as as the single release, but has numerous small differences. He uses a new "double harness" piece on his torso instead of using two harnesses, leaving more space for his head to grip the neck-post, and his chest/windshield parts are each a single clipped "flag" part rather than the multi-part assembly of the single-pack. And of course there's the additional trailer, which doesn't have any official robot mode rebuild, and only loosely "connects" to the truck-mode Optimus by being lightly hooked to a single short bar on the back of Optimus's right leg.

This set, like the one above, was only available in the US through closeout chains like Ross and TJ Maxx in 2015.

Mini-Con Combiners

• Optimus Prime (Mini-Con Combiners, unreleased)
  • Accessories: Bazooka,phaser, Uzi, scoped pistol,Klingon blaster

"Mini-Con Combiner"' Optimus comes with one standard Kreon and fourCityville-syle mini-Kreons of the same character, each one a different incarnation from various franchises. With some extra parts, the mini-Kreons become limbs to make a larger combiner-bot.

The main torso-bot is based on Generation 1 Optimus's original body. Two of his limbs are based onArmadaOptimus Prime; one "normal" (Inferno helmet), one pre-Earth-body (Knock Out helmet). Another is based onlive-action Optimus (Soundwave helmet), and the remaining one (Ironhide helmet)... actually looks to be based on the Optimus-like-but-not-OptimusMicromasterOverload! The heck?

First shown at New York Toy Fair 2015, the Mini-Con Combiners were apparently cancelled without fanfare... a decision that must have come late in the day, as they went on to star in their own promotional animation, "Stuck in a Tree", released about eight months after the trade show.

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

EZ Collection Gum

• Convoy (Candy toy,2012)
  • ID number:1
  • Release Date:July 30 2012

Released as acandy toy,EZ Collection Gum Convoy is another redeco ofGenerations Legends ClassMotorbreath, featuring the retooled parts for accessories he does not come with. He is decoed once again in hisGeneration 2-ish color scheme with the black legs and Generation 2 Autobot symbol, but this time he is cast out of "metallic" (aka "slightly glittery/glossy") plastics, and is absolutelycoated in metallic red paint for most of his cab section. His head is now painted metallic dark blue rather than the prior deco's black.

As per the toyline's name, he comes with a yellow candy-shelled piece of lemony-flavored gum.

Generations

Main article:Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys

Bot Shots

Before time began, I was... a cube.

• Optimus Prime (2012)
  • Series:1
  • Number:B003

• Known designers:Hisao Nishimoto (TakaraTomy)

• Fist strength:410
• Blaster strength:850
• Sword strength:370

Part of the first wave ofBot Shots Series 1 single-packs, Optimus Prime is a teeny little long-nosed semi truck with "trailer", with a spring-loadedautomatic transformation to robot mode triggered when his front bumper is pressed. He has a "spinner" in his chest that shows his three attack types and power levels. His truck mode and robot body are influenced by thelive-action Optimus Prime, while his head is taken from theoriginal. His blue paint is light and sparkly-metallic, his red paint is dull matte, and his optics are yellow.

This toy was given away free to attendees of Hasbro's "Collector-Fan Media Day" 2012, slightly altered by a "Toy Fair 2012" sticker applied to the cardback.

This mold was alsoredecoed to makeNemesis Prime. He shares parts withSuper Bot Megatron andMotorbreath.

• More information onBot Shots Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Optimus Prime Launcher (Launcher, 2012)
  • Series:1
  • Number:BL001
    • Fist strength:920
    • Blaster strength:450
    • Sword strength:280

Part of the first wave ofBot Shots Series 1 launchers, thisrepaint of Optimus Prime comes with a large trailer that pops open to form a battle station with a spring-loaded launching platform. He appears to have the same plastic colors as the single release, and the same set ofpaint operations, but his paint is done in different shades, having glossy dark blue paint and glossy bright red paint. The black part of his launcher is sculpted to look vaguely like the repair done that is part of Generation 1 Optimus Prime's repair bay.

• More information on Launcher Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Battle for the Matrix (Multi-pack, 2012)
  • Series:1
  • Number:UB001
    • Fist strength:835
    • Blaster strength:505
    • Sword strength:275

This minorredeco of the Optimus Prime Launcher features grey wheels, blue optics, and added red paint on its upper arms, while the launcher has grey plastic in place of black, smaller Autobot symbols on its sides, and gold paint on its interior instead of silver. Thestock photography on thepackaging depicts Optimus with a blue stripe on his built-in "trailer", which was omitted in the final product.

The set also comes withMegatron with his launcher,Decepticon Brawl,Bumblebee, and a cardboard token representing theMatrix.

• More information on "Battle for the Matrix" Launcher Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Optimus Prime (2012)
  • Series:1
  • Number:Super Bot 004
    • Fist strength:330
    • Blaster strength:315
    • Sword strength:995

Part of the fourth wave ofBot Shots Series 1 single-packs, Super Bot Optimus Prime is a redeco of his toy in translucent blue plastic. As a Super Bot, he waspacked one per case, and has higher, more lopsided stats than normal Bot Shots. He has a really,really good Sword stat.

• More information on Super Bot Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Optimus Prime Launcher (Launcher, 2013)
  • Series:2
  • Number:BL001
  • Accessories: Launcher, 4Energon Cube targets
    • Fist strength:820
    • Blaster strength:405
    • Sword strength:390

Part of the first wave ofBot Shots Series 2 launchers, this Optimus Prime transforms into a very boxyGeneration 1-styled truck with trailer. As a Spin Shot, one manually winds up his upper body beforehand when transforming him into vehicle mode, where striking the front of the vehicle will cause him to burst open and spin while auto-transforming. He comes with a launcher used to propel him to great speeds, as well as four cube targets for him to knock over.

• More information on Spin Shot Launcher Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Polar Assault Team (Multi-pack, 2013)
  • Series:2
  • Number:T001
    • Fist strength:370
    • Blaster strength:945
    • Sword strength:310

Part of the first wave ofBot Shots Series 2 five-packs, this redeco of the original Optimus Prime toy is cast in translucent blue plastic, with his cab painted white. Despite possessing translucent plastic and more lopsided stats than a regular Bot Shot, he is apparently not labeled as a Super Bot. This version of Optimus comes with similarly-themed with new redecos ofBumblebee,Mirage,Ironhide, andJetfire.

• More information on "Polar Assault Team" Optimus Prime at TFU.info

• Dragon Track (Playset, 2013)
  • Series:2
  • Number:UB001
  • Accessories: Launcher
    • Fist strength:565
    • Blaster strength:325
    • Sword strength:725

Available only with theBot ShotsDragon Track set, this version of Optimus Prime changes from a robot form resemblingGeneration 1 Optimus Prime, into a truck with a rocket exhaust molded into the back of its trailer. As a Flip Shot, he, er, flips up when auto-transforming. He comes with a launcher that can be connected to the track, as well asFlip Shot Megatron and his launcher.

• More information on "Dragon Track" Flip Shot Optimus Prime at TFU.info

BeCool

• Trailer (Optimus Prime) (2012)
  • ID number:B03

BeCool "Trailer" is practically identical to theBot Shots "Battle for the Matrix" Optimus Prime toy with the blue eyes and red arms, the only difference being that the game stats stickers in his chest spinner have been replaced with pictures of his vehicle mode, two people holding hands and the letters "Zzz..."

TakaraTomy'sstock photography of Trailer, including the pictures used on the box, uses the originalBot Shots Optimus toy with the yellow eyes as a base.

• Garbage Truck (Clean Optimus) (2013)
  • ID number:B12

"Garbage Truck" is a redeco of the same Optimus Prime toy in blue and white, a common coloration for Japanese garbage trucks, that ends up bearing a coincidental resemblance to theBot Shots Polar Assault Team Optimus. His stickers now picture his truck mode being loaded with garbage, his truck mode driving around, and the word "cleaning" in both English and Japanese.

The B12 ID number was previously used forSpecial Sports Car, a limited toy which was only on shelves for three months before being replaced by Garbage Truck.

I just passed a "jimmy" and a White, I've been passing everything in sight

• Trailer and Trailer Base (Optimus Prime) (2013)
  • ID number:BS02

This Trailer is identical to the originalBeCool Trailer other than the stickers, and now comes with the trailer/launcher accessory fromBot Shots redecoed in blue with red stripes. While the vehicle mode sticker in his chest remains, the hand-holding and sleeping ones have been replaced by pictures of the launcher: one in base mode and one in trailer mode. He also comes with a sticker sheet for decorating the Trailer Base.

GT

From Nissan to nii-san.

• GT-R Prime (May 25, 2013)
  • ID number:GT-01
  • Accessories: "Impact Wrench Gun",Misaki race queen figure

Transformers GT "GT-R Prime" is a heavy retool ofAlternityConvoy, transforming into a 1:32 replica of the Motul Autech GT-R race car used by theNismo team in theSuper GT racing championship series. He retains the flip-out blasters of theAlternity toy and can also wield his new Impact Wrench Gun accessory (also called the "Optimus Rifle" on theTransformers GT website), a weapon based on the impact wrenches used in car repairs. Like allGT toys, Prime also comes with aGT Sister, poseable human figures themed afterrace queens, his partner being a lady named Misaki.

GT-R Prime's packaging points out that he can be fitted intoMasterpiece Optimus Prime's trailer to replicate the way actual race cars are transported.

This mold was also used, with different heads and accessories, to make the otherTransformers GT toys:GT-R Saber,GT-R Megatron, andGT-R Maximus.

FJ Cruiser × Transformers

• FJ Optimus Prime (2013)
  • Accessories: spare tire/axe

Part of a cross-promotion betweenToyota and TakaraTomy, the deluxe-sized FJ Optimus Prime transforms into anFJ Cruiser, with his axe weapon becoming the vehicle's spare tire. The vehicle mode's body panels come packaged on the sprue, and can then be clipped onto the core figure. The mass retail release of FJ Optimus includes yellow and white panels, while the red variant was available when purchasing an FJ Cruiser at Japanese Toyota dealerships. As is typical of TakaraTomy exclusives, these variants came in grayscale packaging.

• More information on FJ Optimus Prime at TFU.info

Construct-Bots

• Optimus Prime (Elite Class, 2013)

• Known designers:Andrew Scribner (deco artist)

Optimus Prime transforms into a truck-like vehicle. This version is a retool to the Ultimate Class two-pack listed below, as his head design is slightly different. Additionally this version features transparent plastic for his body armor amongst other plastic changes. He includes a blue version of one of the Ultimate Class version's guns, specifically the one recycled from Wheeljack.

As with allConstruct-Bots, Optimus Prime's rubber ball joints on the shoulder and feet can harden over time, which makes it difficult to pose smoothly.

• Optimus Prime vs Megatron (Ultimate Class, 2013)

• Known designers:Andrew Scribner (deco artist),Emiliano Santalucia (concept artist)

Optimus Prime transforms into a truck-like vehicle, packed alongside his eternal nemesisMegatron. This version has opaque colors and a more traditional Optimus color scheme. He includes a projectile weapon along with a variety of melee weapons, as well as a swathe of extra parts for additional configurations.

Optimus' sword was later redecoed/reused forSilverbolt and one ofTimelinesOilmaster's weapons.

Hero Mashers

Modular building is the right of all sentient beings.

• Optimus Prime (Battle Upgrade, 2014)
  • Pieces:18
  • Accessories: Missile-launching rifle, missile, energy axe, cannon, left & right rocket pods, "Ultra Magnus" right forearm & fist

Part of the first wave of "Battle Upgrade"Hero Mashers toys, Optimus is a non-transforming action figure with ratchet-joints, about six inches tall. He has multiple peg-holes all over that can be used to mount anyHero Mashers accessory. As a first-wave figure, he has extra ankle articulation that is not present in later waves (a cut that was made to allHero Mashers lines, not just theTransformers-branded ones).

He is designed with a removable head, forearms, thighs, and lower legs, all of which use the same clip-peg/hole joint. This means his pieces can be swapped around in any order, as well as swapped with any otherHero Mashers figure... which includes figures fromMarvel Comics,Star Wars, andJurassic World, meaning you can make some pretty freaky combinations.

While he is the same size as a standard Hero Masher, his largerprice point is made up for with a lot more parts and gimmicks. Both of his hands are removable, which allows for accessories to be placed in his wrist sockets, notably his iconic "energy axe". His rifle is a spring-loaded missile launcher. He also comes withUltra Magnus's right arm, which is aredeco ofHero MashersBulkhead's, only molded to remove that toy's missile-launching gimmick.

• More information onHero Mashers Optimus Prime at TFU.info

"Mom said it'smy turn on theXbox."

• Electronic Optimus Prime (Electronic Action, 2014)
  • Pieces:22
  • Accessories: Missile launching cannon, missile, sword, shield, bladed shield, electronic left forearm, bladed left fist, torso armor, left & right winged "launchers", left & right armor boots

Part of the first (and only) wave of larger electronicHero Mashers Transformers toys, the base Optimus Prime figure in this set isalmost identical to the above "Battle Upgrade" toy; this version has a closed right fist that can hold accessories rather than the Battle Upgrade version's finger-pointy one.

However, this set comes with a completely different (and much larger) pile of accessories to turn Optimus (or any otherHero Mashers figure) into a hulking armored warrior. He comes with an extra left forearm with an electronic light, used to light up clear-plastic accessories when they're plugged into his wrist socket. Several of these accessories take inspiration from thelive-action Optimus's gear, notably a veryAge of Extinction-esque shield.

Oddly, the big stompy boots accessories are designed in a way that Optimus is really far back in them, leaving a huge gap between his shins and the boots' "knee" guards. Presumably this is to accommodate otherHero Mashers toys with much larger footprints.

EZ Collection (2013)

I'm the one you actually want. Except that you're gonna import it.

• Optimus Prime (EZ Collection,April 27, 2013)
  • ID number:EG01

ThisEZ Collection Optimus Prime isyet another release of theReveal the Shield redeco with the Motorbreath retooling, but this time he features light blue paint applications in place of the original dark blue. Like the rest of his brethren on the same line, Optimus features a movie version of the Autobot insignia.

Bearbrick

Honey is the right of all sentient beings.

• Optimus Prime (July 17, 2014)

A special editionBearbrick released in celebration of theTransformers 30th anniversary, Optimus Prime transforms from a Bearbrick painted up like himself to a bear-eared robot. He has no accessories, but holes in hisrobot mode hands can accommodate other toys' weapons.

This mold, with a different head sculpt, was also used for the simultaneously released BearbrickMegatron, and also redecoed intoNemesis Prime andAge of ExtinctionOptimus Prime. It was further retooled into BearbrickBumblebee andStarscream.

Transformers (campaign item)

• Convoy [Anniversary Clear Ver.] (EZ Collection, 2014)

Aredeco of theReveal the Shield Legends ClassOptimus Prime toy with theGenerationsMotorbreathretooling (for accessories he does not come with), Convoy is cast in red and black clear plastic. He has been retooled to include a magnet in his right foot, allowing him to interact withLost AgeBattle Command Optimus Prime andAge of ExtinctionStomp & Chomp Grimlock.

Convoy was available at a variety of 2014 events, including onMay 3 at a "Kids Walk" event atFuji Speedway, in special packaging onMay 16 at the "Transformers Celebration 2014" midnight event at the Sunshine CityToys"R"Us store inIkebukuro, onJune 15 at Tokyo Toy Show 2014, at the Aeon Mall inKasukabe onJuly 19, and at the "Transformers Expo" event inYokohama onAugust 9; at the Expo's preview night, attendees could also acquire a sticker sheet designed to turn the toy into Nemesis Prime. Convoy was also available as one of three preorder bonuses forCloudRoadbuster.

This toy wasrepurposed asNemesis Prime/Yokohama Convoy.