Thundercracker has always looked and will always look a lot likeStarscream. There are manytoys of Starscream and where there is a Starscream toy, a Thundercracker toy (usually) soon follows.

Toys

The Transformers

Thundercracker is to the Decepticons what Ant-Man is to the Avengers.

• Thundercracker (Decepticon Plane, 1984-1986)

• Takara ID number:24
• Accessories: Left & right fists, 2 missile launchers, 2incendiary guns, 2 rockets, left & right wings, left & right tail fins, left & right tail wings, landing gear
• Known designers:Kōjin Ōno (TakaraTomy)

Originally aDiaclone "Jet Robo Acrobat-Type",The Transformers Thundercracker transforms into a metallic blue F-15 Eagle fighter jet. His transformation essentially involves removing and reattaching most of his plane parts, though it is possible to do so without removingall of them, the way the instructions tell you to. As a result of his rather piecemeal design and the fact that neither mode uses all his parts, it can be quite difficult to find an intact original Thundercracker on the secondary market.

Thundercracker is armed with a pair of missile launchers that mount on his arms inrobot mode, and under his wings in jet mode, with a pair of specialized projectiles for each. In jet mode, two short rockets are fitted into the launchers to make them resemble the drop tanks a real F-15 carries, while in robot mode, they are replaced with the long barrels of Thundercracker's incendiary guns. The originalDiaclone version of the mold featured spring-loaded firing mechanisms in these launchers; while this feature was removed for theHasbro release of the toy, it was left intact for theTakara version, and all subsequent reissues.

While the earliest releases of Thundercracker were basically identical to itsDiaclone predecessor, some small modifications were soon made to the figure which became the standard for all subsequent reissues of the mold. These included the hollowing out of the inner edges of his wings and the tips of his tail-wings, the lengthening of the pegs on his wings, and the addition of extra clips on the inner sides of his fist-gauntlets, allowing them to grip his arms better but creating a visible slit on them. Like all his 1984 brethren, Thundercracker gained a factory-appliedrubsign in 1985, which was added to the left side of his fuselage.

Presumably by mistake, the stats on Thundercracker, Starscream and Skywarp'sTech Specs were switched around. Thundercracker's box was given Skywarp's numbers, notably giving him far lower intelligence and higher courage than was intended.

Thundercracker ceased to be shipped to toy stores in 1986, but continued to be available as a mail-away item in the "Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction" flier packed with most boxedTransformers toys. He cost $10 and tworobot points. He has beenreissued several further times down through the years; this article strives to list each separate release under its own header.

TheMilton Bradley release of Thundercracker in Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain was bizarrely enough sold inStarscream boxes, with factory-applied Starscream stickers. Your guess is as good as ours. Meanwhile, the Italian release of Thundercracker (as "Vampiro") byGiG put him in a generic "Distructor Planes" box, featuring names and tech specs for all three planes in the assortment.

Thundercracker shares his mold with his simultaneously-released teammatesStarscream andSkywarp, and was laterredecoed intoSunstorm. This mold was alsoretooled intoDirge,Ramjet, andThrust.

• Patent info, price guide, and further reading on Thundercracker at Transformerland.com
• More information on Generation 1 Thundercracker at TFU.info

Do not look directly at him, unless you have sunglasses and/or Pepto Bismol handy.

• Solo Mission Jet Plane with Action Master Thundercracker (Action Master Exo-suit, 1991)

• Accessories: Solo Mission Jet Plane,sonic boom blaster, 2 missiles
• Known designers:Takio Ejima (TakaraTomy),Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Released only in European and Australasian markets the year after the US line ended,Action Master Thundercracker is, once again, aredeco of Starscream, a non-transforming 3¾-inch action figure that combined elements of both the character's cartoon model and toy-form. His construction is broadly similar to that used by theG.I. Joe figures of the time, having a swivel neck, shoulders and knees, plus 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.

Like all Action Masters, Thundercracker came with a transformable accessory — in his case, a "Solo Mission Jet Plane" vehicle resembling an F-117 Nighthawk that converts intoexo-suit battle armor for him to wear. The cannon and twin missiles for the jet/suit can also be used as hand-held accessories by any Action Master.

For reasons unknown (butboy oh boy do we wanna know!), Action Master Thundercracker forewentany attempt at rendering the character in his traditional blue and silver color scheme, but instead opted for a fantastically nauseating blend of magenta, purple, blue, gold, and two shades of green that would become the stuff of legend as the ultimate example of the flair this era's European Transformers had for thegaudy. In fact, this slightly horrifying color scheme would later be used forShattered GlassThundercracker.

• More information on Action Master Thundercracker at TFU.info

Generation 2

(Unpainted prototype pictured)

(Preliminary art pictured)

• Thundercracker (1995?)
  • Accessories: two-part rifle

• Known designers:Takio Ejima (TakaraTomy)

Designed forGeneration 2 but not seeing release before the line's demise, this mold transforms into a Dassault Rafale fighter jet. The figure is a "flipchanger", meaning most of the transformation sequence is anautotransformation, springing into robot mode by lifting a catch. The two halves of the rifle store in the robot's lower legs while in vehicle mode.

This mold would first reach fruition in1997 in theMachine Wars line as Thundercracker (see entry below) andSkywarp. For decades, the mold's previousGeneration 2 identity was unknown. It would not be until2024 that a private auction on Facebook of the initially proposed deco sheet would reveal Thundercracker as the toy's identity.^[1]

It isvaguely possible flipchanger Thundercracker andSkystriker would have been the mysteriousGeneration 2 listings designated "Solar Jets", withLightspeed andGreasepit as "Solarbots", but noGeneration 2 flipchanger packaging has ever surfaced to confirm this hypothesis.

Samples of all four prototypes, lacking paint and decals, have surfaced on the secondary market over the years, and TakaraTomy even displayed a set at Transformers Expo in 2014.

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

Machine Wars

No, seriously, this guy is Thundercracker.

• Thundercracker (Basic, 1996)
  • Accessories: two-part rifle

• Known designers:Takio Ejima (TakaraTomy)

Sharing a mold once again withSkywarp, Thundercracker transforms into a green Dassault Rafale fighter jet with spring-loaded one-step transformation from jet to robot. The two halves of his rifle store in his lower legs. Like allMachine Wars toys, Thundercracker was anexclusive toKB Toys stores and related stores like Toy Liquidators.

This mold was originally developed forGeneration 2, but was canceled when that line went under (see previous entry above).

This toy isgang-molded with the other three Basic molds in the line. Specifically, his head and inner robot parts share plastic withHoist, and his jet parts share plastic withProwl, plus he shares the pearlescent-gray canopy plastic with, well, everyone.

This toy was repurposed as theThundercracker drones.

• More information on Machine Wars Thundercracker at TFU.info

Collector's Edition

• Thundercracker (reissue, 2001)
  • ID number:24
  • Accessories: left & right fists, 2 missile launchers, 2 incendiary guns, 2 rockets, left & right wings, left & right tail fins, left & right tail wings, landing gear

The original Thundercracker toy was reissued for the first time in 2001 as part of Takara's smallCollector's Edition series, which made several Generation 1 toys available as conventionexclusives. Sold in new open-faced packaging with no notable changes from the original figure, Thundercracker was an exclusive at the Japanese science fiction convention "Super Festival 21", available only in a set with Skywarp and limited to 1000 pieces. The pair are often mistakenly identified ase-HOBBY exclusives.

• More information on Collector's Edition Thundercracker at Shmax.com

Commemorative Series

• Thundercracker (reissue, 2003)
  • Accessories: left & right fists, 2 missile launchers, 2 incendiary guns, 2 rockets, left & right wings, left & right tail fins, left & right tail wings, landing gear

The original Thundercracker toy was made available again as part of Hasbro's line ofCommemorative Series reissues. Released in the third wave of the series, it featured functional missile launchers for the first time on a Hasbro version of the toy, but because the launchers now worked, both sets of missiles had to be lengthenedfor safety reasons. His incendiary guns didn't turn outtoo bad, but as you can see, the once-small rockets just wound up lookingstupid.

• More information on Commemorative Series Thundercracker TFU.info

Smallest Transforming Transformers

You little Thunder
Little Thunder you

• Thundercracker (2004)
  • Accessories: left & right fists, 2 missile launchers, left & right wings, left & right tailfins, landing gear

Part of the third wave ofSmallest Transforming Transformers product (dubbed wave "2.5" and available only at CVS stores in Japan), Thundercracker is, of course, a redeco of this line's Starscream. Like all toys in the series, he is a tiny, simplified version of the original Generation 1 toy, transforming into an F-15 fighter jet. As with all previous waves ofSmallest Transforming Transformers, these figures were soldblindpacked, with Thundercracker as one of the wave's two rarechase figures (the other being a cartoon-colored version ofOptimus Prime'strailer).

The same mold is used bySmallest Transforming Transformers Skywarp and Thrust.

• More information on Smallest Transforming Thundercracker at TFU.info

Robotmasters

Light blue? Totally neon.

• Skywarp & Thundercracker (Multi-pack, 2005)

• Release date:August 11, 2005
• Accessories: 2 rifles, 2 missile pods

Robotmasters Thundercracker is a redeco ofStarscream from the same series, a re-imagining of the originalThe Transformers figure retaining its basictransformation scheme, but designed to be closer to the animation model, with longer legs, greater articulation, and integrated parts that do not require detachment during transformation. The only pieces that now need to be removed are Thundercracker's rifles, which move from his wings to his arms. He has peg-holes on each outer bicep, top of the tricep, and one on the inner right fist, allowing the rifles to be mounted in multiple positions. These holes are also compatible with the various other weapons used throughout theRobotmasters line.

Thundercracker also came with two "missile pods" based on weapons Starscream used but once, in the original cartoon episode "Fire on the Mountain". These chromed accessories plug into the square holes in his chest, and feature opening covers that reveal (non-firing) missiles within.

He was available only in a two-pack withSkywarp, which also came with a Decepticon sigil pin. This set was the very last product released in theRobotmasters line, and wasn't even strictly sold in a box from that series; instead, it used ane-HOBBY reissue box (most likely the one used byMagnificus), with unique stickers applied to add theRobotmasters branding, Skywarp and Thundercracker's names, and advertizing the pin.

• More information onRobotmasters Thundercracker at TFU.info

Titanium Series

I don't think I have enough little wings on my shoulders.

• Thundercracker (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
  • Accessories: display base

• Known designers:Don Figueroa (concept artist)

Titanium Series Thundercracker is based upon his appearance inDreamwave'sThe War Within. He transforms into a Cybertronian 'tetrajet', as reimagined byDon Figueroa. This form bears a strong resemblance to theLord British fighter from theGradius series. As with all 6-inch Titanium Cybertron Heroes, he is constructed mostly of fully painted die-cast metal.

This mold was redecoed intoWar WithinStarscream,Sunstorm,Skywarp, andThrust.

Yes. Thundercracker was here first.

• More information on Titanium Thundercracker at TFU.info

Timelines

You want me, but you can't have me!

• Games of Deception! (Multi-pack, 2007)
  • Accessories: left & right launchers, 2 missiles

Much clamored for by fans following the release ofClassics Starscream and Skywarp in order to complete the original Seeker trio,Timelines/Classics Thundercracker was eventually released as part of the "Games of Deception" boxset exclusive toBotCon 2007, along withBugbite,Dirge,Dreadwind, andThrust, only 1500 of which were produced. He is, naturally, aredeco of theClassics Starscream toy, using the slightly modified version of the mold first seen with Skywarp which features shoulders with a decreased slope and a fifth rectangular marking. This figure is notable in part for theheavy controversy that happened upon his unveiling, due to being the last part of the classic Seeker trio despite having a much more limited release than the other two-thirds, often selling for higher prices on the aftermarket on his own than the entire box set had cost on release.

Like the other entries in theClassics series, Thundercracker is a faithful "modernizing" of his original Generation 1 form, updating his original toy with modern standards of toy engineering, transformation, sculpting detail and articulation. He still transforms into an F-15 Eagle, but has the nose of anF-14 Tomcat fighter jet, and sports a shade of blue closer to that of hisDiaclone progenitor. As ever, he is armed with a pair of missile launchers, which can mount under his wings, on his shoulders, or in his fists, and fire spring-loaded projectiles. The large size of the missiles (necessary for safety reasons) restricts his arm movement somewhat in robot mode, as they bump into his wings. Like allClassics figures, he has a heat-activated rubsign, positioned along his fuselage as on his original toy.

• More information on Classics Thundercracker at TFU.info

Shattered Glass or Generation 2? Surprise, I'm actually both!

• Souvenir 2-Pack (Multi-pack,2011)

• Accessories: Left & right launchers, 2 missiles

Timelines Thundercracker andGalvatron were an add-on souvenir set available exclusively atBotCon 2011. Like previous versions of theClassicsThundercracker toy,Shattered Glass Thundercracker is a faithful reproduction of Generation 1 Thundercracker's 1984 toy, but with modern standards of toy engineering, transformation, sculpting detail and articulation. And an eye-searing amount of neon. He transforms into an F-15 Eagle, but has the nose of an F-14 Tomcat fighter jet. Unlike previous versions of theClassics Thundercracker toy,Shattered Glass Thundercracker is abuffet of colors, a visual homage to theAction MasterThundercracker action figure.

A redeco of theClassics Seeker mold as Action Master Thundercracker was originally going to be the attendee freebie figure forBotCon 2010, but the mold was being used forGenerations Thrust by Hasbro at the time and thus unavailable. Had it been produced, that figure could probably have doubled as bothAction Master Thundercracker andShattered Glass Thundercracker, much like theSlice/Shattered GlassWheeljack toy that was made in its stead.

The bio and tech specs forG2Action Master Thundercracker was published inissue #42 of the Official Collectors' Club magazine in late 2011, making this figure bothShattered Glass Thundercracker andGeneration 2 Thundercracker.

There were only 1800Shattered Glass Thundercracker figures produced. This mold was also used for a buttload of otherSeekers.

• More information on Thundercracker at TFU.info

Henkei! Henkei!

You could have had me . . . but even then you might not want me.

• Thundercracker (Deluxe, 2008)
  • Accessories: 2 missile launchers (left and right), 2 missiles

Henkei! Henkei! Thundercracker is a Genbo store exclusive redeco ofHenkei! Henkei!Starscream. He features a metallic flake blue version of his cartoon color scheme, rather than his darker blue Generation 1 toy colour scheme.Henkei Thundercracker and his fellowSeekerSkywarp were opened for pre-order onMay 22nd throughJune 20, and mailed out in September 2008. A second batch was made available onNovember 6th, 2008.

Soon after release, there were numerous complaints from both Japanese and Western collectors about the poor quality control for both Thundercracker and Skywarp. Thundercracker in particular suffered from a widespread issue where his missile launchers did not fit into the holes in his shoulders, due to the holes being too big. Some reported both toys suffering misassembly issues such as having two left or two right thighs.

Several minor changes were made to this mold for this release. The holes for his missile launchers in his arms were widened, but not the launcher's insertion pegs. The wing's missile launcher insertion points were lengthened and are now curved at the end. The last rectangle on his air intakes was further modified from the Classics version, this time the bottom most rectangle goes completely across the air intake's surface rather than just the center.Henkei! Henkei! Skywarp andUniverseStarscream also saw most of these changes.

The second release (while extremely limited) did not see any of the quality control issues of the early, more heavily produced release. This version of Thundercracker uses the 2nd version of the Classics Seeker mold that was reinstated withGhost Starscream and all subsequent releases thus far. Oddly these versions of Thundercracker do not feature a date stamp etched into his leg like the earlier release.

Masterpiece

Hey, at least I'mmeant to beblue.

• Thundercracker (November 20,2008)
  • ID number:MP-7
  • Accessories: 2 "Machine Guns", 2 AIM missile racks, Doctor Arkeville pilot, Megatron Gun clasp, display stand

A redeco ofMasterpieceStarscream,Masterpiece Thundercracker eschews the cartoon accuracy that the line normally strives for, transforms into a highly-accurate F-15E Strike Eagle while sporting a more stylized robot mode. He comes with all the features and accessories included with the previous release of the mold: flip-up missile racks built into his pectorals, a two-piece display stand that can be configured to display the figure in mid-flight in either jet or robot mode, a miniatureDoctor Arkevillefigurine that fits in his cockpit (now cast in blue plastic), a clip to hold the gun mode Megatron that came withMasterpiece Optimus Prime in jet-mode, and an extensive sheet of optional stickers to allow buyers to customize him to their liking. Also like Starscream and Skywarp, Thundercracker features a rotating face with two swappable expressions; a normal, stoic gaze (retooled from Starscream's original one, despite the popular misconception that it is the same) and a new growling glare, replete with bared teeth.

SomeMasterpiece Thundercrackers feature an assembly error: His left and right pectorals are flipped. This misassembly does not affect transformation at all, and is most noticeable when compared to priorMasterpiece Seekers. The 2008 pressing ofMasterpiece Skywarp also features this part swap.

This mold was also used for theMasterpiece version ofSkywarp. It was also redecoed and retooled to create the eleventhMasterpiece figure,Starscream, which was then redecoed to createSunstorm andAcid Storm.

Good news everybody - yet another MP seeker.

• Thundercracker (November 28, 2015)
  • ID number:MP-11T
  • Accessories: 2 null rays, orange hologram pilot figurine

Released as a TakaraTomy Mall exclusive, MP-11T Thundercracker is a redeco ofMP-11 Starscream, with the coloration based on Thundercracker's animation model. The figure is limited to 2000 pieces. This Thundercracker features some extensive retooling to wind theMasterpiece Seeker design back into the more Generation 1-accurate look, with most of the robot mode being newly tooled parts, including chunkier legs that now incorporate his tail-fins,retooled shoulders, and wingtips that no longer curve into one another, a new head (with collapsible head fins), new heel spurs that flip out for added support in robot mode, and re-engineered Machine Guns attached to extending armatures that mean they no longer have to beremoved for transformation. LikeMP-11SW Skywarp, but unlike MP-11 Starscream and the cartoon, the insignias on his wings are the correct way up in robot mode.

As a redeco of the MP-11 release, Thundercracker islikely to be plagued with the same quality control issues.

Thundercracker was available for preorder fromAugust 3 toAugust 17, with orders shipping in late November 2015.

When purchased from a seller supplied by Hasbro Asia, Thundercracker comes with acollector coin, mounted on a card styled like Thundercracker's chest, waist, and wings.

Now you can recreate your favorite pose just like in the intro!

• Thundercracker Ver. 2.0 (September2021)
  • ID number:MP-52+
  • Accessories: 3 alternate faces, 5 effect parts, 2 null rays, 2-part display base

• Known designers:Kōjin Ōno (TakaraTomy)^[2]

Thundercracker is the first Seeker to be redecoed fromMasterpieceStarscream Ver. 2.0. MP-52+ Thundercracker features a significantly more cartoon-accurate robot mode than his previous releases, and is colored in medium-to-light blue to better match his animation model.

Thundercracker comes with a slew of accessories, including 3 alternate faces, 5 effect parts, a stand for his jet mode, and a pair of null rays. His jet mode can half-transform into a Gerwalk-styled "Alternate Transformation", as seen in the figure's stock photography. Adorably, Thundercracker's stock photos depict him running and firing in the same pose as the intro to the first season of the'80s cartoon.

Upon the announcement of the second version ofMasterpieceSkywarp, a competition forStarscream's add-on kit was revealed; giving him his iconic crown and cape fromThe Transformers: The Movie. Those who purchase Starscream, Thundercracker, and Skywarp will receive the exclusive kit.

Thundercracker was released as aTakaraTomy Mallexclusive to Japan.

Encore

• Skywarp & Thundercracker (reissue multi-pack, 2008)
  • ID number11
  • Accessories: left & right fists, 2 missile launchers, 2 incendiary guns, 2 rockets, left & right wings, left & right tail fins, left & right tail wings, landing gear

Thundercracker's original toy was reissued again as part of TakaraTomy'sEncore series, this time in a two-pack with his erstwhile partner, Skywarp. This release of the figure is cast in a less metallic blue plastic than previous release, and features tampographed wing stripes and Decepticon insignias instead of stickers.

Alternity

Bluer than Massachusetts!

• Thundercracker [Sonic Blue] (2010)
  • ID number:A-04

Thundercracker is a redeco ofAlternitySkywarp, transforming into a licensed 1:32 scaleMitsuoka Orochi. Thundercracker replaces Skywarp's purple, flat black, light purple, and metallic gray for metallic blue, glossy black, light blue, and silver. Like the other toys in the line, he featuresdie-cast metal parts and rubber tires, as well as an opening hood, trunk and doors. This is also currently the onlyAlternity mold to featurea fake kibble chest.

In car mode, small wings aresupposed to be able to flip out from under Thundercracker's rear wheels, giving him the appearance of a flying car. Unfortunately, thisgimmick suffers from a rather nastydesign flaw: there is simply not enough clearance under the car for the wheels to be able to pass and hinge through, and attempting to do so will result in the plastic reinforcement struts underneathdeforming the rims and chipping the tires. His door panels also tend to detach from theirball jointsvery easily.

This mold was also used to makeAlternityBanzai Tron, while the original version of it was used byAlternityStarscream.

Generations

You could have me, and you probably want me.

• Thundercracker (Deluxe Class, 2011)
  • Accessories: left & right launchers, 2 missiles

Part of the seventh wave of2010-2011Generations toys, Thundercracker is a third redeco of theClassics Starscream mold, and the first one to be released to mass retail in Hasbro markets.

This version of Thundercracker features a darker blue than both the greenish-blue of the BotCon release, and the blue of theHenkei! Henkei! release. He also features a new deco layout and different striping from any of the previous versions. In the stock photo provided, he is slightly mis-transformed at the ankles.

• More information on Generations Thundercracker at TFU.info

GDO

As if the guns on his arms weren't enough.

• Thundercracker (Legends Class, 2012)
  • Accessories: two guns

Generations Legends Class Thundercracker is redeco ofTransformers: Reveal the Shield Legends ClassStarscream, withretooled hands and holes in his wings compatible with3 mm posts. Thundercracker's deco is slightly different from the EZ collection figure, omitting the black paint on his shins in favor of giving him full-colorDecepticoninsignias on his wings, and a black painted nosecone. He comes with two compatible guns that are heavily based on Generation 1 Thundercracker's Incendiary Guns (based more on theanimation model rather than the original toy). Each gun features two posts, allowing them to mount/be held in different ways.

Originally developed by Hasbro Asia for release in their territories, Thundercracker was later released together with various other formerly "Asian market exclusive" toys as aToys"R"Us exclusive in theUnited States for the 2012 holiday season.

The retooled version of this sculpt (including the guns) was later used for arunning change variant of a "Dollar Store" exclusive version ofStarscream.

• More information on Legends Thundercracker at TFU.info

• Ultimate Gift Set (2012)
  • Accessories: 2 guns

This unchanged release of Legends Class Thundercracker comes packed withGenerations Legends ClassMotorbreath, as well as Deluxe ClassCombat Hero Optimus Prime and aGeneration 2-styled Deluxe ClassAutobot Jazz.

The Ultimate Gift Set is an online retailer exclusive in the United States, but is available at general retail in Hasbro's Asian markets.

Thrilling 30

First he stole Skywarp's colors...

• Metroplex (Titan Class, 2013)
  • 01 OF 30

Anexclusive version of Titan ClassMetroplex was made available atSan Diego Comic-Con 2013. He comes with 12small, non-transforming figurines ofOrion Pax,Megatron,Bumblebee, Thundercracker,Trailcutter, andHoist, all in both modes. Similarly toDecoys, the Autobot figurines are cast in red plastic, and the Decepticons in purple.

While the figurines in this set are not named, the Seeker in this set is likely Thundercracker, based on the fact that the other ten figurines are based on characters from the first two waves ofThrilling 30 Deluxe Class toys, the second of which includes Thundercracker.

...and when he got pushed down the stairs for it, he stole Starscream's instead.

• Metroplex (Titan Class, 2013)
  • 05 OF 30

Another exclusive version of Titan ClassMetroplex was made available atAnimation-Comic-Game Hong Kong 2013. This Metroplex also has the 12 figurines ofOrion Pax,Megatron,Bumblebee, Thundercracker,Trailcutter, andHoist, but casts the Autobot figurines in gold plastic, and the Decepticons in silver.

Starscream took his colors back, but this time Thundercracker filched histransformation cog.

• Thundercracker (Deluxe Class, 2013)
  • Series / Number:02 / #006
  • TakaraTomy release date:2014-03-29
  • Accessories: two assault cannons, tail-fin

Part of the sixth wave of2012-onwardsGenerations Deluxe Class toys,Thrilling 30 Thundercracker is a redeco ofGenerations:Fall of Cybertron Starscream, and transforms into a Cybertronian jet fighter. He comes with two spinning, triple-barreled cannons which can combine to form a larger hand-held weapon that is geared to spin its two triple-barrels together, and resembles theNeutron assault rifle fromFall of Cybertron. Each of the weapon halves features two5 mm posts, as well as a peg-hole on their hollow sides, while the combined form features another peg-hole at the top, but makes the peg-holes on the hollow sides inaccessible. Thundercracker features numerous 5 mm peg-holes, such as his hands, forearms, lower legs, and wing undersides.

Thundercracker's tail-fin is attached via a 5 mm post on its underside, and can be detached to reveal three additional peg-holes, with two of these peg-holes being just the right distance to accommodate the combined assault cannons/rifle, with the tail-fin pegging on the rifle's top peg-hole. This allows the weapon to mount on top of thevehicle mode, and store on his back in robot mode.

Thundercracker is minimally mis-transformed in-package: his jet mode nosecone is extended, rather than folded in as it should be in robot mode. He comes packaged with a copy ofIDW'sSpotlight: Thundercracker.

Despite using a mold and deco matchingThundercracker's appearance inWar for Cybertron, this toytechnically represents G1 Thundercracker, thanks to hisIDW pack-in fiction. Consequently, the toy is listed in the former's page as arepurposing. This toy was also utilized asCloud Thundercracker and was also redecoed into TakaraTomyFall of CybertronSkywarp as well asThrilling 30Skywarp. Compared to the Starscream and Skywarp versions however, Thundercracker's joints are considerably looser for reasons unknown.

• More information on Thrilling 30 Thundercracker at TFU.info

Chronicle

Youused to want me, but now I just feelinadequate.

• Thundercracker (EZ Collection, 2011)

Chronicle Thundercracker is a redeco ofTransformers Legends Class Starscream. He transforms into an F-15 with many fuselage details borrowed from the Masterpiece version. This is the first Seeker mold in many years to attempt an entirely new transformation, with the arms now forming the rear of the jet and the legs folding under the wings. Thundercracker was available only in Japan, and like many Japanese "EZ Collection" toys, isblindpacked.

Surprisingly, Thundercracker was made available months before Starscream was released in the same line.

Kre-O

• Sentinel Prime (2011)
  • Set number:30687
  • Pieces:386
  • Kreons: Sentinel Prime, Soundwave, Thundercracker, Fire Chief
  • Accessories: 2 clip-on blasters

The Sentinel Prime construction set comes with a Thundercracker Kreon. He has a helmet, wing back that attaches around his neck, and two blasters that clip onto his arms. This Kreon mold was also used forStarscream andSkywarp.

• More information on Thundercracker at TFU.info

• Kreon Class of 1984 (Kreon figure set, 2014)
  • Set number:B0090
  • Voted: Most Indecisive
  • Accessories: 2 clip-on blasters

This version of Thundercracker has much more extensive toy-basedtampographs than his prior version, though his base plastic is distinctly cartoon-based baby blue.

He was only available in aSan Diego Comic-Con 2014exclusive pack of 30 Kreons dubbed the "Kreon Class of 1984". Remaining stock was to be sold atHasbro Toy Shop online, only therewas no remaining stock after the show.

• More information on Class of 1984 Thundercracker at TFU.info

Bot Shots

• Thundercracker (2012)
  • Series:1
  • Number:B009
    • Fist strength:255
    • Blaster strength:800
    • Sword strength:565

Part of the third wave ofBot Shots, Thundercracker is unsurprisingly a redeco ofStarscream, turning into asuper deformed jet. An impact to the jet's nose will trigger his spring-loaded transformation back to robot mode.

• More information on Thundercracker at TFU.info

Transformers (2010)

You probably want me, but you can't afford me.

• Masterpiece Thundercracker (2012)
  • Accessories: Two AIM missile racks, hologram pilot, Megatron gun clasp, display stand

• Known designers:Andrew Franks (deco artist)

A redeco of the newerMasterpieceMP-11 Starscream mold, theToys"R"Us exclusiveTransformers Thundercracker features some extensive retooling to wind theMasterpiece Seeker design back into Kawamori's original, more Generation 1-accurate look, with most of the robot mode being newly tooled parts, including chunkier legs that now incorporate his tail-fins,retooled shoulders and wingtips that no longer curve into one another, a new head (with collapsible head fins), new heel spurs that flip out for added support in robot mode, and re-engineered Incendiary Guns attached to extending armatures that mean they no longer have to beremoved for transformation.

Other than the replaced incendiary guns, Thundercracker comes with all the accessories included with the previous releases of the mold, with Dr. Arkeville being replaced with the newer hologram pilot figurine. He features several whimsicaltampographs, which include Thundercracker holdingSoundwave in tape deck mode,Reflector in camera mode, "D-24" (Thundercracker's Japanese line designation), and various call outs to Hasbro designers, such as "LTC Joe 'Big Daddy' Kyde" and "Cpt. J. 'Dragon' Sass". The stock photos of the figure (as shown to the right), however, show all-red Reflector tampographs on the front of his shoulders; on the actual production toy, Reflector appears in full color on theback of the shoulders (visible on the sides of Thundercracker's jet mode), while the front of his shoulders features theClassics angled shoulder stripes, colored red to match hisGenerations figure.

Curiously, the accessories, packaging, and instructions for Masterpiece Thundercracker are all specific to the older version of the mold (prior to the changes for MP-11 Starscream), and the packaging recycles thepackage art fromGenerations Thundercracker and features no pictures of the actual toy itself. The figure may have been intended for release with the older version of the Masterpiece Seeker mold before changes were made to use the newer version of the mold.

• More information on Hasbro Masterpiece Thundercracker at TFU.info

United

To think that a few years ago, there wasn't enough of me to go around...

• Seekers: Aces (December 21, 2012)
  • Accessories: left & right launchers, 2 missiles

United Thundercracker is a fifth redeco of theClassics Starscream mold, and the first time he is offered with both of his wing matesStarscream andSkywarp.

This version of Thundercracker is heavily based on his cartoon appearance. He features a light blue (lighter than the Henkei! Henkei! figure), dark gray paint on most of his black plastic, an amber cockpit, and shiny metallic blue paint on his shoulders and collar. Paint operations found on the Henkei! Henkei! release were shuffled around for the sake of cartoon accuracy.

BeCool

• Blue Jet (Thundercracker) (2013)
  • ID number:B14

BeCool "Blue Jet" is practically identical to theBot Shots Thundercracker toy, the only difference being that his stickers don't depict power levels but instead drawings of his vehicle mode, a jet's cockpit interior and a fighter pilot's helmet.

Construct-Bots

• Thundercracker (Scout, 2013)
  • Pieces:41

• Known designers:Andrew Scribner (deco artist)

Part of Wave 2 ofConstruct-Bots Scouts, Thundercracker can transform into a jet.

Surprisingly, Thundercracker is not aredeco of theStarscream Construct-Bots toy, but does borrow most of his parts. His head is a retool of Starscream's, changing his smirk into an angrier face. Instead of usingBlitzwing's wing and gatling gun parts, Thundercracker uses Triple-ChangerBumblebee's wing, back armor, and nosecone parts, as well asMegatron's blasters.

• More information on Thundercracker at TFU.info

Generations (Japan)

• Thundercracker (March 29,2014)
  • Accessories: two assault cannons, tail-fin

The JapaneseGenerations release ofThrilling 30 Thundercracker features a shiny metallic finish and an orange canopy, as well as a few different paint details such as black kneecaps and silver on his face and gun barrels. He was sold exclusively at select Edion, Yodobashi Camera, Yamada Denki, and Best Denki stores.

Combiner Wars

• Thundercracker (Legends Class, 2015)
  • Accessories: 2 cannons

• Known designers:John Warden (Hasbro)

Part of the first wave ofCombiner Wars Legends toys, Thundercracker is a redeco ofThrilling 30Starscream, based onGuido Guidi's Seeker design from IDW'soriginal ongoing series. Thundercracker includes a collector card featuring art from the "To the Rescue" episode ofTransformers Legends.

His current stock photo is mistransformed: his wings are not flipped up.

This mold was also used to makeThrilling 30Acid Storm andCombiner WarsSkywarp.

• More information on Legends Thundercracker at TFU.info

Seven guns but nodog.

• Thundercracker (Leader Class, 2015)
  • Accessories: missile launcher, missile, 2 arm cannons, 2 leg cannons, 2 "Seeker guns"

• Known designers:John Warden (Hasbro)

Combiner Wars Thundercracker is an extensive retool ofThrilling 30 Leader ClassJetfire, replacing the head, chest, upper arms, and wings so as to resemble the same Guidi design as the preceding Legends Class figure. He transforms from a robot into a jet fighter, and includes Jetfire's original missile launcher and four limb-mounted weapons, plus two new guns based on the traditional Seeker arm rifles. He also features a faux cockpit.

Thundercracker does not include Jetfire's "Turbo Thruster" booster pack accessory, but is still compatible with it. In an undocumented feature, any of his other guns can be mounted on the sides of his missile launcher, or all of them can be combined together to create an enormous multi-barreled weapon.

He does have light piping, but it doesn't illuminate his eyes, only the crystal thing on his forehead.

This mold was also used to makeCombiner Wars Leader ClassStarscream andSkywarp.

• More information on Leader Thundercracker at TFU.info

Q-Transformers

Baby! Baby! I'm a baby! I'm zero years old!

• Thundercracker (September 19, 2015)
  • ID number:QT-31

A redeco and minor retool ofQ-TransformersStarscream, Thundercracker transforms from asuper deformed F-15 to a cute chubby little robot. His face has been changed from Starscream's smirk into a more sullen expression.

This mold was also retooled intoQ-TransformersSkywarp andJetfire.

• Decepticons 3-Figure Set (2016)
  • ID number:QTFS-03

During the secondQ-Transformers series, the Thundercracker toy was available in a three-pack alongsideStarscream andSkywarp. He is identical to the originalQ-Transformers toy.

Alt-Modes

• Thundercracker (Alt-Modes, 2016)
  • Series:1
  • Collection:1, 2

A redeco ofAlt-ModesStarscream, Thundercracker is a super deformed toy whose body transforms into a jet when the Decepticon faction symbol on his head is flipped. He wasblind-boxed and available in the first two cases of the toyline.

This mold was also used to makeAlt-ModesSkywarp,Acid Storm andSunstorm, and would have been retooled intoDirge.

War for Cybertron: Siege

You're gonna switch his head with Starscream's, aren't you?

• Thundercracker (Voyager Class,2019)
  • Hasbro ID number:WFC-S39
  • TakaraTomy ID number:SG-35
  • TakaraTomy release date:October 26, 2019
  • Hidden message code:SEEKERS
  • Accessories: 2 "HPINull-Ray Laser Launchers"

• Known designers:AJ Piejko-Brown (packaging)

Part of the fourth wave ofSiege Voyager Class figures, Thundercracker is a redeco and slight headretool ofStarscream, transforming from a heavily Generation 1-inspired robot to a Cybertronian "tetrajet" based on theSeekers' appearance in "More than Meets the Eye, Part 1" and back; the jet mode has the robot legs prominently sticking out from the undercarriage. He includes two "HPI Null-Ray Laser Launchers," which can mount on his upper arms, or under the wings in jet mode. His face was retooled with a smirk based on the one Starscream sported when he tossed Megatron out of Astrotrain inTransformers: The Movie. Unlike the rest of the Seeker mold, Thundercracker doesn't sport the Decepticon sigil under his wings.

Fitting with the rest ofSiege, Thundercracker has5 mm posts on his biceps, forearms, shins, under his feet (thrusters), and wings. The 3 mm pegs on his shins, forearms, left bicep, and the tips of his Null-Rays can accommodate effects parts sold separately. Like the rest ofSiege, his robot mode focuses on articulation, with double-jointed elbows, knees that bend at nearly 180 degrees, ankle rockers, and waist articulation, being notable articulation points for a Seeker toy. Being a rather heavy shellformer, Thundercracker can easily be separated into both a wingless robot mode and a nearly-complete tetrajet, via a friction hinge.

Hasbro erroneously recycled Thundercracker's alt-mode stock photo forSeeker Ion Storm, who in fact has aslightly different hue of blue and lacks red stripes. TakaraTomy's stock photo also depicts his smirk sculpt as slit-mouthed.

War for Cybertron: Earthrise

Puggle (Buster) figurine sold separately.

• Skywarp & Thundercracker (Multi-pack,2020)
  • Hasbro ID number:WFC-E29
  • TakaraTomy ID number:ER EX-16
  • TakaraTomy release date:January 20,2021
  • Accessories: 2 "Null-Ray blasters"

Earthrise Thundercracker is aredeco ofStarscream from the same line, transforming into an F-15 jet based on his traditional alternate mode, and featuring a pair of G1-accurate arm-guns. As with the aboveSiege figure,Earthrise Thundercracker uses the lighter blue of hiscartoon appearance. His design and transformation scheme is heavily based on the2006Classics mold while adding points of articulation the earlier figure did not have such as pivoting ankles, a more expressive ball-jointed head, and hinges that allow the wings to fold backwards in robot mode.

While the null-rays can be wielded by his pair of hands, it's almost impossible for him to properly hold them due to the size of his forearms.

Thundercracker was packaged withSkywarp (who uses a retooled facesculpt) in aCybertronian Villains-branded set exclusive toTarget in the United States, andToys"R"Us in Canada. It was also available at general retail in Hasbro's Asian markets such as Hong Kong and Singapore. In Japan, the set was aTakaraTomy Mall exclusive.

Like allEarthrise toys, the the Seeker two-pack package comes with an exclusive piece of a larger star-map, and a thin piece of red translucent plastic which acts as a decoder for the map. The two-packs map segment shows an unlabelledQuintessa.

Like all other uses of the mold, Thundercracker has a missing molded panel-line detail on the right wing hinge that is supposed to curve in towards the body of the jet. The reason for this missing detail is likely due to it missing from the metal mold itself.

Legacy

"When I drink my little wine ... and have my little (Thunder)cracker, I guess that's a form of asking for forgiveness."

• Thundercracker (Core Class,2023)

• TakaraTomy ID number:TL-36
• TakaraTomy release date:September 30, 2023
• Accessory: 2Null Rays
• Known designers:Evan Brooks (Hasbro)^[3]

Released within the fifth wave ofLegacy: Evolution, Core Class Thundercracker is a redeco ofKingdomStarscream, completing the Core Class-scaled original trio of Seekers.

A roughly Legends-sized toy that can interact with Titan Class figures,Legacy Thundercracker's sculpting is heavily inspired by his largerEarthrise counterpart. UnlikeLegacyCore Class Skywarp, Thundercracker uses the traditional Seeker Null Rays.

• Decepticon Nemesis (Titan Class,2023)

• Known designers:Sam Smith (Hasbro),Hisashi Yuki (TakaraTomy),Emiliano Santalucia (concept artist)^[4][5]

A tinyslug figure of Thundercracker in jet mode was included with Titan ClassNemesis.

• Designer commentary onLegacy Nemesis from Sam Smith on Instagram:
  • Part I
  • Part II - Robot Mode
  • Part III - Ship Mode

Transformers Retro

• Thundercracker (Walmart exclusive reissue/redeco,2023)
  • Accessories: Left & right fists, 2 missile launchers, 2 null-rays, 2 cluster bombs, left & right wings, left & right tail fins, left & right tail wings, landing gear, two-piece gun mode Megatron

Walmart once again reissued the original Thundercracker toy (or is it a recolor of Starscream from the same line?) in 2023 under theTransformers Retro label. Unlike theVintage G1 release, however,Retro Thundercracker has been redecoed in colors inspired by his appearance in the originalTransformers animated series, more specificallyThe Transformers: The Movie. He remains a mash-up of Starscream'sCommemorative Series andThe Transformers Collection reissues, with the former's elongated null rays and cluster bombs and the latter's gun mode Megatron accessory.

The box features new art of Thundercracker withEarthrise-inspired detailing in robot and vehicle mode laid over a scene ofAutobot City. UnlikeSkywarp, it’snot a recolor of Starscream's artwork.

Transformers Retro Thundercracker was announced and went up for preorder onMarch 16, 2023.

Dramatic Capture Series

If Takara was wise; they would have gone the extra mile to include a Buster figurine.

• Decepticons Part 1 (Multi-pack, (2025)

• Release date:November2025
• Accessories: 2 "Null-Ray blasters"

The fifthDramatic Capture Series box set comes with a redeco ofEarthrise Thundercracker, featuring some changes such as the omitted kneecap details, the extra silver paint on the rear waist, and the additional striping on the upper tailfins. Thundercracker is packed with three additionalReflector figures.

Initial stock photos of Thundercracker are erroneously depicted with the same stripes used by the same line's Starscream before it was corrected in July.

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

Studio Series

Buster still not included for movie-accuracy.

• Thundercracker (Voyager Class, (2026)

• Movie:The Transformers: The Movie
• Accessories: 2 "Null-Ray blasters"
• Known designers:Evan Brooks (Hasbro),Hisashi Yuki (TakaraTomy)^[6]

In celebration of the 40th anniversary ofThe Transformers: The Movie,Studio Series Thundercracker transforms from a robot mode hewing closely to his2021Masterpiece toy to a F-15 Eagle-esque jet in 27 steps. He includes two Null-Rays which can mount on his biceps, or underneath his wings in jet mode. Compared to hisEarthrise toy, he has waist and wrist swivels, an opening cockpit, and deployable front landing gear. The stabilizer fins on his legs are attached using a standard 5 mm connection, and can optionally be removed and attached to his back for a more cartoon-accurate appearance.

The tips of his wings are packed separately in package. His box originally had a screenshot of a mostly-obscured Skywarp, though this was corrected on the final product.

Merchandise

Decoy

Thunderwarp? Skycracker?

• Destron Hero Collection 22 (multi-pack, 1986)
• Mini Mini Collection (multi-pack, 1986)

Thundercracker was among the many characters rendered byTakara as part of their series of 1.5"keshigomu figurines. Like all the Decepticons in the series, Thundercracker was molded in soft purple rubber, and featured a number sculpted into his back that was the sum total of hisTech Specs, for use in the various games that could be played with the figurines. He is, surprisingly enough,not identical to either Starscream or Skywarp: the stance of his legs and the position of his Decepticon symbols differ, but he is, of course, most prominently distinguished by his raised right arm.

Thundercracker was available as part of a 22-piece box set of Decepticon figures, in a peach coloration in several other box sets, including the Decepticon "Mini Mini Collection", and in a wide variety of colours in "gachapon" capsule machines.

• Thundercracker (1987)
  • Decoy number:34

The Thundercracker figurine was later brought over toHasbro markets as part of theDecoy promotion, largely identical to the Japanese release except for the fact that the number on his back was replaced with a simple "checklist" number (34, in Thundercracker's case). Like all Decepticon Decoys, he was a randomly-chosen pack-in available with the cardedThrottlebots,Aerialbots,Protectobots andTechnobots, and was, very early on in the promotion, available in an alternate red coloration that was only packed in with the Throttlebots. Unsurprisingly, this red figurine is much rarer.

• More information on Decoy Thundercracker at TFU.info

Super Collection Figure

• Thundercracker (2001)
  • Act:4
  • Accessories: Stand

A three-inch tallPVC figurine of Thundercracker was available as part of the fourth wave ofTakara'sSuper Collection Figure line, aredeco of theStarscream figure from the same series. Like all the figures in the wave, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a metallic silver "pewter" version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelveblindpacked figures.

In eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version of Thundercracker came with the left leg of the wave's collectibleMetroplex build-a-figure.

The pewter version of the figure has a potential problem with connector peg breakage, due to said pegs often getting a layer of pewter paint before being forced into a socket, leading to sticking and tearing. Care should be used when moving or removing the arms; shaving down the socket interior with a thin hobby knife is usually sufficient to fix the issue.

This mold was redecoed to createSkywarp,Sunstorm and theAir Warrors in theHeroes of Cybertron line (see below), andretooled intoDirge,Thrust andRamjet.

• More information on Pewter Super Collection Figure Thundercracker at TFU.info

Heroes of Cybertron

"'Heroes' of Cybertron huh, well why am I here when I'm the bad guy?"

• Thundercracker (2003)

Released in the second wave of Hasbro'sHeroes of Cybertron line, this version of Thundercracker differs from hisSuper Collection Figure incarnation in several ways. Like all theHeroes figures, he was cast entirely in translucent plastic then painted over, leaving his eyes and the back of his head unpainted to create alight-piping effect. Moreover,Heroes Thundercracker features light grey pectorals instead of white (with painted-in chest-holes), black forearms instead of grey (to match his helmet and feet), and a yellow cockpit instead of an orange one.

He was sold on an individual blister packaging with a profile card.

• More information on Heroes of Cybertron Thundercracker at TFU.info

• Decepticon Air Cavalry Troop Builder Set (2003)

The original Thundercracker figurine was re-released again in this six-pack of figures available exclusively atOTFCC 2003. He came packaged withHeroes of Cybertron versions ofStarscream,Skywarp, and threeAir Warriors.

While the three named Seekers in the set were originally intended to have a sparkly paint job to differentiate them from the normal retail versions, that ended up not happening and they ended up basically the same.

• More information on 3H's Heroes of Cybertron Thundercracker at TFU.info

MyClone

• Thundercracker (2003)
  • Accessories: grey display base

• Known designers:Kazutami Abiko (TakaraTomy)

MyClone Thundercracker—who you won't be surprised to hear is a redeco ofMyClone Starscream—was one of two rare chase figures in the second wave of Takara's line ofsuper deformed PVC figurines (the other being"Lava" Galvatron). He comes with a hexagonal grey display stand that can link up with the identical stands included with other MyClone figures, and his modular design allows his parts to be mixed and matched with those of any other MyClone figure.

Titanium Series

Complete with rocket exhaust. Or possiblyGoo. Or possibly oh dear god please let it be rocket exhaust or Goo.

• Thundercracker (3" Robot Masters, 2006)
  • Accessories: pistol, "cloud" base, Display stand

A redeco of "Robot Masters" Starscream,Titanium Series Thundercracker is a small, non-transforming die-cast metal figurine based on his cartooncharacter model, except with a blue head. He is sculpted holding a gun in his left hand and stretching out his right arm, while using his feet-jets to fly up.

• More information on Titanium Thundercracker at TFU.info

Robot Heroes

Now who's geeky?

• Autobot Jazz & Thundercracker (Two-pack, 2007)

A redeco ofRobot HeroesStarscream, Thundercracker is a two inch high figure sculpted in asuper deformed style and articulated at the shoulders. He was available in a two-pack withJazz.

This mold was also redecoed asSkywarp.

• More information onRobot Heroes Thundercracker at TFU.info

• Thundercracker (Single-pack, 2008)

In some countries outside of North America, Thundercracker was released individually in a blindpack with no notable changes.

Palisades

Thundercrackeron astiiick.

• Thundercracker (Palisades, 2005)

APalisades Direct-exclusive redeco of the Starscream statue, Thundercracker is a six inch tall polystone statue with articulated head and arms. He can stand normally or use a stand to take on a "hovering" pose. Thundercracker was limited to 300 pieces, and sculpted by3L Creation Group from a design byGeorge Tremarco.

Transformers - Mini Bust

• Thundercracker (Diamond Select, 2008)

Released by Diamond Select Toys in 2008, Thundercracker was first exclusive to theNew York Comic Con and later on offered by online retailer Big Bad Toy Store. He was sculpted byMark Wong ofArt Asylum and limited to 400 pieces.

The Loyal Subjects

• Thundercracker (2014)
  • Accessories: gun

This 3-inch tall vinyl figurine of Thundercracker was released by theThe Loyal Subjects in their first wave ofblindpackedTransformers figures. He shares his mold with the simultaneously-released Loyal SubjectsStarscream figurine, and was later redecoed to create theRainmakers trio andSunstorm. He was available at a ratio of two out of every sixteen figures in the wave.

• More information on Thundercracker and the rest of wave 1 at TheLoyalSubjects.com

D-Style

• Skywarp & Thundercracker (09-2015)
  • ID number: 48
  • Accessories: scowling face, smirking face, shouting face, open hand, closed hands, mini F-15 jet

Thissuper deformed Thundercracker model kit was produced byKotobukiya as part of their franchise-spanningD-Style line, available in a two-pack with an identical model ofSkywarp. LikeMegatron he comes with three different faces and in line with the rest of the line, comes with a miniature figurine of his alt mode figure. He also contains a replaceable open hand. His chest contains flip-up panels in his chest that reveal missile racks based on the weapons seen in the Generation 1 episode "Fire on the Mountain". His incendiary guns can be removed and wielded as guns, and he can also hold Megatron's gun. The kit is only partially painted, and a guide is included with paint colors to help the buyer finish the kit themselves.

This mold was also used to makeD-StyleStarscream.

Mecha Nations

• Skywarp (2015)
  • ID Number:MN10
  • Accessories: alternate hands, display stand.

Created byKids Logic, thissuper deformed G1 Thundercracker is a redeco of Mecha NationsStarscream with a new face. He stands 6" tall and is articulated, featuring a shiny metallic color scheme, removable armor and replacement hands. He also features LED light up eyes, Decepticon insignias on his wings, null rays and thrusters in his feet, for use when he's "hovering", mounted on the included display stand.

This figure was also redecoed with a different new face into Mecha NationsSkywarp, with whom he was a 2015 Toy Soul exhibition exclusive.

Transformers Trading Card Game

• Thundercracker, Mach Warrior (2018)
  • Wave 1
  • Rarity:UT
  • Card Number:T39/T40
  • Stars:8

Thundercracker, Mach Warrior is one of forty double-sided character cards available in Wave 1 of theTransformers Trading Card Game.

The artwork for the card is reused from theTransformers Legends mobile card game.

• Sergeant Thundercracker, Infantry-Seeker (2019)
  • Wave 4: War for Cybertron: Siege II
  • Rarity:RT
  • Card Number:T47/T52
  • Stars:9

Sergeant Thundercracker, Infantry-Seeker is one of 52 character cards released in Wave 4 of theTransformers Trading Card Game, War for Cybertron: Siege II.

The card's artwork is based on theSiege Thundercracker toy, with the Bot Mode artwork being reused from the toy's packaging art.

Flame Toys

• Thunder Cracker[sic] (May 2019)
  • Number:05
  • Additional parts/accessories: 1 pair of Trigger-finger hands, 1 pair of open-palm hands

Released as part of theFurai Model line byFlame Toys, Thundercracker is an articulated, non-transforming, Voyager Class-sizedGunpla-style model kit redecoed from theStarscream runners. He is molded in blue, light gray, some white and black, and translucent yellow (with one of the parts being painted red) for the eyes and cockpit. His Null-rays can be detached as handheld blasters.

For straight-assembly builders, Thundercracker features a sheet of foil stickers for detail (notably the wings), though the kit can be panel-lined and touched-up with several panel-lining and paint markers (water/acrylic-based markers are recommended, as alcohol-based markers likeGundam Markers can potentially damage the ABS plastic). If one desires; the kit's pieces, aside from the translucent parts, can be fully coated with spray paints to recreate the finished sample seen in the stock photos.

Zōteki

• Thundercracker (2021)
  • ID number:031

A collaboration betweenHasbro and statue/replica brandJazware,The Transformers was added as a part of theZōteki line alongside other iconic brands such asMarvel, to recreate some of the main "Generation 1" characters. The 31st figure of theZōteki line is Thundercracker, whose base figure is just a simple repaint of the previously releasedStarscream.

Much like,Skywarp, Thundercracker is a "chase variant" and was only exclusive to Walgeens.

Each statue of the line features a connection point for it to be connected to the others, in order to form a battle scene.

Eaglemoss

• Transformers Gen-1 Chess Set (2021)

In the plannedTransformers Chess Set byEaglemoss, a relatively large and very well detailed statue of Thundercracker was slated to be one of the Bishop pieces on the Decepticon side.

A Kickstarter campaign to raise the necessary funds for this project was launched, but failed to meet its goal by September 24, 2021 and the whole thing was canceled.

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

Pop!

• Thundercracker (DigitalPop!, 2022)
  • Rarity:
    • Monochrome:Common
    • Static:Common
    • Glowing:Uncommon
    • Chrome:Rare
    • Original:Rare

NFTs depicting Thundercracker in the Funko style.

No, there's no Skywarp NFTs.

Jada Toys

• Transformers Series 1 18-pack (4 cm Die Cast Figure Multipack, 2022)

Released byJada Toys,Nano Metalfigs Series 1 Thundercracker is an incredibly small die-cast figurine molded with his hands on his waist. He has a little base attached to his feet for balancing reasons.

Thundercracker shares the same mold as Series 1Starscream and comes in an impressive multipack with him andsixteen other figurines. This mold was later redecoed asNova Storm andAcid Storm in the Series 2 18-pack.

Imaginarium Art

• Thundercracker (2022)

Imaginarium Art's "Legacy of Cybertron" Thundercracker is a 20-inch-tall statue, posed on a Decepticon insignia base that can be linked up with other statues in this series to form a larger battle scene. Only 200 pieces were produced.

R.E.D. [Robot Enhanced Design]

• Thundercracker (2022)
  • Accessories: 2 null rays, 2 alt hands, 2blast effects

Part of the seventh wave of theTransformers R.E.D. line, Thundercracker is a redeco of the earlierCoronation Starscream, minus the Seeker leader's glamorous cape and crown. Thundercracker is a non-transforming, 6-inch action figure akin to the ones from theMarvel Legends andStar Wars The Black Series lines. He features over 25 points of articulation and extensive paint operations in an attempt atshow-accuracy.

Thundercracker includes two pairs of hands: two closed fists, and two open, gesturing hands. As is the norm, he also features two removeable "null ray" weapons that mount on his biceps, along with two purpleblast effects to simulate them firing.

Thundercracker's box was among the first in theR.E.D. range to remove the familiar plastic window on the front, instead favouring a closed cardboard design so as to minimise plastic waste. As with allR.E.D. toys, Thundercracker was a Walmart exclusive in Canada and the United States, and was later made available onHasbro Pulse in limited quantities.

Transformers Character Card

• Convoy & Megatron Set (January 25,2022)
  • ID number:01 & 02

• Known designers:Shin Sasaki (illustration)

Released as part of the first wave of thee-HOBBY exclusiveTransformers Character Card series, this pair of holographic trading cards depict super-deformed art ofOptimus Prime (withRoller) andMegatron (withStarscream, Thundercracker andSkywarp) along withcharacter profiles andtech specs.

• Translation of G1 Megatron's Transformers Character Card

• Thundercracker & Skywarp Set (August 14,2023)
  • ID number:57 & 58

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

• Translation of Thundercracker's Transformers Character Card

Minimates

• Thundercracker (2023)
  • Accessories: shoulder guns (2)

Produced byDiamond Select,Minimates Thundercracker is a 2-inch-tall figurine featuring metallic paint, 12-14 points of articulation, and accessories and body parts interchangeable with other Minimates. It is (naturally) a redeco ofMinimatesStarscream. Thundercracker was released as part of aSan Diego Comic-Con 2023exclusive 4-pack meant to commemorateThe Transformers: The Movie, with packaging resembling a VHS cassette. Only 1,500 were produced.

Blokees

Galaxy Version

• Thundercracker (2023)

• Series:Galaxy Version 01 - Roll Out
• Accessories: 2 pairs of hands (Weapon-holding/fists, open-palm), spare peg-and-ball piece, spare ball-and-ball piece, black stand, 1 pair of Autobot/Decepticon symbols

Released in the second wave ofBlokees' Galaxy Version line of blind boxes along with his mold-mate Skywarp, this Thundercracker is a four-inch-tall, articulated, and non-transforming snap-on model kit of the Decepticon Seeker. Like many otherBlokees figures, Thundercracker uses a "Standard Body" as a skeleton, in which pieces are attached to make it look like different characters.

Like many otherGalaxy Version kits, Thundercracker also has a figure stand with either four studs (China release/Chinese logo) or two studs (Global release/English logo) on top, which he can plug into and connect to similar stands.

Defender Version

• Thundercracker (Defender Version, 2025)

• Series:Defender Version 01 - Galaxy Shining

Released as part of the second wave of theGalaxy Version Defender line of blind boxes, this Thundercracker is a 2.2-inch (5.5cm) figure, a few inches smaller than theGalaxy Version kits, but still articulated. As with all robot mode kits from this line, Thundercracker features color-coded eye parts that also serve as the neck's socket joint.

Whether a randomized variant or a production error, the insignias on Thundercracker's wings (for both the China and Global releases) were sometimes displayed either upside down or reversed.

This mold was also used to makeStarscream andSkywarp.

• Thundercracker (Vehicle) (Defender Version, 2025)

• Series:Defender Version 01 - Galaxy Shining

ThisDefender kit of Thundercracker is molded in his fighter jet mode.

This mold was also used to makeStarscream's Vehicle form and the2026 Yearly Version Skywarp.

Threezero

• Thundercracker (MDLX, 2024?)
  • Known designers: Kelvin Sau
  • Accessories: wing assembly, two null-ray cannons, more TBA

A redeco ofThreezero's MDLX Starscream, Thundercracker is an original design taking inspiration from the original cartoon but with the aesthetics in the vein of the live-action movies. Thundercracker is a smaller scaled, non-transforming action figure in the vein of contemporary collector-oriented lines like Figma and S.H. Figuarts. Like those lines, the figure is extremely well-articulated and detailed, features interchangeable hands and faces plus accessories. He features his ever-present null-ray cannons and two dagger-like blades.

He andSkywarp were revealed in ateaser posted to Threezero's Instagram account showcasing Starscream.

Thundercracker retains Starscream's functionality with MDLX Optimus Prime mold, specifically the detachable wings and swappable heads.

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

Kotobukiya Bishoujo Series

Probably carrying a chihuahua in that bag.

• Bishoujo Series Transformers Thundercracker (September 2024)
  • Known designers:Shunya Yamashita (artist)

KotobukiyaBishoujo Series Thundercracker is a repaint and slight retool ofStarscream from the same line of PVC figures. In addition to being recolored in Thundercracker's usual blues, the statue has received some minor resculpts, tweaking the face slightly and filling in her navel so she appears to be wearing a blue skintight suit beneath her clothing.

Like Starscream, Thundercracker is attached to a purple display base designed after the Decepticon insignia, but she does not include any alternate headpieces like her fellow seeker.

Notes

• During the development of theConeheads,Thrust was initially planned as new wing tooling attached to an unchanged Thundercracker body, as seen in the Japanese catalog image (at the right). This plan lasted long enough to receivepackage art, which was published decades later inLegacy: The Art of Transformers Packaging.Fun Publications would revive this design with theClassics mold to create the characterNacelle.
• In addition to being the basis ofShattered GlassThundercracker, theAction Master version of Thundercracker also made anEaster egg cameo as a generic Decepticon inThe Transformers vol. 2#44.

References