This mini-cast is mostly about Hasbro’s other 1980s brands, so these notes cover only the Transformers side. John, Don, Rob Clay and Matt ask whether Transformers could carry new ideas into the toy aisle. The ideas include military alt modes and vehicles that fit small figures. Rob notes Hasbro’s shifting movie writers, and Don sees a way in through the Transformers Prime universe.
Branching Out on Alt Modes
Don wants an Autobot naval combiner of warships, since the Autobots have little sea power. Matt likes cars and planes but wants more military vehicles, especially helicopters. John says new crossover ideas would force Hasbro to think beyond cars and planes.
Transformers as a Launch Pad
John pitches Transformers-branded vehicles that seat small figures, sold as a sub-collection within Transformers. Rob doesn’t know why Hasbro has avoided mixing lines, citing an unproduced 1980s prototype. He notes Akiva Goldsman recently moved off the Transformers sequel to work on other Hasbro films. [Source: Seibertron] John insists any shared scale or parts must not compromise Transformers.
Should Transformers Become a Catch-All?
Rob thinks it depends on how Micronauts goes. He is open to it as long as it doesn’t harm Transformers or feel like a label slapped on. Matt points out Hasbro already puts the Transformers name on Bot Shots, Kre-O and Rescue Bots. John notes Hasbro has never perfected Transformers between movie years.
A Way In Through Transformers Prime
Don points out that Agent Fowler referenced another Hasbro team in Transformers Prime. He suggests a spin-off using Jack, Miko and Raf, whom he calls the most likable humans in animated Transformers after Sari. John jokes about Don’s lobbying, including his growing collection of four Arcee figures across Animated, Generations, Kre-O and Alternators.
Contributors: John, Don, Rob Clay, Matt
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