This was a bad idea. So bad, I changed my review format.

Seriously.
A Transformer that only transforms halfway?
I can understand them just being either robots or vehicles but purposely designing them to go only halfway?
Man this subline is just full stupid.

Packaging

Robot mode

Honestly, he looks really good in robot mode. He’s nicely molded and has a decent amount of paint.
He costs the same amount as a Legion figure but is significantly taller, bulkier and denser. So he does have some things going for him.
His articulation leaves a lot to be desired. He only has rotation at his shoulders and universal joints in his hips. Not many ways you can pose this guy.
Officially you’re not supposed to be able to bring out his Ion Cannon in this mode, but you can still just transform him into robot mode with his cannon deployed.
Interestingly, his hand does not have a 3mm hole but a 5mm hole. So you can load him up with some massive weapons.

Transformation

Lift his arms up so they face forward. Turn his waist. Lift the legs up.
You’re done.
No, it’s not unfinished. That’s just as far as the transformation goes.
I promise. That’s it.

“Vehicle” mode

Behold this monstrosity.
It’s objectively absolutely horrible.
You paid for a Transformer and this is what you get.
A robot top with a truck bottom. Who only has four rolling wheels.
I should hate it, but it’s so ridiculous that I actually ended up enjoying it.
Weird.
Optimus is supposed to have his cannon deployed only in this mode for some reason

Gimmicks

His Ion Cannon deploys when you “complete” his transformation by lifting his hips.
You can also store it on his back and deploy it again by pressing his truck mode grill.
I enjoy the gimmick, but was it really worth only having a half transformation?

Toy or collectible?

I can’t objectively recommend this guy or anyone from this subline to kids or adult collectors. Kids would be better off with One Step Changers and adults would be better off literally with anything else.

Closing

This was a dumb concept from the start, and the “vehicle” mode is horrible.
But it’s so horrible, I actually ended up having fun with it? I don’t get it man.
I’m an idiot. If you’re an idiot on the same level as me, you might like this guy as well.

Aside from that, this is a hard pass for everyone.