Triple Takeover Toycast

The so-called e-Hobby era has become a landmark of Transformers collecting for many fans. Running predominantly through the 2000s, the TakaraTomy-affiliated online store offered recolours of classic Transformers toys in weird and wonderful colour schemes — sometimes referencing Diaclone or Micro Change releases, occasionally diving into exceptionally niche corners of the brand's lore, and often just embracing pure creative experimentation.What makes this period so fascinating is the dramatic shift in perception over time. Many of these toys weren't particularly appreciated when released, sitting plentifully available online for years before experiencing a swift and surprising renaissance. Today, individual e-Hobby releases can outstrip even the original vintage versions on which they're based, with some specimens commanding immense sums on the aftermarket. It's a remarkable transformation for what were once considered curiosities.Even aside from their current desirability, there's genuine substance here worth celebrating: lush new colour schemes afforded to beloved vintage classics, the sheer unbridled creativity at play, and a willingness to serve the most dedicated collectors with references that rewarded deep knowledge of the franchise. We discuss our favourite releases, the ones that got away, and why certain examples have achieved such legendary status.With Missing Link now promising a return-to-form that feels almost spiritually in-keeping with what the e-Hobby reissues offered, it's the perfect time to look back on what is, for many of us, one of the fondest periods of post-G1 collecting. If only it had gone on longer.—Chapters0:00:00 Intro0:06:24 Sponsor Segment: Valart0:10:14 Introduction to e-Hobby0:26:23 New Characters From Old Toys0:35:36 Will They Re-Do Some of These Repaint Ideas Again?0:42:21 Availability on Release0:50:01 Why Does e-Hobby Feel 'Exotic'?1:09:52 Why Do They Still Feel Like Grails Now?1:19:26 Sponsor Segment: TFSource1:29:51 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

We've tackled the topic of head sculpts before, but tonight we're returning with a mission: to highlight specific examples that represent the absolute best the franchise has to offer. Whether it's modern era mainline, Japanese exclusive fare, classic Generations, or our beloved Beast Wars, we're unpacking what makes a great Transformers head sculpt and why their design is so integral to making toys work and feel memorable.The choices we end up highlighting are all very different in style — spanning eras, size classes, and design philosophies — but they have one crucial thing in common: they're chock full of personality. These are the head sculpts that give their figures genuine character, the ones that make you stop and appreciate the artistry involved in capturing a character's essence at such a small scale.We discuss what separates a good head sculpt from a great one, why certain design choices resonate so strongly, and how sculptors manage to convey so much expression and identity in just a few millimetres of plastic. From intricate paint applications to bold stylistic choices, these are the heads that stick in your memory long after you've transformed the figure.Fair warning: this episode assumes Liam has actually prepared his picks. Results may vary.—Chapters0:00:00 Intro0:05:19 Sponsor Segment: Valart0:12:13 Liam's first choice 0:32:45 Sixo's first choice0:45:54 Jason's first choice1:01:11 Jason's second choice1:09:09 Sixo's second choice1:21:20 Liam's second choice1:37:43 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

Let it never be said that Triple Takeover doesn't enjoy a bit of beast. Having already done deep dives into the classic Kenner line and Takara's Beast Wars II, we're back for more — and this is where things get really weird, with 1999's Beast Wars Neo. Tonight it's all about the Maximals: a crew of twelve toys that run the gamut from intriguing repaints and retools to flat-out Japanese exclusive oddities. Sixo guides Liam and Jason through the roster one figure at a time, discovering some of the more noteworthy alternate modes from the entire Beast era — not to mention the somewhat inexplicable third modes on offer. With giraffes, penguins, horses, rabbits, sharks, and of course the line's notorious tanuki, Beast Wars Neo showcases the sheer creativity (and occasional bewilderment) of late-90s Takara design philosophy. The discussion leans towards the absurd at times — that was somewhat inevitable given the subject matter — but there's genuine reverence for what is, at the end of the day, a fabulous set of classic Transformers toys. Big swings, plenty of fun, and a roster that wasn't afraid to do something different. Fair warning: this episode gets weird. But that's exactly why our Beast Wars discussions always end up being some of the most entertaining episodes we record. Let's hope we don't balls it up.—Chapters0:00:00 Intro0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout?0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance1:02:27 Community Connection1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

We first covered the beginnings of Transformers Generations toys with 2006's Classics line back in episode #16, but now we're back for the Takara equivalent: Henkei! Henkei! Transformers. This Japanese roster — which also spans parts of 2008's Universe line and literally translates to "Transform! Transform! Transformers" — is a jewel in the crown of mid-2000s robots in disguise.Henkei! offered surprisingly varied — and often superior — repaint choices on already beloved moulds (including some which have arguably been unfairly maligned, as we'll discuss). It's a line of creative designs, intriguing transformations, and definite ingenuity, but coupled with Takara's attention to detail when it comes to finish, it's not hard to understand why it grabbed so much attention at the time. Even if the abundance of chrome proved surprisingly divisive.We're stepping back to an era before every character received regular Generations updates every few years — a time when classic characters were brought back with real flair for doing something different, and when A-list names like Bumblebee received their first toys in years. It's not an exaggeration to say that the figures in today's spotlight set the template for Generations toys to this day, and we're here to give them their due.—Chapters0:00:00 Intro0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout?0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance1:02:27 Community Connection1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

Collecting Transformers should be a joy, but what happens when it starts to feel like a chore? This episode tackles collector burnout — that creeping sense of being overwhelmed, stressed, or feeling obligated rather than excited by your hobby. It's a topic chosen by our patrons, and it's one we approach with honesty, care, and maybe a bit of catharsis.Burnout can happen to any collector. The pressure to acquire everything new, the sheer volume of releases, lifestyle changes, mounting clutter, and that nagging guilt about figures still in boxes — it all adds up. What starts as passion can slowly transform into obligation, and before you know it, the thing you love feels like work.We discuss why burnout happens, what the early warning signs might be, and practical ways to mitigate or avoid it altogether. We also reflect on our own experiences: have any of us genuinely faced collector burnout? The answers might surprise you.If you've ever felt exhausted by your collection rather than energised by it, you're not alone. This one's for anyone who's questioned whether they still love the hobby — or are just going through the motions.—Chapters0:00:00 Intro0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout?0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance1:02:27 Community Connection1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

As another year of collecting draws to a close, the Triple Takeover crew sit down to reflect on the Transformers toys that defined 2025 for them.Rather than chasing completeness or release lists, this episode focuses on personal favourites — the figures that made the biggest impression in hand, sparked the strongest emotional response, or simply reminded us why we enjoy collecting in the first place. From the long-anticipated Missing Link releases to standout modern designs and ambitious large-scale projects, it’s a year that offered a surprising amount of variety.We talk through what made figures like Sunstreaker feel genuinely special, why releases such as HasLab Omega Prime and Age of the Primes Superion stood out in a crowded landscape, and how 2025 balanced nostalgia with forward-looking ideas. Along the way, the conversation naturally widens into thoughts on collecting habits, changing priorities, and what really makes a toy memorable over time. It’s a reminder that the value of a collection is often measured in experiences rather than numbers.—Chapters0:00:00 Intro0:06:09 Setting the discussion rules0:11:05 Sponsor chat0:13:58 Jason's first choice0:23:20 Liam's first choice0:38:39 Sixo's first choice0:48:30 Jason's second choice0:56:04 Liam's second choice1:08:17 Sixo's second choice1:18:45 Honourable mentions1:32:52 Patreon Q&A—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

IDW artist Nick Roche returns to Triple Takeover to talk Transformers Generations: Thrilling 30 — the 2013–2014 toy line — and the unusual creative journey that links Sandstorm and Springer.Nick discusses supplying an original Sandstorm concept to Hasbro, how that design eventually became a finished toy, and how it was later retooled into Springer — released first, and coincidentally based on Nick’s own comic design for the character as seen in IDW’s Last Stand of the Wreckers.Along the way, the conversation drifts (as it tends to with Nick) into nostalgia, collecting, community, and the realities of working across different parts of the Transformers brand — including his more recent design work on Transformers Earthspark. Expect equal parts toy history, behind-the-scenes insight, and good-natured chaos.This episode began life as a commission from our patron, Josh Bell.—Chapters0:00:00 Intro0:05:54 Thrilling 30 In Context0:10:58 How the Sandstorm Concept Came to Be0:23:35 Nick's First Impressions of the Toys0:42:28 Translating From Sandstorm Into Springer0:49:27 How Nick Designed Springer for IDW1:02:04 Owning Toys of Characters You've Created1:18:53 TFSource Sponsor Segment1:28:35 Patreon Q&A—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

The Transformers Collectors’ Club (TFCC) and Figure Subscription Service (TFSS) are front and centre this week as we delve into one of the most fascinating — and at times frustrating — eras in Transformers collecting.We were never members ourselves (thanks, geography!), but that didn’t stop us getting FOMO from afar. Today we're diving into the toys, the distribution choices, the aftermarket drama, and the nostalgia surrounding a club that often felt just out of reach for anyone outside the US.From brilliant figures and wild character choices to eye-rolling shipping costs and maddening accessibility issues, we explore how the TFCC shaped collector culture during a very unique period for the brand — and why it inspired equal parts love and confusion.So sit back and join us for a fun but honest look at the highs, lows, and “you had to be there” moments of the Transformers Collectors’ Club.This episode began life as a commission from our patron, Siege Maximo.—Chapters0:00:00 Intro0:04:58 Sponsors: TFSource & Valart Studio0:09:21 What Is the Transformers Collectors’ Club?0:13:46 TFCC Distribution Woes0:19:47 The Aftermarket Implication0:28:52 Why Were the Toy Choices So Intriguing?0:32:24 TFCC’s Influence on Modern Generations0:41:25 Customer Service Drama?0:49:25 Favourite TFCC Toys0:56:42 TFCC Conclusions1:06:31 Patreon Q&A—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

Studio Series has been a cornerstone of modern Transformers collecting since its debut in 2018 — but what exactly does the line represent today?Originally conceived as a celebration of the live-action movies, Studio Series has steadily expanded its remit. With characters from The Transformers: The Movie (1986) now sitting alongside Bayverse designs, the line’s identity has become broader — and occasionally more ambiguous — than first intended.In this episode we take a step back to examine how Studio Series has evolved, how collectors have responded to its changing focus, and where the line might realistically head next. This discussion began life as a commission from our patron Ross — thanks for the great topic — so join us as we explore one of the most interesting sub-lines in modern Transformers collecting.This episode began life as a commission from our patron, Ross.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

Some Transformers comic panels stick with you forever — and not always for the right reasons.In this episode we take a look at some of the most memorable moments in Transformers comics, focusing on panels that shocked, unsettled, or simply refused to be forgotten. From unexpectedly brutal imagery to moments that still make us wince, it’s a tour through the darker and more infamous corners of the franchise’s comic history.This topic was suggested by our patron Duggertron, and it quickly grew into a full-length discussion — so join us as we explore the panels that left a lasting impression, for better or worse.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

What would the perfect new wave of Transformers Generations toys look like… if we all played by the same rules?In this episode we have some fun assembling our ideal Generations lineup, taking turns to select characters across a full spread of size classes. With four Deluxes, two Voyagers, plus picks for Leader, Commander, and Titan, we attempt to look beyond the familiar G1 comfort zone — with varying degrees of success...Suggested by our patron Andy Gold, this discussion quickly becomes a mix of wish-list thinking, creative loopholes, and good-natured rule-bending as we debate what really makes a great Generations release.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

What are some of the most overlooked Transformers toys — and do they really deserve to be forgotten?Following a recent Patreon poll, we’re back for a sixth round of Transformers 'hidden gems', with each of us nominating a figure from across the brand’s history that we think deserved a little more attention than it received at the time.In theory, we’re looking beyond the usual G1 favourites… though, as ever, sticking to that brief proves easier for some than others. Expect plenty of nostalgia, spirited defence of underappreciated toys, and a few familiar lines being quietly blurred along the way.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

The number 113 has become a recurring motif in James Roberts’ Transformers comics — most notably throughout More Than Meets The Eye and Lost Light. But where did that fascination come from?For our own episode 113, we’re joined by James Roberts himself to explore the inspiration behind those references, tracing them back to issue #113 of the original Marvel UK Transformers comic. From there, the discussion follows the story through to issue #120 and its conclusion in the 1987 annual, unpacking why this particular run left such a lasting impression.It’s a thoughtful look at influence, continuity, and the deep cuts that helped shape some of the most celebrated Transformers comics of the modern era.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

Partsforming is one of the most controversial aspects of Transformers design, despite being present since the very beginning of the brand in the 1980s.In this episode we take a closer look at why partsforming remains such a divisive topic among collectors. With modern designs often prioritising integrated transformations and cleaner silhouettes, we discuss how expectations have shifted over time — and why detachable parts continue to spark debate.From play value and accuracy to practicality and frustration, it’s a thoughtful conversation about one of Transformers’ most persistent design flashpoints.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

TFNation has been and gone for another year, and the (very tired) team sit down to reflect on the many highs — and hauls — from Europe’s largest Transformers convention.In this episode we talk through standout moments from the show, and the inevitable post-con exhaustion that follows a packed weekend of toys, panels, and catching up with fellow fans. But with energy levels running low, the real question is whether Liam can make it through the conversation at all.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

San Diego Comic-Con always brings a wave of new Transformers reveals — and this year was no exception.In this episode we break down the latest announcements from SDCC, including reveals from Age of the Primes, Studio Series, and beyond. From initial reactions to broader thoughts on direction and design, we talk through what stood out, what surprised us, and what these reveals might signal for the future of the brand.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

1989 was a year of major change for Transformers, introducing two very different new directions for the toy line — Micromasters and Pretenders.Having already explored one half of that shift, we now turn our attention to the Pretenders. Strange, colourful, and often divisive, these toys have become something of a cult favourite over time. But how were they actually received when they first appeared?In this episode we look back at the context surrounding their release, the reactions they sparked, and how perceptions of the line have shifted in the years since. Chosen by our patrons, it’s a chance to revisit one of the most distinctive — and misunderstood — chapters in late-G1 Transformers history.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

Transformers Missing Link is back in the spotlight as we dig into the latest speculation and assess what might be coming next.With names like Ultra Magnus, Galvatron, and even Metroplex entering the conversation, we weigh up the rumours, the likelihood of future releases, and what Missing Link could realistically look like as it continues to evolve. And, of course, we’re joined by our own Missing Link, Maz, to help guide the discussion.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

Studio Series SS86 Megatron has finally arrived — and few Transformers releases in recent memory have sparked quite as much discussion.From early rumours through to the official reveal, nearly every aspect of this figure has been debated, dissected, and argued over. In this episode we work through the controversy, the design decisions behind the toy, and why reactions have been so strong, considering what SS86 Megatron represents for the line as a whole.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

'Hidden gems' returns, as we once again shine a spotlight on Transformers toys we think deserved far more attention than they received at the time.In this episode each of us brings a pick to the table, celebrating overlooked figures from across the brand’s history and making the case for why they’re worth a second look. And while the intention is to look beyond the usual G1 favourites, sticking to that brief proves — as ever — a little more flexible than planned.—Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear...Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.comJoin the conversation with us on DiscordSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover