Here’s a list of the top 10 Transformers toys I picked up in 2009. Some of these guys were actually released in years past, but I didn’t get a hold of them until last year. So without further ado, I bring to you the latest additions to my robot obsession:
10. Inferno – Universe Classics 2.0
This is one of the few Classics molds that have yet to be released as a repaint. They could easily do so as Grapple, and I wouldn’t have a problem with that. I love how it’s very solid and square a la G1, but with all the articulation that the Classics line offers. It unfortunately doesn’t come with a ladder, but you can easily get one from the Gears of War weapons set.
9. Soundwave – SDCC 2009
This year was my first time at the San Diego Comic-Con (which was, of course, totally awesome), so I wasn’t about to leave empty handed in the toy department. Re-issues of Soundwave have come in numerous iterations throughout the years, but I never got my grubby hands on one. Good thing this was one of the exclusive at this year’s Comic-Con. It’s the single-deck version, and it comes with four cassettes – Lazerbeak, Buzzsaw, Ratbat, and Ravage.
8. Hot Rodimus – Kiss Players
I kicked myself over the head numerous times for not getting this while I had the pleasure of being in Japan in 2008. I saw it in one of the many toy stores in Akihabara, but talked myself out of buying it because I already had the SDCC version. Not until I was back home did I realize how much better the Ford GT looks with the white stripes instead of the golden flames – a small, but significant difference. Alas, I ended up paying more for an opened one from ebay that didn’t even come with the original box. No complaints though. This toy has become very difficult to find, and I’m glad I was able to get one.
7. Alternity A-01 Nissan GT-R Convoy(s)
Optimus Prime + Nissan GT-R = Win! I’ll have to admit though, having Optimus Prime as anything not resembling a truck doesn’t sit 100% well with me. But if he had to be car, I’m glad it’s the GT-R. They really got me with this mold – releasing it in three colors, and I bit on every single one. I mean, you have to have the red because that’s the true Prime; the GT-R looks superb in silver; and black, well, it’s so sleek and sexy! So yea, all three 
6. Device Label USB Ravage
Ever since the rumors for this one, I knew I had to have it. We all know that Ravage’s original alternate mode was a cassette, spying on the Autobots and recording information when necessary. So a Ravage toy that records data in today’s technology and transforms to a very articulate jaguar just made sense. It’s only 2 gigs though – might be a deal breaker for some, but I’m good with it.
5. Alternity A-03 Suzuki Swift Bumblebee
After all the movie hoopla, finally a Bumblebee toy that is true to the character comes out! Bumblebee’s supposed to be the little one with a lot of heart; the underdog who goes all in regardless of the situation. I think this Suzuki Swift version captures that sentiment better than a Camaro. Don’t get me wrong, I love the new Camaro, but I just don’t think it ever fit our favorite little guy. This one’s a great piece, down to the head mold that is G1 to the core.
4. Henkei Ghost Starscream
I love it when they make special versions of toys based on events in the show. For those not familiar, Starscream makes a return as a ghost in the latter seasons after Galvatron kills him off in the movie. As far as this Henkei rendition, the clear colored plastic reminds me of Jolly Rancher candies – glassy and yummy Of course, it wasn’t without hesitation that I made this purchase. It’s just so difficult to pull the trigger when you know a toy costs 900% more than another one made from the exact same mold, but this one was just too pretty to pass up.
3. MP-01B Masterpiece Convoy – Black Version
I know, I know – another Masterpiece Optimus Prime toy you say. But how can I resist? This is arguably the best Transformers mold made to date, so I don’t think you can ever have enough of it. This mold coupled with me recently becoming a fan of the Nemesis Prime character guaranteed the purchase of this repaint. It’s still in the package, but I’ll open this guy soon enough.
2. Binaltech BT-18 Rijie (Mirage) e-Hobby Exclusive
Hooray for limited editions! This eHobby exclusive eluded me for a very long time. I had to follow numerous auctions on ebay for a while to get this, since the Buy It Now prices were just ridiculous. This toy is a display of Mirage’s ability to become invisible. So until technology catches up to sci-fi in this department, this is as close as we’ll get to having an invisible toy.
1. MP-08 Masterpiece Grimlock
Me Grimlock King! Com’on, who doesn’t like the Dinobots? I never had the originals growing up, so this was definitely a welcome addition to my collection. It’s a great homage to the G1 toy, keeping most of the transformation scheme the same as its predecessor. Articulation is very high, as you would expect from the Masterpiece line, and the little gimmicks like being able to change his eye color (both in robot and t-rex modes) and light up weapons are fun features. My only complaint about this toy is that it’s not in scale with Masterpiece Optimus Prime. But that’s not enough to knock this guy off as my number one pick for 2009.
