| Optimus Prime
 Big
Bang for the Buck--Transformers Armada Optimus Prime (individual pack) with Mini-Con figure Over-Run. 80727/80702 Asst. He measures
5 1/2" long by 3" wide.
Upon first opening the big guy I was impressed with the easy transformation
and oversized wheels. The legs have been designed to rotate and
bend at the hips and knees. Each foot can point up and down; and
then the arms have shoulder, elbow, and a bit of wrist articulation.
The head can rotate right, left, up, and down; a big bonus in my
mind.
Kids and parents alike should not get this truck confused with
the Deluxe Optimus Prime with SparkPlug and Trailer set. That guy
is over 7" long by 3 1/2" and bulkier with more details
and features (and a price of over $40).
 Armament includes four laser barrels on the arms and then a mini-con
gun a.k.a. Over-Run. The gun packs can be removed from each arm,
so watch out if you are giving this to a small kid.
Below
we have pictures of the tremendously popular Optimus Prime figure
with Minicon. Prices for our favorite Big Blue and Red Truck have
been hovering around the sub-$15 range.
Impression
The articulation and classic color scheme and lines are great.
Kids and collectors alike will like Optimus. I enjoyed playing with
Optimus but was a bit disenchanted by Over-Run.
Optimus is marked as a level 3 transformer and appears easier until
you get the the arms. The double jointed shoulder joints and wrist
joints take some time to master. The legs are easy to transform
and satisfying.
Optimus is a great design by heritage and TF Armada does well to
keep the history. All of the kids I have seen in stores have kind
things to say and have enjoy playing with Optimus. His hitch/ launch
platform takes some getting used to but is a fun idea Over-run in
jet mode rests on the trailer hitch.
Over-run was the weak link of the set in the robot mode. As a gun
(for optimus) the design is great, Over-run as a jet is also excellent.
As a robot, he has problems. I am disappointed that the nose cone/chest
does not swing down. Instead it sticks out like a hood ordainment.
Hasbro should have added a double joint or redesign so the silver
guy does not fall over.
Overall Optimus Prime in this smaller incarnation is a well designed
toy with great play value. Children love it and parents love that
it is over $30 cheaper than the Deluxe Optimus set. Over-Run, his
Mini-con, is merely good and deserves a design revision.
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