Be honest: how many of you were tempted during the coronavirus lockdowns to head up to the attic and bring down all your old childhood toys. Endless hours of nostalgic fun to whittle away the boredom of being stuck at home. Some sweet escapism, which we all sorely needed. 

It’s why the new Transformers toy line arrived at the perfect time. The War for Cybertron: Kingdom was released this year in celebration of the 25th anniversary of Beast Wars and the 35th anniversary of The Transformers: The Movie (before 2007’s blockbuster movie starring Shia LaBeouf and Megan Fox, the psychedelic and chaotic cult classic animation from 1986 both traumatised and entranced a generation of kids).

The epic War for Cybertron Trilogy focuses on the legendary battle between the heroic Autobots and the evil Decepticons for the fate of Cybertron, the Autobot’s home planet. Their Maximal and Predacon descendants also join the cause, setting the scene for an epic final battle. The Kingdom toy range sees the return of the characters you love and loathe from the iconic Beast Wars and Generation 1 series.

Transformers – Generations – War for Cybertron: Kingdom Leader – 7″ WFC-K11 Optimus Prime

There is, of course, Megatron. Merciless, reviled, feared, powerful, he’s one of the most towering warriors to emerge from Cybertron. Driven by an incessant desire to vanquish and conquer all who come in the way, he craves to defeat the Autobots and especially his arch nemesis Optimus Prime once and for all. Starscream is Megatron’s second-in-command whose all-consuming thirst for power always overcomes him. He’s always striving to replace Megatron as leader of the evil Decepticons.

And save the heroes for last. Optimus Prime, the valiant leader of the Autobots, believer in the freedom of all sentient beings. Heroic in battle, compassionate in nature. He’s ably assisted by beloved Bumblebee, the faithful fighting companion you always want by your side. Due to his smaller stature, this yellow car is often stupidly underestimated, but continually proves his worth in battle. Complete with Stinger Blaster, this Autobot scout is one of Optimus Prime’s most trusted lieutenants.

Exciting features abound. There’s the Fossilizers, new skeletal characters complete with F.O.S.S.I.L. Technology which unlocks the primal power of the beasts. Delux Fossilizer figures can beastify other figures with epic bone weapons and armour. Classic Generation 1 blaster accessories and alt modes will remind you of easily crushing your mate in battle back in the day. Each figure also includes a Golden Disk card that reveals a possible destiny of a key character. Collect other Kingdom figures to reveal all 3 alternate destinies for every character.

Transformers – Generations – War for Cybertron: Kingdom Deluxe – 5.5″ WFC-K23 Predacon Scorponok

There’s something here to satisfy both existing fans and those being introduced to the wonder of robots in disguise for the first time. So why not get your favourite Kingdom figure – don’t worry, you can pretend you bought it for your kid if you want. And with the War for Cybertron Netflix series culminating with the Kingdom arc this July, there’s no better time.

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That’s not all you lucky sods because AnimeLab also have an incredible competition for you to enter. Prizes up for grabs include four beautiful hand-drawn Transformers art pieces by Anime-inspired artists: Khee drawing Bumblebee, Alice Jao drawing Starscream, Kira drawing Optimus Prime, and Miki drawing Soundwave. There will also be Hasbro figures and Animelab merch to win so don’t be a fool by missing out.

For full details on the Transformers competition visit animelab here

Watch The Transformers: The Movie original trailer:

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