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"BULKY HUNK OF AWESOME"

First Impressions:

I can't put my finger on what it is, but of every Transformer in my collection this one carries the most nostalgia. He arrives in Robot mode, and it was a good hour or so before I got around to a first transformation. I was just too blown away by the robot mode.

Something about MP-22 nails every inch of why we collect these things. I'm quite willing to pay higher prices for good representations of these characters, but often feel a little exploited. I didn't feel this way with Magnus. He seems less like a retail figure, and more like a collectible statue that still happens to transform. Pictures do not do this figure proper justice.

There's not much going on for paint apps, and there's so much detail in the paneling, it would have been easy to try and add more color. I'm so glad Takara fought any urge that may have existed. Magnus doesn't need paint apps. They based color more on what we saw on-screen and stayed away from the extra flare added to previous Magnus figures. Note: The lower legs in photos are solid red behind those white shin panels. In the final run those red blocks have been painted white and blue accordingly, to blend in with all surrounding paneling. In my opinion It looks much better this way, creating a solid blocky look.

Transformation:

The transformation is really smooth. Once you understand what moves and what doesn't it's actually quite easy and fun. Though relatively simple, there's still a lot to do, and everything lines up perfectly.

Both modes look fantastic, and each is very solid. Robot mode is extremely stoic with better articulation than I anticipated. He's heavy and sturdy which adds a lot to the overall quality feel. Those massive boots are partially diecast, so they easily support his weight. I was very pleased to see an inward ankle tilt allowing a wider stance. This guy's not falling over... Once transformed, the trailer is detachable from the truck via a little switch underneath. Pretty cool little addition.

Accessories:

I original wished they'd molded his gun in white, but the slightly metallic purple is really sharp. I've since changed my opinion as it suits the overall look really well.

The optional face is easy to swap out, and whichever you're not using cleverly stores in an opening back panel. The Spike and Daniel figures are a fine addition, and fairly well painted for such tiny little figures. Both are articulated at the shoulders, hips and knees, and can ride built in seats in the truck cab.

Magnus' chest does open and is able to store the Matrix of leadership, or it can be held in the second set of hands. Matrix is not included.

Speaking of not included, I was under the impression this figure came with a collector coin. Mine did not. I'm not as into the coins, but was a little disappointed. I mention it only because I thought all MP-22's came with one, and other collectors may have overlooked this as well. If the collector coin is important to you, make sure you're ordering the proper version.

Final Thoughts:

Some of us have waited years for a proper Ultra Magnus, and I can't see how it could get better than this. He's perfect. Extremely faithful to the 1980's film and cartoon. A true masterpiece. I couldn't be more pleased with this purchase.

"Impressive!"

I have to agree with OptimusX. After what could be called "labor" (took its while to get here), after I opened the package the suprise wa sgreat. Awesome figure. Towering size but not too much, perfect detail. A masterpiece in every sense. Wish someone eventually comes up with a set of fully-articulated hands, though.

"PERFECT EDITION, Indeed...."

After a year long wait, and three or so months crammed with MP goodness featuring Wheeljack and Bumblebee, the icing on the cake arrives with Ultra Magnus. I've always marveled at the engineering with the MP line, and Magnus is no exception, with only 2 minor gripes and one not even dealing with the actual figure... this is spot on. Beautiful in vehicle mode and Robot mode, this is a MUST HAVE for your TF Collection. A couple of nice additions come with UM as well. Now if only we could get a MP Jazz......