Toy Line: Transformers
Series: Generations
Subcategory: Masterpiece / Exlusive Store (Toys R Us)
Alliance: Autobot
Year: 2010
Original price: $ 59.99
Accessories: a sword, a laser gun, 1 crown
First published in 2009 by Takaratomy in series with MP-8, Masterpiece Grimlock finally makes its way to U.S. shores as Toys R Us in the late summer of 2010, the toy line in generations. Available in packs of keystone decorated to welcome thelength of his tail. Like all Masterpiece toys, Grimlock displays very much like his original G1 counterpart which was released back in the mid 1980s. Also, he does come with a few die-cast parts including his robot-mode cross plate and his beast-mode hind feet toes. Grimlock is slightly smaller than one would expect for a figure in this subgroup, coming up to only the chest of Optimus Prime.
Gimmicks Galore - As one might expect, Grimlock has been endowed with a boat-load of gimmicks. One fan-favorite is the ability to switch the beast-mode eyes as well as the robot-mode eyes from red to blue depending on whether your tastes lie with the G1 comic book series, or if you'd prefer him to be cartoon-accurate. As a t-rex, Grimlock's beast head and tail are intertwined so that as his tail is rocked back and forth, his head shakes from side to side. Another feature collectors like is articulation. MP Grimlock is chocked-full of it, down to individually articulated claws for his tiny front arms, as well as his robot-mode fingers. Pop open his chrome-teethed mouth to reveal his famous flame-thrower. In addition, the G1-accurate sword and dual laser rifle light up with the push of a button.
The Cons - Aside from his relatively diminutive size, collectors also complain of the lackluster ability of his upper torso to remain solidly in place, and report it to be quite flimsy.
Conclusion - Taking into account the price point and the above-mentioned pros and cons, I would have to give this toy a rating of 9.5 out of 10. Masterpiece Grimlock certainly will not disappoint!