MASTERPIECE GRIMLOCK

 

This is the US version of Masterpiece Grimlock. It has the same color scheme as the Takara Masterpiece version. However, there are some differences in terms of the accessories provided. I believe both versions come with the sword and blaster, but the Hasbro version has a Crown of Leadership which you can see below. The Takara version on the other hand comes with other accessories including an apron, a bow tie, a mind reader and a tray, with a couple of glasses to depict parts of the cartoon. Personally, I prefer the US version as the crown looks more stunning as a display accessory. It’s unfortunate that I didn’t get hold of the TF Universe Wheelie. Otherwise I’d be able to take a snapshot of Wheelie riding on Grimlock.

Besides the Hasbro and Takara version, there is a special edition King Grimlock with color schemes that follow the comic version.

I’d have to say that this is one impressive toy. In T-Rex mode, Grimlock has 27 points of articulation. There is a mechanism that connects the head movement to the tail which allows the head to move sideways, whenever you swing the tail about. Below, you will see that you can interchange the colour of the eyes to depict either the cartoon or comic version. The hexagonal shaped cheek that looks like a Superman emblem will activate the jaw-snapping action.

 

The transformation process isn’t too complex, as it’s only tricky at the legs. Again in robot mode, you may opt either between red or blue eyes for Grimlock.

Although Grimlock looks rather bulky, the joints are fairly tight allowing for good pose-ability. Excluding finger movements, in robot mode Grimlock has 25 points of articulation. Below you will see Grimlock complete with his accessories. There is a button at the right arm that can activate a red light to light up either the blaster or the sword.

    

Even though the shoulders and upper back are rather bulky, Grimlock has sturdy legs allowing it pose in a variety of angles.

Here, you can see Grimlock next to Ultra Magnus for height comparison. Perhaps it would be cool if Takara would come up with the remaining Dinobots in the Masterpiece line. Overall, i was satisfied wit this haul and Grimlock is now back in my cabinet for display.