The TalkBox transforms into a...car...wow.
After going to the store today, I found something I’ve been waiting for: Smokescreen, from the brand new Transformers Alternators line. This line, set apart from what has come before, features licensed vehicles that transform into Autobots. In car mode, Smokescreen appears as a Subaru Impreza WRC 2003 rally car. This is an actual rally car, driven by 4 time WRC champion Tommi Makinen and Kaj Lindstrom and carries the 2003 Rallye Monte Carlo decals. For more information on the real Subaru Impreza WRC team, follow this link to WRC.com 555 Subaru World Rally Team.
In car mode, Smokescreen’s hood, all four doors and trunk open, showing various details from like the engine, driver’s compartment and trunk. Here is a shot of the steering wheel and driver’s seat through the open driver’s door. Real rubber tires and steerable front wheels just add to the detail level. Very little of the robot is visible in car mode, which is good.
The transformation sequence is a bit on the tricky side, with the feeling that you may break it if you aren’t careful. Though, the arms and legs do pop off, they go right back on with minimal fuss.
Once transformed, you have Autobot Smokescreen in all his new glory. His engine, once removed, folds out to become his weapon. In robot mode, he is fully articulated, though his legs suffer a bit from the rear window parts. They can prevent his leg from moving properly. Another minor gripe is that his joints are incredibly stiff, requiring more force to move them, and leading again to the feeling you may break Smokescreen. Beyond that, he’s nearly perfect, and for the price($20 at all retail outlets), he’s a steal. A must buy for any Transformer fan.
In car mode, Smokescreen’s hood, all four doors and trunk open, showing various details from like the engine, driver’s compartment and trunk. Here is a shot of the steering wheel and driver’s seat through the open driver’s door. Real rubber tires and steerable front wheels just add to the detail level. Very little of the robot is visible in car mode, which is good.
The transformation sequence is a bit on the tricky side, with the feeling that you may break it if you aren’t careful. Though, the arms and legs do pop off, they go right back on with minimal fuss.
Once transformed, you have Autobot Smokescreen in all his new glory. His engine, once removed, folds out to become his weapon. In robot mode, he is fully articulated, though his legs suffer a bit from the rear window parts. They can prevent his leg from moving properly. Another minor gripe is that his joints are incredibly stiff, requiring more force to move them, and leading again to the feeling you may break Smokescreen. Beyond that, he’s nearly perfect, and for the price($20 at all retail outlets), he’s a steal. A must buy for any Transformer fan.