Fellow Seibertronian Ironhidensh has recently bought Studio Series leader Blackout and has written a review for us accompanied by images. Hopefully this helps those unsure to spend $49.99 on this toy. Enjoy the review:
So Blackout is an amazing display figure, but not much playability, which is fine with me, but may bother some.
Lets take a look:
Here he is in robot mode glory.
This is by far where he shines brightest. The molding detail on this figure is simply gorgeous. While there is some kibble, mainly in the arms, its kept to a minimum. Hands aren't that great, but easy to look past. The legs really shine as well. He really looks like he just stepped off the screen. I do think he could use a few more paint apps.
Here is robot mode:
This mode does have a glaring issue: the bottom.
As you can see, there are some big, glaring empty places. Granted, the one in the tail will be filled by the little Sccrponok figure (who I left fastened in the packaging) but it is quite hollow. Thankfully, it is on the bottom, and not easy to see.
Now, some have questioned his size so lets take a look at some compassion pics with common figures. (editor's note, we thank Ironhidensh for all the comparisons we can get)
I feel the Helicopter mode is large enough, and the the bot mode works for me as well. I think maybe some have an issue because his head sits so low compared to the top of his rotor assembly.
So lets look at the line up. Of figures released so far, I'm only missing Grimlock, and I'm still on the fence on buying him.
By the way, have I mentioned how much I love the packaging on this line?
So, in the end, a little honesty. I wonder if part of the reason I love this figure so much is because we have never actually gotten that large or great of a Blackout figure. This guy has his flaws, but the positives greatly out weight them, in my humble opinion. SS Blackout is INCREDIBLY different from the 2007 figure. Some engineering is shared, but that's it. It's a vast improvement.