The Energon Pub

Say folks, quick question; which figure if you had choose which would you pick and why? Masterpiece Rodimus or the Fans project Protector upgrade for Classics Hot-rod?

Look at the photo...MP is clearly the better looking figure. But it's also a more fragile fig and a bit finicky to transform so if you like to handle your figs and are put off by more complex TFs, especially ones that require more care while handling, you might find Protector more enjoyable. They're both nice figures, though.

However, it's worth mentioning Winnebago mode can't be done on most MP figures without the paint being compromised on the spoiler or sanding down the slots on trailer. I haven't been able to put mine in that mode yet because I'm unwilling to scratch up or alter my fig, and it was clear mine wasn't going "go" without one of those actions. So I'll wait for the cheaper Hasbro version before I complete that effort.

But I'd still vote MP, personally.

MP over Protector.

FP: odd face, odd shoulder articulation, knees just below the groin.

MP: good proportions, some design problems but a great figure. You'll need the superglue trick on the guns tabs so he can hold them.

MP wins, the best looking Rodimus figure we'll ever get.

I'll admit that the MP-09 figure looks great, but after receiving mine with scratches all over it and floppy body sections, I decided to return it. I know a lot of people really like this figure but IMO, a Masterpiece shouldn't have some of the same QC issues that a KO has.

While the Fansproject Protector set isn't perfect and not as versatile, it's a fun set that looks great and costs about $125 less.

In the end, you really need to ask yourself whether you want Rodimus Prime/Convoy on your MP shelf or your Classics/Hen/Gen/U shelf. If you're collecting a lot of the Classics/Gen/RTS lately, I'd go for Protector.

I submitted the same question long ago before both figures came out and couldn't find it now.

Couldn't decide at that time but now I've made my choice as I just ordered it last week. FP Protector. This is just my collecting rule and don't need to apply on you.

First, one Hot Rod is good enough for me. Since I already have classics Hot Rod, I choose Protector to upgrade him to Rodimus (and can still change back).

Second, I kind of care about my scales issue on my classics display. I know this is difficult or nearly impossible to keep the scale right but getting a very good looking MP Hot Rod will totally ruin the whole display and force me to put him somewhere.

Last, I can afford Protector right now. But MP has to wait.

Again, this is just me.