Kabaya Fortress Maximus

This actually sounds pretty cool, probably a better alternative than that "WST" knock off.
Not looking forward to Windcharger being mostly stickers though...

I love it! Finally, a BAF that's the sole point of a line! I knew it would happen eventually.

Epic!

I really hope they take a page out of Bandai's book and give him some better joints. On the box he's shown with his sword so do you think that'll be his weapon?

since i will never be able to afford the regular version, this looks like a great alternative
these last 4 or 5 waves of Kabaya have been exceedingly interesting, concept wise

A second Rakuten listing has revealed a little additional information on the recently reported Kabaya DX Fortress Maximus. This listing includes a computer render revealing all three component parts and fully assembled robot mode. Powerglide will be joining Windcharger as one of the included mini figures. The third mini figure is also pictured in robot mode, and appears to be Cerebros. Image mirrored below.

This assortment is scheduled to arrive in July.

Looking at dat ass on the 3rd minibot and its colour, it looks like Cerebros.

Pretty cool.

Given that he's shown in grey while the other 2 are pictured as red and the stuff that looks to be hanging off his back I think the 3rd mini fig is Cerebros.

edit- I replied straight from the front page and hadn't seen your post DM. Great minds and all that...

The third bot pictured is Cerebros.

Does this mean TakaraTomy is not reissuing the G1 Fort Max?

Here's an idea:

Fort Max is too large to release at retail these days. Both in terms of size and price. (The designers were doubtful he would get a Japanese release, even back in 87!)

So why not do a "build a figure" type thing? A small amount of retooling will allow the arms/legs/torso/weapons to be attached by average joe. They could, say, include a limb with each appropriately-sized Classics/Movie/Prime toy.

In the same way that Kabaya and the figurine collections have done build-a-figs, it could work on a larger scale, right?

its looks good, but im hoping on a reissue for the G1 version.

if this does not come, maybe ill get this on, but ill have to
see better pictures first

If its bigger than the Fort Max jr I'll get it.

AdamPrime wrote:Here's an idea:

Fort Max is too large to release at retail these days. Both in terms of size and price. (The designers were doubtful he would get a Japanese release, even back in 87!)

So why not do a "build a figure" type thing? A small amount of retooling will allow the arms/legs/torso/weapons to be attached by average joe. They could, say, include a limb with each appropriately-sized Classics/Movie/Prime toy.

In the same way that Kabaya and the figurine collections have done build-a-figs, it could work on a larger scale, right?

Not with a figure the size of Fortress Maximus. The only thing you'd eliminate are the assembly costs, not the hazard the toys become. Plus, not everyone is knowledgeable on assembling stuff. Take a look at the playsets that need assembling or the IKEA furniture to see what I mean.

Awesome! I want it!

I actually think this is a good sign... I'm betting Takara is building up excitement and interest in a FULL SIZE Max by putting this lil guy out.

Stoked. Can't have enough city-formers.

How about a full sized classics Fort Max instead of all these minis ???

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

AdamPrime wrote:Here's an idea:

Fort Max is too large to release at retail these days. Both in terms of size and price. (The designers were doubtful he would get a Japanese release, even back in 87!)

So why not do a "build a figure" type thing? A small amount of retooling will allow the arms/legs/torso/weapons to be attached by average joe. They could, say, include a limb with each appropriately-sized Classics/Movie/Prime toy.

In the same way that Kabaya and the figurine collections have done build-a-figs, it could work on a larger scale, right?

Not with a figure the size of Fortress Maximus. The only thing you'd eliminate are the assembly costs, not the hazard the toys become. Plus, not everyone is knowledgeable on assembling stuff. Take a look at the playsets that need assembling or the IKEA furniture to see what I mean.

...what hazard?

I was under the impression that large toys like that aren't made any more because parents either couldn't afford them or just wouldn't buy something that expensive for their kids.

orangeitis wrote:

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

AdamPrime wrote:Here's an idea:

Fort Max is too large to release at retail these days. Both in terms of size and price. (The designers were doubtful he would get a Japanese release, even back in 87!)

So why not do a "build a figure" type thing? A small amount of retooling will allow the arms/legs/torso/weapons to be attached by average joe. They could, say, include a limb with each appropriately-sized Classics/Movie/Prime toy.

In the same way that Kabaya and the figurine collections have done build-a-figs, it could work on a larger scale, right?

Not with a figure the size of Fortress Maximus. The only thing you'd eliminate are the assembly costs, not the hazard the toys become. Plus, not everyone is knowledgeable on assembling stuff. Take a look at the playsets that need assembling or the IKEA furniture to see what I mean.

...what hazard?

I was under the impression that large toys like that aren't made any more because parents either couldn't afford them or just wouldn't buy something that expensive for their kids.

Drop Test. That's the test that Fortress Maximus failed in the US back in 2001 for it's intended RiD release (FAO Schwartz exclusive if you must know). Simply put, the toy is dropped from a certain height and the testers see if and especially how it breaks (or shatters). Plus, I can imagine you don't want a (insert net weight of FM here) pound toy landing on your head.

Yeah, I'd be in for both a Fort Max AND a Grand Max ehobby version. Maybe with all the stickers as Tampos??? Can I hear an Amen???

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

orangeitis wrote:

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

AdamPrime wrote:Here's an idea:

Fort Max is too large to release at retail these days. Both in terms of size and price. (The designers were doubtful he would get a Japanese release, even back in 87!)

So why not do a "build a figure" type thing? A small amount of retooling will allow the arms/legs/torso/weapons to be attached by average joe. They could, say, include a limb with each appropriately-sized Classics/Movie/Prime toy.

In the same way that Kabaya and the figurine collections have done build-a-figs, it could work on a larger scale, right?

Not with a figure the size of Fortress Maximus. The only thing you'd eliminate are the assembly costs, not the hazard the toys become. Plus, not everyone is knowledgeable on assembling stuff. Take a look at the playsets that need assembling or the IKEA furniture to see what I mean.

...what hazard?

I was under the impression that large toys like that aren't made any more because parents either couldn't afford them or just wouldn't buy something that expensive for their kids.

Drop Test. That's the test that Fortress Maximus failed in the US back in 2001 for it's intended RiD release (FAO Schwartz exclusive if you must know). Simply put, the toy is dropped from a certain height and the testers see if and especially how it breaks (or shatters). Plus, I can imagine you don't want a (insert net weight of FM here) pound toy landing on your head.

Oh yeah. I forgot about that.

Though if I may comment, the fact that kids today NEED safety tests done like that to their potential playthings before they're released is revolting. I wish parental quality was higher, and not just because I want a hueg 50lb toy.

So, how big would this figure be? And what would it cost to import? If he's a decent size, I might be tempted to snag that.

Marcdachamp wrote:So, how big would this figure be? And what would it cost to import? If he's a decent size, I might be tempted to snag that.

If he's coming in with other, smaller figures, he'll probably be Voyager size at most. Otherwise the cost would be a bit much. Still, ANY version of Fort Max is awesome to me and I'll have him set up with my Cyberverse guys!

gothsaurus wrote:Yeah, I'd be in for both a Fort Max AND a Grand Max ehobby version. Maybe with all the stickers as Tampos??? Can I hear an Amen???

AMEN! Although I still have my G1 Fort Max so I doubt I'd buy a new one. Unless it was the one with the pretender shell and swords.

Dont get this either or bit.

Takara said at CybertronCon that they wanted to release an Encore G1 Fort Max next year.

Bearing in mind the caliber of speakers there, quite a bold statement.

IThis Kapaya thing isn't a replacement - as awesome as it is.

Although I doubt it would harm the encore's chances much, if this sells like hotcakes.

I have one of the originals w/ the original box. Didn't think they'd ever re-release him.

orangeitis wrote:

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

orangeitis wrote:

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

AdamPrime wrote:Here's an idea:

Fort Max is too large to release at retail these days. Both in terms of size and price. (The designers were doubtful he would get a Japanese release, even back in 87!)

So why not do a "build a figure" type thing? A small amount of retooling will allow the arms/legs/torso/weapons to be attached by average joe. They could, say, include a limb with each appropriately-sized Classics/Movie/Prime toy.

In the same way that Kabaya and the figurine collections have done build-a-figs, it could work on a larger scale, right?

Not with a figure the size of Fortress Maximus. The only thing you'd eliminate are the assembly costs, not the hazard the toys become. Plus, not everyone is knowledgeable on assembling stuff. Take a look at the playsets that need assembling or the IKEA furniture to see what I mean.

...what hazard?

I was under the impression that large toys like that aren't made any more because parents either couldn't afford them or just wouldn't buy something that expensive for their kids.

Drop Test. That's the test that Fortress Maximus failed in the US back in 2001 for it's intended RiD release (FAO Schwartz exclusive if you must know). Simply put, the toy is dropped from a certain height and the testers see if and especially how it breaks (or shatters). Plus, I can imagine you don't want a (insert net weight of FM here) pound toy landing on your head.

Oh yeah. I forgot about that.

Though if I may comment, the fact that kids today NEED safety tests done like that to their potential playthings before they're released is revolting. I wish parental quality was higher, and not just because I want a hueg 50lb toy.

Do Legos undergo drop tests too? The result of dropping Fort Max can't beat dropping a lego city or creator. Although, Lego Technic can survive the drop.

gavinfuzzy wrote:

orangeitis wrote:

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

orangeitis wrote:

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

AdamPrime wrote:Here's an idea:

Fort Max is too large to release at retail these days. Both in terms of size and price. (The designers were doubtful he would get a Japanese release, even back in 87!)

So why not do a "build a figure" type thing? A small amount of retooling will allow the arms/legs/torso/weapons to be attached by average joe. They could, say, include a limb with each appropriately-sized Classics/Movie/Prime toy.

In the same way that Kabaya and the figurine collections have done build-a-figs, it could work on a larger scale, right?

Not with a figure the size of Fortress Maximus. The only thing you'd eliminate are the assembly costs, not the hazard the toys become. Plus, not everyone is knowledgeable on assembling stuff. Take a look at the playsets that need assembling or the IKEA furniture to see what I mean.

...what hazard?

I was under the impression that large toys like that aren't made any more because parents either couldn't afford them or just wouldn't buy something that expensive for their kids.

Drop Test. That's the test that Fortress Maximus failed in the US back in 2001 for it's intended RiD release (FAO Schwartz exclusive if you must know). Simply put, the toy is dropped from a certain height and the testers see if and especially how it breaks (or shatters). Plus, I can imagine you don't want a (insert net weight of FM here) pound toy landing on your head.

Oh yeah. I forgot about that.

Though if I may comment, the fact that kids today NEED safety tests done like that to their potential playthings before they're released is revolting. I wish parental quality was higher, and not just because I want a hueg 50lb toy.

Do Legos undergo drop tests too? The result of dropping Fort Max can't beat dropping a lego city or creator. Although, Lego Technic can survive the drop.

You know, that IS a good point. Add in the hazard of even having a small pile of Legos on the floor...

You know I simply have zero interest in this Kabaya line even though I'm a G1 fan and they have released non-G1 figs still no interest, but this one definite must have...'nuff said!

I really hope this is the prelude to a G1 Encore reissue.

MightyMagnus78 wrote:I really hope this is the prelude to a G1 Encore reissue.

Oh freakin' A!!

IF it is true that Fort Max is getting a Reissue, WHY THE HECK ARE WE NOT HEARING A THING ABOUT A REISSUE TRYPTICON AND SKORPONOK!!!!!!!

Leviathan wrote:IF it is true that Fort Max is getting a Reissue, WHY THE HECK ARE WE NOT HEARING A THING ABOUT A REISSUE TRYPTICON AND SKORPONOK!!!!!!!

Are you saying you like Trypticon or something?

Leviathan wrote:IF it is true that Fort Max is getting a Reissue, WHY THE HECK ARE WE NOT HEARING A THING ABOUT A REISSUE TRYPTICON AND SKORPONOK!!!!!!!

The molds may no longer exist.

chuckdawg1999 wrote:

Leviathan wrote:IF it is true that Fort Max is getting a Reissue, WHY THE HECK ARE WE NOT HEARING A THING ABOUT A REISSUE TRYPTICON AND SKORPONOK!!!!!!!

The molds may no longer exist.

Trypticon was last used for BWII as Gigastorm (sans accessories) in 1998, while Scorponok was used for Black Zarak in 1988, 10 years prior. Funny how molds work.

JelZe GoldRabbit wrote:

chuckdawg1999 wrote:

Leviathan wrote:IF it is true that Fort Max is getting a Reissue, WHY THE HECK ARE WE NOT HEARING A THING ABOUT A REISSUE TRYPTICON AND SKORPONOK!!!!!!!

The molds may no longer exist.

Trypticon was last used for BWII as Gigastorm (sans accessories) in 1998, while Scorponok was used for Black Zarak in 1988, 10 years prior. Funny how molds work.

And the Fortress Maximus mold has been used regularly since 89. Tripticon I think is still around but for some reason I think Scorponok is gone.

One jem at a time maybe, who the hell truly knows eh?

Looks like the upcoming Kabaya Fortress Maximus will include the Master Sword! Ami Ami.JP have updated their listing the render mirrored below. It appears the sword will come in set three.

Any word on size? The preorders here are around $38US for the whole set, this thing better be at least voyager sized, but I'll hold off any preorders 1st.

How well do these things hold together? Are they stable? I don't want a figure that falls apart if you look at it wrong.

SJ21 wrote:How well do these things hold together? Are they stable? I don't want a figure that falls apart if you look at it wrong.

they hold together fairly well, the engineering is solid,as long as you dont rip them off the sprues

stability hasnt been an issue, but i do wonder about this one being top heavy

regardless, since i will never be able to afford a normal one and i have been happy with my other Kabaya kits, i look forward to getting mine

$38USD in Japan is not equivalent to US voyager size, it is equivalent to US deluxe size-- pricing-wise with import conversion from yen to USD and so forth.

I'm give and take with Kabaya. The small ones are hellishly fragile, the big ones are very solid and awesome. This should be more of the latter than the former, I hope.

tigertracks 24 wrote:$38USD in Japan is not equivalent to US voyager size, it is equivalent to US deluxe size-- pricing-wise with import conversion from yen to USD and so forth.

It's roughly 2900 yen. Up until a couple of years ago deluxes were usually around 1900 while voyagers were 3500-ish in Japan, so it's dab in the middle. Of course Kabaya crap is cheaper to produce than proper toys with screws and pins and preassembly and stuff, and thanks to the Kabaya figures being classified as "candy-with-a-free-gift" rather than "toys" they dodge the extensive sales tax levied on toys. As such I can see this being bigger than a deluxe and probably close to, if not as big as a voyager.

The part that concerns me is that nowhere is guaranteeing that the factory box of 5 will contain 3 different pieces. I'd be very surprised if they don't but I pity the guy who gets 2 torsos and 3 right legs.

Diem wrote:The part that concerns me is that nowhere is guaranteeing that the factory box of 5 will contain 3 different pieces. I'd be very surprised if they don't but I pity the guy who gets 2 torsos and 3 right legs.

Diem's got a legitimate concern here, and I am in agreement... While I don't think a factory case would leave one without a full set (though a case with only five boxes in it does seem strange to me), the randomized blind-packing does leave one a little wary about their ability to complete this figure.

To this end, I propose a Trade Thread, to be posted when people start receiving their pre-ordered cases of Kabaya Fort Max. In this thread, people can post what parts they got, what parts are spare, and (if the case presents itself) what parts they're missing. From there, we can implement some system of trade or sale to help out fellow Seibertronians in need.

That said, totally stoked about this, regardless of the scale (though if Deluxe or slightly larger, he's going with my classics as IDW-sized Max) and glad I pre-ordered early. I love these candy toy TF kits (and actually owe it to Diem for getting me hooked on 'em in the first place ) and the inclusion of Fort Max's Master Sword makes it even better!

Samsonator wrote:

Diem wrote:The part that concerns me is that nowhere is guaranteeing that the factory box of 5 will contain 3 different pieces. I'd be very surprised if they don't but I pity the guy who gets 2 torsos and 3 right legs.

Diem's got a legitimate concern here, and I am in agreement... While I don't think a factory case would leave one without a full set (though a case with only five boxes in it does seem strange to me), the randomized blind-packing does leave one a little wary about their ability to complete this figure.

To this end, I propose a Trade Thread, to be posted when people start receiving their pre-ordered cases of Kabaya Fort Max. In this thread, people can post what parts they got, what parts are spare, and (if the case presents itself) what parts they're missing. From there, we can implement some system of trade or sale to help out fellow Seibertronians in need.

That said, totally stoked about this, regardless of the scale (though if Deluxe or slightly larger, he's going with my classics as IDW-sized Max) and glad I pre-ordered early. I love these candy toy TF kits (and actually owe it to Diem for getting me hooked on 'em in the first place ) and the inclusion of Fort Max's Master Sword makes it even better!

i would suggest ordering from capturedprey.com where you can preorder the 3 pieces for the set without having to buy a box with random extras

triKlops wrote:i would suggest ordering from capturedprey.com where you can preorder the 3 pieces for the set without having to buy a box with random extras

I've never used them before, are they good?

Diem wrote:

triKlops wrote:i would suggest ordering from capturedprey.com where you can preorder the 3 pieces for the set without having to buy a box with random extras

I've never used them before, are they good?

They are good, bought nearly all my Kabaya kits from them and some other things. Sometimes it does take longer for them to get in products. I just recieved the last wave of Kabaya a couple days ago.

When putting my other models together I used a little glue here and there to make them a little more stable.

LOST Cybertronian wrote:

Diem wrote:

triKlops wrote:i would suggest ordering from capturedprey.com where you can preorder the 3 pieces for the set without having to buy a box with random extras

I've never used them before, are they good?

They are good, bought nearly all my Kabaya kits from them and some other things. Sometimes it does take longer for them to get in products. I just recieved the last wave of Kabaya a couple days ago.

Agreed, i have ordered all my Kabaya as well as the new gashapon Prime stuff individually from them with no problems.
All ordered as individual pieces without having to grab cases/ extras that i don't need.
worth a shot if you haven't tried them before.