The Cyberverse Ultra class has proven to be a mixed bag in regards to good toys, and a mixed bag in terms of characters. There have been some typical Transformers characters that have shown up in this class, such as Grimlock and Hot Rod, and also some atypical or even original characters, such as Rack n' Ruin, Clobber, Thunderhowl, and now Skullcruncher.
Skullcruncher proves to be of similar quality and playability as Rack n' Ruin and Clobber, proving a fun and satisfying experience while not quite living up to generations quality, and that is OK, this line isn't designed for the older audience. But the Ultras have still proven to be fun and worthwhile experiences.
The robot mode on Skullcruncher is pretty solid. It stand well, looks nice and imposing, and has a pretty nice headsculpt. Posing is limited, you can move the legs on ball jointed thighs and hinge knees, but that's about it downstairs. The arms can swing out and hinge at the elbow, and you can rotate the bicep around, but you can't really pose the figure pointing the weapons anywhere but forward, and of course there is no head articulation. But the figure looks good, so it's sort of OK.
The spark armor is the form of a Croc head, and it's really funny because the spark armor head comes right out of the actual croc head, implying Skullcruncher has a energon armor-esque Skull inside his head that can flip out, which is pretty dang fun.
The transformation is similar to the Titans Return toy, but it has some nice new features and engineering that help make a more stable croc mode and allow for a cleaner robot mode. I like that the back of the croc mode becomes solid heels, so this Skullcruncher will not fall over on you.
The croc mode is nice and big, and I love how solid and stable it is. It's quite cute while also just loud and obnoxious thanks to the colors. I love it! The mouth does not open, because the spark armor hinge is located at the front of the mouth, which is a shame, but still looks good despite it.
Overall, this new Skullcruncher is a pretty nice toy. I would say it is the 2nd best Ultra behind Thunderhowl, but it's still a really good toy. He also compares nicely to the Titans Return toy, and I would say he is the better engineered toy.
If this is a figure or character that interests you, go pick him up. He is worth the $20.
