Scans from Diamond Distrubutions Preview Catalogue

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Scans from Diamond Distrubutions Preview Catalogue.

TFW2005 board member RAvenXL7 has posted some scans from the latest Previews Catalogue which is sent out by Diamond Distribution.  The scans include some new images of various upcoming Transformers figures including:

Generations
War For Cybertron Bumblebee
War For Cybertron Optimus Prime
War For Cybertron Megatron
Darkmount (originally to be called Straxus)

Power Core Combiners
Sledge with Throttler
Leadfoot with Pinpoint
Icepick with Chainclaw
Double Clutch with Rallybots
Mudslinger with Constructicons

Movie
Hubcap
Brimstone
Insecticon
Breacher
Crankstart
Oil Pan
Elita-1
Tuner Skids
Hailstorm
Sidearm Sideswipe
Banzai-tron
Night Attack Ratchet
Battles Blades Optimus Prime

New Pics from War for Cybertron Megatron and Soundwave!

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called New Pics from War for Cybertron Megatron and Soundwave!.

NTF-Archive.de found today two new pictures of War for Cybertron Megatron and Soundwave at RumbleFrenzy Facebook Blog.

Enjoy the pictures:

Transformers: War For Cybertron comic to come with Sears and Kmart orders within the US

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Transformers: War For Cybertron comic to come with Sears and Kmart orders within the US.

The Transformers War For Cybertron Comic that was report back on the 22nd May as available as a pre-order bonus in Australia for those ordering the game via JB Hi-Fi now appears to have become an exclusive for two chains within the United States.  Both Sears and Kmart have updated their pre-order pages saying that pre-order with them will also receive a comic. No word on a UK store that has signed up for this deal yet though Argos have released KMart exclusives in the past.

Images of Human Alliance Jazz and Lennox

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Images of Human Alliance Jazz and Lennox.

The-Arker.com have posted two in-packaging images­ of Human Alliance Jazz with Lennox which you can see mirrored below.

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Preview of Auto Assembly 2010 Magazine Cover

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Preview of Auto Assembly 2010 Magazine Cover.

Auto Assembly have released a preview image of this year\'s  convention magazine cover which is drawn by Guido Guidi

Auto Assembly 2010 takes place between the 13th and 15th August 2010 at The Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England

www.autoassembly.org.uk - official Auto Assembly website
http://autoassembly.proboards.com - official Auto Assembly forum­­

UK Toy Sales Charts for March 2010

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called UK Toy Sales Charts for March 2010.

Here are the latest UK Toy Sale Charts courtesy of the NPD.

UK Top 5 Toy Properties
1. Ben 10
2. Star Wars
3. Lego City
4. Thomas and Friends
5. Toy Story

UK March 2010 (GBP Sales - Value)
1. Zhu Zhu Hamster Packs - Character Options
2. Ben 10 Alien Force 10cm Figures - Bandai
3. Kidizoom Digital Cameta - VTech
4. Star Wars Rebel Trooper and Snow Trooper Battlepack - Lego
5. Bionicle Stars 2010 - Lego
6. Smart Trike Plus Girls - Mookie
7. Star Wars Lukes Landspeeder - Lego
8. First Steps Babywalke - VTech
9. Bakugan Starter Pack - Spin Master
10. Ben 10 Alien Force 15-cm DNA Figures - Bandai

UK March 2010 (Unit Sales - Volume)
1. Hot Wheels Basic Car Assortment - Mattel
2. Match Attax Cards - Topps
3. Ben 10 Alien Force Ten-CM Figures - Bandai
4. Gogo\'s III Explorer Pack - Magic Box
5. Zhu Zhu Hamster Pack - Magic Box
6. Transformers MV2 Movie Legends Assortment - Hasbro
7. Play-Doh Single Tub - Hasbro
8. Cars Character Assortment - Mattel
9. Bionicle Stars 2010 - Leo
10. Littlest Pet Shop Get The Pets - Hasbro

More images of Masterpiece Sleep Mode Convoy

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called More images of Masterpiece Sleep Mode Convoy.

TakaraTomy have updated their website with three new images of Sleep Mode Masterpiece Convoy which show the clear trailer in more detail.  The figure, which is a Toy Hobby Market exclusive, goes on sale next month.

Picture of Toy Hobby Market exclusive Unicron box art now online

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Picture of Toy Hobby Market exclusive Unicron box art now online.

TakaraTomy have updated their product page for Unicron with an image showing the box art that will be used for the figure.  To view the image simply visit the site and click the second button that appears on the Unicron picture which says ãƒ'ッケジ (pakkeji, so literally packaging).  Or just visit this link.

Scans from the June issue of Hyper Hobby

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Scans from the June issue of Hyper Hobby.

We have created a new mirror gallery containing 122 scans of the June 2010 issue of Hyper Hobby Magazine which included four pages of Transformers related content which you can below.

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More images of Japanese TF Animated Plushes

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called More images of Japanese TF Animated Plushes.

Dengeki Online have posted some news images of the Transformers Animated Plushes of Optimus Prime, Starscream and Megatron. Click on the thumbnails below to view the full size images.

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Hasbro names global licensing chief

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Hasbro names global licensing chief.

Hasbro have issued the following press release regarding the naming of Simon Waters as their Senior Vice President of Global Licensing

Hasbro names global licensing chief
Hasbro hires former Disney executive as global licensing executive

Toy maker Hasbro Inc. named Simon Waters, a former executive at The Walt Disney Co., as senior vice president of global licensing.

Waters was most recently vice president, global franchise development and strategic marketing, at The Walt Disney Co.

At Hasbro, he will head licensing initiatives for Hasbro, whose brands include Nerf, Transformers and PlaySkool.

Shares rose $1.17, or 3 percent, to $40.11 during afternoon trading. The stock has traded between $22.66 and $42.59 over the past year.

Credit to the Associated Press for the news

Drift Video Review

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Drift Video Review.

Kapow-Toys have posted a video review of the Transformers Generations Drift figure which you can view below.­

Toy Gallery Image Updates

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Toy Gallery Image Updates.

­We recently picked up three Revenge of the Fallen toys, a rarity for us, and so we have updated our image galleries of those figures.  The updates are for:

Lockdown

Skystalker

With a new gallery for Brakedown.

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Stan Bush to appear at BotCon 2010

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Stan Bush to appear at BotCon 2010.

BotCon 2010 has annouced that Stan Bush will be a guest at this years event.  Mr Bush has appeared at BotCon before and has performed in 2007 and 2009.  His relationship with the Transformers brand stems from the original 1986 animated Transformers movie.

If you can\'t make it to BotCon in Florida, or even if you can, remember there is another Transformers Convention which is a must attend this year Auto Assembly 2010.  Auto Assembly has three special guests flying over this year, Garry Chalk, Scott McNeil and Derrick Wyatt (the latter sponsored by ourselves)

More images of BotCon 2010 toys

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called More images of BotCon 2010 toys.

TFW2005.com member locustreign has posted images of the 2010 BotCon Sharkticon, Sky-Byte and Breakdown figures

Website Updates, coming soon

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Website Updates, coming soon.

You\'ve probably been wondering why there has been a distinct lack of non-news related updates on this website over the last year to 24 months.  Sadly real-life commitments have gotten in the way of our usual gallery and code updates and though we have been working on a coding re-vamp offline for the last 6 months, its still some way off from being completed.  Don\'t fear as we will have some new toy galleries for you soon, we have over 3,000 images we have taken from 2005 that we have still not sorted out and cut down, as well as having another 1000 toys (estimate) to get around to photographing, not to mention magazines and other weird and wonderful stuff.  This is something we hope to address over the coming months when hopefully we can catch up and finish off some heavy work commitments and put more time into maintaining and updating our fleet of websites.

Steve aka Quartz
Transformers At The Moon

Transformers: War For Cybertron - Multiplayer Developer Trailer

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Transformers: War For Cybertron - Multiplayer Developer Trailer.

Transformers: War For Cybertron developers Andrew Zaferakis and Matt Tieger have produced another video, available below, which highlights the multiplayer mode of the anticipated Transformers video game.
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Server downtime

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Server downtime.

As you may have noticed the server was down for about 3 hours this evening.  This was due to a hardware failure on the box. Since coming up I have also noticed that one of the hard disk has failed.  Luckily the server is running RAID so the data has not been lost but the server may be bought down later if I find other issues (database corruption for instance) and need to take it offline to fix.  The disk should be hot swappable so once it is replaced by our hosting provider I will re-build the array and we\'ll be back up with that redundancy in place.

Roberto Orci talks Transformers Prime writer

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Roberto Orci talks Transformers Prime writer.

Roberto Orci posted the following message over on Don Murphy\'s message board

\"On Transformers: Prime, we managed to partner with an amazing writer named Jeff Kline. You can look up his lifetime of credits on IMDB. He really knows animation and he lead the way in hiring a talented group of writers to get the show off the ground.

Tesco RotF Deluxes reduced and Lockdown and Ratchet now out in UK

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Tesco RotF Deluxes reduced and Lockdown and Ratchet now out in UK.

Our thanks go to Mr Neurie for reporting that Tesco\'s are currently selling the Transformers deluxe figures for the reduced price of £­8.96­ and they have a new cases in with the following breakdown.

2x Ratchet
2x Lockdown
2x Brawn
1x Nest Bumblebee
1x Sideswipe

The Brawns have already sold out from one of the Tesco near us with all the other figures also selling well judging by the amount of space on the Transformers shelf

Figure King 148 scans - Clear Animated Prime and Rodimus

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Figure King 148 scans - Clear Animated Prime and Rodimus.

CyberGundam blog scanned in the latest issue of Figure King magazine which as well as including the image of Unicron also included the first images of the clear Optimus Prime and Rodimus 2-pack from Transformers Animated as well as a first look at the trailer of Sleep Mode Convoy which shows that it will be clear.

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Rumour Megan Fox dropped because she was too thin

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Rumour Megan Fox dropped because she was too thin.

Credit to Primus1873 for submitting the following

According to the UK tabloid Newspaper The SUN, Megan Fox was told by Michael Bay that she was to thin and would look frail in the new Transformers 3 movie, and was told to put more weight on. As yet no reply on this From Ms Fox.

Anote image ofTransformers 2010 Unicron

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Anote image ofTransformers 2010 Unicron.

Cybergundam blog have posted a scan from the latest issue of Figure King, issue 148, which included a new image of the Toy Hobby Market exclusive Unicron figure. The image, which you can view below, shows highlights the detailing as well as including a close-up of the new head.  Remember that pre-orders for the toy are start next month and run till the 4th July, costing 10,500yen.

Power Core Combiners released in Australia

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Power Core Combiners released in Australia.

TFW2005 have received reports that the Transformers Power Core Combiner 5-pack\'s (Aerialbots and Combaticons) and 2-packs have been spotted for sale in Australia, some 3 months prior to their scheduled release in the USA.

Also mentioned is the highly anticipated Seaspray toy, although the figure appears not to be available for sale just yet.

The Transformers Power Core Combiner line has had m­ixed reactions for fans, mainly due to the non-transforming limbs for the combiner figures.

Frank Welker in Transformers Prime and Starscream returns to his routes

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Frank Welker in Transformers Prime and Starscream returns to his routes.

In two small posts over on Don Murphy\'s message board Roberto Orci teased fans with the news that Frank Welker has been in the studio along with Peter Cullen recording voices for Transformers: Prime as well as answering a question regarding Starscream\'s character returning to his G1 routes with \"yes\".

The Frank Welker post reads as the following: \"Really excited to see what you guys think about it. Seeing Cullen and Welker together in the recording studio was mind blowing.\"

Thanks to SantaPrime for the news.

Don\'t forget to stay with us or our\"under-development\" sister site www.transformers-prime.com for all your Transformers:Prime news.

First image of 2010 Unicron

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called First image of 2010 Unicron.

ToyHobby.co.jp have published the first image of the upcoming \"Welcome to Transformers 2010\" Unicron toy which you can see below.

Megan fox was dumped from TF3

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Megan fox was dumped from TF3.

As has already been reported Megan is out of TF3. However it has been unclear exactly why.

SYFY has managed to confirm that Michael Bay dropped her. Not really surprising after she compared him to Hitler in the press a while back.

http://scifiwire.com/2010/05/whoa-megan-fox-dropped-fr.php

Recruitment for Transformers Prime staff continues

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Recruitment for Transformers Prime staff continues.

The Dejitarusukepu Video Team have posted a new Tweet reminding people that they are still taking applications for the Transformers Prime jobs where the job briefings will take place tomorrow and Saturday in Japan

Megan Fox out of Transformers 3

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Megan Fox out of Transformers 3.

Megan Fox will not be returning for the third live action Transformers film. What is not clear though is whether it was her decision not to return or whether she was nixed by Michael Bay and Paramount Pictures.  According to deadline.com, who broke the story originally, the decision to axe Miss Fox was taken by Michael Bay, however, and this is to be expected, Megan reps have told People magazine that it was in fact her decision not to return for the third movie. Since the announcement the US gossip magazines / websites are already running rumours on who will be replacing Megan as Sam\'s love interest in the third movie, with The Wrap reporting that Gemma Arterton emerged as the early favourite to replace her, though since they pretty much everyone has been linked including Zoe Saldana, Hayden Panetierre, Vanessa Hudgens, Amber Heard, Camilla Belle, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Ashley Greene, Julianne Hough, Jessica Lowndes and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

TakaraTomy income increased by 551.9 percent

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called TakaraTomy income increased by 551.9 percent.

­TakaraTomy have published full details of their first quarter results which showed that restructuring and an increase in sales of boys toys saw their profits increase by a staggering 551.9%!
­
Net sales dropped 1% for year-on-year, to £­1.36 billion but net income increas­ed by 551.9% to £68.7 million mainly due to an increase in the sales of their \"boys toys\" business, reconstruction of their business portfolios and general reduction of costs.

This is the highest recorded profits for the group since the Takara­-Tomy merger which is great news for the company. The toy side of their business was net sales fall by 0.2% to £872.3 million, with income increasing by 58.3% to £108.79 million.

When you look at global trends for TakaraTomy you can pick up on the following trends.

1. Within Japan, product expansion and promotional in-store events led to a significant increase sales for Bayblade, whilst Duel Masters and Tomica both also saw increased popularity and growth. Net sales were up 0.4% to £1.25 billion, with operating incoming up 66.3% to £93.59 million (both figures are year-on-year)

2. Within the US the increase in Transformers sales was highlighted by the company as being the key factor within this territories growth. Net sales were actually down 41%, while operating income increased from a loss of £2.81 million to a £360,171 of profit. Despite this return to profit within the US, this remains their weakest market

3. Within Europe TakaraTomy saw strong growth in their arts and crafts sector which targets the baby and pre-school markets but this wasn\'t enough to see both their net sales and income decrease. Net sales figures were down 16.9% to £76.53million with incoming also down to £1.4 million, 10.8%. Europe continues to be a troublesome area for TakaraTomy and though they are still making profit within this territory more job cuts could be on the way. Decreases within the European marketing budget and redundancies also led to financial growth within Europe.

4. Within the rest of Asia net sales were down 132% to £199.13 million, though operating income did increase by 16.6% to £8.36 million.

TakaraTomy also reduced manufacturing costs by moving from China to Vietnam.

Botcon Registrations go live, but with more problems

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Botcon Registrations go live, but with more problems.

The Botcon 2010 online registrations went live last night but with yet more clitches.

Thanks to everyone who has processed their registration. We know there are some issues but overall, it is not too bad for code that has been bombarded today.

Known issues:

1. The invoice counting system failed and there are many, duplicate numbers. The numbers have NO meaning to you. Because of the duplicate numbers, the first 100 cutoff was in the mid 1030s. We did not send these numbers to the cc folks so don\'t worry that your number may be the same as someone elses.

2. Some of you have not been getting emails. They may come later today or maybe not at all. Email is not a 100% communication system. When your registration is approved (after a human verifies it, you the system will send a second email. This may not happen for several days.

3. Some of you have not been getting member pricing. A programmer is looking at the accounts to see what the issue is. Please do not, register if you are getting incorrect pricing as that makes more work for the admin dept and we may not be able to get credits back to you for a week or more.

4. Non-attending sets will not be available until next week. There is no inventory in the online system and that\'s why it says sold out. We will send out a notice when we populate the inventory. We are holding sets back for this group as well as some of the loose figures and we have ordered 50 more 1st 100 pins to let the non-attending members get them.

5. As we have many issues to clean up, please don\'t call or email unless you absolutely have too. We are aware of many of the issues and will be working to clean them up. However, the more phone calls and emails we get, the longer this will take.

Thanks for your patience and support.

Brian

The original press release regarding the launch of the online registration system can be found below

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BotCon 2010 Registration goes live!

Fort Worth, TX - May 18, 2010 - Fun Publications, Inc., licensee for Hasbro’s official Transformers Collectors’ Convention, BotCon, announced today that the all-new and highly anticipated online registration system has been completed and has gone live. Pop Culture enthusiasts from around the world are now able to register for BotCon 2010, being held at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort June 24th - June 27th in Orlando, Florida. Fans and Collectors’ who register for BotCon as a Primus package holder will receive the 5 piece convention set \"Generation 2: Redux,\" admission to the Friday private sales room experience, all panels and seminars and the Hall of Fame Celebration dinner. The dinner will feature the first four \"human\" inductees into the Transformers Hall of Fame, including: Peter Cullen (voice of Optimus Prime), Bob Budiansky (Editor responsible for the original Transformers storyline), Yoke Hideaki (Takara/Hasbro liaison and the man behind toys such as Megatron and Soundwave), and Kojin Ohno (designer who created the first \"car to robot transforming toy\" Sunstreaker and the largest Generation 1 toy, Fortress Maximus). Finally, Primus package attendees will also receive a special bonus Transformers Deluxe figure to go along with their convention box set.

This is the first year BotCon has been held in the sunny state of Florida. \"We couldn’t be more excited about bringing BotCon to a location where fans can experience everything Transformers and the amazing Disney World together, in one fun filled week\" said Brian Savage, BotCon event organizer and Director of the Transformers Collectors’ Club. BotCon is in its 16th year and will once again feature a large dealer room with thousands of Transformers collectibles as well as other toys such as Star Wars, G.I. Joe, Marvel figures and many other great collectibles from the 80’s, 90’s and modern day! Also at the show will be additional special guests, IDW, Activision, comic book artists and many other events/features for fans of all ages to enjoy!
For more information on BotCon, the weeklong activities and the exclusive figure offerings, please visit BotCon.com.


About HASBRO

Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE:HAS) is a worldwide leader in children’s and family leisure time products and services with a rich portfolio of brands and entertainment properties that provides some of the highest quality and most recognizable play and recreational experiences in the world. As a brand-driven, consumer-focused global company, Hasbro brings to market a range of toys, games and licensed products, from traditional to high-tech and digital, under such powerful brand names as TRANSFORMERS, PLAYSKOOL, TONKA, MILTON BRADLEY, PARKER BROTHERS, G.I. JOE and WIZARDS OF THE COAST. Come see how we inspire play through our brands at http://www.hasbro.com. (C) 2010 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

About Fun Publications, Inc.

For over 15 years, Fun Publications, Inc. has been a Hasbro licensee offering fans and collectors of pop culture memorabilia news, exclusive product and family events through different print offerings, websites, collector clubs and brand specific conventions such as GIJoeCon and BotCon. Located in Fort Worth Texas, Fun Publications reaches a large audience, serving the United States and many other countries such as Japan, Great Britain, Brazil, Australia and Canada. For more information visit TransformersClub.com, GIJoeClub.com, GIJoeCon.com, and BotCon.com. BotCon is a registered trademark of Fun Publications, Inc. (C) Fun Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Credit to Seibertron.com for email update

e-Hobby MP Ghost of Starscream comic preview

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called e-Hobby MP Ghost of Starscream comic preview.

e-Hobby have updated their website with a preview of the exclusive comic that will come with their exclusive Masterpiece Ghosat of Starscream.  The comic is by Hidetsugu Yoshioka and much like the comic that came with Black Masterpiece Convoy, it will be in multiple languages.

Bend It like Optimus with Transformers 2.13 ­ On Sale 20th May!

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Bend It like Optimus with Transformers 2.13 ­ On Sale 20th May!.

Below you will find a copy of the latest press release issued by Titan Comics regarding issue 13 of the UK Transformers comic

Bend It like Optimus with Transformers 2.13 ­ On Sale 20th May!

­­Get into the action with the latest issue of Transformers Comic set amidst the World Cup in South Africa! Check out the sneak peaks attached and find out more on the story from the synopsis below!

Each magazine comes with an awesome FREE Transformers stationary set, cool comics, video game reviews, and fun football facts!

Check out the competitions for a chance to win cool action figures and other fun prizes! Don’t get sidelined â€" make sure you check out this fantastic issue on sale Thursday 20th May!

Synopsis
INSIDE OUT â€" defeated by Jolt, Bludgeon is restrained in a NEST
maximum-security facility in South Africa. And that’s exactly what he wanted! He’s bent on building his own splinter group on Earth, and where better to start his recruitment drive than in a holding pen full to bursti­ng with embittered captives? With the eyes of the world focused on South Africa, Bludgeon makes his playâ€"and kicks off terrifying new phase in the war for planet Earth.

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Botcon webste updated with box set artwork

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Botcon webste updated with box set artwork.

The Botcon website has been updated with official images of the artwork that will be used for the Botcon 2010 box set of toys.

Transformers War For Cybertron Campaign video

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Transformers War For Cybertron Campaign video.

Gametrailers.com have posted an exclusive Transformers: War For Cybertron video with game director Matt Tieger and lead dsigner Matt Krytstek in which they talk about the various Autobot and Decepticon campaigns. You can watch the video below.

Transformers War For Cybertron comic

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Transformers War For Cybertron comic.

Australian online game store jbhifionline have placed a pre-order for the upcoming Transformers War For Cyberton video game with a difference.  There pre-order includes a tie-in comic form IDW.  You can view the listing here.

Credit to Mr K of the TFW2005 boards for the spot.

Peter Cullen set for Transformers Prime

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Peter Cullen set for Transformers Prime.

Advertising Age has had a chance to sit down with Hasbro concerning their venture with the Discovery Channel called The Hub to discuss many of the shows.  The main news from the article is the annoucment that Peter Cullen will return to a Transformers animated series.

Some of the Hub\'s most high-profile shows will be updated versions of well-known Hasbro programs from the 1980s, including \"G.I. Joe,\" \"Transformers\" and \"My Little Pony.\" The latter is being re-imagined for young girls by \"Powerpuff Girls\" creator Lauren Faust, while the new \"Transformers Prime\" will feature the voice of Peter Cullen, the original voice of Optimus Prime from the animated series as well as the Michael Bay-directed feature films. Additionally, \"Transformers\" feature screenwriters Alex Kurtzman and Robert Orci will act as showrunners. \"G.I. Joe Renegades\" will spotlight the Joes on the lam from government forces and the agents of Cobra, a storyline that echoes the recent feature film released by Paramount last summer.

Although little information is known regarding ­Transformers Prime­ it is likely the show will either be a prequal to the live action Transformers movies, set in the same universe or an \"alternative take\" on the Movie verse.

Auto Assembly 2010 News Update Episode 5 Released...

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Auto Assembly 2010 News Update Episode 5 Released....

Auto Assembly 2010 News Update Episode 5 Released...

Even though an incredible amount of information has already been announced about Auto Assembly 2010, Europe\'s largest Transformers convention, we are not resting on our laurels and we are back with another announcement to keep all our attendees up-to-date on all the latest developments with the convention and to hopefully persuade some of you who are still undecided about what con to attend this Summe­r...

Episode 5 of our series of news videos is now LIVE on Youtube and you can check it out here:- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhMXE-KpipI

In this week\'s show, we have details of the latest news on dealers tables at the convention, ticket sales, our new Costume Competition, and much more besides! If you want to know the full details, you\'ll just have to watch the video and find out for yourselves!

Spanning the weekend of Friday 13th - Sunday 15th August 2010 at the The Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England, the convention is playing host to a staggering 11 guests including three guests of honour (Garry Chalk, Scott McNeill and Derrick J Wyatt), and will feature toy and art displays, dealers, comic guests, free autograph sessions, a video games area, free workshops run by many of our guests, dedicated childrens programming, video screenings and so much more to be announced! There will also be Friday and Saturday evening programmes, exclusive for weekend attendees and the Saturday evening will play host to a party, a concert by rock band Next Of Kin (including a Transformers themed set with music from the 1986 animated movie!), costume competition, our voice actors will take to the stage to perform a BRAND NEW script written by Simon Furman and we still have a few more surprises in store...!

Because of the venue size, we are restricting attendance to a MAXIMUM of 550 people at the convention per day which can be made up of a combination of weekend and one-day attendees and once we hit that total we will be closing registrations so if you want to attend Europe\'s largest Transformers convention, you need to hurry and get your tickets now as we have already had over 325 pre-registrants so tickets are likely to be a complete sell-out!

Despite our running costs increasing for this year, we have frozen ticket prices from Auto Assembly 2009 and they are £45 for adults and £35 for children, students and senior citizens, with under 5s admitted free. Family tickets (2 adults and 2 children) are available for £145. Single day passes are available at reduced rates but these are VERY limited.

For more details on the convention, to see a full list of all the guests and activities taking place over the weekend, or to book your tickets, visit the website at www.autoassembly.org.uk

We hope to see you all in August 2010.

The Auto Assembly 2010 Team

Web: www.autoassembly.org.uk
Youtube: www.youtube.com/autoassembly
Twitter: www.twitter.com/auto_assembly
Forum: http://autoassembly.proboards.com
Email: autoassembly@aol.com
Tel: +44 (0)7860 948296

Auto Assembly 2010 is sponsored by www.transformertoys.co.uk and www.transformersanimated.com whose generosity have made Derrick J Wyatt\'s appearance at the convention possible.

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Japanese Transformers Animated Vol1 1 Campaign Gold Optimus Prime

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Japanese Transformers Animated Vol1 1 Campaign Gold Optimus Prime.

In a follow-up to the news we broke yesterday regarding the release of volume 1 of Transformers Animated on DVD in Japan, Paramount have now updated their website with more information including news that they will be holding a campaign to give away 1000 gold chrome Optimus Prime dexlue figures.  Yes that\'s right a DVD Lucky Draw prize much like Black Fire Convoy.  A gold deluxe Optimus Prime figure, as well as a gold Voyager were two of our predicted three lucky draw toys that TV Magazine will announce at the end of the year.  This could still be the case as DVD figures have been re-used in subsequent campaigns in the past, though it does make the inclusion of t he deluxe figure in a magazine competition less likely.

To qualify for the prize draw you need to send in 1 x barcode from a Transformers Animated Toy box (or 4 barcodes from EZ collection toys vol.3 and 4), 5x Sega cards and the token from Transformers Animated DVD.

Botcon Website Update

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Botcon Website Update.

The Botcon website has been updated with official images of the Botcon2010 exclusive Skybyte which you can find here.

Japanese Transformers Animated DVD Early Information

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Japanese Transformers Animated DVD Early Information.

The first information on a Japanese DVD release of Transformers Animated has come courtesy of Rakuten.  The information given is that volume 1 will be released on the 6th August priced at 3,129 yen and will contain four episodes.  It seems that the DVDS may only feature the Japanese audio option and will be released by Paramount.

Credit to Snakas for the news

Information and image on the 1st Transformers Animated Collection picture book

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Information and image on the 1st Transformers Animated Collection picture book.

It seems we have all missed some Japanese release news as Japanese children\'s picture book publisher Popura have announced that the first book, number 68, from a new series of their\'s called Transformers Animated Collection (トランスフォーマー　アニメイテッド　コレクション) was released today in Japan priced at 735yen. The book contains information on both the animated TV series as well as the toys. You can view the cover below.

Transformers War For Cybertron Story Trailer

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Transformers War For Cybertron Story Trailer.

GameTrailers.com have posted­ a video trailer about the story behind Transformers: War For Cybertron which gives you a little taster of the themes behind both the Autobot and Decepticon campaign modes.

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War For Cybertron Sideswipe, Thundercrackerand Jetfire announced

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called War For Cybertron Sideswipe, Thundercrackerand Jetfire announced.

The official website for Transformers War For Cybertron has been updated with new images and bios of playable characters Sideswipe, Jetfire and Thundercracker.  You can either visit their or browse through the mirrored images without our War For Cybertron image gallery which includes the images showing the full profiles for all of the characters shown on the official site thus far.

New images of Transformers Collectors Club exclusive Punch - Counterpunch

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called New images of Transformers Collectors Club exclusive Punch - Counterpunch.

TFClub has posted some images of the upcoming Transformers Collectors Club exclusive figure Punch / Counterpunch.  You can view the images within our mirrored galley here.

Credit to TFW2005.com for the news.

Botcon 2010 Spark YouTube video review

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Botcon 2010 Spark YouTube video review.

YouTuber Arlocon has posted a video review of the Botcon 2010 Spark figure which he recently picked up from other sources.­

Botcon 2010 registrations will not be ready until at least Sunday

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Botcon 2010 registrations will not be ready until at least Sunday.

Seibertron.com are reporting that the Botcon 2010 online registration will not be ready until at least the Sunday 16th May.  Ryan received the following email from Brian Savage of Fun Publications:

\"Well, once again, not today, and it\'s looking like it won\'t be tomorrow either. Almost there.... I promise we will have registration online.
Brian\"

Whilst BotCon continues to be plagued by a lack of information, the inability to register and increasing outrage at people being charged extra to book online and yet alternative forms of bookings will not open for a week or two until after the online bookings are ready, the UKs premier Transformers Convention Auto Assembly continues to gather pace with the recent announcement of the full time table as well as some new panels and showcases leading to heavy praise from many areas of the fan community around the world.   It seems that the non-profit UK convention is gathering more momentum and support where as the commercially run official convention is starting to gain the criticism that dogged the much of Glen Hallits reign as chief organiser of Botcon.

Transformers 3 Location Space Coast, Florida

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Transformers 3 Location Space Coast, Florida.

TFW2005 report that Space Coast, Florida have updated their Twitter account with the following tweet regarding Transformers 3 \"Transformers 3 to film on Florida\'s Space Coast! Filming to begin September 2010!\".  TFW then go on to report that the Brevard County Film Commissioner Bonnie King have told Central Florida on Demand that the filming will last about 8 days in early September. She says location scouts have visited the area for 2-3 days at a time, looking at other areas to shoot. Those include Patrick Air Force Base, Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville, Merritt Island Airport, Lone Cabbage Fish Camp in Cocoa, and a Cocoa beach house. Scouts also checked out some swamps and went into the woods.

What does this?  Is there a chance we could be seeing characters like Astrotrain, Blast-Off or Omega Supreme in the third movie?  Or does it mean that TF3 is going to be a live action version of Megatron\'s Master Plan?  Think about.  We\'ve been told that there will be more Humans, we have already seen \"Autobots, go home\" graffiti and now word that they will be filming on the Space Coast.  Add that with the \"returning to the core mythos\" and it it starts to look more like a possible premise for a third film.  Of course this is just speculation on my part but it is early days so its fun to start building possible plots from what we\'ve seen so far.  Why not drop by our message board with your thoughts, or drop us a message on Twitter

Official images of Botcon 2010 Clench

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Official images of Botcon 2010 Clench.

The Botcon website has been updated with official images of their exclusive figure Clench.  You can compare him to the original figure by using our toy gallery as a reference

Ark Addendum: Autobot City Concept Art Part 2

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Ark Addendum: Autobot City Concept Art Part 2 .

Jim Sorenson has posted this third entry (2nd image) of the original concept art for Autobot City, as drawn by Floro Dery, over on his blog ­Disciples of Boltax!­

Transformers Twins are in TF3 after all

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Transformers Twins are in TF3 after all.

If people thought the UK election resulted in mixed signals it has nothing on the Skids and Muflaps possible appearance in Transformers 3.  First it was reported that they were in, then Michael Bay came out stating that they were not back for the third film, and now leftlanenews.com reports, with imags, that they are back in the third film!

\"Sporting “Autobot” center caps on the wheels, these two vehicles were captured doing some pre-production work before principal filming starts in a few weeks. We think you are looking at Skidz (green) and Mudflap (orange).

Skidz is looking much sportier than in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, with new front and rear fascias, larger fenders, sportier wheels and a big wing. Mudflap was previously based on the Chevy Traxx concept, but for this installment, it appears both cars will be built off the Chevy Spark.

General Motors will once again be the main vehicle supplier for the latest Transformers movie, so expect to see several other GM-badged vehicles, including a black and yellow Chevy Camaro as Bumblebee.\"

TF3 Update: Skids and Mudflap not to return afterall

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called TF3 Update: Skids and Mudflap not to return afterall.

Michael Bay has posted on his message board the comment \"The Twins are not back in T3.\" as direct feedback to earlier reports that Mudflap and Skids were set to return in the third instalment of the live-action Transformers franchise.

Is Michael telling the truth of is this an attempt at misleading people, time will tell but due to the outcry at the characterisation of Skids and Mudflap in Revenge of the Fallen it was always likely that they would be \"forgotten\" for the third movie

310 registrations so far for Auto Assembly 2010

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called 310 registrations so far for Auto Assembly 2010.

In an update to their Twitter Account, Auto Assembly founder Simon has let everyone know that there have been 310 pre-registrations so far for this years event.  Auto Assembly takes place in just 95 days time on the 13th - 15th August 2010 at the Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre,  Smallbrook Queensway, Birmingham, England.  This years guests of honour are Garry Chalk, Derrick J Wyatt and Scott McNeil.

As sponsors of the event Transformers At The Moon will be in attendance putting on one of our usual toy displays so remember to say hi when you see us.

New exclusive C.O.N.S. Cobra Pics

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called New exclusive C.O.N.S. Cobra Pics.

Now we have first in package images from the exclusive C.O.N.S. 2010 Cobra figure here for you.

A limited number of 50 pieces will be available on the C.O.N.S. on the 25th of July, 2010

 

Two actresses tweet on Transformers 3

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Two actresses tweet on Transformers 3.

Actress Kym Whitley has published a Tweet stating that she is working on Transformers 3. \"Working on Transformers 3 today, a little nervous...always when starting a new project. I have said the Lords prayer 12 times.\"

In another Twitter update, this time by Melody Mooney some tiny details about one scene was published. \"Transformers 3 begins shooting on our street today. Info sheet lists: simulated gun fire and an assasination of humans by. Two Robots.\". Her Twitter account can be found ­here.

Skids and Mupflap return for Transformers 3

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Skids and Mupflap return for Transformers 3.

Transformer fan Ben Brown has posted some ammature footage he recorded from the principle photography shoot that took place in Serman Oaks, California yesterday for Transformers 3. The scene being filmed was in downtown Los Angeles showing ­a car being thrown down the alley shortly after the Autobot Twins cars had filmed a scene.  Ben\'s blog post stated \"Perched on the windowsill of the NeighborGoods office, I recorded this awesome scene from the upcoming Transformers 3 movie. You can even hear Michael Bay yelling at people! We also saw the Autobot “twins” zooming around. Apparently, one or both of them will transform and beat the crap out of this tiny little car. Totally awesome.\"­

Ben also posted two pictures from the set on his Flickr page that show a cross-out Autobot symbol and the phrase \"Go Home\", suggesting some anti-Autobot feeling from the humans.­

A coworker of Ben\'s, mickipedia also filmed the scene at the same time but from a different angle which you can view below.

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Credit to TransformersLive.blogspot.com

Auto Assembly 2010 Releases Surprise Programme Details...

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Auto Assembly 2010 Releases Surprise Programme Details....

­Auto Assembly 2010 Releases Surprise Programme Details...

While there are still over three months to go before Auto Assembly 2010 takes place, more information is being released about what is set once again to be Europe\'s biggest Transformers convention...

We are now pleased to unveil the programme for the weekend and the first outline details for the running order for the weekend is now available for viewing on the Auto Assembly website. While more events and programme items are being added to the event daily, this will show just what guests will be talking on each day, and what we have in store as part of our Saturday night line-up and what workshops will be taking place on each day.

For more specific information on som­e of the new things we are adding to the convention this year, check out the latest episode of our news videos on our Youtube channel here and we think you\'ll agree that it makes Auto Assembly a convention that you won\'t want to miss!

Spanning the weekend of Friday 13th - Sunday 15th August 2010 at the The Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England, the convention is playing host to a staggering 11 guests including three guests of honour (Garry Chalk, Scott McNeill and Derrick J Wyatt), and will feature toy and art displays, dealers, comic guests, free autograph sessions, a video games area, free workshops run by many of our guests, dedicated childrens programming, video screenings and so much more to be announced! There will also be Friday and Saturday evening programmes, exclusive for weekend attendees and the Saturday evening will play host to a party, a concert by rock band Next Of Kin (including a Transformers themed set with music from the 1986 animated movie!), costume competition, our voice actors will take to the stage to perform a BRAND NEW script written by Simon Furman and we still have a few more surprises in store...!

Because of the venue size, we are restricting attendance to a MAXIMUM of 550 people at the convention per day which can be made up of a combination of weekend and one-day attendees and once we hit that total we will be closing registrations so if you want to attend Europe\'s largest Transformers convention, you need to hurry and get your tickets now as we have already had over 300 pre-registrants so tickets are likely to be a complete sell-out!

Despite our running costs increasing for this year, we have frozen ticket prices from Auto Assembly 2009 and they are £45 for adults and £35 for children, students and senior citizens, with under 5s admitted free. Family tickets (2 adults and 2 children) are available for £145. Single day passes are available at reduced rates but these are VERY limited.

For more details on the convention, to see a full list of all the guests and activities taking place over the weekend, or to book your tickets, visit the website at www.autoassembly.org.uk

We hope to see you all in August 2010.

The Auto Assembly 2010 Team

Web: www.autoassembly.org.uk
Youtube: www.youtube.com/autoassembly
Twitter: www.twitter.com/auto_assembly
Forum: http://autoassembly.proboards.com
Email: autoassembly@aol.com
Tel: +44 (0)7860 948296

Auto Assembly 2010 is sponsored by www.transformertoys.co.uk and www.transformersanimated.com whose generosity have made Derrick J Wyatt\'s appearance at the convention possible.

Another War For Cybertron interview with High Moon Studios

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Another War For Cybertron interview with High Moon Studios.

Inside Gaming Vidoes has posted the below inside look at the forthcoming Transformers War For Cybertron video game.­

UK Release Dates for Power Core Combiners, Voyagers and Activiators

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called UK Release Dates for Power Core Combiners, Voyagers and Activiators.

UK online stockist Kapow Toys has posted some dates for UK releasing of upcoming figures over on TFW2005.com

1) Powercore Combiners - Bombshock and Skyburst - June 2010 - RRP £22.99
2) Cyber Ops - Bumblebee - May/June - RRP £69.99
3) Voyager Wave 1 - Aug - 2010 - RRP £22.99
Seaspray
Night Ops Ratchet
Payload
4) Voyager Wave 2 - Sept 2010 - RRP £22.99
Seaspray
Battle Blade Prime
Banzai-Tron
Seaspray
5) Voyager Wave 3 - October 2010 - RRP £22.99
Assortment Unknown
6) Movie Activators - June 2010 - RRP £10.99
Bumblebee
Optimus
Megatron

10 Generation One and Diaclone testshot and prototype toy image gallereis

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called 10 Generation One and Diaclone testshot and prototype toy image gallereis.

­This afternoon a dozen auctions ended on Yahoo Japan Auctions for various testshots and samples of Generation One and Diaclone figures.  The auctions ended in total for over $7,600­­ (£5,167)!­  The auctions were for:

• Blaster (testshot)
• Tracks (hardcopy / mock-up)
• Huffer (testshot)
• Ironhide (testshot)
• Sideswipe (testshot)
• Hoist (testshot)
• Astrotrain (testshot)
• Convoy (testshot)
• Skywarp (testshot)
• Thrust (testshot)

We waited a few days before putting these image galleries online to allow the auctions that were on Yahoo Japan to end to try to help protected the bidders against shill bidding.   Before anyone asks, no we did not win any of the auctions as we did not bid.  The figures are will soon be in the hands of collectors so keep an eye out for newer images in the coming months, and some items may be sold on via eBay in the future.

For anyone interested in early samples, especially mock-up pieces, the Tracks mock-ups (more likely a Diaclone mock-up) are amazing pieces.

Transformers War For Cybertron Updates

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Transformers War For Cybertron Updates.

Sorry for the lack of news over the last 24 hours or so, I had problems with my bank accounts which I needed to get sorted and it took longer than I had hoped.  Anyway, here is a round-up of the Transformers War For Cybertron news that broke over the last 12 hours.

First up, ­TFW2005.com have posted an sneak peak of the game after a visit to High Moon Studios.

Next up, the official Transformers War for Cybertron website has been updated with information and bios on two new characters, Silverbolt and Brawl.

Finally, G4tv.com has posted a video which acts as a walk-through of the first level with High Moon game director Matt Tieger talking about various gameplay mechanics as well as the storyline. You can view that video along with a multiplayer one below.

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First images of Botcon 2010 Sky-byte and Gnaw

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called First images of Botcon 2010 Sky-byte and Gnaw.

Powered Convoy has posted two links on allspark.com to Taobao auctions for two more Botcon 2010 exclusives.  First up was Sky-byte and then there was a new previously unannounced figure, Gnaw.  Both toys are recolours of Energon Sharkticon.  You can view the mirrored images below.

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Autobot City Concept Art

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Autobot City Concept Art.

Jim Sorenson posted up an Ark Addendum update containing the first of four pieces making up the concept artwork for Autobot City.

\"Two weeks ago, I posted some unused concept art from the fertile imagination of Floro Dery. I asked if people wanted to see the original notes on it, which would have been unreadable at the size I originally shared it.  The response was fairly positive, so here we go.  I think I\'ll break it into four drawings.  Here\'s the left-hand side.  I hope you enjoy!\"

Visit Jim\'s blog to view the artwork

Images of BotCon Breakdown

TransformerToys.co.uk has been updated with a new news story called Images of BotCon Breakdown.

KOToys.com has posted several images of Breakdown from the 2010 Botcon set online both at Seibertron.com and on photobucket. The images include comparisons with another Botcon 2010 figure, Sparks (Pyro).