Soundwave (2009) | Transformers Revenge of the Fallen
Problem: Update Soundwave—the Decepticon’s communications master—from a 1970s tape recorder to something contemporary that’s about the size of a normal Transformer, without the need for inexplicable growing/shrinking while transforming. Solution: Make Soundwave a satellite. The very idea is a sub-orbital inspiration!
In Transformers Revenge of the Fallen Soundwave, like Megatron, is above acquiring an Earth-based disguise mode. But, like Megatron, it means Soundwave is just a robot that shifts its limbs around to become its alternate mode.
While the robot’s legs do fold together quite cleverly, the “satellite” mode (and “jet” mode for that matter, though both modes are nigh indistinguishable from one another) is essentially the result of potentially endless fiddling and repositioning of appendages. There is no set form to the satellite mode, nothing to click into place, and no way of knowing if and when the sequence is complete.
One positive outcome from all the adjusting is that Soundwave’s alternate modes can take on many different configurations. For example, the wings can be positioned at 35 degrees, 36 degrees, 37 degrees…
Principally cast in grey plastic, Soundwave features a host of silver, gold, red, and blue highlights. In (heavy set) robot mode, the clear blue pieces (which are reminiscent of the anti-gravity engines of the ships featured in “The Matrix” films) and gold highlights are thoughtfully arranged so as to resemble the original Soundwave’s design. It’s a nice touch.
Soundwave’s only feature is a spring-loaded missile launcher (designed for use in the non-humanoid modes) that fires a projectile that is moulded to look like Ravage. It doesn’t.
The idea of Soundwave-as-a-Satellite has so much potential, but none of it is realised with this particular version. Just like the character’s trademark voice: mundane, monotonous.
Verdict: two stars out of five.
Tags: Satellite | Silver | Soundwave
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I have to say that out of all the ‘preview’ toys, Soundwave probably is less likely to peg-warm like the others.
I like this toy myself, but I’ve never transformed it into either modes. Shame really, since this is one of the few novelty Triple changers in the toyline. The alt modes are just not exciting enough, plus the colours could be a lot ‘darker’. Robot mode is still decent though.
Which ROTF toy will turn the tide beyond the 3 stars mark?
C’mon Hasbro, make something good!
===KEN
Ransack so far has been the only one to get above 3 stars. There are plenty more to review though…
I think Leader Prime (if you get him) might get above the 3 stars. Shame I had hoped Soundwave would be good.
Leader Prime is a definite 5 stars for me, buster colours or not. My fave toy of this year.
I also think Soundwave should have been maybe a Voyager or Leader class figure.