Figure It Out: G2 Grimlock
No, it's not the '90s, just a repaint
Generation 2 Grimlock
Age of the Primes is rolling out with many unique and new molds; however, as with anything, we must sometimes pad the line. That is what this version of everyone’s slow-witted Dino is here to do. Is this going to be for everyone? Probably not, and it would not be for me if it did not scratch one specific itch: nostalgia.
The Stats:
Bought at: Target
Retail price: 54.99
Paid: 38.00 (bought with discounts applied)
TL:DR: G2 Grimlock is a very solid figure, and depending on your past, may hook you for stupid reasons, the mold continues to carry on. But if you have a Masterpiece, you can ignore this probably.
A work-bot
To talk of this figure, we first need to talk about the mold itself before going into it, This has been in production for a long time. Originally coming out in 2021 as part of the launch of the Studio Series 86 series (figures made like the old movie/cartoon). The original release commands a surprisingly high price tag. It’s been produced in various versions from comic book colors to obscure concept art never executed, and honestly, probably better it of stayed that way for the functioning eyes of the world.
So, this version is a bit more blue, well, a lot of blue.
This figure won me over for a simple reason: I had this variant as a kid, and it even has the old-school G2 temp-graph that all the figures had in odd locations on the body. I will say, I was gonna wait till it went on sale before I pulled the trigger, but just before easter, it did just that, so I took advantage. We’ll circle back to that at the end of the post. As I feel it does factor into the release, and if it is worth picking up or not.
Your classic figure in modern times
Grimlock comes with a surprising range of movement for a figure of his size. I also have to say that in my hands, he feels so lightweight, you’d think he is not a leader class. The movement is, honestly, excellent, and also, if we compare it to the masterpiece release. He has him beat by a country mile for what he can do posing wise. Now, let’s remember Grimlock is not exactly going to be doing kung-fu fighting or anything of the sort due to his size and power. But for what is expected of the Dinobot leader, it gets the job done.
The transformation is only slightly different from the OG one and more in line with the masterpiece one released years ago. I did most of the transformation from memory/observing and did not need the instructions to help with it. The only real complaint I got is that the chest on mine does not exactly want to stay locked in and will, at times, fall into dino mode. Also, take care when transforming the tail as the light plastic can be a little dinged if not careful.
Accessory wise, he does not have a lot, he has his blaster and well that is about it, oh and a Wheelie figure that can ride on his back and well that is about it, I’m kind of disappointed in the Wheelie as you’d think with all the small figures made over the years they could make one that can transform and ride as well.
Is it the best of the mold or Master of its domain?
The real thing with this figure is what you want for your money. If you want a poseable and can also blend in with other Studio Series figures, this one can work, albeit in a blue hue. As to an official version of a G1 classic, though, if you have not noticed. I have been comparing him to the Masterpiece mold for good reason. In a lot of ways, this mold is a derivative of that one. My preference after messing with the Studio Series mold. I’d much rather have the masterpiece one as it has more detail and heft to it, and just generally looks better.
Pricing-wise, I am sure that one is going for a good amount of money. So if you want the great value version of Grimlock, this one can be a good mold to sub in for that. My preference is more for this one due to nostalgia. However, others may want the comic colored one instead. I did not pay retail for it and got it for a good price, and so I am satisfied with it. I don’t think of the accessories, this one is worth the 55 price tag normally. So if you can get this version at a reasonable price, it’s worth it. But I would not pay over 40 for it.
With all this said, there is another part of this wave that is more interesting.
-The Chaos Director