Forty years ago, Hasbro shocked Transformers fans with the 1986 film, which famously featured the death of Optimus Prime. Now, in 2026, Hasbro is making amends and showing gratitude for four decades of support with the “1986 Apology Tour.” This tour aims to bring fans together to remember, share memories, and celebrate at special events and screenings throughout the year. The tour also includes exciting new additions to the Transformers action figure line.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original Transformers movie, Hasbro is releasing a new line of collectible figures. We got a sneak peek at three of the highlights: the Leader Class Optimus Prime, and the Voyager Class Shockwave and Thundercracker. These new Studio Series figures are great additions for any Transformers fan.
Transformers Studio Series Figures Design Notes
The new Studio Series ’86 figures are designed to look like the original G1 characters from the 1980s cartoon – meaning they have a classic, simpler style with less intricate detailing than some modern figures. They’re visually appealing and bring back a lot of fond memories for fans. Interestingly, all three figures I received for review feature characters who die in the 1986 Transformers: The Movie: Optimus Prime famously falls in battle with Megatron, Shockwave is killed off-screen during Unicron’s attack, and Thundercracker is quickly eliminated by the Decepticons, who then use his parts to create Scourge. Considering this, maybe the “Apology Tour” theme of this line should extend a bit further…
These figures don’t include many accessories, which is actually a good thing – you won’t have to worry about losing small parts. Optimus Prime comes with his cannon, which he can hold in either hand, and the metal shard Megatron famously stabbed him with. You can even recreate the scene of his final battle if you also purchase the Studio Series ’86 figure. The Matrix of Leadership is hidden inside his chest. Shockwave includes a small blaster attached to his arm, and Thundercracker has two missiles that can also function as arm-mounted weapons.
Transformers Studio Series Figures Play Notes
These Transformers figures are incredibly flexible and have lots of moving parts. They feel substantial and collectible, but are also durable enough for play. When transformed into vehicles, they’re stable, though you need to ensure all the pieces click securely – otherwise, Soundwave might be a bit wobbly, and Optimus Prime’s vehicle mode can feel a little loose.
These transformations are tricky – even following the picture-based instructions. It took some practice, especially with Optimus Prime and Thundercracker. While this might be enjoyable for adult collectors, my nine-year-old needed assistance, which was a nice bonding experience. The build quality is impressive; some steps require a bit of force, but everything feels solid. A couple of Optimus Prime’s parts did come loose when we made a mistake, but they snapped back on easily.
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2026-04-20 00:11