X-Transbots MX-II Andras w/ Rimfire - Reissue

Generally looks great, but not without its issues

As far as third-party representations of Scourge go, XTB's Andras is right on the money in both robot and alt modes. His futuristic jet/hovercraft mode is very faithful to the G1 design and a lot bigger and heftier than I was anticipating. His bot mode lacks some of the fine detailing of the animation model (the spiked toes), but this is to be expected in a practical, transforming figure. Even so, his proportions are good, I love the way his outer shell forms the 'wings' in bot mode, and the face sclupt is great. The red fingertips are also a nice touch, but I'm puzzled as to why they made his legs and outer shell a baby/powder blue when they are more of a grey on the animation model. I'm not a fan of the decision to include electronics either, especially because so many batteries are required and it leaves him with very dead looking eyes. I really wish that XTB had included a set of chromed red eyes to match its other figures (specifically Eligos), but sadly it was not to be. The transformation itself can be a bit tricky, particularly the feet, which don't have a lot of clearance. However, by far the biggest problem with Andras is the sloppy QC. My figure arrived with multiple paint chips out of the box, which were only worsened through transformation. TFS-E managed to source replacement parts for me, but even those arrived with paint chips! As much as I love the figure it loses points for the (by now well-documented) QC issues. Still, if you're looking for a Masterpiece style Scourge this is currently the only viable option. If you get a good one I'm sure you'll be very happy, but it would appear to be a bit of a lottery.

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