Open The Toy

DOTM Voyager Optimus Prime

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:17:00 +0000

Another Optimus Prime has added to my collection and I got it during last year end offer.

Having a couple of Optimus Prime myself, it take something extra to get me to have a Voyager Optimus Prime from the movie Transformers Dark of the Moon. Well I will share with you the motivation later. Let's us open the toy and review this toy first.

Having myself a Leader class, the setting of this voyager class look different. Somehow the wheels on the arms make Optimus look beefed up.

You will know why I said beefed up by the following picture. See his wheels look so much like biceps?

On his back the two containers look more like thrusters but in reality, it doesn't do anything much as it just make Optimus look steadier. On the side view, the lower legs look strong and with that, Prime have no difficultly in standing and balance.

Talking about the legs, I notice the consistency of having tyres on the thighs, if only they care about painting the wheels there, it would look better.

Here is a closed up of Optimus face which look pretty decent. Notice that his chest area look a bit different from the leader class.

For this voyager Optimus prime, his only accessory and weapon is his blaster. No saber, no hook.

The blaster can transformed into a more powerful mode by pressing on the end button. The only weakness is that you have to keep pressing and holding the button for the blaster to be an upgrade mode.

Nonetheless, Optimus Prime always look great with a blaster than any other weapons in my opinion.

It is time for the transformation and for a voyager class, the transformation look simple but when you are doing the transformation, it may not look so simple. Here is Optimus half way doing the transformation. Look pretty funny in this semi mode. LOL

When the transformation is done, it is a different story where the truck mode look pretty awesome. On the front view, it look consistent with the movie version.

One of the detail that interest me is the only Autobots logo found on this toy was the front of the vehicle. Some custom paint will make the logo stand out.

On the back of the truck, there is a hole for you to insert the trailer logically but for this toy, it is for the weapon.

So I placed the weapon at the back and it look decent. Now in reality it will be an obvious giveaway for a normal truck to carry such a huge cannon.

Now here's something I like about this version of Optimus prime was the view from the top, it seems Optimus Prime is powered by solar panel. Notice the roof and the bonnet? They really look like solar cells. Yes I love Autobots going green. I mean who doesn't?

Even with the above good points that I pointed out, there are not the reason that put me to get this Optimus Prime. There is more. And what will that be?

It is always my criteria that Optimus prime should come with a Trailer to complete the look and it took Michael Bay 3 movies to get that right (still it didn't look too right for me). If I need a trailer, the only version for voyager would be TakaraTomy version as much as I remember, Hasbro voyager does not come with a trailer.

However there is a trailer and I got this toy with a trailer. Are you curious to see the Trailer? I will revive that on my next post. :D

That being said, how do this voyager Optimus prime fair to you? Any opinion?

Snow Miku Wonder Festival 2012 Exclusive

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:09:00 +0000

Snow Miku is returning in Japan coming Wonder Festival 2012. Since it is still winter in February, it make prefect sense to have a Snow Miku.

This figure is in conjunction with Max factory and Good Smile Company for “Wonderful Hobby Life for You 15″! exhibition. There will be a limited to 3000 for the event in Japan but as for web online store, you can place your pre-order of maximum 3 per person. For oversea web order, the item is currently plan to ship out in June 2012 (No longer winter then :( ).

So what so different about this Nendoroid Snow Miku? For one, she comes with a new costume as a coat. For accessories, She comes with mic stand,

a shovel,

a Nendoroid Petite sized clear snow sculpture of Miku and a LED lighted stage for the ice sculpture.

The official name is No.207 Nendoroid Snow Miku ( 雪ミク ) Fluffy. Get her before she slip you by!

Do agree with me that this version of the Snow Miku is better than the previous version?

Android Fu Lu Shou 福祿壽 for Chinese New Year

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:00:00 +0000

Believe it or not but there will be a special edition series for Chinese New year 2012. Instead of Caisheng, this year will be make up of 3 Android from Chinese characters. Fu Lu Shou 福祿壽.

First is the Blessing (福) Fu Android, more like last year Cai sheng android with a golden coin.

Fortune (祿) Lu Android dressed in blue instead of traditional Green represent position and promotion in job market.

Longevity (壽) Shou Android that is a symbol of an old man well in age carrying a peach which suppose to be Longevity fruits. Of course no one lives forever.

The order for this set is going to start today at shop.deadzebra.com today, Wednesday. Head over to get one set now!!

Hot Toys Cosbaby Toy Story Series 2 Coming

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:55:00 +0000

Cosbaby series from Hot Toys will be releasing Toy Story series 2 figures soon and there are some interesting ones that caught my eyes when I saw the prototype pictures.

What you are seeing here are prototype photographs which may look different when you see the actual product.

This figures from series 2 are more futuristic and at the same time with some old west theme.

Firstly Woody still dressed the same but he carry a space gun. Yes it is like Cowboy & Aliens. While Buzz lightyears still stay true as himself as a space ranger. I love the helmet of Buzz.

There are 2 Aliens in this series, Cowboy Alien and Spaceman Alien and all the Aliens say "Oooooo ~"

Now come the two most interesting characters and a good make over. Meet Evil Dr. Porkchop with a one eye patch and hovering on a space vessel while Rex got himself a space helmet. Both look really cool and cute!!

I have to bring extra attention to Rex as this version of cosbaby series really bring out the cuteness and the awesome details of Rex. Surely Rex from this series would not worry if he can take any rejection as he is so CUTE!!!

If you are interested in this series, it should be release in the first quarter of 2012. We just hope the actual product will look this good. :)

Happy Dragon New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 09:38:00 +0000

This is the year of Dragon so it is proper to get a dragon toy and play with it!

To be honest, this Dragon was for decoration but I modify it to use it with my toys. Just like Chinese Lion Dance, this is something of that sort but in this case a Dragon. Just nice for one person to dance the Dragon dance.

Unlike western Dragons in stories, the Chinese Dragon often comes with two horns on it's head and body are more serpent like. For dancing purposes, they made the dragon to look more friendly with smiling expression with no sharp teeth.

On the back of this decoration Dragon was a short body with a Chinese letter "Fu (福)" meaning prosperity.

Beside the looks of the dragon, the one that make the Dragon dance come to life will be the dancer himself. Often these dancers are from some martial art organization and with proper training, they have the stamina and skills to do great performance.

For this case, I have Son Goku from Dragonball to do the honor of the Dragon dance. Since it is Dragon year, let's have the Dragonball team to do some well wishes for the new year. :)

Wow it is a GEM to see Goku and Vegeta to do something together. Readers you guys are in luck!

PS: Huat Ah means Good luck which normally related to wealth.

Well here's my best wishes to all you readers of this toy blog. Let's have a prosperous new year in the year of the Dragon!

Hey...what is this?

Sorry for the joke as I am currently playing Elder scroll Skyrim. :P Yes playing game for the new year holidays. LOL

HUAT AH!!

Hot Toys The Dark Knight: 1/6th scale Batmobile Coming

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:45:00 +0000

Of all the Batmobile in the Batman movie series, I find the one in the Dark Knight version is the best.

Since Hottoys roll out a 1/6th scale of Batman from the Dark Knight (re-release version), it make prefect sense to have a Batmobile for the Batman.

Behold the Dark Knight rises...

The Batmobile comes with good paints on detail such as metallic gold parts and LEDs for lights.
The cockpit like the movie allow it to open and closed.

Batman seated so comfortably in the Batmobile.

Like most vehicle, the engine uses the back of the wheel to give traction to drive the Batmobile and as such it provide bigger tyres that can easily flatten most objects.

You can have this Batmobile around SGD$500 in the middle of 2012 as it reported today.

As nice as it is close to the real Batmobile in the The Dark Knight movie, I do not think it can eject itself to become a cycle mode. If that can be done, it would be prefect...just like the movie...

Revoltech Fullmetal Alchemist Edward Elric Coming

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:54:00 +0000

For Fullmetal Alchemist fan, in March 2012, an articulate action figure of Edward Elric will be releasing in Kaiyodo Revoltech series.

It is quite rare now for Japanese toy manufacture to do Male character. This action figure comes with 4 facial expression, a stand, couple of special power effect and a couple of hands.

With the special effect, the character just brought to life like in Anime or Manga.

Some of the pose are amazing.

Personally I love this mad facial expression.

This figure look pretty fun and expect more of the character in the series to come. Yes including his brother. :)

Kamen Rider Kaixa Kaixa Shot

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 17:21:00 +0000

I wished I can tell you that I got a new camera but this is a toy and it is one of the gadget from Kamen Rider Kaixa!

Now the reason I bought this because it was on offer and the camera look really cool. No attachment to the specific kamen rider which is Kiaxa in this case.

By reading the back of the card, I am totally sold with the features.

This Kaixa Shot is one of the side gadget of the kamen rider.

Open up the toy and only can see 3 parts.

The front of the camera you will see the len, flash and buttons.

The back you can see the LCD screen. Look like real.

The bottom of the toy shows the manufacture period of this products.

If you remove the LCD panel, you will see the batteries compartment which 2 AA batteries are needed for this toy.

By pressing the button, the LED of the flash light area will be ignited with sound. Say Cheese!

You can insert the Kamen Rider seal and the camera suppose to be transformed it from a ordinary camera to kiaxa shot.

You can transformed the camera this way by holding it this way. This is more for a kid toy so excuse me if my hand look bigger. LOL

In this position if you trigger it, the front red LEDs will light up with sound effect.

Now this camera comes with a sleeve so if you have the Kamen Rider belt, you can slot it in.

It will slot into place nicely ready for you to draw out.

I felt this toy look cool and great for kids to enjoy playing the role of a Kamen Rider. As for me the gadget look cool and the price is on great discount. So no harm in buying and play with it.

What do you guys think about this toy?

Bravism Bleach - Styling Coming

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 22:36:00 +0000

If you have been following Bleach Anime and Manga, the following figures will excite you. I know it excite me. In preparation for Jump Festa 2012, Bandai will be releasing a set of 4 Bleach Styling in Bravism candy figure line in March 2012.

These 15cm in height figurines are well scripted. For the first time, Ichigo in Fullbring as a toy figure!

Rukia however was quite a disappointed to me for the facial expression does not quite look like her...something is wrong with her eyes in my opinion. Other than her face, the pose and body look good.

Renji on the other hand look exactly as how he is suppose to be. A proud and arrogant pose. Notice the figure of Renji don't even need to have his zanpakuto (sword) drawn to look good?

Now you hear me saying there are 4 figurines but we just shown 3 in the picture. Well for Ichigo there are two version. A minor different with mask on or without his mask. I think these are variant.

So the lucky one should be with the Mask on. LOL

The trio of Ichigo, Rukia and Renji will sell for ¥3,780 released in March 2012.

Any thoughts of these cool looking figurines? Worth the price?

What Rock Shooter is this?

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 22:51:00 +0000

A discussion happened between me and Fuzzy who was a big fan of BRS PSP version saw the inconsistent design and news on Medicom RAH WRS prototype.

The WRS as we all know was to be like this.

Take note on the costume, a scythe as weapon and the Magenta flame on the right side of WRS.

However Medicom RAH WRS turned out to be like this which is still dressed like BRS but it is in White holding an axe.

I noticed this version of WRS is more like a "repaint" of BRS as we discover a series of inconsistency on this RAH WRS.

First off, WRS costume is wrong compare to the game or other image version. It is more like a alternate color of BRS. On this point maybe is just a costume so it is not that wrong right?

At the same picture, I would like to point out that WRS do not have the scar on her belly as only BRS has it and the Medicom RAH version has it.

To my understanding WRS is parallel to BRS which mean everything should be a mirror image. Like BRS flame is on her left eye, WRS is on her right. This version of the WRS the flame is still on her left eye but instead of Megeta the flame is in black. Hm... something is not right here...

Last of all is the weapon which is an Axe which although was unheard of, it is one weapon designed by "huke" the original designer of the BRS series characters. So it is kind of original.

As much as I know it, this is a customized WRS by Medicom who is using the same mold as BRS and trying to do something different and hopefully fish in the WRS fans. However the true fan like Fuzzy who is a big fan of vocaloid and the BRS series has this to say

" The figure does not resemble any known version of BRS in media, mainstream or otherwise. The closest version I've seen only exists in an official artbook, and that one didn't wield the weapon that comes with this figure.

I'm not too certain on other collectors' views, but I collect figures mostly because I get a nostalgic feeling from the figures representing the characters I like.

I don't see the logic in getting this since it doesn't represent the BRS I know and love."

To the collectors this toy is rather subjective and it is a thin line between making a customized repaint works especially it is trying to appease the fans. I guess they may have to work harder than that if they really want to get that circles.

Then again there are others who just buy the figure without knowing much knowledge of the figurine...but for SGD$200 or more? One has to be very rich or thinking really hard before buying.

Anyway this is just a prototype and no news of it being done for actual product. So we all have to just wait and see. Nevertheless it is fun to point things out and hear different point of view.

So what's your view on this WRS?

Nendoroid 100: Disney Mickey Mouse

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 01:14:00 +0000

Everybody love Mickey Mouse....or most children that is. Good Smile Company for the milestone of releasing the 100 figure in Nendoroid line had obtain licenses from Disney and produce a cutie Mickey Mouse! How can I passed out for that.

It comes with lots of accessories and most of all it is the most articulated figure of Mickey Mouse so far. With Nendoroid style, it really brought out the best of Mickey!

In recent years I was more attached to Mickey due to the fact that Mickey was one of the character my son love. We have been spending quite a lot of time watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on Disney Junior channel. For those who have no idea what is Mickey Mouse clubhouse, you can take a look at this.

When my son saw this figure, he went berserk. However I do not allow it as this toy has removeable small parts and was designed for 15 years and above. It's true, it is printed on the box!

When I opened up the box, the figure parts were neatly displayed and well protected with plastics.

It comes with one small instruction sheets of some of the changeable parts of Mickey and his accessories.

First feature was the changeable eyes. The face was welled molded and painted with Mickey signature looks.

The face is detachable and at the back of the face you can remove the eyes.

Changing the eyes from looking forward to looking to the side is a breeze.

As for the hands, Mickey comes with 2 pairs of arms straight and bend each side and 3 sets of hands. Great for changing pose.

One of the important feature that I love was his cute thin tail. As cute as it seems, the tail help very much for this figure to balance and act as weight support in many ways.

For accessories comes with a chair such as Hollywood looking or some may called it a director chair with his name and logo on it.

As the theme was more of film making, it comes with a Clapperboard for noting the takes or scene. It can open...

And closed! Neat!

Now coming back to the Chair, the accessory was more than showing than usage as Mickey cannot sit on the chair.

As a director, Mickey also have his own megaphone that doesn't need batteries. Old fashion and good!

Next will be Mickey own camera for filming. Again the logo of Mickey is printed on the camera.

The Mickey Studio camera is using the old fashion film in stead of digital media for classic feel.

The camera stand was tripod of Mickey looking feet and as a tail, it was a 2-pin plug.

The height of the camera is just nice for Mickey.

With that I think Mickey can start the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse show!

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse starting theme take one! ACTION!

Mickey can do the Hot Dog Dance too! If you have no idea what I am referring to you can click on here to watch.

Okay that very much wrap out this amazing Mickey Mouse to have for fans. Till then let's say bye to Mickey Mouse for this review!

Yes we will see you real soon Mickey... maybe in Disneyland? :D

Do you love Mickey? What is your thought of this Mickey Mouse Toy?

Gatchaman 2 New God Phoenix EX Gokin

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:09:00 +0000

Gatchaman or in some region known as Battle of the Planet was one anime I loved to watched in my childhood. I love the costume to their vehicles and most of all their mothership. In Gatchaman 2, the main ship takes on a bird form of a Phoenix which is really cool even till today

After a few decades, the toy got a remake which comes with diecast parts for this God Phoenix by Fewture!

The plane comes with 5 mini vehicles which were driven by the 5 Gatchaman. One thing I remember was there always wearing a number like some baseball T-shirt when they are "off duty".

As a diecast toy, these vehicle pay tribute to the anime to fit into various part of the God Phoenix just like the Anime!

Here's a treat of the retro advertisement of the God Phoenix in Japanese of the vintage version.

This awesome God Phoenix which much like the vintage one will be releasing in June 2012 with a huge priced tag around 23,000 Yen. Reason for the justification would be the diecast parts and selected group of fans and collectors who watched this anime when they are growing up globally.

This should be a must have if you have the budget for this God Phoenix. Be carefully to handle with care in your playtime and do not let it fall to the ground which hurt you if it hurt your feet and if it doesn't you will still feel the pain as the paint maybe chipped. LOL

Enterbay Elvis 68 Comeback

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:27:00 +0000

It has been 35 years since the King of Rock and Roll left us and Kotobukiya and Enterbay will be releasing a 1/6 scale (12-inch Figure) Elvis Presley in his prime in the 68 Comeback Special.

Being a Elvis fan, I was impressed with the head sculpt of the likeness of Elvis.

I have to point out that this version would be the one before or in the beginning of the show as his hair is combed back neatly. As the show goes on, Elvis "Superman" curl hairstyle took over. I do wish they release that hairstyle as he look way better with that. Just look at the cover below of the show.

I found a video of the show when you can see in the beginning of the song, his hair was combed back neatly. But when he really rock later, you can see his hairstyle look cooler!!

Notice the Guitar? Enterbay did the same replicate! The figure comes with a few set of hands and a amplifier and a mic and stand.

This figure really pay tribute to Elvis who is not only sing good Rock and Roll songs but a great love songs too. The world of music will be different without Elvis.

This figurine is a collector series and unless you are fan, please go ahead to get it and display it. It is not advisiable to get this to store up and think you can sell it as higher price as it rob other fans of getting it and with such leather suited figure, be my guess and store it mint in box and see a few years later what will happen to the leather. :)

Personally I have some Elvis figure too but that will be review in the near future. Look out for this release schedule in March 2012 by enterbay.

Lego Queen of Egypt

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000

I always have a fascination on Egypt history and Culture. So I can't pass on the Egyptian lady from Lego mini figurine series.

Behold the queen of Egypt... Is she Cleopatra? I doubt so

I love the design arts on her robe which the pattern of wings both on the collar and the waist.

Instead of wearing of a crown, she wore a head band. That explain why I do not think she is a queen. Even on her head band having the wing like desgin on her head band.

One thing special about this lego figure was instead of two feet, she come with just one long dress as a robe.

She also comes with an accessory which some may mistaken it as a rod or a long cane. However it was suppose to be a snake or the olden English addressed that as a serpent.

I have no idea why on earth a Egyptian woman comes with a green snake. If it was a cat I can fully understand. For a serpent, I figure out that she could be kind of a evil character.

Coming back to the character herself, I personally find the make up was quite colorful.

But we all know the fate of the Egpytian that their destiny will be something like this for mummification.

If you are wondering that is the Mummy from the previous series which comes with a scorpion. I do have a guts feeling that the Mummy is somehow related to the Egyptian woman.

Yes it could be the husband. Scary isn't it if you make a vow of death till us part where in this case he is now an undead.

I will be looking out for other Egyptian series in time to come. Kinda remind me of MJ remember the time music video. LOL

Acree Transformers Prime Review

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 06:16:00 +0000

For the beginning of the year, I decided to do a Transformers Prime series, Acree review.

Ever since I watched the series, I told myself she is one Autobot toy that I must have. It could be she is the only female character for Autobots.

I went for TakaraTomy version and this is the First Edition. You can see Hasbro logo there but you will also see the TakaraTomy logo. Regardless Hasbro or TakaraTomy license, both were made in China.

If you are wondering what is the difference between Hasbro and TakaraTomy Version, there are some obvious difference as such the TakaraTomy Version display the figure in robot mode while Hasbro version are in vehicle mode. Generally TakaraTomy version comes with more painted colors which is one reason why the price for this series are more higher compare to the Hasbro version.

Another thing I want to point out about the card packaging is the calm shell is a helmet design which I believe it is Bumblebee. I didn't realised that until I open the toy and look at the naked Clam shell.

On the card, Acree from the Transformers Prime series look really good.

Out of the box, the standing Acree look good all around.

As a lady, the important part will be the heels and Acree do have some good heels. Good thing is there are not too high.

As for weapons and accessories, Acree only comes with two blades which can be attached on both of her arms. The designer was wise to give Acree a good looking lady curve as a good blossom.

As a action figure in robot mode, Acree can do some good pose.

Spining blades! Somehow at this view, Acree's bottom look bee like.

I have made a comparison of this deluxe Acree with a older scout class Acree in my collection. Deluxe of course is way taller than scout class. Good improvement of the design.

For robot mode, I give Acree a full 5 stars for the design and consistent to the animation.

Okay let's transform it to vehicle mode!

The Transformation is simple and very straight to the point. This is part of the transformation in Vehicle and Robot mode. Funny right?

I love this part of transformation of Acree's legs kneeing down to be vehicle mode.

In vehicle mode, Acree was simply well disguised. It look so cool as a Motorbike.

Both back and front are so flawless. No sign of the Autobot logo on Acree in Vehicle mode.

I just felt they can put some sticker on the dashboard to make it more realistic.

Now I am trying to put some character as a rider on Acree so she can move around without any rider and the best one I can find is a 3.75" Kamen Rider.

Does it look good?

In short this Acree make me glad to have her in my collection. Worth every cents I paid and somehow I love her in Robot mode more.

Now some G1 fans always felt Acree should be in pink and there was a pink version as an exclusive for this Acree. Personally I think it look weird for a pink motorbike. Maybe that is just me but I feel this blue tone suit Acree well. If it is Red, it could be better but I shouldn't give Hasbro ideas.

Recap of 2011 on Open The Toy

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 20:07:00 +0000

I guess this is the last post of 2011 and for the last post, allow me to recap of the highlights on Open the Toy in 2011.

January

I started the year reviewing a TakaraTomy Transformer animated Jetfire. Kicked off the year for making the resolution of what the blog is heading. I spoke about the answer to a popular question, Should we open our toys. Have the privilege to conduct a interview with the owner of one of the Malaysia 15 years old Toy outlet, XL Shop who run not only a successful toy shops but also a forum and comic related to Toys. One of the unexpected review of Transformers Tomahawk created an awareness of the alternate mode that was never documented by Hasbro.

February

It's a short month with the highlight of the Chinese Lunar New year. Did a review on Trexi Spongebob squarepants review of the fun figure. The rare looking Kaioken SD Son Goku also get quite a lot of love. Since Gundam Unicorn 3 was going to screen, a giveaway for tickets was conducted.

March

Visited Singapore one and only TinTin shop at Chinatown. My blog mascot OTTi did a mini story about opening a Toy business and Beauty is subjective. Delighted to have an interview with my milk toof which photography of the cutest of these two tooth make many heart melts. During that time, Japan was hit by natural disaster and I wrote about some mindless and ugly side of some toy collectors who only cares about their preorders. Some coverage on Gundam Unicorn episode 3 screening and the Beyblade that was popular among kids.

April

April I took on the challenge to blog about A to Z and the amount of toy review was awesome! Covering from the Crow, Miku Hatsune, Strider from Lord of the Rings, Redeemer from Spawn series, a rare Queen emeraldas figure and more! You can read all the entries of summary at one post! For event I covered a Japanese theme Capsule game carnival and it was fun!

May

For topic I discussed about Sense and Sensibility of toy collecting. I was glad to pick up on offers Lugnut and a Tokidoki unicorn. For lego the rare Radioactive suit hazmat and the Elven warrior. I also talked about the Nazgul, the ring wraith. I found a hidden treasure of my childhood toy, a highway patrol police car made of Tin cover. For capsule, the Pentax Kr camera got a lot of love.
The event of the month were Japanese art fiesta 2011 and License2play and Toy carnival Lastly a exclusive review on Leon Ku masterpieces of Kamen Rider model kit.

June

A review of a female Gundam, Nobell Gundam. For event, there was ComiFest which as lots of activities and cosplayers. Had quite a number of fast food to get Kungfu panda from McDonalds and Optimus Prime from KFC. My monoeye collection of gashapon continue as I got the series 2. Received a master pieces colored by a rising Model kit maker, Toymaker of Goku from Dragonball. I discovered there was a slot car racing in Singapore too!

July

In July two of the manjor toys reviews are two model kit by TakaraTomy that took the whole by storm, DMK 01 Optimus Prime and Bumble bee. One of the exclusive was one of the established model kit artist, Leon Ku take on Bumble bee. I managed to get Pororo the little penguin soft toy for my child thanks to a Korean friend and locally a Mattel Lightning McQueen from Cars 2. I have given my 2 cents over Dragonball in S.H.Figuarts going to exclusive only for future references starting for Super Saiyan Vegeta and also on my thoughts of toy warehouse sales scene of some ugly side of battle fields.

August

One of the major event that month would be the STGCC 2011. One of the awesome exclusive were the Cycle-on and El Podersoso android which the artist Andrew Bell autograph for me especially. Since it was Singapore National day that month, I did a review on Singa the Lion a mascot of a Singapore campaign since the 1980s. Not forgetting the Top toy reviewed, S.H.Figuarts Kamen Rider shin 1 which is a action figure I wanted a long time. Not forgetting some Transformers love to one of the best in the Dark of the Moon series, Megatron voyager class.

September

I started September with my sharing of my limitation on toy collecting. I also shared my two vintage Battle armor He-man and Battle armor Skeletor follow by the latest reboot of Mattel He-man. As for female character toy review, Figma Append Miku Hatsune gets the spotlight. During the Takashimaya 15th crazy toy sale, picked up a TakaraTomy Pokemon train set on great discount and amuse my child for hours. Not forgetting Smurf the movie was released and mcDonalds Happy meal release smurf toys too.

October

There was much capsule love for October which cover reviews on Cars 2 and Drossel. A exclusive OTTi version by Caramelaw. Went for some outdoor group shoot and decided to share some tips of outdoor Toy photography. Got some blind bag Lego and Playmobil that month too!

November

This was a Gundam month as Gunpla Expo Singapore 2011 and Gundam Unicorn screening at AFA 2011. I did a countdown with Minnano Advent Gundam box set of 10 unique toys from Gundam universe such as Earth federation forces helmet, Zeon time Bomb, diecast Char statue and Micro version of robot damashii G3 Gundam. Reviewed Revoltech Haruhi Suzumiya and Stewie griffin toy from Family guy. We celebrate our Third anniversary with being nominated as finalist for Nuffnang Asia Pacific blog award 2011

December

We attended the Nuffnang Asia Pacific blog award 2011 to which we are nominated as the finalist of Best Geek blogwhich was awesome and caught a glimpse of Comic Fiesta in KL. Revisit the 1990s mcDonald play ground set Happy meal toy and Bumblebee from War of Cybertron. Got myself 40th Anniversary of Cup noodle Gundam and Zaku II while for snack a m&m lightsaber for my kid. Last but not least the top 10 reviewed toys on Open the Toy 2011.

So that wrapped up 2011 and Happy New year to you my fellow readers who followed us for 2011. You can read recap of 2010 and 2009 happening on Open the toy!
Thank you and have a good year!

2011 Top 10 Reviewed Toys

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 22:05:00 +0000

We are coming to the end of 2011 and it is time for me to do a quick countdown of the top 10 toys that I reviewed on Open the toy for 2011.

You can read more about the review by clicking on the titles.

10. Mattel He-man
By the power of greyskull, He-man has landed in the 10 position of the toys that I reviewed this year. A better reboot of the classic line and this He-man look more proportion.

9. 40th Cup Noodle Anniversary Rx-78-2 Gundam!
For one of the chase Gunpla that I wanted for a very long, this Gundam earned his position as the 9th position.If you must know, the cup noodles taste great too! LOL

8. Haro Ball
Many always wanted to have such 1:1 scale Haro ball. There is no need of any electronic with it repeating your name. All it need to do is to look real and cute but most important useful to the user. In this case, it is as it is a storage ball.

7. Bearguy
Oh lord has mercy mercy mercy. In my opinion, this is the best Gunpla of the year in term of popularity as it get modeller to do lots of customize work on bearGuy. That is the measure of success for a good Gunpla if you asked me.

6. Voyager Lugnut
For Lugnut unwarier loyalty to Megatron, he deserved a position for the 6th position.I love both robot and vehicle mode. The plane mode is so World War 2 as a bomber.

5. Ultra seven from Ultra act
Ultra Seven instead of Seven has went to 5th position of this top 10 list. He is one of the Ultraman that I watched the complete series even in Malay in the 1980s. Why? because only Malaysia channel has such awesome show back then.

4. Bunny Haruhi Suzumiya
Everyone love Haruhi...some even like the seiyu (voice actress) of Haruhi. How sexy can it be for Haruhi dress in 80s bunny suit and rock with a electrical guitar! It is so Haruhi if you asked me.

3. Figma Append Miku Hatsune
Going for the 3rd and bronze position, it's figma Miku Hatsune Append version. I personally love this suit of Miku Hatsune as it is futuristic and I love the semi translucent hair. I deem her a Cool chick for sure!

2. TakaraTomy DMK01 Optimus Prime
This could well be the prefect movie version of Optimus Prime as a toy. When it was released, there were shortage of stock everywhere. TakaraTomy does not made much model kit but when they do, the quality is awesome! I had great fun putting him together but after the assembled I couldn't really play with it as it does not transform. So this Optimus Prime landed on the Silver award.

1. S.H.Figuarts Kamen Rider Shin 1
Kamen Rider 1 could be the first LIVE Japanese action character I know in my childhood and to see a worth toy as an action figure took like 3 decades. Better late than never. With the looks and the playability, this toy rocks! He even look good on photography! For that he earn the 1st and Gold award.

Now I think some may have other opinion of the best toy reviewed on Open the Toy. If you have, leave a comment and tell us why you think the first position should be. :)

Miss Universe Singapore finalist on Toy Review

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:14:00 +0000

It is rare to see beauty and ~~Nerd~~ Geek mixed into one person but today Open the toy is going to share one of such cases.

In this case, it was a Miss Universe Singapore finalist (2011) doing a toy review! Her name is Michelle and is reviewing a toy which she won from my Christmas Giveaway last week.

Michelle run a blog, michelleagy and we met briefly during Nuffnang Asia-Pacific Blogger award event. Michelle became a follower of my blog after the event and participated on my first Christmas giveaway which the contestants had to do something creative on the topic of "Afro".

Michelle entry stood out as she was the only one who drew a picture of OTTi with Afro hair and wearing a Santa hat.For her creativity, courage and devotion to draw a picture, she won.

She love the gift so much that she decided to do a review on the toy. This is her first time doing toy review and she even done a video (so you guys will get to see and hear her in person) so please be supportive as we all know toy reviewing in person in front of a camera need courage.

Head over to Michelle blog for her exclusive review and do like her in facebook and follow her too!

M&M Clone war Lightsaber

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 22:02:00 +0000

Remembering I wanted a Ultimate FX Lightsaber for Christmas? Well instead of someone getting one for me or I getting it myself, I got another lightsaber for my son.

This is from the Clone war series.

The handle is cover with M&M drawings

If you are wondering, the M&M are hidden inside the compartment here below the handle.

To activate the lightsaber, press the button on the handle.

Here is the size of the candy lightsaber and it comes with Red and blue. No green.

* I am a Jedi, like my father before me :)

I chose the blue one that represent the Jedi for my son. The lightsaber was light by a blue LED. It's pretty bright if you asked me but the size is like a Neo stick for concert. Then again this is for kids so the size is just right.

The logo of Star wars were printed on the blade which look really cool.

So far my son is playing with it but he did not know there are candy inside. I wouldn't want him to know as too much sweet is not good for him. LOL

I will eat that myself when he is not around. Hopefully it won't melt as it should melt in your mouth not in your hands. LOL

40th Cup Noodle Anniversary MS-06S ZAKUII

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 16:18:00 +0000

Merry Christmas everyone. Since it is Christmas day today, I have decided to review something Red! LOL

Sometime ago I blogged about the 40th anniversary cup-noodle Gundam RX-78-2 and some asked me if I got the Char Zaku II in the series as well. How would I forget about Char? So here it is, the 40th Anniversary Cup Noodles MS-0gS Zaku II for cup noodle decal! Seige ZEON!!

The main color was red for the packaging and against the white background it look stunting especially the artwork of the outline of Zaku. Not to forget the gold plating along the box.

The standard of the package is one cup of the model kit while another cup is the cup noodles. While I blog about this, that cup noodle was already consumed by me. LOL.

One side of the box illustrate the actual model kit in full color. The height was around 9cm.

I have to admit that Zaku make good cover for Cup noodles! Here is the cup with the model kit inside.

On the cover zaku came with his gun but the toy only came with an axe...Should I feel cheated?

Time to Open the Toy!!

So here's the content of what is inside of the cup.

It comes with clear instructions and various small parts for the model kit.

Here is the decal which is exclusive just for Nissan Cup noodles.

It took me a couple of hours to assemble, painted and put on the decal of this Char Zaku II.

I painted the kit with Gundam markers and I run out of some colors in the process but it doesn't look shabby right? If you see the glitter effects, it was the Gundam marker.

Zaku II came with generous decals and one of striking Cup noodles decal should be on the left shoulder.

Even the shield comes with the full decal which cover more than 50% of the surfaces. You may notice the logo of Char too. LOL

When put both Cup Noodle Zaku II and Gundam RX-78-2, they look so good together especially the color contrast.

The question you have to asked yourself would be which one of this two looked the best?

Original Gundam or Zaku II with Nissan Cup noodle decal?

China Limited Edition Dragon Ultimate Optimus Prime

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 22:05:00 +0000

As this year is coming to an end, the welcoming of the new year especially Chinese Lunar New year which was the year of Dragon, Hasbro China had rolled out a limited edition of the Ultimate Optimus Prime.

Originally when I seen a huge Optimus Prime with packaging similar to Hasbro but was some china brand so I looked closer just to confirm if this is yet another bootleg. It turned out that this is indeed from Hasbro but only for China.

I was told that this release was suppose to be only available in China retails as it is a limited edition to commemorate the coming year of the Lunar New year for the Dragon. Instead of the usual silver, it was replaced with shades of Gold as Chinese love Gold colors.

One of the obvious difference should be the trailer which was suppose to be silver now in red with gold graphic of a Dragon. The design look good but I felt the color could be painted in metallic. That I will expect more from TakaraTomy and not Hasbro. I was lucky to see an open sample in robot mode on display.

From the side, you can see the golden drawing and indeed it really give the Chinese feel.

A close up you can still see the dragon with it's claws and even the dragon ball!

The price tag was SGD$180 and to some Chinese getting Dragon related stuff for the year of Dragon is a popular move which they hope in return will bring good fortune. Personally I find these limited Edition interesting but it doesn't move me to own it as Ultimate Optimus Prime is too big for me and I felt the design doesn't really look compatible with the Optimus Prime that I know.

What's your take of this repaint edition especially from China?

Michael Jackson Experience HD on iPad

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 23:08:00 +0000

It has been sometime Michael Jackson the experience game on various game console regardless it was portable or not. On 8th December 2011, Michael Jackson the experience finally release on apple platform.

So what so different on apple version of this game? After I have experienced playing the same title on PSP and Wii version, I have to say this apple version are the best among the graphic on a portable device. Unlike Sony PSP version which was using cartoon version, this Michael Jackson was a computer 3D generation of him.

Even his music video part in the game was computer generated capturing the essence of MJ in that era of his music video.

The likeness of Michael is pretty good if you asked me. I couldn't asked for more as the graphic card on the device is limited by the end of the day.

There are supposed to be in total 13 songs of MJ but there are some songs you need to make additional payment for you to get it. Each song will have MJ in various costume that was supposed to be in line with his music video.

The game play was using finger movement recognition and it is rather easy to pick it up. The bonus is that if you can keep getting combo, there will be more backup dancer appearing in the game to follow you from behind.

If you select a more difficult level, you may required to use both hands and more movement to follow.

At some part of the song where there will be a showtime, you are suppose to do some moves to get some bonus points.

Over all the experience of the game is good and better than the PSP version if you asked me.

As a MJ fan, this is truly one good game to have and play during your free time if you have less than 5 minutes to spare.

Here is a trailer of the game.

It's pretty fun. You can get it for USD$4.99 on iPad if you like.

Figuarts ZERO Bleach: Aizen and Ichigo

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 23:00:00 +0000

Bandai Figuarts ZERO series after doing One Piece, one of the popular anime series Bleach will be included in the rank and should be releasing this month. Hooray for fans of Bleach!

First off, it will be Ichigo Kurosaki Getsuga Tensho Final Version.

This display toy stand 170mm, nicely painted and do justice of the Manga and Anime priced at 3,465 Yen. Personally I love the special effect.

On the Villain end, it's Sosuke Aizen!

In comparison to Ichigo, Aizen stand at 180mm. Taller than Ichigo as it is in the animation. The price however is the same as Ichigo at 3,465 Yen.

If you are getting this two together, you can simulate the dramatic confrontation scene! Look out for it if you are a Bleach fan!

Christmas Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:12:00 +0000

In the beginning of this month, I have made a survey over at my facebook page that I have intentions to give away some toys for Christmas, the feedback I got was overwhelming. Due to time constraint as we are just 5 days to Christmas, I have decided to do a series of Giveaway by interaction over at my facebook page.

A series of activities will be done over there from now till 23 of December 2011. What are the criteria?

1. You must "Like" Open the toy facebook page (Since season readers are supposed already a fan of the page).

2. You must be currently residing in Singapore and be in Singapore from now till 24th of December.

3. After your reply on each quiz, you may like the post and your own comment over at our facebook page. You can get others to like you comment as well. The best answer will be awarded as winner of the prize.

There will be different gift for different quiz and you can join all the activities there if one reply.

I will meet up with you at a place of my convenience to pass the winner the Christmas present.

What will be the gift? All I can said is it is a toy from my collection and the toy I am giving you is unopen even though I believe wholeheartedly regarding opening of my toys. :)

The gifts are just a token of my appreciation of your support and just want to share some of the season joy with you. If you are ready, head over there now!

What I want for Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (LEon) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 23:00:00 +0000

Dear Santa,

I have not been getting much present from you for years. I know maybe because I have done some naughty and bad stuff. I couldn't help it as I am not a saint and sometime some people in my life just pissed me off from time to time.

However for the past one year, I have been a good boy. Thus I think this year I should deserve something nice from you. Since it is a tradition to write down what I wanted, I have prepare a list and I have checked it twice just to make sure in cases you ran out of some toys you can replace other in the list just for backup.

If I may here are what I wanted and why I wanted it.

1. PS3 - cost SGD$400.00
It is not something new in my previous year request to you. Last few years I wanted a PS3 to play Final Fantasy, Grand Thief Auto and God of War. Since there are more good games this year such as Uncharted 3, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Batman: Arkham City. You know there were times I wanted to spend the money to get myself a PS3 until I took an arrow in the knee...

I know is lame but can I have a PS3 this Christmas?

Don't worry about 160GB or 320GB. Anyone I will not mind. However one year warranty from Sony is important. :P

No, Okay maybe it is too expensive for you. Let me go down the value a little.

2. Hot Toys Christopher Reeve SUPERMAN - Cost around SGD$300.00
This is the only Superman that I will acknowledge as the one true Superman and I will not accept any substitute! It's the late actor Christopher Reeve with good likeness of the man of Steel.

He was the first person I believe that man can fly... It is something I would like to believe just like I still believe in getting present from you Santa. If I could have it, this would be my first 12 inches figure in my collection.

Seriously Santa, I am not asking for limited edition or exclusive figure. It is just a regular Hottoys item...What? still too expensive for you? Hm...

3. Hasbro Ultimate fx lightsaber Luke Skywalker - Cost SGD$69.90
I would have asked for a Sith lightsaber but I know that that is bad as you do not approve the darkside. I wouldn't believe that you, Santa actually give out Sith lightsaber toy as it will be against your code. That been said, I just wanted a Green lightsaber from Return of the Jedi. Remember it's Green Santa, not blue or purple!

I give you my word that I will not hit anyone hard on the head if I have this lightsaber. Once I have this lightsaber, the circle will be complete as it will be my first decent Lightsaber that I owe... Although building one will be more fun but that will take years to master a Jedi to do so and searching such crystal will take ages and not to mention any more decent Jedi master to learn the way of the force...

So how about it Santa?

I hope to hear from you as Christmas is just days ahead.

Christmas don't be late!!

Always a very good boy,
LEon

PS: All above writing is fictional and it's purely written for entertainment value although the desire to have the above items is real. If you want to be my Santa, just drop me and let me know. Thank you in advance. :)