In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped

Text in 2nd picture: "The sticker sheet was folded into two halves."

Text in 3rd picture: "The styrofoam block is missing."

Text in 4th picture: "The eyes are painted."


EDIT: checked original tweets for exact context

Nice to hear at least one of the companies making Transformers cares about QC.

I'm not a serious MISB collector, so could someone tell me....double taping? Does that just mean the box is sealed at various points with two applications of tape? How does that affect the toy's value?

Optimum Supreme wrote:Nice to hear at least one of the companies making Transformers cares about QC.

Given the size and cost of him TT have no choice BUT to make sure there aren't any QC issues with him.

Guessing that means it was taped.... RE-OPENED to re-inspect... the re-sealed with a second piece of tape. To MISB collectors, it would appear that their MISB item was opened, thus ruining it's resale value.

If you're planning on keeping it MISB, best to get the re-issue sealed one. Planning on opening it, this early run is for YOU!

I'm cracking that thing open AND I DESERVE IT.

Deruji wrote:Text in 2nd picture: "The sticker sheet was folded into two halves."

Text in 3rd picture: "The styrofoam block is missing."

Text in 4th picture: "The eyes are painted."

EDIT: checked original tweets for exact context

Thank you, Deruji. You told me exactly what I wanted to know. I may not be able to pre-order, but I hope the price isn't UNGODLY when I do finally get to buy one.
-- Cybertronian.
P.S.: (Fantasizes of a new centerpiece for my dream model railroad layout. Lionel... meet FM!)

RhA wrote:I'm cracking that thing open AND I DESERVE IT.

RhA, if this were Facebook (or Twitter), I'd "like" your comment. I couldn't agree more.

I hope everyone post pictures after getting theirs! Would love to see that Lionel train set run around Fort Max!

As for me, I'm going to try to figure out a good way to combine two of them (i.e. old one and reissue) into an attractive, believable city mode. Any inspiration you know about? I managed a great combined G1 metroplex city from two, but haven't seen or heard of anyone tackling one from Fort Max.

Cybertronian wrote:

RhA wrote:I'm cracking that thing open AND I DESERVE IT.

RhA, if this were Facebook (or Twitter), I'd "like" your comment. I couldn't agree more.

I'd 'like' it as well. I've waited so long for a Fort Max. No way in HELL am I keeping mine in the box!

gothsaurus wrote:Guessing that means it was taped.... RE-OPENED to re-inspect... the re-sealed with a second piece of tape. To MISB collectors, it would appear that their MISB item was opened, thus ruining it's resale value.

If you're planning on keeping it MISB, best to get the re-issue sealed one. Planning on opening it, this early run is for YOU!

From a strict MISB collector, I see this as such. However... I was given good news from Jeremy at TFsource. It appears that this is only affecting the early bird orders, not the other release. However, if you still want a single taped MISB piece, it is best to email the store requesting one... Instead of just holding off.

I'm a fan of G1 and have bought as many reissues as I can but I just can't get excited about Fort Max and I don't know why.

KUMA-NIN Maximus wrote:From a strict MISB collector, I see this as such.

Not necessarily, but alot depends on how thoughtful TakaraTomy are here.

If TakaraTomy are just using standard tape to retape the box then your point is spot on.

However I'm reminded of how customs approaches retaping packages, where the tape is printed with writing stating that the box has been opened and inspected by them. Brown goods companies have done the same with things like DVD players. If TakaraTomy have properly thought things through on this and if the run is large enough to justify it, then there's no reason why TakaraTomy couldn't use tape with writing on it to that effect - especially if other items, such as an Encore Overlord are released down the track (if the demand for Fort Max proves high enough, it's a definite possibility) where the same process will happen.

If they were to go down this road, then technically they have remained sealed from before leaving the manufacturer and therefore should be classed as MISB as it could be proven that the retaping had been done by the manufacturer themselves.

Site sponsor Robotkingdom has posted some additional shots of Takara Tomy's Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus. These images include the packaging, an up close of the head, the commemorative coin, and promotional phone earplug jack plug. Check out the images mirrored below.

Regarding its FREE premium, we are happy to announce that all encore23 preorder will be included the Fotress Maximus phone plug and exclusive coins !!! But the exclusive coins has been limted and it will be "first come first serve" til it runs out, and the free exclusive coins will not be offered after 31March orders.

I could not have anticipated the level of excitement I felt seeing those pics. Looking forward to him in the next few weeks.

Bowspearer wrote:

KUMA-NIN Maximus wrote:From a strict MISB collector, I see this as such.

Not necessarily, but alot depends on how thoughtful TakaraTomy are here.

If TakaraTomy are just using standard tape to retape the box then your point is spot on.

However I'm reminded of how customs approaches retaping packages, where the tape is printed with writing stating that the box has been opened and inspected by them. Brown goods companies have done the same with things like DVD players. If TakaraTomy have properly thought things through on this and if the run is large enough to justify it, then there's no reason why TakaraTomy couldn't use tape with writing on it to that effect - especially if other items, such as an Encore Overlord are released down the track (if the demand for Fort Max proves high enough, it's a definite possibility) where the same process will happen.

If they were to go down this road, then technically they have remained sealed from before leaving the manufacturer and therefore should be classed as MISB as it could be proven that the retaping had been done by the manufacturer themselves.

You missed the point I was making. Customs does not inspect packages shipped by major companies. They only check out specific packages that are sent to people and stores that do not pass the first part - namely x-rays (if the info I was given is still up to date).

Meaning that unless you live in a country where they open up every package, regardless of the business, this is not an issue. Because the stores will be shipping them MISB and it is highly unlikely the double tape "ordeal" (which, as I stated, only applies to the early shipments) is just going to have them using the same tape and double tape it. And that is not an issue unless you plan to submit it to AFA.

After seeing the classics Metroplex coming out later this year, this re-issue seems to be a little less awesome.

Rated X wrote:Edit: double post.

I think it's time to allow people to delete their own posts. Was there ever a logical reason as to why we cant ?

In case someone decides to get abusive before a Moderator can deal with it.

Back on topic ... had to pay an extra $32 as due to his size, he has to come EMS to Australia.

Does anyone else think it's strange that the headphone plug is marked Hasbro for a release that they won't / can't sell?

Rated X wrote:After seeing the classics Metroplex coming out later this year, this re-issue seems to be a little less awesome.

Agreed. My interest is invested in Metroplex. FM is a monumental release mind you but i'm more stoked on Metro. That F@*!er is gonna be awesome! Least i hope so anyways.

Hey guys Im new to this site, on holiday for the easter break and decided to do a little transformers shopping around the shops today picked up the fortress maximus and a couple of other things. anyways question about the head. is it suppose to have he eye stickers already applied?

These came free

Unboxed

Are the Eyes stickers uppose to be already applied?

TFYUKI continues to tease fans with images of Takara Tomy's soon to be released Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus. Check out his latest tweets mirrored below.

Fort Max will definitely look so awesome decorated with a mess of Legends and Cyberverse figs fighting for control of this mighty behemoth...'nuff said!!

prototype33 wrote:Are the Eyes stickers uppose to be already applied?

for the Encore release, they aren't stickers this time. The eyes are painted to look like the old eye stickers.

Sabrblade wrote:

prototype33 wrote:Are the Eyes stickers uppose to be already applied?

for the Encore release, they aren't stickers this time. The eyes are painted to look like the old eye stickers.

I think it also comes with the eye stickers, so you can apply them over the painted ones for a more vintage look.

Wait, what's that Black Fort Max repaint in the middle of the top picture?

Gearslide wrote:Wait, what's that Black Fort Max repaint in the middle of the top picture?

Brave Maximus

El Duque wrote:

Gearslide wrote:Wait, what's that Black Fort Max repaint in the middle of the top picture?

Brave Maximus

Oh right. I've never seen Brave in anything but Robot mode, so I was expecting him to be mostly blue.

I'd love a solid BLACK version... or a white Metroplex "Autobot City" style version with nice painted windows.

Oh yeah, or a Grand Max. (ha) Or all of the above.

El Duque wrote:

Gearslide wrote:Wait, what's that Black Fort Max repaint in the middle of the top picture?

Brave Maximus

aka RiD Fortress Maximus. By 2001, US Toy Safety Laws would not allow Fortress Maximus to be released here.

Gearslide wrote:

El Duque wrote:

Gearslide wrote:Wait, what's that Black Fort Max repaint in the middle of the top picture?

Brave Maximus

Oh right. I've never seen Brave in anything but Robot mode, so I was expecting him to be mostly blue.

I haven't launched Brave Maximus' gallery yet because I haven't had a chance to do comparison shots of him with the other RID figures from that series. However, I do have his pics done so hopefully some time in the next few months I'll bust out the RID tub o' figures.

In the meantime, Brave made an appearance in Grand Maximus' gallery which you can view by clicking on the images below.

Isn't that black one the prototype they showed a few months ago?

Desslok2201 wrote:Isn't that black one the prototype they showed a few months ago?

It's Brave Max. Black tower, black feet, dark blue legs, yellow windows.

I'm guessing the lighting makes it look black in this pic? (no black on MY Brave Max.)

gothsaurus wrote:I'm guessing the lighting makes it look black in this pic? (no black on MY Brave Max.)

Aren't the feet, head, Plasma, and side door on the right leg black?

Argh. Had to cancel mine due to unemployment. Can you all do me a solid and love yours like you're five years old and it's the best toy on Christmas Day? That'd be awesome.

datguy86 wrote:Argh. Had to cancel mine due to unemployment. Can you all do me a solid and love yours like you're five years old and it's the best toy on Christmas Day? That'd be awesome.

I'll do something better - After I have it graded and displayed, I'll do that once in a while. I'll even ponder how my inner child would have displayed it and more.

Shame I don't have the money or room for him. I already have an Autobot city set up in my room comprised of Metroplex, Countdown, Greasepit, Ironworks and NINE Optimus Prime trailers. G1, powermaster, Machine Wars, RID, three different Armada trailers with Overlord in place of one tower, Energon and Cybertron. I also have two Hot Spots and Silverbolts connected to Metroplex with Scattorshot in cannon mode hanging out with them.

The city is populated by a few minibots, a handful of cyberverse, a bunch of micromasters, a lot of spychangers and a TON of minicons. I actually ran out of room before I ran out of minicons but when I set up the dismal Decpticon city I can use them. I only have Trypticon, Scorpinok and RID Scourge's trailer for the con city but I have a bunch of Onslaughts and Mega Octanes.

If only I had the money for Fort Max.

Alpha Weltall wrote:Shame I don't have the money or room for him. I already have an Autobot city set up in my room comprised of Metroplex, Countdown, Greasepit, Ironworks and NINE Optimus Prime trailers. G1, powermaster, Machine Wars, RID, three different Armada trailers with Overlord in place of one tower, Energon and Cybertron. I also have two Hot Spots and Silverbolts connected to Metroplex with Scattorshot in cannon mode hanging out with them.

The city is populated by a few minibots, a handful of cyberverse, a bunch of micromasters, a lot of spychangers and a TON of minicons. I actually ran out of room before I ran out of minicons but when I set up the dismal Decpticon city I can use them. I only have Trypticon, Scorpinok and RID Scourge's trailer for the con city but I have a bunch of Onslaughts and Mega Octanes.

If only I had the money for Fort Max.

Apologies for being slightly off topic, but I'd love to see a photo if you've got one, please?

*paws feebly at his monitor, whimpering* WAAAAAANNNNNNNT...

OK, if I get this I.T. job I just interviewed for, I am SO treating myself to this bad boy.

Sodan-1 wrote:

Alpha Weltall wrote:Shame I don't have the money or room for him. I already have an Autobot city set up in my room comprised of Metroplex, Countdown, Greasepit, Ironworks and NINE Optimus Prime trailers. G1, powermaster, Machine Wars, RID, three different Armada trailers with Overlord in place of one tower, Energon and Cybertron. I also have two Hot Spots and Silverbolts connected to Metroplex with Scattorshot in cannon mode hanging out with them.

The city is populated by a few minibots, a handful of cyberverse, a bunch of micromasters, a lot of spychangers and a TON of minicons. I actually ran out of room before I ran out of minicons but when I set up the dismal Decpticon city I can use them. I only have Trypticon, Scorpinok and RID Scourge's trailer for the con city but I have a bunch of Onslaughts and Mega Octanes.

If only I had the money for Fort Max.

Apologies for being slightly off topic, but I'd love to see a photo if you've got one, please?

"One"? lol. I have a lot of pictures of it but they didn't come out too well as the best camera in the house is my 3DS' and there's just so much going on in the city that the pictures didn't come out very well. I plan on retaking the pictures though as I face palmed myself after forgetting to put the G1 trailer in using it's "repair bay" mode.

Then I need to turn around and retake pictures of my version of a "classics" display as I had a few out for the original pics and I have since gotten a few more to put into it and dug out more from my collection to cram in as well. But again, the pics won't come out well due to bad lighting and too many figures clumped together. But I will do this soon.

El Duque wrote:TFYUKI continues to tease fans with images of Takara Tomy's soon to be released Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus. Check out his latest tweets mirrored below.

[center]

It's like the 'burbs of Cybertron in that picture. I'm absolutely thrilled I'll have one of these in the next month.

Aaaaw, I have a lot of minicons/cyberverse.

Mine will arrive tuesday or wednesday. CAN'T WAITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT

Japanese toy blogger Alfes 2010 has received Takara Tomy's Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus, and post images of the figure straight out of the box prior to applying stickers. Special guest appearance by Kabaya Fortress Maximus!

Fort Max looks strange without its stickers. That's all I have to say.

Even without his stickers, I'm getting as giddy as the 10-year old boy who wanted this almost three decades ago. I will probably have to change my shorts several times when he arrives at my house. He may cost three times as much as he did back then, but after waiting this long, I'm cracking that box open the second it gets here. I deserve it after a wait like this!!

P.S. After looking through the pictures again...holy s**t......he's HUGE...that sword alone is big enough to fit into a HUMAN hand???

So he comes with a miniature version of himself?