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Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014

Transformers News: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014

Saturday, July 5th, 2014 1:53PM CDT

Categories: Toy News, Collectables, Book News
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Here is something interesting Amazon Japan listed a preorder for the Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide set to be released on 7/30/2014 for 3,024 yen. Not much information is currently available but one would assume it would cover the entire history of the Masterpiece line and all their releases and perhaps a sneak peak at what's to come in 2015? Keep your optics tuned to Seibertron.com for the latest in news and updates, plus the best galleries around!
Credit(s): Amazon Japan

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Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588109)
Posted by megatronus on July 5th, 2014 @ 2:06pm CDT
Books like this are always a bit underwhelming, because you know they'll be completely outdated in 2-3 years.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588111)
Posted by mooncake623 on July 5th, 2014 @ 2:14pm CDT
megatronus wrote:Books like this are always a bit underwhelming, because you know they'll be completely outdated in 2-3 years.


While true it'll still be nice to have.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588116)
Posted by Deathsanras on July 5th, 2014 @ 2:46pm CDT
I still have my Binaltech Complete Guide ("complete" only up to BT-12 Overdrive) and it's still very cool.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588126)
Posted by Gallifreyan Autobot on July 5th, 2014 @ 3:33pm CDT
Maybe in 2015 they will hopefully make masterpiece editions of UT OR RID characters to give them a new life :BOWDOWN:
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588150)
Posted by atraus on July 5th, 2014 @ 5:38pm CDT
Masterpiece Beast Wars? Biggest shellformers ever!
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588175)
Posted by mooncake623 on July 5th, 2014 @ 7:33pm CDT
atraus wrote:Masterpiece Beast Wars? Biggest shellformers ever!


I'm fine with shellforming with beast war characters if it's necessary, and hidden well in robot mode. Masterpiece Beast wars would be cool but I doubt that'll be happening anytime soon.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588224)
Posted by triKlops on July 5th, 2014 @ 10:59pm CDT
Would love to get my hands on a copy of this.
Hopefully Ryan or Saberblade will be able to provide a link for purchase of this down the line.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588243)
Posted by megatronus on July 6th, 2014 @ 12:16am CDT
mooncake623 wrote:
atraus wrote:Masterpiece Beast Wars? Biggest shellformers ever!


I'm fine with shellforming with beast war characters if it's necessary, and hidden well in robot mode. Masterpiece Beast wars would be cool but I doubt that'll be happening anytime soon.

Yea - I'm sure the only way we'd see a Beast Wars MP anytime soon is if a BW character wins a fan poll, like Star Saber did.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588247)
Posted by leokearon on July 6th, 2014 @ 1:26am CDT
Sounds nice even if it is only 96 pages.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1588528)
Posted by Stormrider on July 7th, 2014 @ 6:33pm CDT
Very interesting. I have been collecting all of the Takara Generations books each year, which includes the Masterpiece line. So I would only be interested if they offer new pictures, concept art, interviews, etc.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1589823)
Posted by Cyberpath on July 11th, 2014 @ 4:46pm CDT
The page has been updated with the cover:

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Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1589973)
Posted by El Duque on July 12th, 2014 @ 10:58am CDT
Courtesy of Amazon Japan we have the cover for the recently announced The Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide. The 96 page book is schedule to release later this month on the 30th and retails for about $30.00. Check out the cover mirrored below, which features a really nice group shot of Masterpieces Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, Wheeljack, Sideswipe, Bumblebee, and Rodimus Prime.

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Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1589977)
Posted by Amelie on July 12th, 2014 @ 11:32am CDT
That photo really shows up how stupidly large HotRod is. Would love to see a V2 that was *just* Hotrod without all the crap about it also being Rodimus Prime. I know the original G1 Hotrod toy was huge compared to the original "diaclone" cast, but the few moments we do see Hotrod and Prime together in the movie - hes not that huge.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1589986)
Posted by El Duque on July 12th, 2014 @ 11:52am CDT
Here's a quick follow up to our earlier cover reveal for the upcoming The Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide, we not have a peek inside courtesy of AnimeAnime. The book is due to release July 30th for around $30.00 USD. Check out the preview mirrored below:


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Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1589999)
Posted by MGrotusque on July 12th, 2014 @ 12:37pm CDT
I think this book is completely unnecessary being that the internet exists and will give you comprehensive information and videos of these figures.
Not saying books are pointless these days just that in this particular application of information the internet wins.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590005)
Posted by Downbeat on July 12th, 2014 @ 12:49pm CDT
I figure they're gonna reveal SOMETHING we don't already know about the masterpiece molds.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590029)
Posted by ScottyP on July 12th, 2014 @ 1:19pm CDT
MGrotusque wrote:I think this book is completely unnecessary being that the internet exists and will give you comprehensive information and videos of these figures.
Not saying books are pointless these days just that in this particular application of information the internet wins.


I think that's a pretty meritocratic statement to make about the value of books. Printed media, to many, has a certain intrinsic value and a sense of permanence that data on the internet does not have. That's the market for this book, folks like me that absolutely adore printed, touchable, high quality information that doesn't have to be looked at through a screen. Books like this are not meant to replace information that can be found online, they're meant to be a fun, enjoyable resource that captures information at a moment in time and keeps it in one compact physical spot.

How much information that was hosted regularly ten years ago is just plain gone now? Like it or not, the data we spill online is not as permanent as often perceived. Sure, it won't burn up in a fire or be eaten by moths, but it's also subject to as many different varieties and whims of fate as a book is.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590044)
Posted by Stormrider on July 12th, 2014 @ 2:16pm CDT
Cyberpath wrote:The page has been updated with the cover:

Image


Bee looks so tiny in the picture. His price even with Spike is hard to justify.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590110)
Posted by griftimus prime on July 12th, 2014 @ 5:02pm CDT
lol a bunch of pages with the same ten molds on each page.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590154)
Posted by Dr. Caelus on July 12th, 2014 @ 6:31pm CDT
Masterpiece Transformers: So expensive, you'll pay $30 just to get the catalog.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590172)
Posted by MGrotusque on July 12th, 2014 @ 7:28pm CDT
ScottyP wrote:
MGrotusque wrote:I think this book is completely unnecessary being that the internet exists and will give you comprehensive information and videos of these figures.
Not saying books are pointless these days just that in this particular application of information the internet wins.


I think that's a pretty meritocratic statement to make about the value of books. Printed media, to many, has a certain intrinsic value and a sense of permanence that data on the internet does not have. That's the market for this book, folks like me that absolutely adore printed, touchable, high quality information that doesn't have to be looked at through a screen. Books like this are not meant to replace information that can be found online, they're meant to be a fun, enjoyable resource that captures information at a moment in time and keeps it in one compact physical spot.

How much information that was hosted regularly ten years ago is just plain gone now? Like it or not, the data we spill online is not as permanent as often perceived. Sure, it won't burn up in a fire or be eaten by moths, but it's also subject to as many different varieties and whims of fate as a book is.

It's not a book. It's a catalogue. Also...i'm not denouncing "books" because the internet exists. I just think it's silly for this guide to exist in this format. Waste of good trees when it's all available on the interwebs in far more detail.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590227)
Posted by Hero Alpha on July 12th, 2014 @ 10:15pm CDT
Amelie wrote:That photo really shows up how stupidly large HotRod is. Would love to see a V2 that was *just* Hotrod without all the crap about it also being Rodimus Prime. I know the original G1 Hotrod toy was huge compared to the original "diaclone" cast, but the few moments we do see Hotrod and Prime together in the movie - hes not that huge.


Rodimus Prime was that much bigger than Hot Rod and in scale with Optimus. And I think the masterpiece is of Rodimus.?
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590241)
Posted by Seibertron on July 12th, 2014 @ 11:35pm CDT
ScottyP wrote:
MGrotusque wrote:I think this book is completely unnecessary being that the internet exists and will give you comprehensive information and videos of these figures.
Not saying books are pointless these days just that in this particular application of information the internet wins.


I think that's a pretty meritocratic statement to make about the value of books. Printed media, to many, has a certain intrinsic value and a sense of permanence that data on the internet does not have. That's the market for this book, folks like me that absolutely adore printed, touchable, high quality information that doesn't have to be looked at through a screen. Books like this are not meant to replace information that can be found online, they're meant to be a fun, enjoyable resource that captures information at a moment in time and keeps it in one compact physical spot.

How much information that was hosted regularly ten years ago is just plain gone now? Like it or not, the data we spill online is not as permanent as often perceived. Sure, it won't burn up in a fire or be eaten by moths, but it's also subject to as many different varieties and whims of fate as a book is.


Yes indeed ... and on that note I just ordered this book from Amazon Japan earlier today. Looking forward to adding it to my Japanese book collection. There is always something cool to learn from these books.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590305)
Posted by TimothyR on July 13th, 2014 @ 8:22am CDT
MGrotusque wrote:I think this book is completely unnecessary being that the internet exists and will give you comprehensive information and videos of these figures.
Not saying books are pointless these days just that in this particular application of information the internet wins.


i agree that it's unnecessary.. but for different reasons.

i think it's just too early in the line for a book like this.. i mean, at least give us a definitive megatron or galvatron before something like this.

i REALLY REALLY hope there are some hints towards the future and maybe a hint as to what's next.

also, i'm surprised they aren't showing screen grabs from the G1 show since they (hasui) specifically stated that they're based primarily off of the cartoon and the real world vehicle.

this is still cool.. i just think it's too early.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590402)
Posted by Amelie on July 13th, 2014 @ 3:50pm CDT
Moonshot wrote:I think the masterpiece is of Rodimus.?


Debatable. There isn't a single part of Rodimus Prime's alt-mode that doesn't have to be attached as some sort of accessory. Its HotRod. With an exchangeable face and a leg extending gimmick. The Winnebago mode relies on a removable cab and trailer. The actual Car-mode is massive compared to the other MPs
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590427)
Posted by durroth on July 13th, 2014 @ 5:35pm CDT
hotrod just looks off in general compared to the others for some reason. it's not even his size, he just stands out as having a different aesthetic. it's kinda weird.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590439)
Posted by Convoy on July 13th, 2014 @ 6:00pm CDT
durroth wrote:hotrod just looks off in general compared to the others for some reason. it's not even his size, he just stands out as having a different aesthetic. it's kinda weird.


Wasn't the same guy who was responsible for Hot/Rodimus also responsible for designing MP Megatron who also has a stand out aesthetic?

If I could read this book I would totally buy it.
On that note, I'll be here waiting on the internet for news on what secrets the book might hold.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590473)
Posted by Sabrblade on July 13th, 2014 @ 6:58pm CDT
This book contains never-before-seen content such as early design sketches, dropped concepts, prototypes, behind-the-scenes interviews and anecdotes with the designers...

Yeah, totally stuff that can already be found readily available online! >:oP
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590559)
Posted by Hero Alpha on July 13th, 2014 @ 11:17pm CDT
Amelie wrote:
Moonshot wrote:I think the masterpiece is of Rodimus.?


Debatable. There isn't a single part of Rodimus Prime's alt-mode that doesn't have to be attached as some sort of accessory. Its HotRod. With an exchangeable face and a leg extending gimmick. The Winnebago mode relies on a removable cab and trailer. The actual Car-mode is massive compared to the other MPs


If I am not mistaken though the masterpiece figures are based on robot mode scale first and alt second from G1 cartoon. So Rodimus is in scale with Optimus, if he were Hot Rod he would be shorter. The cartoon didn't consider his "trailer/camper" thing with robot mode.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1590887)
Posted by mooncake623 on July 15th, 2014 @ 9:03am CDT
New details on the Transformers Masterpiece series guidebook have been posted on Amazon Japan Along with a picture of the cover, we also get a sneak peak at what we'll see inside. Along with staff interviews with Takara-Tomy we are also expecting to see a lot of unused design sketches and prototype pictures.

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Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595641)
Posted by mooncake623 on August 1st, 2014 @ 12:19am CDT
With the Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide released in Japan and thanks to Weibo user 北马伊斯力 we get in-hand images of some of the pages! Enjoy!

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Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595691)
Posted by MenaceRX on August 1st, 2014 @ 9:07am CDT
Looks like a great read with all the cad and sketch drawing of how they came up with the transformations.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595705)
Posted by MenaceRX on August 1st, 2014 @ 10:17am CDT
Is this available anywhere besides Amazon Japan?
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595706)
Posted by Triptykon on August 1st, 2014 @ 10:32am CDT
This book is a must have for me, just as much as the masterpieces themselves. Side note: As an avid collector, Id really like to see some outlet other than TrU get exclusivity once in a while.

And man.....Magnus is huge! :)
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595709)
Posted by triKlops on August 1st, 2014 @ 11:03am CDT
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595712)
Posted by durroth on August 1st, 2014 @ 11:09am CDT
Triptykon wrote: And man.....Magnus is huge! :)

yeah, :D he's practically super Magnus, ooh, better yet, *Ultra* Magnus. 8) 8) 8) :michaelbay:
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595720)
Posted by Vegitron on August 1st, 2014 @ 11:42am CDT
I'm a collector of these Japanese Transformers guides/books/magazines. Even though I can't read Japanese, I can still appreciate the pictures and art work. Plus I like the feel of the books in my hands. Flipping through pages in a thick heavy book is much nicer than clicking a link. Plus if I really want to understand the text, I can use google translate on my phone. (although it's quite tedious)

I ordered my copy along with the Transformers Pia Book (2014 Tokyo Transformers Expo Official Book) from http://www.cdjapan.co.jp
Prices are along the lines with HLJ and Amazon JP which also carry many of these books.

Looking forward to their arrival in a few weeks. (picked slow SAL shipping)
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595794)
Posted by Sabrblade on August 1st, 2014 @ 6:26pm CDT
durroth wrote:
Triptykon wrote: And man.....Magnus is huge! :)

yeah, :D he's practically super Magnus, ooh, better yet, *Ultra* Magnus. 8) 8) 8) :michaelbay:
In Japanese, "super" and "ultra" are the same thing: 超 (Chō). :-B
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595848)
Posted by Convoy on August 2nd, 2014 @ 1:16am CDT
Sabrblade wrote:In Japanese, "super" and "ultra" are the same thing: 超 (Chō). :-B


But... that would make Super Megatron and Ultra Megatron... THE SAME MEGATRON!!?

:BOOM:
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1595892)
Posted by Sabrblade on August 2nd, 2014 @ 9:13am CDT
Convoy wrote:
Sabrblade wrote:In Japanese, "super" and "ultra" are the same thing: 超 (Chō). :-B


But... that would make Super Megatron and Ultra Megatron... THE SAME MEGATRON!!?

:BOOM:
Thankfully, they used the English "Sūpā" and "Urutora" for those. :P
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1596230)
Posted by Cyberpath on August 3rd, 2014 @ 3:02pm CDT
TFW2005 posted two interviews from the book, translated to English by one of its members:

Hironori Kobayashi http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-new ... ce-180869/

Shogo Hasui: http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-new ... ce-180877/


Heh, back in March 2013 I named four characters that I thought should get a Masterpiece figure; two of which will be out later this year (Wheeljack and Bumblebee) and the other two were now mentioned by Hasui:

- What kind of future development are you hoping for?

H: The series has grown based on the concept established in MP-10, so I expect they will continue with the in-scale Robot modes and licensed real cars. On top of that, I hope the series moves onto the next, higher step.
I was introduced to the world of Transformers by combiner warriors, so personally I hope to see such characters in the MP series. Also I would like to see Megatron in scale with MP-10 soon or the characters who weren't given many opportunities to have their toys made such as Ironhide.
More than anything I hope it continues on as a series that realises the fans' wishes.

I hope he gets to do them.
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1596328)
Posted by RSDADDIMUS2 on August 3rd, 2014 @ 9:57pm CDT
When I win the lottery,I will be able to afford the Masterpiece line.At that time,I will purchase this guide.lol
Re: Transformers Masterpiece Official Guide available 7 / 30 / 2014 (1596614)
Posted by Vegitron on August 4th, 2014 @ 8:21pm CDT
Those two translated interviews were pretty insightful. I've been pretty hesitant in spending so much for such small figures, but this helps persuade me to bite the bullet and catch up on my MP collection.

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