Blog

LEGO and Sony have officially joined forces to release a brick-built tribute to one of the most iconic gaming consoles ever made. The new LEGO 72306 Playstation set was revealed on September 3, 2026, during Sony’s State of Play stream and on the PlayStation blog. The model is a near 1:1 scale replica of the console that forever changed the gaming landscape when it was first released in 1994.

The Set in Detail

The set contains 1,911 pieces and measures just over 2.5 inches (6 cm) high, 10.5 inches (26 cm) wide, and 7.5 inches (19 cm) deep. It’s designed to be a faithful replica of the original PlayStation, complete with a brick-built controller that plugs into the console’s controller port and functional Open and Power buttons that provide tactile feedback.

One of the standout features is the ability to pop open the console’s lid to reveal two mini dioramas hidden inside. One celebrates Gran Turismo with a tiny track and miniature cars, while the other nods to Ape Escape with its signature red and blue monkey helmets. Both dioramas can be removed from the console and displayed separately, adding extra play and display value. LEGO has also included a playful Easter egg: Ape Escape requires a Dual Shock controller, but the included original-style controller lacks analog sticks, making it impossible to play that game with this build – a detail that sharp-eyed fans will appreciate.

The original-style controller is a faithful recreation of the early PS1 controller, without the analog sticks of the later Dual Shock. According to earlier reports, the model also includes additional Easter eggs and custom pieces designed specifically to reference the original console and its games. When opened, the model is said to measure around 26 cm wide and 17 cm tall, revealing the dioramas.

Pricing and Availability

The LEGO 72306 Playstation will be released worldwide on 1 October 2026 through LEGO Insiders Early Access, with a general release following on 4 October 2026. It will be available exclusively from LEGO.com, direct.playstation.com, and local LEGO Stores.

Regional pricing has been confirmed:

• US – US$179.99
• AU – AU$279.99
• UK – £139.99
• EU – €159.99
• CA – CAD$239.99
• SG – SGD$239.90

A Growing Lineup of Console Replicas

This release adds to LEGO’s growing lineup of classic console replicas, which already includes the 71374 Nintendo Entertainment System, 72046 Game Boy, 10306 Atari 2600, and the 40926 SEGA Genesis Console. The PlayStation 1 set is the latest in a series of buildable gaming hardware tributes, and like its predecessors, it is part of the LEGO Icons series.

Rumors and Official Announcement

Rumors of a LEGO PlayStation set first surfaced in March 2026, with a leaker suggesting a December release. The initial leak, posted on Instagram in March 2026, included the set number 72306 and the piece count of 1,911, which match the official announcement. The official announcement now confirms an October launch, with Early Access on October 1. The set has been the subject of multiple leaks, all pointing to a 1,911-piece model with the Gran Turismo and Ape Escape dioramas.

Bonus Astro Bot Set and Additional Accessories

According to reports from multiple sources, early buyers will also receive a free promotional set: the LEGO 40899 Astro Bot model. This gift-with-purchase is expected to be available through LEGO Stores and LEGO.com while supplies last, starting on the launch date. The Astro Bot set is a buildable miniature figure of the popular PlayStation mascot. The promotional set is numbered 40899 and will be available with qualifying purchases. Additionally, a YouTube leaker has suggested that the set may include other game-related accessories, though these details have not been confirmed. TheGamer reports that the set is expected to be a must-have collector’s item for many Sony fans.

Official Reveal Video

The official reveal video, featuring Frederic Roland Andre, showcases the set’s features, including the functional console lid and the hidden dioramas. The video was aired during the State of Play stream.

The LEGO 72306 Playstation set will be available exclusively from LEGO.com, direct.playstation.com, and local LEGO Stores starting 1 October 2026 for LEGO Insiders, with a general release on 4 October 2026. Regional pricing is set at US$179.99, £139.99, €159.99, and other regional prices.

Hobby Plus has just pulled the wraps off its latest small-scale bruiser, and this one is built to eat up dirt. The new 1/18 DKR4-Fortis RTR is a ready-to-run off-road rig styled after Dakar and desert racing machines, and it packs a surprising amount of hardware for a model that fits in the palm of your hand.

Dakar Styling Meets Serious Hardware

Looks aren’t everything, but the DKR4-Fortis starts strong with a highly detailed ABS molded hard body. Hobby Plus went all-in on the desert racer vibe, including functional touches like gullwing rear bay doors for easy battery and electronics access. Inside, you’ll find a detailed cockpit, and the body panels feature true-scale painted and printed graphics.

The chassis is equally ambitious. Hobby Plus equipped this little truck with a full four-wheel-drive system featuring front and rear portal axles, metal outdrives and axles, and completely sealed 4-gear differentials. A long-travel suspension setup, factory-installed anti-roll bars, and steel pivot balls round out the underpinnings.

Working Winch, Two-Speed Transmission, and Full LEDs

One of the standout features is the working front winch—a genuine recovery tool, not just a static detail. The DKR4-Fortis also includes a remote-operated 2-speed transmission gearbox, letting drivers shift on the fly between low-speed crawling and high-speed rally runs.

Lighting is another strong point. The truck comes with a full-feature LED light kit from the factory, plus rock lights already installed, making night runs or scale trail sessions a lot more immersive. Hobby Plus also reinforced the chassis with a full rear structural support to add both realism and strength.

Ready to Run, Two Power Choices

The DKR4-Fortis ships as a complete RTR package, meaning everything you need to drive is in the box. Hobby Plus offers two versions depending on how fast you want to go:

• Brushed version — $199
• Brushless version — $269

Both versions roll on realistic rally-inspired treaded tires mounted to 1.3-inch beadlock wheels. Power is delivered through powdered-metal ring, pinion, and transmission gears for durability. The truck also features a Flysky 6-channel radio system and all hex hardware for easy maintenance.

A Growing Small-Scale Reputation

The DKR4-Fortis isn’t Hobby Plus’s first rodeo in the 1/18 segment. The company, which describes itself as a conceptualizer, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of hobby-grade RC products, has built a following with models like the CR18P crawler platform and the Terranaut recovery vehicle. The new desert truck appears to blend the company’s experience with portal axles, two-speed transmissions, and detailed hard bodies into a single, purpose-built package.

Hobby Plus also offers a full range of option parts for the DKR4-Fortis, so owners can upgrade and customize as they see fit. For now, the truck is showing up at retailers and directly through the Hobby Plus website.

With its Dakar-inspired looks, working winch, two-speed transmission, and factory LED lighting, the DKR4-Fortis looks ready to tackle backyard trails, park lots, and custom scale courses right out of the box. At $199 for the brushed version and $269 for brushless, it brings a lot of feature density to the 1/18 off-road category.

The wait is over for competitive RC racers craving a fresh platform. SWORKz has officially unveiled its all-new S35-5 nitro and S35-5e electric 1/8 off-road buggy kits, and pre-orders are already open through local dealers worldwide.

The Next Generation

The S35-5 and S35-5e represent the next generation of SWORKz 1/8 racing, described by the company as “our most advanced platforms ever.” A teaser video on RC Car Action showcases the updated body shell and suspension architecture, though full specifications have not yet been released. The company states, “Discover the Details of the All-New SWORKz S35-5 & S35-5e!” Both kits target serious hobbyists who build their own cars, with the nitro version designed for traditional engines and the electric variant optimized for brushless power systems.

Pre-Order Details

SWORKz is directing customers to their local authorized dealers to secure a spot for the very first production batch. The company emphasizes timing:

“Don’t wait too long. Secure your spot and be among the first to get your hands on the new S35-5 and S35-5e from the very first production batch when official worldwide sales begin on September 14.”

Global sales are set to kick off on September 14, meaning early adopters who pre-order now will snag kits from that initial run.

A Look Back at the Lineage

The S35-5 series succeeds the S35-4 EVO platform. For reference, the S35-4 EVO nitro kit (product code SW-910041) was designed for “an even higher level of racing.” It featured a T7075 hard anodized and lightened aluminum chassis with a new short wheelbase design, along with HET differentials, a Lay-Down Type steering bell crank servo saver system, an Arched-Bridge-System rear lower arm set, and higher capacity shocks with BBS pistons. Dimensions included 510mm length, 308mm width, 220mm height, 65mm ground clearance, and a wheelbase of 325-330mm. The kit weighed approximately 3400g in race condition. Additional features comprised aluminium intensity suspension plates, a carbon center diff plate with throttle servo linkage, a lightweight wing mount, composite rear hubs with carbon plates, black competition shock springs, adjustable wing position and angle, more balance weight positions, stronger downstop area, and an aerodynamically optimized body shell. The gear ratio was C:47/13T, F/R:43/13T.

The electric predecessor, the S35-4E, shared similar dimensions and weighed 3650g with a gear ratio of C:46/15T, F/R:43/13T. The later S35-4e EVO introduced a flexible center chassis layout that accepted both saddle 2S packs and a single 4S battery in side position, an easy-change motor mount, a new steering servo holder, a dedicated radio/ESC case, and redesigned battery case. It also included BBS piston and oil seal parts that the works team drivers tested during competition. The S35-4e EVO was described as “the design evolution from S35-4E Euros Champion” and offered “optimized corner speed compared with more easy handling and maximum traction.”

According to SWORKz, both the S35-4 EVO and S35-4e EVO were designed to meet the needs of top pilots and hobby racers, with a standard setup that works on most tracks while allowing full adaptation for any circuit.

While SWORKz has not yet detailed the specific upgrades in the S35-5 family, the company promises it represents the next step in the line’s evolution. The teaser video gives a glimpse of the updated body shell and suspension architecture.

What’s Next

For now, enthusiasts can visit SWORKz.com to find a dealer and place a pre-order. Official worldwide sales begin on September 14. At that point, full kit manuals and part numbers are expected to become available. Whether you run nitro or electric, the S35-5 and S35-5e are poised to carry SWORKz into the next era of 1/8 off-road competition.

HoBao Racing has officially pulled the wraps off its latest ground-pounder, the Hyper VS2T 1/8 scale electric truggy. After a brief teaser campaign that hinted at a four-wheel-drive basher with pillow ball suspension, the full specs are now out — and they show a machine built with serious upgrades straight from the factory.

Whether you’re planning to race at the track or just send it at the local bash spot, the VS2T comes loaded with components that have traditionally been reserved for aftermarket hop-ups.

Built Tough: Chassis and Drivetrain Upgrades

HoBao has focused on durability from the ground up. The chassis is a new 7075 aluminum 3mm lightweight design, with matching front and rear shock towers machined from the same alloy. A new center top brace and wire pass-through add structural rigidity while keeping the layout clean.

The drivetrain gets a major refresh: all driveshafts and cups are made of hardened steel, and the new gear set includes a 45T machined steel spur gear paired with a 10T pinion and 46T ring gear. That’s a combination built to handle serious brushless torque without stripping teeth.

Suspension and steering also see upgrades. The steering crank set uses a 7075 aluminum rack with a hard spring, and the front end features pillow ball suspension (PBS) with aluminum steering block arms. New suspension arms, a heavy-duty motor mount and support, plus front and rear stainless steel skid plates round out the toughness package.

Electronics and RTR Package

The ready-to-run version of the Hyper VS2T comes stuffed with a Hobby Wing 150A 6S ESC (with XT90 connectors) paired with a 2000kV brushless motor. That’s enough juice to push the truggy to high speeds on 4S or 6S packs. Steering is handled by an 18 kg-cm servo, and the included radio is a 3-channel 2.4GHz FHSS system.

For builders who already have their own electronics, HoBao is also offering the VS2T in ARR (Almost Ready to Roll) form — essentially a roller with all the mechanical upgrades but no electronics or radio gear.

Pricing and Availability

The Hyper VS2T RTR is street priced at $699 and carries part number #HB-VSTE-C150GN. The ARR version comes in at $490 with part number #HB-VSTE. Both versions are available now through HoBao USA and its dealer network.

Nitro Version Coming Soon

HoBao hasn’t forgotten the noise-and-smoke crowd. The company has confirmed that a nitro-powered version of the VS2T is in the works. No specific release date or specs have been announced yet, but the teaser for the electric version promised “the nitro version is coming soon!” — so expect more details in the coming weeks.

For the full spec list and ordering info, head over to HoBao-USA.com.

MINI GT has announced six new 1:64 scale die-cast vehicles set to arrive in early Q1 2027, headlined by the Aston Martin Valhalla in Podium Green — a brand-new tooling for the brand. The lineup spans endurance race cars, a classic Formula 1 winner, a luxury off-roader, and an electric van.

New Tooling: Aston Martin Valhalla

The Aston Martin Valhalla is the only entirely new casting in this batch. Finished in Podium Green, it will be produced in both left-hand drive (LHD) and right-hand drive (RHD) versions, allowing collectors to choose the configuration that matches their market. The model carries product codes MGT01373-L (LHD) and MGT01373-R (RHD).

Endurance Racing Replicas

Two models commemorate recent IMSA and GT3 competition:

• Cadillac V-Series.R #40 (MGT01372-L): This is the Wayne Taylor Racing entry that competed in the 2025 IMSA Daytona 24 Hours. It is offered only in LHD.

• Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO2 #93 (MGT01371-L): Fielded by Wall Racing, this car raced in the 2025 Bathurst 12 Hour in Australia. Also an LHD-only release.

Both models bring authentic race livery and detail to the 1:64 scale, appealing to fans of prototype and GT endurance racing.

Formula 1 History

For motorsport history buffs, MINI GT is producing the Lotus 78 #6 (MGT01374-L), the car driven by Ronnie Peterson to victory at the 1978 South African Grand Prix. The Lotus 78, known for its ground-effect design, is a significant F1 machine. This model is LHD only.

Street and Utility

The batch includes two road-going vehicles:

• Mercedes-AMG G 63 (MGT01375-L / MGT01375-R): Finished in Silver Metallic, this iconic luxury SUV is available in both LHD and RHD variants, giving collectors flexibility regardless of market.

• Volkswagen ID. Buzz DHL Electric (MGT01376-L): Dressed in a DHL delivery livery, this electric van is produced only in left-hand drive. It marks MINI GT’s first ID. Buzz model in this livery, adding a modern commercial-vehicle theme to the lineup.

Product Codes at a Glance

Each model has been assigned a specific product number:

| Model | Product Code(s) |
|——-|—————-|
| Aston Martin Valhalla Podium Green | MGT01373-L / MGT01373-R |
| Cadillac V-Series.R #40 | MGT01372-L |
| Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO2 #93 | MGT01371-L |
| Lotus 78 #6 | MGT01374-L |
| Mercedes-AMG G 63 Silver Metallic | MGT01375-L / MGT01375-R |
| Volkswagen ID. Buzz DHL Electric | MGT01376-L |

Consistent Release Cadence

MINI GT has maintained a steady flow of 1:64 die-cast releases throughout 2026. Distributor Bachmann Europe provided multiple arrival waves this year. In May 2026, Bachmann received 14 new MINI GT releases, including the Aston Martin AMR24 F1 car and the Nissan Silvia S13-R Kaido Works V1. Earlier that same month, on May 7, another batch of 4 new releases arrived, such as the 1984 Nurburgring Race Of Champions 20 Car Set and the James Bond Spectre Aston Martin DB10. The early 2027 announcement continues that pattern, with specific pre-order dates and pricing yet to be confirmed by MINI GT.

What’s on the Horizon

With early Q1 2027 targeted, these six models give enthusiasts a clear picture of what’s coming next from the 1:64 specialist. Collectors should keep an eye on authorized retailers such as Bachmann Europe for ordering details as the release window approaches.

JConcepts has dropped a new tire option for the off-road racing crowd, and it’s packing a serious dose of early-2000s nostalgia with modern performance tweaks. The newly released X-Bite is a pin tire engineered specifically for 2.0-inch 4WD front buggy applications, and it’s already turning heads in the RC racing community.

Built for the Rough Stuff

According to JConcepts, the X-Bite was developed for outdoor racing and future events around the globe. The tire is designed to excel on loose, damp, and natural outdoor surfaces that haven’t yet taken on a layer of rubber. For racers hunting for grip before the groove forms, the X-Bite aims to fill that gap.

The tire features an aggressive radius pin layout loaded with square pins, delivering forward traction and balanced side-bite when the track is changing. At the center, an integrated “X” design isn’t just for looks—it helps define the tire’s character while assisting stability and feel during acceleration and directional changes.

Performance Meets Heritage

JConcepts isn’t starting from scratch here. The X-Bite draws inspiration from the Dirt Bite 1:8th off-road tire, along with pin tire trends from the early 2000s. That blend of championship-winning design and classic styling gives the tire a unique mix of modern performance and nostalgic flair.

Internally, each X-Bite tire includes Dirt-Tech closed cell inserts for added support, consistency, and long-lasting performance in low-traction conditions. The 4WD front tire carcass is smooth without any features, providing a steady contact patch for the inserts. Combined, these details are aimed at giving racers a more planted and predictable feel when pushing through demanding outdoor conditions.

Available Now in Green Compound

The X-Bite launches initially in JConcepts’ proven green compound, a favorite among racers for its balance of grip and durability. For the ultimate performance and control, JConcepts recommends pairing the X-Bite with genuine Mono or Pioneer wheels.

The tire lineup is available in several configurations:

• 2.0-inch 2WD rear tires
• 2.0-inch 4WD rear tires
• 2.0-inch 4WD front tires

The specific front tire SKU is Part #4193-02 with a UPC code of 845937040138. The retail price is $29.00, while the map price is $21.75.

A Busy Year at JConcepts

The X-Bite arrives alongside a packed product calendar for JConcepts. The company, established in 2003, has been releasing new items throughout the first half of 2026, including tires for crawlers, monster trucks, and other off-road platforms. Earlier this year, JConcepts released the Kosmos and Frizzy tires for 1:10th off-road competition, along with the Silent Rage asymmetrical tire concept originally designed for the 2023 IFMAR World Championships.

The company’s product rewind for the first half of 2026 also includes new body shells for vehicles like the Traxxas Rustler and Arrma Mojave Grom, as well as the REACTOR retro monster truck kit and a 2003 Chevy K5 Blazer pre-runner crawler body.

Fresh Rubber for the Race Season

For racers chasing traction in changing track conditions, the X-Bite arrives as a versatile option that draws on decades of off-road knowledge. JConcepts describes it as being “developed for today’s competitive racing scene while honoring the heritage of classic outdoor pin tires.”

The X-Bite is available now through the JConcepts website and authorized dealers.

Vintage RC racing is having a moment, and JConcepts has pulled two new flat wings from its catalog that trace straight back to the late-80s and early-90s. The company now offers a 5.5-inch version and a 7.0-inch version, both designed to bring an older aerodynamic profile to modern track use.

According to JConcepts, the wings take their cues from the tail end of the original RC10 era and the start of the RC10B2 generation. In those years, a flat 5.5-inch wing with a single height deck, one angle transition, and a low rear gurney was a standard racer choice. JConcepts has kept that box-stock look with tall side dams and near 90-degree corners on the leading edge, while updating the design for current racing conditions.

Two Widths for Two Eras

The 5.5-inch size is a direct reference to the original standard, and it matches the width used on JConcepts’ Detonator wing. But the company also added a second choice: a 7.0-inch width, which has become popular in contemporary racing. JConcepts notes that the wider wing can generate a bit more force and drag at the rear, giving racers a selection between old-school handling and a more modern feel.

Both wings include a simple, detailed layout with plenty of “sling” clearance to let dirt and debris pass from the rear tires. On the rear edge, two gurney height options are available, letting racers trim the wing to suit the traction conditions of a particular track.

Marked for Easy Mounting

A practical touch is the molded-in markings. The wing has dimples indicating width positions for the RC10, RC10B2, and RC10B3. A center line is also molded into the plastic, aiding alignment on vehicles from various brands — including Factory Team RC10 cars and RC10 4WD vehicles.

That versatility means the wing is not locked into one chassis. Whether a builder is running a vintage buggy or a modern car that borrows from the classics, the mounting guides aim to reduce setup guesswork.

Pricing and Part Numbers

The wings are sold in two-piece packs. The 7-inch vintage flat wing is part number 0538 with a retail price of $17.00 and a MAP price of $14.45. The 5.5-inch version is part number 0539, listed at the same retail and MAP pricing. Both have UPC codes: 845937042569 for the 7-inch and 845937042576 for the 5.5-inch. They are specified for RC10 and vintage buggy applications.

JConcepts has been broadening its vintage lineup. Earlier releases include re-created original-length front axles for the RC10, RC10B2, and RC10B3, made from 7075 aluminum with an anodized black finish and threaded ends for original-style nylon wheel nuts and 4-40 set screws. The company’s Detonator body for the RC10 Classic also ships with a 5.5-inch Hi-clearance wing, further tying the new flat wings into a wider collection of retro parts.

The vintage trend shows no signs of slowing. JConcepts mentions the wing’s design goes back to the late stages of the RC10 and early RC10B2 generation. The new versions keep those properties while offering two width options to suit both vintage builds and modern racing preferences.

Kyosho has dropped a new ReadySet radio-controlled car that pairs a detailed replica of a modern sports car legend with a thoroughly reworked platform. The 1/10 scale 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 RS rolls on the company’s updated FAZER Mk2 FZ02 chassis, and it’s available now.

The model wears a Lizard Green body and carries the model number #K.34445T1B, priced at €299.90.

A Chassis Built for Better Driving

The FAZER Mk2 FZ02 chassis is no simple refresh. Kyosho says the design has been simplified with fewer parts, which cuts weight and makes maintenance easier. At the same time, new materials and added ribbing and stiffeners at the front and rear boost core strength and rigidity. The symmetrical layout is meant to deliver balanced front-rear weight distribution and responsive handling regardless of the power source.

An integrated gearbox optimises torsional rigidity of the main chassis, and the nylon material reduces weight while improving impact resistance. There is no upper deck. The number and variety of screws have been reduced, and most screws are now flat-head types that can be removed with a 2.0mm hex wrench for easy disassembly.

Key drivetrain hardware includes a slipper clutch, front and rear gear differentials, oil shocks, and full ball bearings throughout. The sealed differential and transmission are designed to perform reliably even on dusty parking lot surfaces. A KS202W waterproof steering servo comes standard.

The suspension geometry has been tuned for optimised bump steer and scrub radius up front, and the ball-connected steering knuckle promises consistent control. Oil shocks are new for this generation, tuned for a mix of light handling and precise control. The front and rear left-right hub carriers are interchangeable to improve spare parts utilisation.

Ultra Scale Body With Hidden Mounts

Kyosho calls the body an “Ultra Scale Body,” and it packs several detail touches that stand out. The headlights, front position lamps, and taillights are made from transparent injection-molded parts. The light buckets accept the separately sold 97054 LED Light Unit Series — install four clear LEDs front and rear to bring the replica to life. Kyosho recommends using two sets of 97054-4C for full lighting.

A particularly neat design choice: concealed body mounts keep the fixing posts and pins from protruding, so the body lines stay clean. The large rear wing and low-profile semi-slick tires replicate the real GT3 RS. The model also includes brake disc wheel hubs with dummy calipers for visual styling. Two offset options (0mm and +5mm) provide compatibility with 190mm and 200mm width body styles. The wheelbase can be adjusted to 274mm by replacing some parts (sold separately), opening up compatibility with other 1/10 scale body styles beyond the included Porsche body.

Ready to Roll (Almost)

This is a ReadySet package, meaning it arrives fully assembled with the body painted and decals applied. You’ll need to supply your own charger and battery for the chassis, plus four AA alkaline batteries for the transmitter. The battery compartment uses a belt-mounting system that fits various battery types.

Gearing flexibility is built in: the standard spur/pinion combo is 68T and 32T, but the motor mount supports nine pinion gear settings from 29T to 37T. A fixed gear-mesh motor mount has holes for each pinion gear; you simply mount the motor to the corresponding hole location with no gear mesh adjustment needed. Kyosho also carried over the clipless mounting system from the FAZER D2 platform for the body attachment.

Part of a Bigger FAZER Family

The Porsche GT3 RS joins a broad lineup of FAZER Mk2 models from Kyosho, which includes everything from a 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 to a 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT3. Each uses the same FZ02 chassis platform, but the new Porsche stands out with its racing-inspired silhouette and detailed lighting components. The FZ02 series is described as a short-wheelbase version, tuned for nimble and aggressive driving.

For full details, specs, and ordering, check Kyosho’s official website or your local hobby retailer.

Forty years ago, kids across the world watched in disbelief as Optimus Prime fell to Megatron in The Transformers: The Movie. It was a gut-punch that defined a generation. Now, Hasbro is leaning into the trauma with an ‘Apology Tour’—a celebration that marries self-aware humour with genuine homage, kicking off a massive 40th-anniversary campaign.

The Big Screen Comeback

The film returns to theaters on Transformers Day, September 17, 2026, via Fathom Entertainment. Screenings run through September 21. The movie has been remastered in 4K, with 4DX screenings planned in the U.S. and U.K. Newly added markets include France, Singapore, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, and Peru. The anniversary event’s official synopsis doesn’t mince words: “Hasbro and Fathom Entertainment would like to formally invite you back to the scene of the crime.”

A Final Performance from Peter Cullen

Fans who stay through the credits during select screenings will see Optimus Prime: Awakening, a never-before-seen 12-minute animated short. It features Peter Cullen’s final original voice performance as Optimus Prime, reuniting him with Frank Welker as Megatron and Soundwave. Hasbro describes the short as a love letter to the Transformers community. Welker reflected on the experience: “Optimus Prime and Megatron were made for each other. After all, one needs the perfect hero against the epitome of evil to create great drama. Peter’s portrayal of Prime was born of his own personal beliefs: honesty, loyalty, and always insisting on doing the right thing. … Returning as Megatron and Soundwave for one final story opposite Peter’s Optimus in Optimus Prime: Awakening was a real gift.”

More Than Nostalgia: The Strategy Behind the ‘Apology Tour’

Hasbro’s approach is deliberately playful. Alyse D’Antuono, Vice President of Global Brand Strategy, Action Brands, explained: “We approached the ‘Apology Tour’ with a lot of affection and humility. For so many kids of the ’80s, Optimus Prime wasn’t just a favorite character. He was their hero. … and then they watched him fall at the hands of his greatest enemy.” The team wanted fans to feel that Hasbro understood why the movie still matters. “We’re being self-aware and saying, ‘We know. We understand why you’re still not over it.’ The playful part is Hasbro owning that history and being willing to say we’re sorry,” D’Antuono added.

Collectibles Fit for a Prime

The anniversary lineup includes a standout centerpiece: the Transformers Studio Series The Matrix of Leadership. Priced at $124.99, it features interactive lights, sounds, and Stan Bush’s anthem “The Touch” when the frame is expanded. Senior Product Designer Mark Maher noted the team focused on making it “feel iconic from a distance, but rewarding up close.” Other highlights include the Robosen G1 Flagship Fallen Leader Optimus Prime ($1,399)—a battle-worn robot that auto-converts and speaks Cullen’s original G1 voice—and a Stern limited-edition pinball machine (750 units) with an animatronic Megatron. Licensees such as CultureFly, Jada Toys, Super7, Threezero, and Skybound Entertainment are also rolling out products.

The anniversary’s musical legacy is strong: The Transformers: The Movie: The Soundtrack: The Reformatted Edition reached No. 19 on Billboard’s U.S. Top Vinyl Albums chart and No. 18 on the Top Current Album Sales chart. At San Diego Comic-Con, a “Celebration of Life” concert featured Stan Bush, composer Vince DiCola, Sebastian Bach, and fictional bands from the Hasbro universe.

Retail and Global Events

The buildup begins September 6 with a major in-store takeover at Target locations across the U.S., featuring toys and collectibles. In London, the Transformers Store at Battersea Power Station will mark Transformers Day with a tribute to Optimus Prime, a screening, commemorative gifts, and a post-screening toast.

With the 20th anniversary of Michael Bay’s live-action Transformers on the horizon for 2027, Hasbro sees this as a bridge between past and future. As D’Antuono put it, “The goal is never to look backward just for the sake of nostalgia. It’s about understanding why a particular moment mattered, what fans still love about it, and then finding a way to build on that connection.” For now, the 40th anniversary offers one last chance to hear Peter Cullen’s voice as Optimus on the big screen—and finally accept the apology.

A New Level of Maneuverability for Your Retro Monster Truck

Owners of the JConcepts REACTOR 1/10 retro monster truck can now upgrade their rig with a factory-engineered conversion that adds steering to the rear axle. The new REACTOR FW Steering | RW Steering Set (part #9253) transforms the front-wheel-steer platform into a full four-wheel-steer machine, giving drivers a tighter turning radius and sharper handling around technical courses.

What’s in the Box?

The conversion kit is built around a collection of precision components. It includes blue anodized aluminum rear steering parts, precision-molded steering knuckles, carbon-fiber steering plates, steering links, ball ends, and heavy-duty hardware. Also in the package are aluminum caster blocks, a steering bellcrank assembly with mounts, a servo mount, and both 23T and 25T aluminum servo horns. Steel pivot bushings, king pins, and fin turnbuckles round out the set.

JConcepts designed the kit specifically for the REACTOR chassis, so everything bolts on using the existing hardware, bearings, and components from the rear axle supplied with the original kit. To operate the rear steering, a transmitter and receiver with three or more channels plus an additional steering servo are required.

Performance and Tuning

Four-wheel steering allows the front and rear wheels to work together, dramatically tightening the turning radius and increasing maneuverability. That makes the truck easier to navigate in tight spaces and more responsive on technical terrain. Many drivers choose to limit the rear steering throw to maintain straight-line stability while still gaining the benefits of rear steer in corners. The system can be tuned to match personal driving style, adding another layer of adjustability and personality to the REACTOR.

Pricing and Availability

The REACTOR FW Steering | RW Steering Set carries a retail price of $115.00 and a MAP of $97.75. The product number is 9253, and the UPC is 845937041661. JConcepts states that the set is designed in the U.S.A. and backed by the company’s customer service, with support and development coming from professional drivers. JConcepts encourages buyers to look for reputable dealers and distributors to ensure they receive authentic products.

The REACTOR Platform

Introduced by JConcepts as a competition-inspired 1/10 retro monster truck kit, the REACTOR is built for straight-line car crushing, U-turn courses, Chicago-style racing, and figure-8 track configurations. The platform is available in several configurations, including the Stage 2 “WOLF” Racer kits. One version offers a 13-inch wheelbase (part #9009) with a retail price of $676.00, while the Classic Edition uses a 10.75-inch wheelbase and features a lightweight carbon-fiber chassis, dual-shock leaf-spring suspension, and a dual-motor-on-axle drivetrain. Both variants are compatible with the new rear-steer conversion set.

For existing REACTOR owners looking to expand their truck’s capabilities, this conversion kit provides a straightforward path to four-wheel steering. All the required components—except the additional servo and multi-channel radio—are included in one upgrade set. The kit is available now through JConcepts dealers and distributors.