Unreleased toy

For everyTransformerthat makes it to store shelves, there are always some that fall by the wayside. Lines get canceled, retailers pass on thefinalwave(s) of an assortment in favor of the upcoming next line or back off onexclusives,designs go over budget, focus groups pass on a concept, or maybe they just weren't cool enough. Regardless of the whys and wherefores, this article aims to document theunreleased toysthat never quite saw retail.

Note that this list will likely never be "complete", as for every concept design that makes it into collectors' hands, a countless number wind up in the garbage can.

(Quick! Get to the landfill outsidePawtucketandSTART DIGGING.)

Contents 1Regular releases 1.1The Transformers 1.2Generation "1.5" 1.3Generation 2 1.4Beast Wars 1.5Beast Machines 1.6Transtech 1.7Armada 1.8Playskool Gobots 1.9Kids' Transformers: Rescue Hero Go-Bots 1.10Alternators/Binaltech 1.11Smallest Transforming Transformers 1.12Attacktix 1.13Universe(2003) 1.14Energon 1.15Titanium Series 1.15.1Cybertron Heroes 1.16Revoltech 1.17Cybertron 1.18Classics 1.19Heroes 1.20Beast Wars Telemocha Series 1.21Chrono Label 1.22Animated 1.23Revenge of the Fallen 1.24United 1.25Crossovers 1.26Star Wars Transformers 1.27Transformers(2010) 1.28Dark of the Moon 1.29Movie Trilogy Series 1.30Kre-O 1.31Prime 1.32Construct-Bots 1.33Bot Shots 1.34Hero Mashers 1.35Battle Masters 1.36Angry Birds Transformers 1.37Transformers: EZ Collection 1.38Generations 1.39Titans Return 1.40Earthspark 2Unused pretool heads 2.1Universe(2008) 2.2Transformers(2010) 2.3Dark of the Moon 2.4Generations 2.4.1Fall of Cybertron 2.4.2Thrilling 30 2.5Prime 2.6Universal Studios 2.7Combiner Wars 2.8Titans Return 2.9Power of the Primes 2.10Studio Series 2.11Honorable mentions 3Exclusives 3.1Conventions 3.1.1Transcon 3.1.2OTFCC 3.1.3Wonder Festival 3.2Store 3.2.1Robots in Disguise(2001) 3.2.2Commemorative Series 3.2.3Universe(2003) 3.2.4Transformers(2007) 3.2.5Transformers(2010) 3.2.6Dark of the Moon 3.2.7Generations 4Miscellaneous 5Statues/Busts 5.1Palisades Toys 5.2Diamond Select Toys 6Merchandise 6.1Super Hybrid Model 6.2Q-Robo Collection Figure 6.3Titanium Series 6.4Robot Heroes 6.5Titan Warriors 7When is an unreleased toy not an unreleased toy? 7.1Toys released in international markets 7.2Toys that underwent significant design changes 8See also 9References 10External links

Regular releases

The Transformers

Concepts

• Rock Bots
• Remote control jeep (Potentially a Hasbro release ofJipe)

Concept art

• AHeadmasterversion ofArcee,based on a redecoedChromedome.

• New Rodimus

• Skywarp/MegatronTriple Changer.

• Megatron/GalvatronTriple Changer.

• Big Bang

• ARodimusfigure with a strange design and transformation. It is believed that the Target exclusive transformingOptimus Primegift card is based on this figure, as it is similar in design and transformation.

• A "Decepticon Stingray"revealed inTransformers Vault.Though the image caption identifies it as "an unreleased and nameless Decepticon Headmaster", the artwork shown does not appear to agree with the "Headmaster" description.

• TheVintage Horror Movie Series

Packaged samples (test packaging)

• VS-ASuperionvsMenasorgiftset

Prototypes

• Arceein her original design

• TwoUnicronprototypes were created during G1, neither saw full release.

• Diaclone Triple Changer - His design was later used forDropshot.

• Double Pretenders

• AMicromaster carrier-base,which has some similarities to the releasedRocket Base.

• AnAction Masterbattery-operated"half-track"

Toys

• ThetankDeluxe Vehicle.

Generation "1.5"

(This section is about thelineavailable in parts of the world (most prominently Europe) between the US G1 and G2 lines.)

Concept art

• Buffalo Dump
• Hyperdrive

Generation 2

Prototypes

• Auto Rollers:
  • General Optimus Prime
  • Sgt. Hound
  • Ajet Auto Rollerthat eventually wound up asBeast Wars IIAutojetter
  • AnAPC Auto Rollerthat eventually wound up asBeast Wars IIAutolauncher

• Greasepit,part of a Go-Bots Racing Rig

• Cyberjetsretooled with armored limbs and larger weapons.

• Block Townseries in Japan
  • TFBT-1 Radar Set (with "Snipe")
  • TFBT-2 Control Set/Control Tower Set (with "Terradive")
  • TFBT-3 Airport Building Set (with "Sky Tornado")
  • TFBT-4 Gasoline Station Set (with "Rapid Engine")
  • TFBT-5 Garage Set (with "Carzap")
  • TFBT-6 Signal/Traffic Lights Set (with "Hotrider")

• Two new-sculptGo-Bots:
  • A military SUV that would have been named "Hound"
  • A Purple Mercedes-Benz SL500 sport coupé,name unknown

• G.I. Joe Transformer,name unknown

• DiacloneAutobot Car molds:
  • Miragein green and pink
  • A possibleJazzin orange, would've been released in wave 2 with Mirage and Sideswipe.
  • A possibleSideswipein yellow and blue.

• DiacloneDecepticon Seeker mold:
  • Blackout,who would probably have been paired with Sandstorm
  • Sandstorm,who would probably have been paired with Blackout
  • A version ofStarscreamin jungle colors. Whether this figure would have actually been Starscream or otherwise is unknown.
  • A version ofRamjetin sky blue colors. Whether this figure would have actually been Ramjet or otherwise is unknown, though much later the deco reached fruition as theLegacy: EvolutioncharacterCloudcover

• The four "flipchanger" sculpts which were later released inMachine Warsas:
  • Skystriker(Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor) -Megatron/Megaplex
  • Thundercracker(Dassault Rafale) -Skywarp/Thundercracker
  • Greasepit(tow truck) -Hoist/Hubcap
  • Lightspeed(race car) -Mirage/Prowl.

• Motormaster

• Hot Spot

Packaged samples (test packaging)

• Four new-sculptGo-Bots,test-packaged onHigh Beamcards.
  • Rumble
  • "GTP Racer",name unknown
  • "911 Police Car",name unknown (possibly Prowl?)
  • "Black Viper",name unknown

Packaged samples (final packaging)

• Redecoes (or color variants) of the two G2 Hero sculpts:
  • Optimus Primein a dark-blue and red color scheme
  • Megatronin a gray and black camouflage

• Laser Cycles
  • Jazz
  • Laser CycleSoundwave

• All of theStunticonlimbs except forBreakdown,who was released as aBotCon 1994exclusive.

• All of theProtectobotlimbs.

Beast Wars

Concept art

• Transmetals Dinobot

Prototypes

• Beast Wars NeoUnicron

Packaged samples

• Optimus Minor(blue version)
• Ramulus(green version)

Beast Machines

• Screechwing
• Spiketail
• Obsidian (Deluxe Class)
• Megatron (Ultra Class)

Transtech

Concept art

• Megatron; unsure whether this would have been theG1orbeast eracharacter.
• Depth Charge
• Shockwave
• Silverbolt
• Soundwave
• Blackarachnia
• Nightscream
• Immorticon

Prototypes

• Optimus Prime
• Cheetor
• Starscream

Armada

Prototypes

• Built to Rule!Ramjet
• Built to Rule!Rollout

Packaged samples

• The Unicron Battlesredeco of theAdventure Mini-Con Team(Dune Runner,Iceberg,&Ransack)
• The Unicron Battlesredeco of theSpace Mini-Con Team(Astroscope,Payload,&Sky Blast)
• The Unicron Battlesredeco of theStreet Speed Mini-Con Team redecos(Backtrack,Oval,&Spiral)

Playskool Gobots

Prototypes

• Ultra Force Aero-Bot (Revealed at UK Toy Fair, The only known copy of this toy is inEd Duncan's personal collection.)

Packaged Sample

• Special Bonus Pack (Strong-Bot, Speed-Bot, Gorilla-Bot)

Kids' Transformers: Rescue Hero Go-Bots

• GO-20 Mini A: Ambulance (ミニＡ・ cứu cấp ワゴン xa )
• GO-21 Mini B: Steam Locomotive (ミニＢ・ＳＬ)
• GO-22 Mini C: Train (ミニＣ・トレイン ) )
• GO-23 Mini B&C Set (ミニＢ・Ｃセット)
• GO-24 ATV (４ luân バギー)
• GO-25 Motorbike (バイク)
• GO-26 NASCAR (ナスカー)

Alternators/Binaltech

Concepts

• Bumblebee(Volkswagen New Beetle)
• Cliffjumper(Volkswagen New Beetle, retool of Bumblebee with different weapon and new head)
• Tracks(Dodge Viper SRT-10; body ended up asSide Swipe,head was used for Chevrolet Corvette Tracks)
• Trailbreaker(Jeep Wrangler; was released asSwindlein different colors instead)
• Windcharger(Ford Mustang, retool ofGrimlockwith new head; body ended up asWheeljack,head was used forDecepticharge)
• Megatron (Cadillac XLR Convertible, unreleased due to the hiatus of the line.)

Prototypes

• Jazz(Porsche 986 Boxster)
• Smokescreen(Subaru Impreza WRX, Deluxe-sized)
• Autobot Tracks(Chevrolet Corvette Z06, yellow version; intended to be released by Hasbro with arunning changeto blue later down the road, but ultimately only released in blue; yellow version released in Japan)
• Blackwidow(Honda S2000, prototype sporting the long gun barrel and right-hand steering wheel ofBinaltechOverdriveand the head sculpt, hardtop roof and rear spoiler ofAlternatorsDecepticharge,originally announced asWildriderbut then given a deco based onBeast WarsBlackarachnia;ultimately released in Japan in new colors asBinaltechArcee)

Smallest Transforming Transformers

Prototypes

• Skids
• Tracks
• Stock and silencer accessories forMegatron

Attacktix

Prototypes

• Uh... the entire second wave, pretty much.

Universe(2003)

Prototypes

• Battle in a BoxSmokescreenwithJoltvs.DrenchwithWind Sheer
• Menasor- a redeco ofMachine WarsUltra-sizedOptimus Primeas the Stunticon leader ( "Motormaster" was unavailable as a trademark).
• Spacewarp
• Halloween Horrorcon Value PackLeatherhidevs.Blackarachnia
• Halloween Horrorcon Value PackNightprowlervs.Waspinator
• An unknown-name redeco ofBeast MachinesUltra ClassJetstorm

Energon

Packaged samples

• Mini-ConsBrakedown,Override,andClockerwere originally intended to come withEnergonUltra Magnus,but were swapped out at essentially the last possible minute for a redecoedSpace Mini-Con Team.(The Street Speed Mini-Cons are still listed on both sides of the US packaging, though theEuropean versionand the Japanese "USA Edition"release both fixed that to different degrees.)

Titanium Series

Cybertron Heroes

Prototypes

• Soundblasterredeco of Soundwave withRavage
• Primal Primeredeco ofOptimal Optimus
• Arcee
• War WithinBumblebee
• War WithinCliffjumper(Bumblebeeredeco/retoolwith a new head sculpt)
• Cosmos
• Shockwave

Revoltech

Prototypes

• Energon Optimus Prime

Cybertron

Concepts

• Landslide

Prototypes

• More Mini-Con partners forSoundwave
• AScrapmetalredeco

Classics

Concepts

• Cosmos
• Soundwave

Prototypes

• "Ghost" Jetfire
• A Deluxe ClassOptimus Primethat looks a lot like theVoyager Classversion, with fixed on knee parts.^[1]Apparently, an early plan was for this toy to be released without a trailer at the Deluxeprice point,andwitha trailer at the Voyager price point.^[2]It's unclear whether the trailer ever made it past the early planning stage before the decision was made to uspscale Optimus to Voyager size.

Heroes

• Rhinox
• Hot Rod (or "Rodimus" )

Beast Wars Telemocha Series

Concepts

• Flytrap
• Rage
• Manticon

Chrono Label

Prototypes

• Autoceptor
• Time Limit

Animated

Prototypes

• Toxic Oil Slick
• Fugitive Waspinator
• Vortex Blurr
• Mercenary Swindle
• Goldfire Grimlock(Voyager Class)
• Electromagnetic Soundwave(Activator)
• Hot Shot
• Marauder Megatron

Packaged samples

• Thundercracker(Voyager Class)
• Mudbuster Bulkhead(Voyager Class)

Revenge of the Fallen

Prototypes

• Unite for the UniverseJet Power Optimus Prime
• Unite for the UniverseMegatron

United

Prototypes

• Blue BumblefromClassics/Henkei! Henkei!Bumblebee
• Swindle(withRavage?) fromUniverse/Henkei! Henkei!Hound

Crossovers

Prototypes

• Iron Man(New mold, transforms into a futuristic tricycle)

• War Machine(New mold, combines with the Iron Man above in vehicle mode)

• ThePunisher(retool of Captain America, released with new head as Iron Man)

• theHuman Torch(blue redeco of his existing figure)

• TheThing(Redeco of the bulldozer Hulk mold)

Star Wars Transformers

Prototypes

• Darth Maul(Smaller Class I figure)

Transformers(2010)

Packaged samples

• Bodyblock(Breacher redeco)
• Demolition Rumble(sculpt/character released underUnitedin Japan)
• Downshift(Hubcap redeco)

Dark of the Moon

Prototypes

• Blaster(Redeco of Soundwave with new head, displayed with other prototypes at Hascon 2017)

Movie Trilogy Series

Packaged samples

• Wheeljack(redeco colored as an homage to Generation 1Wheeljack,using the toy's alternate head; later released by TakaraTomy as part of theMovie Advanced Series,albeit with the deco changed to moreso match his G1 namesake.)

Prototypes

• Bumblebee(redeco ofNitro Bumblebee)
• Ratchet(redeco colored as anhomagetoGeneration 1Ratchet;later released by TakaraTomy as part of theMovie Advanced Series)
• Soundwave(redeco colored as an homage to Generation 1Soundblaster;later released as "Darkside Soundwave" by TakaraTomy as part of theMovie Advanced Series)
• Evac(re-release of the Universal Studios figure)

Kre-O

• HoundKreon based on Generation 1 Hound (helmet usedmuchlater for Custom Kreon Hound,Age of ExtinctionKreon Hound and "Class of 1984" Kreon Hound, but none of them sported the saturated green colors and chest deco of the figure displayed atBotCon 2011)
• Kre-O Mini-Con Combiner Bumblebee
• Kre-O Mini-Con Combiner Optimus Prime
• "Soccer" Bumblebee kreon
• "Summer" Drift kreon
• Battle Changer Drift (with Jetstorm and Slipstream)
• Battle Changer Blitzwing
• All ofKreon WarriorsCollection 3

Prime

Prototypes

• A redeco and retool of Deluxe ClassRatchetwith the toy's alternate head, possibly asGears
• A Hasbro release of Deluxe ClassIronhide(released in Japan)
• A redeco and retool of Deluxe ClassRumblewith the toy's alternate head asFrenzy
• A retool of the 2014 Deluxe ClassSmokescreensculpt with an added lightbar, presumably asProwl.

Construct-Bots

Prototypes

• Starscream (Scout Arsenal Pack)
• Bumblebee (Scout Arsenal Pack)
• Wheeljack (Elite Arsenal Pack)
• Soundwave (Elite Arsenal Pack)
• Galvatron (Dinobot Rider)
• Starscream (Dinobot Rider)

Solicited

• Bludgeon (Scout)
• Bulkhead (Scout)
• Shockwave (Dinobot Rider, was supposed to have been in the third wave instead of Starscream)
• Galvatron (Dinobot Warrior)

Bot Shots

Prototypes

• Hydrax
• Prowl
• Rom the Space Knight
• Strafe
• Skystalker
• Smokescreen
• Soundwave
• Hun-Gurrr Launcher (Series 2 Wave 3)
• Starscream Launcher (Series 2 Wave 3)
• Bluestreak Launcher (Series 2 Wave 4)
• Buzzclaw Launcher (Series 2 Wave 4)
• Combaticons (Series 2, Wave 3 5-Pack: Blast Off, Decepticon Brawl, Onslaught, Swindle, Vortex)
• Protectobots (Series 2, Wave 3 5-Pack: Protectobot Blades, Protectobot First Aid, Protectobot Groove, Protectobot Hot Spot, Protectobot Streetsmart)

Solicited

• "TRA BOT SHOTS RING OF FIRE BATTLE PACK A5112"
• "TRA BOT SHOTS STUNT AND SPEED BUMBLEBEE A1672"
• "TRA BOT SHOTS STUNT AND SPEED GALVATRON A1673"
• "TRA BOT SHOTS STUNT AND SPEED PACKS A1671"
• "TRA BOT SHOTS STUNT N SPEED DLX AST A1668"
• "TRA BOT SHOTS STUNT N SPEED METRO TITAN A1670"
• "TRA BOT SHOTS STUNT N SPEED METROPLEX A1669"
• "TRA BS 3 PK DINOBOT A3032"

Hero Mashers

Solicited

• Robots in DisguiseJazz
• Robots in DisguiseQuillfire
• Robots in DisguiseThunderhoof
• Robots in DisguiseFracture
• Robots in DisguiseDrift
• Robots in DisguiseBisk

Battle Masters

Prototypes

• Lockdown

Angry Birds Transformers

Prototypes

• Acid Storm Pig
• Autobird Ratchet
• Epic Optimus Prime Bird
• Shockwave Pig

Transformers: EZ Collection

Prototypes

• Turbo Cycle
• Beachcomber

Generations

Solicited

• BrawnandMudslinger
• Gnawand Gnash

Titans Return

Solicited

• Toraizer
• Optimus Primal

Earthspark

• DX Series Prowl

Unused pretool heads

In recent years, Hasbro and TakaraTomy have begun to design toys withretoolsin mind from the get-go, and thus have createdalternate head sculpts and other partsthat are oftengang-moldedwith the original release's parts. Those head sculpts are created asprototypes,which occasionally leak out to the public, and sometimes show up in theinstructionsfor the original release most likely by mistake,^[4]though Hasbro representatives have stated that those could also be considered "previews". Sometimes those pretool parts end up unused by Hasbro. Some of these have, however, been used long after the fact by TakaraTomy orFun Publications.(Some instances where the plans went a step further to the point where an actual deco was created for a planned release of the sculpt using the alternate head are listed either further above, or below, under "exclusives".)

Universe(2008)

• Deluxe ClassSideswipehad an alternate, more stylized head, as depicted in a leaked deco sheet for a cancelled 2011Sideswipevs.Reflector2-pack.

Transformers(2010)

• Reveal the ShieldVoyager ClassLugnuthad an alternate head depicted in the instructions, which was stated at BotCon 2010 to have been designed without any specific character in mind.
• Reveal the ShieldDeluxe ClassSpecial Ops Jazzwas to be retooled intoThrilling 30Nightbeat,as depicted instock photography and package art,but the final toy usesThrilling 30Bumblebee.

Dark of the Moon

• Deluxe ClassLaserbeakhad a different, more realistic bird head depicted in his instructions, whichmightbe either an unused pretool head or an instance of adesign change.^[5]
• Deluxe ClassSoundwavehad an alternateBlasterhead. Apainted prototypewas shown on display atHasCon 2017.

Generations

• Deluxe ClassWarpathhad an alternateHardheadheaddepicted in the instructions,intended for a cancelled 2011Hardheadvs.Ratbat2-pack.

Fall of Cybertron

• Voyager ClassGrimlockhad an alternateBeast WarsTransmetalMegatronhead. A prototype sporting the head surfaced in early 2013.^[6][7]

Thrilling 30

• Deluxe ClassOrion Paxhad an alternateKuphead.^[8]
• Voyager ClassRoadbusterhad an alternateGutcruncherhead.^[9]

Prime

• Robots in DiguiseAutobot Ratchethad an alternate Gears-style head depicted in the instructions. Afan-painted prototypesporting the head surfaced in late 2012.^[10]

Universal Studios

• Evachad an alternateFrankenstein's monsterhead, as discovered by then Hasbro model artistMark Maher.^[11]

Combiner Wars

• Legends ClassBombshellhad an alternateVenomhead.^[12]
• Deluxe ClassTrailbreakerhad an alternateHoisthead. Fun Publications intended to utilize it for a BotCon 2016 troop builder set ofShattered GlassAutotroopersthat did not come to fruition.
• Deluxe ClassRookhad an alternateBrawlhead. In a preliminary plan for theComputronmulti-pack, Hasbro planned to use this head tooling asIronfist,under the trademark-friendly name "Ironclad". Fun Publications also had a secondary backup plan for this tooling as theShattered Glassincarnation ofX-Brawn,but neither of these figures came to fruition.
• Voyager ClassCyclonushad an alternateStarscreamhead.
• Voyager ClassOnslaughthad an alternateArmadaDemolishorhead. A prototype sporting the head surfaced in late 2015.^[13]
• Titan Class Devastator had multiple alternate heads: four of the Constructicons were based on theRobots in DisguiseBuild Teamfrom, supposedly withBonecrusherasWedge,ScavengerasGrimlock,HookasHightowerandLong HaulasHeavy Load,while the remaining two were based on two of the three "Generation 1" Autobot DoubleTargetmasters,ScrapperasScoopandMixmasterasQuickmix.The combined form would have beenLandfill,which isalso the nameof the third Double Targetmaster.^[14]

Titans Return

• The canceled Titan MasterToraizerwould probably have been a new head retool ofSawback,which did briefly appear in art form inLegendsVol. 47.
• Titan MasterApefacehad an alternate head asOptimus Primal.^[15]
• Deluxe ClassHot Rodhad an alternate head based on theIDW comic incarnationof the character, according to an interview with Hasbro.
• Voyager ClassOptimus Prime,having a deco inspired byStar Convoybut mounted with a classic-style Optimus head, had an alternate Star Convoy-styled head, glimpsed in a leaked deco sheet.^[16]

Power of the Primes

• Prime MasterMicronus/Cloudbursthad a decoy armor head retool based on Generation 1Waverider.TakaraTomy would have redecoed the decoy armor component as a preorder bonus forLegendsGrand Maximus,but unfortunately preorders did not reach the necessary goal. Hasbro did, however, release the inner robot asAmalgamous Prime.
• Deluxe ClassCutthroathad an alternateWildflyhead, which was seen on the painted prototype showcased atNYCC 2017.
• Deluxe ClassSnarlwas shown atHasCon2017 with a gun accessory that slots over the head in Stegosaurus mode that suggested aBristlebackretool, but it never came to fruition.

Studio Series

• Brawlhad an alternate head with an opened mouth.^[17]
• Revenge of the FallenOptimus Primehad an alternate faceplate-less head, as depicted in an officialTransformerssocial media post.^[18]This head, albeit differently painted, was found on one copy of the toy.^[19]

Honorable mentions

These headswereultimately put to use, but only long after the release of the original figure or only for exclusive releases.

• CybertronScrapmetal's alternate head was initially only used by TakaraTomy for theexclusive"Coby's Exclusive Rumble"figure, and was later included by Fun Publications with theBotCon 2006customization classRumbleandInfernofigures' sets, with Rumble using the alternate head.
• The alternate heads forGenerationsDeluxe ClassSergeant Kupand 2010Hunt for the DecepticonsVoyager ClassHighbrowwere eventually used forGenerationsSwerveandPowerdive,both of whom were only made available as part of the "GDO"line-up that was initially intended for Hasbro's East Asian markets, and later brought to North American retail asToys "R" Usexclusives.
• 2010Hunt for the DecepticonsDeluxe ClassTomahawk's alternate head was ultimately only used by TakaraTomy forDark of the MoonVortexand by Fun Publications for theBotCon 2012exclusiveTimelinesSpinisterfigure.
• Meanwhile, 2010Hunt for the DecepticonsDeluxe ClassTerradive's alternate head was eventually used forDark of the MoonSpace Case,who was only available as aTargetexclusive in the US (and exclusive to other stores in other countries) several years after the fact.
• 2010Reveal the ShieldDeluxe ClassPerceptorwas planned to be redecoed intoReflector.^[20]The head sculpt intended for Reflector was later used by TakaraTomy for thee-HOBBYexclusiveGenerationsMagnificusfigure.
• 2010Reveal the ShieldDeluxe ClassOptimus Prime's alternate head was ultimately only used by Fun Publications for the BotCon 2012 exclusiveTimelinesShattered GlassUltra Magnusfigure.
• The alternate head sculpt for 2010TransformersReveal the ShieldDeluxe ClassSpecial Ops Jazzshown in the slideshow during theBotCon 2010Hasbro panel was ultimately only used by Fun Publications for the BotCon 2012 exclusiveTimelinesShattered GlassTreadshotfigure.
• 2010Reveal the ShieldDeluxe ClassWreck-Garwas designed with no fewer thantwoalternate head sculpts. One of them, which was shown in Wreck-Gar's instructions, was used forGenerationsJunkheapshortly thereafter, whereas the other one was initially only used by TakaraTomy for the e-HOBBY exclusiveUnitedScrapheapfigure, then later by Fun Publications for the BotCon 2012 exclusiveTimelinesShattered GlassScrap Ironfigure and finally much,muchlater by Hasbro for the "Junkion Scrapheap"figure included with thePlatinum Edition"Planet of Junk Clash" set.
• Combiner WarsLegends ClassShockwavehad an alternateReflectorhead which ultimately saw release only asBotCon 2016ReflectorandFlash Sentryfrom Fun Publications.
• Combiner WarsDeluxe ClassSkydivehas an alternateStarscreamhead that was only used by TakaraTomy (as "Ghost Starscream") for theUnite WarriorsGrand Galvatronset, by Fun Publications for theTransformers Figure Subscription ServiceexclusiveCombiner WarsShattered Glassversion ofStarscream,and then by TakaraTomy again for"Golden Lagoon" Starscream.
• Combiner WarsDeluxe ClassProtectobot First Aidhas an alternateRatchethead that was only used by Fun Publications for theBotCon 2016custom classAutobot Ratchetfigure and by TakaraTomy for theUnite WarriorsLynxmasterset

Exclusives

Conventions

Transcon

Concepts

• AlbitronandSwoop.These figures were advertised as convention exclusives byMen in Black Productions,but never materialized.

OTFCC

Concepts

• Brawn
• Devcon
• Megatron(post-Beast Machines)
• Roadbuster

Prototypes

• Defensor
• A limited redeco ofDefensoras Midnight Shield Defensor
• Alpha Trion
• Fractyl
• Devcon

Wonder Festival

Packaged samples

• Convoywas planned as a blackredecoof theClassicsOptimus Prime sculpt,but marketed as a black version of the heroic Convoy character withAutobotfactioninsignias,not as aNemesis Prime/Black Convoycharacter. He would have been released under theHenkei! Henkei!toy line'sGentei! Gentei!range of exclusives. A minor redeco was eventually released years later as aTokyo Toy Show 2012exclusive under theUnitedtoy line, now named "Black Optimus Prime" and sporting Decepticon insignias.

Store

Robots in Disguise(2001)

Prototypes

• Hasbro-release Fortress Maximus(intended asBigBadToyStore/ Action Figure Xpress / Entertainment Earth / Marz Distribution / FAO Schwarz shared exclusive)

Commemorative Series

Prototypes

• Ramjet
• Megatron (was going to be released in a bright orange and blue, but canceled because it still looked too much like a gun)

Solicited

• Trailbreaker
• Ironhide
• Thrust

Universe(2003)

Prototypes

• Toxitron
• Megatron(Energonredeco)/Soundwave(Smallest Transforming Transformers) two-pack (intended forTarget)
• Optimus Prime(Energonredeco)/Optimus Prime(Smallest Transforming Transformers) two-pack (intended for Target)
• Smokescreenvs.Drench(Battle in a Box,intended for Target, Drench later came out asTimelines/Shattered GlassSideswipe)
• SpacewarpwithSpace Mini-Con Team(intended forToys "R" Us,later released asTimelinesAstrotrainwith a new head sculpt and different Mini-Cons)
• "HalloweenHorrorcons"Leatherhidevs.Blackarachnia(intended forWalmart)
• "Halloween Horrorcons"Nightprowlervs.Waspinator(intended for Walmart)

Transformers(2007)

Packaged samples

• Backtrack(intended for Target)
• Decepticon Reverb(intended for Target)
• Gunbarrel(intended for Target)

Transformers(2010)

Prototypes

• Blue Maximusvs.Crosshairs(redecos ofRevenge of the FallenRansackandRollbar)
• Drydockvs.Undertow(redecos ofRevenge of the FallenDepthchargeandCybertronShortround)

Packaged samples

• "Sideways Sneak Attack" multi-pack (intended forTarget), containing:

• Sideways (Deluxe Class)
• Arcee (Legends Class)
• Chromia (Legends Class)
• Elita-One (Legends Class)

• "Megatron Rising" five pack, containing:

• Megatron(Revenge of the FallenVoyager Class Megatron redeco)
• Long Haul(Legends Devastator component)
• Mixmaster(Legends Devastator component)
• Rampage(Legends Devastator component, yellow deco)
• Scrapper(Legends Devastator component, red redeco)

Dark of the Moon

Packaged samples

• "Autobot Team Racers" (intended forTarget), contains:

• Leadfoot(MechTech Deluxe Class)
• Topspin(MechTech Deluxe Class)

• Leader ClassSentinel Primeand Bonus Value Deluxe ClassNitro Bumblebee(intended forWalmart)

Generations

Concepts

• Hardheadvs.Ratbat(intended for Toys "R" Us)
• Sideswipevs.Reflector(intended for Toys "R" Us)

Hardhead, Ratbat and Reflector would have been redecos ofGenerationsDeluxe ClassWarpathandScourgeandReveal the ShieldPerceptor,respectively, using the alternate heads which were depicted their instructions in some cases. While Hardhead's head was ultimately never used at all, TakaraTomy later released their own version of Ratbat (in different colors) under theirGenerationsline, and an exclusive redeco of Perceptor using the Reflector head as thee-HOBBYexclusiveMagnificusfigure. Sideswipe, meanwhile, would have been a redeco of the 2008UniverseDeluxe Class figure inGeneration 2colors. Curiously, theUniverseSideswipe sculpthadalready been used inGeneration 2colors as theBotCon 2010exclusivecustomization class figureat least a year before the deco sheet for this unreleased figure was created, albeit with a slightly different color and deco layout. He might or might not have sported a different head sculpt that was ultimately never used.

Packaged samples

• Brawn(intended as part of the "GDO"lineup for Hasbro's Asian markets, with the possibility of a later U.S. release as a Toys" R "Us exclusive. The head sculpt would later be used for the TakaraTomy release ofCloudBrawn, using a different deco.)

• LegacyVelocitron Speedia 500Hot Rod(intended for Walmart)

This G1 toy-accurate redeco of Studio Series86-04 Hot Rodwas meant to be the sole second-wave voyager figure for Walmart's exclusive Velocitron capsule. Hot Rod was supposedly unplanned for release according to Hasbro^[21]and Walmart passed on buying him^[22]... but they put up a product page for him anyway, though was never made available for purchase. Hasbro also said they're looking for alternative avenues for releasing him but so far nothing has come of this.

Miscellaneous

Concepts

• A supposedHooligan^[23]
• A supposedMegatron^[23]
• A supposedStarscream^[23]
• A supposedOptimus Prime^[23]

Statues/Busts

Prototypes

• Transformers vs GI. JoeBaronessandRavage.
• ASoundwavebust that didn't work well once it was downscaled for release.

Palisades Toys

• Red Alert

Diamond Select Toys

Prototypes

• Megatron (Bust Banks)
• Optimus Prime (Bust Banks)
• Powermaster Optimus Prime (Mini Busts)
• Sunstorm (Mini Busts)

Merchandise

Super Hybrid Model

Prototypes

• Arcee
• Rodimus Prime

Q-Robo Collection Figure

Concept Art

• All of wave 2

Titanium Series

Prototypes

• Sunstreaker(redeco ofSide Swipe)
• Cliffjumper(redeco ofBumblebee)
• Soundwave
• Nemesis Prime(redeco ofWar WithinOptimus Prime)

Solicited

• War Within Megatron
• Jetfire
• Soundblaster
• Silverstreak
• Black RODIMUS
• Shockwave
• Ultra Magnus
• Grimlock

Robot Heroes

Packaged samples (final packaging)

• Optimus Prime&Megatron(Robots in DisguiseSeries)
• Prowl&Laserbeak(Generation 1 Series)
• Victory Saber&Dessaras(Generation 1 Series)
• Optimus Primal&Jetstorm(Beast MachinesSeries)

Titan Warriors

Solicited

• Bumblebee
• Shockwave
• Wheeljack

When is an unreleased toy not an unreleased toy?

Toys released in international markets

Quite a few of toys are effectively "unreleased" as far as Hasbro'sUnited Statesmarket is concerned, buthavebeen released in other Hasbro markets such as Canada, Latin America, Australia, Asia (usually not counting Japan, which isTakara's home turf, unless they explicitly come in Hasbro packaging), and/or Europe. For the purpose of this article, any toy that saw an official release inanyHasbro market doesnotqualify as "unreleased". Examples include:

• AnimorphsJake Stingray/MantaandTaxxon/Alien(released in parts of Europe)
• ArmadaPowerlinxThrust's redrunning change variant(released in Israel, Europe and in Japan as a "USA Edition")
• Universe(2008)Robot HeroesRicochet&PredakingandTigatron&Inferno(released in Australia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Germany)
• Transformers AnimatedBumper BattlersWorkzone BulkheadandStealth Ninja Jazz(released in Australia and Mexico)
• The original, non-AllSpark Powerversion of the2007Transformersmovie toyline's Leader ClassNightwatch Optimus Prime(released in the United Kingdom and Japan)
• Revenge of the FallenFast Action BattlersSpark Blast Jolt(released in Germany)
• ARevenge of the FallenFast Action BattlersRally Mudflap&Offroad Skidstwo-pack (released in Asia and Australia; despite misconceptions based on early solicitations, it appears these figures were never intended to be released individually)
• Dark of the MoonDeluxe ClassSoundwaveandWheeljack(released in Japan throughTakaraTomy,despite also being solicited by Hasbro)
• Dark of the MoonHuman AllianceSoundwave(released in Asian markets such as Singapore and Taiwan)
• Transformers: Prime:Beast HuntersCyberverseLegion ClassRot Gut,Divebomb,Bluestreak,andAce Vehicon(released in Europe, Australia and South America)
• Transformers: Prime: Beast HuntersCyberverseCommander ClassUnicron Megatron,Ultra Magnus,andDecepticon Bludgeon(released in Asia, Europe and Canada)
• Transformers: Prime: Beast HuntersDeluxe ClassBumblebee,Twinstrike,Smokescreen,andWindrazor(released in Asia and Europe)

Toys that underwent significant design changes

In some instances, a toy was never released in its originally intended form, butatoy which sports remnants of the planned versionwas,thus making it not really an "unreleased" toy in the strictest sense, but still much more than a standard design change.

See "design change"for details.

See also

• Pre-Transformer

References

1. ↑Translated TakaraTomy Henkei/Classics staff interview
2. ↑Rumorabout theClassicslineup that turned out to be spot on aside from Voyager Soundwave and Deluxe Optimus Prime.
3. ↑Impromptu Allspark.com Interview with John Warden & Hasbro Brand Team at SDCC 2018.
4. ↑The main evidence for the "by mistake" argument would beGenerationsThunderwing's instructions, which originally depicted the head and chest that would later be used forSky Shadow.Arunning changeof the instructions eventuallychanged the head(but not the chest) to Thunderwing's. In addition, there'sGenerationsWarpath's instructions, which only depict the alternate "Hardhead"head in place of Warpath's actual head insomesteps.
5. ↑"Dark of the Moon Laserbeak Alternate Head"at TFW2005.
6. ↑"Generations Beast Wars Megatron - Fall of Cybertron Grimlock Remold"at TFW2005
7. ↑"Generations 30th Anniversary Beast Wars Megatron New Images"at TFW2005
8. ↑Pete's RoboCon on Facebook, 8 February 2018
9. ↑Jesse Wittenrich (NightViper) on the Allspark Forums, 7 October 2018
10. ↑UNRELEASED HASBRO PRIME GEARS?on TFW2005 forums
11. ↑Mark Maher interview from Adventures in Collecting Toy Collecting Podcast
12. ↑Post by Jesse Wittenrich (NightViper) on The Allspark Forums, 2 June 2020
13. ↑"Rumor – Possible Combiner Wars Demolishor"at TFW2005
14. ↑"Night Shining Inc." panelat Pete's Robot Convention 2018.
15. ↑Allspark interview at SDCC 2018
16. ↑The Allspark news article, 27 April 2016
17. ↑"Leaked from Cybertron: A peek at how Studio Series Brawl was brought to life."at the officialTransformersInstagram page
18. ↑"“There’s a thin line between being a hero and being a memory.” Which Optimus Prime would you roll out for?at the officialTransformersFacebook page
19. ↑Transformers Studio Series Optimus Prime Faceplate-less Variant Imageat TFW2005
20. ↑"Botcon 2010 Hasbro Designers Panel"at TFW2005.
21. ↑Recap of Transformers Fan Roundtable at TFW2005
22. ↑Transformers Marketing Team Interview on YouTube
23. ↑^{23.023.123.223.3}Dairycon 2008 report

External links

• Galleries of various unreleased toys(photos compiled from various websites and eBay auctions)
• Dairycon 2008 report featuring the concepts for the supposed Hooligan, Starscream, Megatron and Optimus Prime