Optimus Prime: Awakening

On Tuesday, Hasbro and Fathom Entertainment unveiled new details about The Transformers: The Movie, returning to theatres internationally in 4K from September 17–22. To celebrate the 40th anniversary, Hasbro has created Optimus Prime: Awakening as a special animated short as part of its broader anniversary brand celebration.

The short, which will be presented following select anniversary screenings of the original 1986 film, is a fully realized, 12-minute animated video designed as a love letter to the Transformers community and the late Peter Cullen, the legendary talent and voice of Optimus Prime.

Optimus Prime: Awakening builds on the acclaimed storytelling and visuals of The Transformers: The Movie (1986), offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience the franchise’s iconic cultural moment from its past while exploring its future on the big screen.

The animated short delivers emotional storytelling, electric action, and new performances by legends Frank Welker as Megatron/Soundwave and Peter Cullen in his final original voice performance as Optimus Prime.

Peter shared that returning for Optimus Prime: Awakening meant a great deal to him. He felt the project was a homecoming to a character he had shaped for more than four decades. Peter’s performance reveals a deeper vulnerability while retaining the unmistakable strength and authority that made his portrayal iconic.

Frank Welker shared, “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.

“This made it easy to be friends. Returning as Megatron and Soundwave for one final story opposite Peter’s Optimus in ‘Optimus Prime: Awakening’ was a real gift. I will miss my friend, but that voice and his heart and values will always be part of Optimus Prime.”

In addition to previously announced regions, Fathom Entertainment today confirmed screenings of The Transformers: The Movie in France, Singapore, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, and Peru.

Are you going to see The Transformers: The Movie on the big screen? Let me know in the comments below.

Peter Cullen, voice of Optimus Prime, dies

40 years ago, Optimus Prime (often viewed as a surrogate dad) died in The Transformers: The Movie! Hasbro's controversial decision to sell new toys by killing off fan-favourite characters traumatised a generation of kids (myself included).

Peter Cullen, the voice of Optimus Prime, recalled hearing the stories that prompted the return of the heroic leader of the Autobots:

"I did Optimus Prime up until the movie in 1986, where I was put to rest. 'There lays Optimus Prime. See ya, kid!' And I didn't come back, I wasn't resurrected until the first Michael Bay film. So, there's a lot of time in between; however, I did come back to do two or three shows because a lot of kids evidently had trouble with that scene, and they were not coming out of their rooms and hiding under beds, I was told."

On a personal note, my late mum bought me the original Optimus Prime toy - as a surprise gift - whilst I was off sick from school in 1984. The Transformers, combined with the Marvel Comics tie-in, would soon become one of my all-time favourite toy lines, which I still collect.

Cullen, who voiced Optimus Prime for almost 4 decades, has died aged 85.

He died on Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles, a statement said.

"Peter Cullen passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family - and held in the hearts of his many friends and countless fans worldwide.

"His family asks that you honour his remarkable legacy by serving your communities and leading others with compassion, integrity, and loyalty and always remember 'be strong enough to be gentle'."

Cullen's other roles included the evil KARR in Knight Rider, Monterey Jack in Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers, and he voiced characters in 1980s and 1990s animated series including Spider-Man, Donkey Kong, Alvin & the Chipmunks, Dungeons & Dragons, My Little Pony, Duck Tales and Adventures of the Gummi Bears.

Like many Transformers fans, I will be forever thankful for Cullen's contribution to my life.

'Til all are one.

Tomb Raider joins G.I. Joe at Comic-Con

Our friends at Hasbro have sent over details regarding G.I. Joe Classified Series Collaborative Lara Croft Tomb Raider at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC).

G.I. JOE CLASSIFIED SERIES RETRO CARDBACK COLLABORATIVE LARA CROFT TOMB RAIDER

(HASBRO | Ages 4 years & up | Approx. Retail Price: $44.99 | Pre-Order Thursday July 23 at 5 PM ET; Available Fall 2026)

G.I. Joe is a highly skilled, on-demand, special operations force of men and women from around the world. Lara Croft, the TOMB RAIDER, is a legendary truth seeker and adventurer whose globetrotting explorations have brought her fame and notoriety. It's only natural their paths would cross while exploring the jungles of Cobra Island in this amazing collaborative between Hasbro and Crystal Dynamics. New to the G.I. Joe Classified Series line, Lara Croft TOMB RAIDER comes ready for adventure, with multiple points of articulation for high poseability. This Lara Croft TOMB RAIDER figure contains 16 character-inspired accessory pieces including alternate head, 2 alt hands, 2 climbing axes, backpack, grappling hook with handle and rope, recurve bow and arrow, quiver, the Dagger of Xian with sheath, and dual weapon accessories; plus a removable bandolier.

Look for other G.I. Joe figures and toys to build your roster of heroic G.I. Joe’s and Cobra villains (Each sold separately. Subject to availability.).

Lara Croft is based on her appearance in the upcoming Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis video game coming to PlayStation 5 (PS5), XBOX Series S|X, Nintendo Switch 2 and PC on 12th February 2027. Tomb Raider: Catalyst, a sequel to Tomb Raider: Underworld, has been delayed until 2028.

Despite a premium price tag, Lara Croft quickly sold out on Hasbro Pulse and fan channels when she went up for pre-order. I managed to pre-order mine along with Action Man from Star Action Figures in the UK in time for Christmas.

Pre-order G.I. Joe Classified Series Collaborative Lara Croft Tomb Raider at Amazon (affiliate link).

Have you pre-ordered G.I. Joe Classified Series Collaborative Lara Croft Tomb Raider? What other collaborative crossovers would you like to see in the future? Let me know in the comments below.

Hasbro announces animatronic Ultimate Grogu

Our friends at Hasbro have sent over details regarding an animatronic Ultimate Grogu to celebrate Star Wars Day and the release of The Mandalorian and Grogu on the big screen.

Few characters have defined modern pop culture quite like Grogu. First capturing hearts on the Disney+ series The Mandalorian, the breakout Star Wars character’s story is set to continue on the big screen in the upcoming film Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu starring Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White. Hasbro is bringing that cultural phenomenon to collectors’ shelves with Ultimate Grogu, a meticulously crafted 1:1 scale animatronic designed for collectors, fans, and cosplayers alike.

“Our goal with Ultimate Grogu was to make fans feel like he’s truly part of their world,” said Adam Biehl, Head of Disney Action Brands at Hasbro. “Our design and development team spent hours studying how the character came to life in The Mandalorian series, striving to capture his personality and movements in a way that honors what Lucasfilm delivered in entertainment. Powered by our long-standing collaboration with Disney Consumer Products, we’re launching the most life-like, interactive, and expressive Grogu character Hasbro has ever created.”

The Ultimate Grogu features built-in motors, sensors, and microphones to deliver over 250 animations and sounds. The animatronic boasts three different modes of play which include endearing movements like waving, giggling and even “toddling” forward, in ways that make him incredibly life-like. Crafted with premium materials and authentic detailing, the figure includes accessories and tailoring true to the fan-favorite character’s screen appearance.

As Claire Goolsby, one of the Hasbro electrical engineers who worked on the toy, explains:

“One of the things that we’re excited to bring to life in this product is directional audio sensing. He has two microphones in him that are strictly listening for noise. When we’re in a less-crowded environment, those will be active, and he’s going to turn left or right or toward the center to really make him feel like he is part of your dinner table, your game night, or any sort of action.”

Ultimate Grogu is available for pre-order now on Hasbro Pulse, Amazon, and Fan Channel retailers, with two pre-order options launching simultaneously. The first option with standard packaging will begin shipping in early 2027. For fans looking to receive sooner, a limited run of First Edition quantities featuring special edition packaging and a collector card will ship in late 2026.

Pre-order Ultimate Grogu at Amazon (affiliate link).

Are you getting an Ultimate Grogu? Let me know in the comments below.

Hasbro reveals new line for Star Wars: Maul

Our friends at Hasbro have sent over details regarding Star Wars: The Black Series Maul: Shadow Lord action figures for the upcoming animated series on Disney+.

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES MAUL

(HASBRO | Ages 4 and Up | Approx. Retail Price: $27.99 | Pre-Order on March 5 at 1PM ET on Hasbro and participating retailers; available Spring 2026)

After the events of the Clone Wars, Maul plots to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES includes 6-inch action figures, vehicles, and roleplay items from the 40-plus-year legacy of the STAR WARS galaxy, letting fans create galactic scenes with a faithfulness to STAR WARS comic books, movies, series, and more. This STAR WARS Hasbro action figure is detailed to look like Maul from STAR WARS: MAUL – SHADOW LORD. Pose out Maul with his two red-bladed Lightsabers™, which can be combined into one double-bladed Lightsaber. Look for more STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES 6-inch action figures to recreate your favorite scenes — or imagine your own (each sold separately, subject to availability).

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES ELEVENTH BROTHER

(HASBRO | Ages 4 and Up | Approx. Retail Price: $27.99 | Pre-Order on March 5 at 1PM ET on Hasbro and participating retailers; available Spring 2026)

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES includes 6-inch action figures, vehicles, and roleplay items from the 40-plus-year legacy of the STAR WARS galaxy, letting fans create galactic scenes with a faithfulness to STAR WARS comic books, movies, series, and more. This STAR WARS Hasbro action figure is detailed to look like the Eleventh Brother from STAR WARS: MAUL – SHADOW LORD. Pose out this Inquisitor with his red double-bladed Lightsaber™. Look for more STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES 6-inch action figures to recreate your favorite scenes — or imagine your own (each sold separately, subject to availability).

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES ROOK KAST

(HASBRO | Ages 4 and Up | Approx. Retail Price: $27.99 | Pre-Order on March 5 at 1PM ET on Hasbro and participating retailers; available Spring 2026)

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES includes 6-inch action figures, vehicles, and roleplay items from the 40-plus-year legacy of the STAR WARS galaxy, letting fans create galactic scenes with a faithfulness to STAR WARS comic books, movies, series, and more. This STAR WARS Hasbro action figure is detailed to look like the Rook Kast from STAR WARS: MAUL – SHADOW LORD. Pose out Rook Kast with the included jetpack, blasters, and removable helmet accessories. Look for more STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES 6-inch action figures to recreate your favorite scenes — or imagine your own (each sold separately, subject to availability).

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES DEVON IZARA

(HASBRO | Ages 4 and Up | Approx. Retail Price: $27.99 | Pre-Order on March 5 at 1PM ET on Hasbro and participating retailers; available Spring 2026)

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES includes 6-inch action figures, vehicles, and roleplay items from the 40-plus-year legacy of the STAR WARS galaxy, letting fans create galactic scenes with a faithfulness to STAR WARS comic books, movies, series, and more. This STAR WARS Hasbro action figure is detailed to look like the Devon Izara from STAR WARS: MAUL – SHADOW LORD. Pose out Devon Izara with the included blue-bladed Lightsaber™. Look for more STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES 6-inch action figures to recreate your favorite scenes — or imagine your own (each sold separately, subject to availability).

Shop Star Wars at Amazon (affiliate link).

The two-episode premiere of Star Wars: Maul - Shadow Lord streams on 6th April only on Disney+.

Are you looking forward to Star Wars: Maul - Shadow Lord on Disney+? Let me know in the comments below.

Baldur's Gate 3 will continue on HBO

A cold mug of tea and uneaten biscuits are a testament to an immersive, interactive experience with player agency; Larian Studios’ award-winning Baldur’s Gate 3 is such a video game!

So, news of a live-action adaptation from the co-creator of The Last of Us series, Craig Mazin (Chernobyl), has piqued my interest. I may be an outlier, but I've enjoyed seasons one and two of The Last of Us.

“After putting nearly 1000 hours into the incredible world of Baldur’s Gate 3, it is a dream come true to be able to continue the story that Larian and Wizards of the Coast created,” Mazin said. “I am a devoted fan of D&D and the brilliant way that Swen Vincke and his gifted team adapted it. I can’t wait to help bring Baldur’s Gate and all of its incredible characters to life with as much respect and love as we can, and I’m deeply grateful to Gabe Marano and his team at Hasbro for entrusting me with this incredibly important property.”

The fantasy genre captured my childhood imagination when a neighbour friend gifted me a copy of The Hobbit, and I saw Ralph Bakshi's animated adaptation of The Lord of the Rings in the cinema. From there, I consumed Fighting Fantasy, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), played text-based adventures on 8-bit home computers, watched Knightmare on ITV, and collected Citadel Miniatures.

During the spring and summer school holidays, my dad would take me on a forest trail (lost to time) as I underwent years of rehabilitation in the wake of a life-changing childhood trauma. As he carried me part of the way on his back, I imagined I was Frodo with Strider on a quest to destroy the One Ring to rule them all.

Fast forward to 2024. I downloaded Baldur’s Gate 3 for Xbox Series S and embarked on an epic adventure that encapsulates everything I love about tragic tales of found family. My character, a female elf called L’Ara Wynter (in homage to Tomb Raider’s Lara Croft), survived an abduction by mind flayers that had stepped out of a Lovecraftian nightmare, fell in love with Shadowheart and befriended a band of dysfunctional misfits on the road less travelled, in shades of Tolkien.

Over 2 years on, Baldur's Gate 3 continues to get updates with fixes and further Forgotten Realms content.

On X (formerly Twitter), the director of publishing at Larian Studios, Michael Douse, expressed concerns over his team being excluded from the upcoming HBO series' creation.

Douse wrote: "I've spent the last 8 to 10 years of my life with the writers & creators of Baldur's Gate 3 and they're the most incredible storytellers & creators in the space. Only hope is that they get both the credit deserved & the characters are represented at the same level as the game."

The decision is controversial given Mazin's creative collaboration with Naughty Dog's Neil Druckmann on The Last of Us, and fans are divided. Hasbro owns Wizards of the Coast and can use its own intellectual property (IP) as it sees fit, but to ignore Larian Studios' contribution to Baldur's Gate would be disingenuous. The Fallout series on Prime Video is expanding on the subversive post-apocalyptic world with oversight from Bethesda Game Studios' Todd Howard.

He continued, "Our stories are built by fierce comeraderie [sic] and resolve. I have watched them write and write and write and through respect for audience & material come up with some of the finest shit i [sic] have ever played. I hope TV allows for the same thoroghness [sic]."

What are your thoughts on a Baldur's Gate 3 series seemingly sans creative input from Larian Studios on HBO? Let me know in the comments below.

First Star Wars Fanstream for 2026

January's my birthday month, and Hasbro Pulse has announced its first Star Wars Fanstream for 2026.

From the official Hasbro Pulse Instagram account:

"A new year. A new Fanstream from a galaxy far, far away...

Join the Hasbro STAR WARS team for their first Fanstream of the year, packed with fresh reveals across your favorite collections. From long-awaited additions to shelf-defining pieces, your display is about to get an upgrade!

Set your coordinates and tune in January 12th at 11:00am ET, exclusively on the Hasbro Pulse YouTube Channel."

Unless it's being held back for the 50th anniversary of Star Wars in 2027, I'd like Star Wars: The Vintage Collection Patrol Dewback and Sandtrooper as an early birthday present.

What are you hoping will be revealed during the Hasbro Pulse Star Wars Fanstream? Let me know in the comments below.

Tron toys at New York Comic Con

During San Diego Comic Con (SDCC), Hasbro's Steve Evans, senior design director for Marvel and Star Wars, teased Tron toys based on Disney's Tron franchise. Evans handed out 3.5-inch floppy disks, which contained a teaser image.

Fast forward to today. Hasbro has announced a Tron HasLab and 6-inch Tron: Legacy action figures at New York Comic Con (NYCC).

The latest HasLab is Tron: Heroes of the Grid, which features five 3.75-inch action figures based on Tron, Flynn, Yori, Sark, and a Program, two Light Cycles and an LED-lit display stand. The action figure sculpts look amazing, but it shouldn't be a HasLab requiring 10,000 backers and costing £259.99! Granted, a Recognizer or Tank would have been cool! However, in view of current market conditions, I think it's egregious.

I was hoping for a Hasbro Pulse exclusive line of action figures and accessories, as I missed out on the original toy line from Tomy. Even so, I did have fun collecting Tomytronic 3D handheld gaming devices inspired by Tron.

Hasbro 375 is a new line of 3.75-inch action figures inspired by the vintage Kenner Star Wars toys, beginning with Tron: Heroes of the Grid. Perfect for world-building on your desktop, I would like to see Indiana Jones and the Micronauts next.

Will you be backing the Tron: Heroes of the Grid HasLab? Which Hasbro 375 action figures would you like to see released in the future? Let me know in the comments below.

Hot Wheels Transformers Nemesis Prime

It's Transformers Tuesday! This morning, Hot Wheels Transformers Nemesis Prime was made available for pre-order on Mattel Creations.

Read the official description from Mattel Creations:

"Optimus Prime’s evil clone, Nemesis Prime rolled in to the Transformers universe bent on destroying Autobots and Deceptions. Created by the twisted mind of Unicron, Nemesis Prime was equipped with the same abilities as his counterpart but lacked morality and pain receptors. Those powerful traits allowed Nemesis to wreak havoc in his wake until his ultimate downfall."

Last year, I missed out on the premium die-cast Optimus Prime and didn't want to repeat that for his evil twin. So, I was ready at 9:00AM (BST) and joined the queue. After several failed attempts, I successfully pre-ordered Nemesis Prime with seconds to spare before he sold out. £77 (including P&P) isn't cheap, but it's that or pay inflated secondary market prices (or else never get it).

Did you pre-order Hot Wheels Transformers Nemesis Prime on Mattel Creations? Let me know in the comments below.

Coleman Trebor unlocked!

Hasbro's Steve Evans, senior design director for Marvel and Star Wars, posted updated details regarding the Star Wars HasLab The Vintage Collection LAAT/i Gunship campaign.

International retail partners have reported their final backer count, bringing the final tally to 10,541. Therefore, the first tier, Jedi Coleman Trebor, was unlocked.

The news broke following a Geek Meet livestream, where we discussed the latest HasLab with fellow toy collectors. Ryan Speaks Geek hilariously christened Coleman Trebor as Mustard Mint, and this can't be unseen.



This is good news for fans who backed the campaign. I didn't, as I still have an unopened Ghost stored in the garage since last Christmas.

Did you back the Star Wars The Vintage Collection LAAT/i Gunship HasLab? Let me know in the comments below.

Star Wars HasLab Gunship is backed!

The Star Wars HasLab The Vintage Collection LAAT/i Gunship campaign was backed hours before the 9th September deadline.

Despite a final promotional push by official channels and support from fans (myself included), the centrepiece of Hasbro's Battle of Geonosis campaign for 2026 limped over the finish line without unlocking any of the tiers. The total number of backers was 9,776, just 224 short of unlocking the first tier at 10,000 backers for Coleman Trebor.

The LAAT/i Gunship may have been more successful at a lower price point, and if it had included exclusive variant action figures of Anakin Skywalker, Padmé Amidala, Obi-Wan Kenobi or a Clone Trooper army builder pack.

Did you back the Star Wars The Vintage Collection LAAT/i Gunship HasLab? What future Star Wars HasLab would you like to see for the 50th anniversary of Star Wars? The Death Star? Let me know in the comments below.

Gunship announced as Star Wars HasLab

At San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC), Hasbro announced its Battle of Geonosis campaign for 2026 with a Star Wars HasLab.

Read the official press release:

"Star Wars The Vintage Collection LAAT/i Gunship

The Vintage Collection LAAT/i Gunship transports you right to the heart of the first battle of the Clone Wars on Geonosis and its aftermath. In Star Wars: Attack of the Clones™, this speedy attack ship led the rescue mission of the Jedi remaining after Count Dooku and the Separatists’ assault, setting a cascade of rockets and laser fire onto the Separatist droid army.

LAAT/i (Low Altitude Assault Transport/infantry) Republic ships can be seen in epic battles scenes across Star Wars, including the animated classic Star Wars: The Clone Wars™ and its more recent counterpart, Star Wars: The Bad Batch™. The HasLab team is thrilled to bring you one of the franchise’s most recognizable and celebrated vehicles.

If funded, this ship will make the perfect tribute to one of the defining moments in the prequel trilogy. Let’s get into the details!"

Take a closer look with Hasbro designer Chris and special guest Adam from Lucasfilm's product development, who sold me on backing it.



The last Gunship toy I owned was from Star Wars: Attack of the Clones, which I sold to a fellow Star Wars fan and collector a few years ago. Like many fans, I have reservations about the £449.99 price tag and tiers.

After pontificating for a few days (The Ghost is still boxed), I’ve decided to back the HasLab for now, if only to support the campaign and reach 8,000 backers. I appreciate that this is a good problem to have. Will it be another Rancor? We'll see in September.

Will you be backing the Star Wars The Vintage Collection LAAT/i Gunship HasLab on Hasbro Pulse? What do you think of the price? What are your thoughts on crowdfunded collectables? Should it be a retail release? Let me know in the comments below.

Hasbro teases Tron toys at Comic-Con

Hasbro's Steve Evans teased Tron toys based on Disney's original Tron, Tron: Legacy and the upcoming Tron: Ares at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC). Evans handed out 3.5-inch floppy disks, which contained a teaser image.

Christmas 1982 was all about the Sinclair ZX Spectrum 48K, Disney's Tron and Steven Spielberg's extra-terrestrial. I wanted Tron action figures and vehicles. It looks like Hasbro is about to grant that wish this holiday season.

Which Tron toys would you like to see from Hasbro? Let me know in the comments below.

Masters of the Universe x Transformers

Club Grayskull, which I ponied up an annual subscription to obtain He-Ro, a member-only grail action figure from my childhood, teased future Masters of the Universe (MotU) crossovers on the official forum (forums are still a thing in 2025?).

On Friday, Mattel and Hasbro announced Masters of the Universe x Transformers action figures at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC). An included mini-comic will provide a backstory to the crossover, much like the original toy line!

As a fan of both toy lines since day one, I've pre-ordered Megatron Armour Skeletor and Bumblebee Armour Man-At-Arms from Mattel Creations, as I didn't want to miss out. The Fright Zone sold out in less than 30 minutes on Mattel Creations. I had the long-awaited playset in my cart, but to no avail. However, Hurricane Hordak and Despara won't be homeless for much longer as I've pre-ordered Hordak's stronghold from The Whole Shebang.

Fans have wondered where's Optimus Prime Armour He-Man and why isn't Man-At-Arms, Brawn? The designers revealed that Buzz-Off was an early concept for Bumblebee. This crossover looks fun, and there will be further action figures in the line. Arcee Armour Teela?

In related news. An Amazon exclusive Castle Grayskull (affiliate link) and Hot Wheels x Transformers Bone Shaker and Twin Mill (affiliate link) were also announced at SDCC.

What are your thoughts on Masters of the Universe x Transformers? Which action figures would you like to see? Are you a fan of toy line crossovers? Is it lazy nostalgia to fleece fans? Let me know in the comments below.

Step inside the Hasbro Pulse Booth

For Hasbro fans (myself included) who aren't at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC), Hasbro Pulse has released a booth tour.

“We’re excited to return to San Diego Comic-Con with a compelling slate of product reveals and fan-driven programming across TRANSFORMERS, BEYBLADE, G.I. JOE, MAGIC: THE GATHERING and more,” said Tim Kilpin, President of Toys, Board Games, Licensing & Entertainment at Hasbro. “As we continue to focus on our ‘Aging Up’ strategy, we’re delivering premium collectibles and immersive experiences designed to resonate with our fans. From highly anticipated convention exclusives at the Hasbro Pulse Toy Store to engaging brand panels, partner collaborations and experiences throughout the city, we’re inviting fans to celebrate the passion and storytelling that define our iconic franchises.”



"Couldn’t make it to San Diego Comic-Con? Or maybe you’re here and haven’t stopped by yet? Either way – step inside the Hasbro Pulse Booth at #SDCC2025 with Emily as your guide!

From our Fanstream Studio to the latest products from Transformers, G.I. Joe Classified Series, Marvel Legends, STAR WARS, and more, this tour gives fans at home a front-row look at the full Hasbro Pulse experience.

Explore our product displays, check out the exclusive Hasbro Pulse Store, and get a closer look at the sprawling artwork by Tom Whalen that wraps around the booth.

📲 If you’re following along from home, tell us which brand or reveal you’re most excited about this weekend – and stay tuned to Hasbro Pulse for more updates from SDCC 2025!"

Which brand panels are you looking forward to? Let me know in the comments below.

Hasbro reveals Star Wars Comic-Con exclusive

Our friends at Hasbro have sent over details regarding the Star Wars: The Black Series San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) exclusive 2-pack featuring Anakin Skywalker & Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith.

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES ANAKIN SKYWALKER & OBI-WAN KENOBI

(HASBRO | Ages 4 and Up | Approx. Retail Price: $109.99 | *Availability details below)

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES includes 6-inch action figures, vehicles, and roleplay items from the 40-plus-year legacy of the STAR WARS Galaxy, letting fans create galactic scenes with a faithfulness to STAR WARS comic books, movies, series, and more. This STAR WARS Hasbro action figure 2-pack is detailed to look like Anakin Skywalker & Obi-Wan Kenobi from STAR WARS: REVENGE OF THE SITH. In addition to their signature Lightsabers™, the Sith Lord and the Jedi Master come with swinging and clash effects, a two-part stand, interchangeable Force hands, and more. Designed to look like the planet Mustafar, the platform can be displayed in multiple configurations and includes an additional lava piece for posing. With exquisite features and decoration, THE BLACK SERIES embodies the quality and realism that STAR WARS devotees love (additional products each sold separately, subject to availability).

*The STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES ANAKIN SKYWALKER & OBI-WAN KENOBI will be available for purchase exclusively at the Hasbro booth (#3213) during 2025 San Diego Comic-Con. Additional purchasing details to be announced on the official San Diego Comic-Con website. Following San Diego Comic-Con, limited quantities will be available to order on Hasbro Pulse.

Will you be adding Star Wars: The Black Series Anakin Skywalker & Obi-Wan Kenobi SDCC exclusive to your collection when available for pre-order on Hasbro Pulse? Let me know in the comments below.

Hasbro extends Star Wars deal

Star Wars: The Black Series and Star Wars: The Vintage Collection collectors (myself included) can rejoice.

Hasbro has extended its long-running Disney partnership, securing Star Wars and Marvel licenses for years to come.

"It’s an honor to be able to deepen our relationship with Disney Consumer Products to create even more magical play experiences for consumers across the globe," said Tim Kilpin, Hasbro's President, Toys, Board Games, Licensing and Entertainment. “Star Wars and Marvel provide an extensive array of captivating content that gives us an unlimited trove of fresh ideas to create from. Our collaboration spans more than half a century, and we look forward to strengthening our relationship by bringing consumers everywhere brand-new play experiences tied to the exciting universes and characters of Star Wars and Marvel.”

With this extension, Hasbro doubles down on fan-favourite franchises and deepens its powerhouse partnership with Disney.

"We look forward to continuing to collaborate with Hasbro to evolve our expansive portfolio of Star Wars and Marvel toys that bring these iconic adventures into daily life,” said Paul Gitter, Executive Vice President of Global Brand Commercialization at Disney Consumer Products. "From must-have collectibles to Lightsaber toys, we aim to push the boundaries of creativity to deliver innovative products and engaging play experiences that bring our fans closer to their favorite stories and characters.”

Growing up as an only child with a disability in the wake of a life-changing injury, Star Wars toys were a welcome distraction from years of rehabilitation. My favourite toys included a 12" Boba Fett action figure, All Terrain Armoured Transport (AT-AT), Millennium Falcon, Jabba the Hutt action playset and an Imperial Shuttle. Special mention for R2-D2 as that little droid was the first Star Wars action figure I owned before seeing the movie in 1978.

Let's pretend Star Wars Bend-Ems never happened in the early nineties!

30 years ago, following the purchase of Kenner, Hasbro launched Star Wars: The Power of the Force. These were the first new toys worth collecting after Kenner ended the original vintage toy line in 1985. Fast forward to 2025, I'm all about collecting Star Wars: The Vintage Collection.

2027 marks the 50th anniversary of Star Wars, so expect to see plenty of action-packed products to celebrate.

Are you happy Hasbro has extended its deal with Disney to produce more Star Wars products? Let me know in the comments below.

The Force is with Star Wars Celebration Japan

Star Wars Celebration Japan is underway this weekend, and I'm living vicariously via friends' social media posts.

There are enough announcements for Star Wars fans (myself included) to fill a Corellian light freighter.

Sigourney Weaver (Alien) is joining the cast of The Mandalorian and Grogu, directed by Jon Favreau (Iron Man), which is the first new Star Wars movie since Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.



And Star Wars: Maul - Shadow Lord from Lucasfilm Animation is coming to Disney+ with Sam Witwer reprising the iconic villain for animation. Darth Maul was seemingly killed by a young Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, but returned in Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels. Both stellar spin-offs drop in 2026.



The biggest surprise announcement so far is Star Wars: Starfighter, directed by Shawn Levy (Stranger Things). The upcoming standalone movie, which stars Ryan Gosling (Barbie), will be released in 2027. This coincides with the 50th anniversary of the original Star Wars.



Speaking at Star Wars Celebration Japan in Tokyo, Gosling said: "The reality is that this script is just so good. It has such a great story with great and original characters. It’s filled with so much heart and adventure, and there just really is not a more perfect filmmaker for this particular story than Shawn."

In related news. Our friends at Hasbro have shared the latest product reveals for Star Wars: The Black Series and Star Wars: The Vintage Collection. Whilst collecting is a luxury during a cost of living crisis, I've pre-ordered the Bantha & Tusken Raider 2-Pack as part of Hasbro's return to Tatooine campaign in 2025. This set will pair with Luke's Landspeeder for toy photography.

Are you excited for The Mandalorian and Grogu, Star Wars: Maul - Shadow Lord and Star Wars: Starfighter? Let me know in the comments below.

Landspeeder revealed at Star Wars Fanstream

Our friends at Hasbro have sent over the latest reveals from the Hasbro Pulse Star Wars Fanstream! The Star Wars team announced new products from Star Wars: The Black Series and Star Wars: The Vintage Collection.

Luke Skywalker's Landspeeder piqued my interest as I missed out on the original Kenner vehicle in 1978 and The Power of the Force 2 rerelease in 1995.

STAR WARS: THE VINTAGE COLLECTION LANDSPEEDER VEHICLE

(HASBRO | Ages 4 years & up | Approx. Retail Price: $59.99 | Pre-order now on Hasbro Pulse and fan channel retailers; available Summer 2025)

Luke Skywalker owned a battered but speedy X-34 Landspeeder, racing the sand-faded craft across the desert. Celebrate the legacy of STAR WARS with premium vehicles, playsets, and action figures from STAR WARS: THE VINTAGE COLLECTION. Based on STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE, this 3.75-inch-scale Landspeeder includes a Luke Skywalker (Tatooine) figure that features photoreal deco and a soft goods poncho. Comes with 7 accessories for dynamic poseability on fan shelves, including his signature Lightsaber™, hat, and droid caller. Calling back to the original 1970s and 1980s vintage toys, figure and vehicle feature Kenner branding and package design, with a unique VC number on the figure for collectability (VC #344A). Reimagine favorite scenes with other THE VINTAGE COLLECTION figures and vehicles from the STAR WARS galaxy (each sold separately, subject to availability).

Build out your scene with the Streets of Mos Eisley (affiliate link) action figure playset and Jawa. In the future, I'd like to see a Patrol Dewback and Sandtrooper added to the Star Wars: The Vintage Collection. It may be announced at Star Wars Celebration Japan or on Star Wars Day as part of Hasbro's return to Tatooine campaign in 2025.

Landspeeder & Luke Skywalker is available for pre-order from Amazon (affiliate link).

Will you be adding Star Wars: The Vintage Collection Landspeeder & Luke Skywalker to your collection? Let me know in the comments below.

Exodus is a spiritual sequel to Mass Effect

Had it not been for PlayStation's State of Play and Earl Barker, a friend and fellow video gamer, I wouldn't have known about Exodus (other than hearing a brief mention of it during an episode of Podcast Unlocked and then forgetting all about it)!

The upcoming sci-fi action-adventure role-playing game (RPG) starring Matthew McConaughey (Interstellar) is developed by Archetype Entertainment, a division of Wizards of the Coast (a subsidiary of Hasbro renowned for properties like Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering). BioWare and Bungie veterans are spearheading the space odyssey, which has piqued my interest. The dream team have worked on Halo and Mass Effect.



Read the official synopsis:

"Having fled a dying Earth, humanity has found a new home in a hostile galaxy.

Here, we are the underdogs, fighting our final battle for survival.

You are the Traveler, humanity’s last hope."

It's impossible to ignore the original Mass Effect trilogy overtones, and I'm here for it.

I was very late to the Mass Effect party! After winning an Xbox 360 S from LOVEFiLM (Prime Video), I bought Mass Effect 3 in 2012. This was tantamount to watching Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, first!

So, finally, I began FemShep's hero's journey from the beginning in the lead-up to the release of Mass Effect: Andromeda in 2017. It would cement Mass Effect's status as one of the greatest space operas in any medium. Combining the Battlestar Galactica reboot with Star Trek and Star Wars to peerless effect.

I laughed, I cried and didn't want to say goodbye to Shepard's found family as the end credits rolled! Character-driven storytelling was front and centre throughout a hundred hours or more. And, for the first time, there was a disabled character I could empathise with in a video game...

During the pandemic, I played Mass Effect Legendary Edition on Game Pass. I will replay it ahead of Exodus as and when it's released sometime in the future for PlayStation 5 (PS5) and Xbox Series X|S.

Are you looking forward to Exodus? Let me know in the comments below.