FIRST LOOK: Transformers Kre-O Class of ’85 (SDCC Exclusive)

Cybertron High is back in session, as Hasbro delivers Transformers’ Class of 1985 to the Kre-O universe.

Last year, Hasbro introduced Comic Con to the Transformers Kre-O Class of ’84, a box set of Kreon mini figures based on thirty of the Autobots and Decepticons originally released in the inaugural year of the celebrated toy line.  Now here we are, one year later, and Hasbro’s done it again, with the Transformers Class of ’85 available later this week at Comic Con.

Like last year’s set, what we have here is a box pack of 30 Kreons, each representing a G1 Transformers character first introduced in 1985.  This means we get some classic characters, like Blaster, Skids, Ramjet, as well as scaled-down versions of big characters like Devastator, Astrotrain and Omega Supreme.  The set also features some of ’85’s most notable sub-teams, such as Grimlock and the Dinobots, the Insecticons and the Jumpstarters.  Each mini figure does a great job of emulating their respective G1 colors and designs, and everyone includes at least one weapon.

On their own, the Kreons in this set would be a cool addition to any Transformers collection… but Hasbro didn’t stop there.  The Kre-O team often has a pretty great sense of humor, and they packed plenty of in-jokes to this set, which ups the fun factor exponentially.  First off, there’s the box itself, modeled to look like a yearbook from Cybertron High in 1985.  The box opens in a book-style gatefold, displaying each of the 30 Kreons in their own unique windows, which give the appearance of a yearbook photo.  True to form, beneath every figure is their name, and their respective superlative (my favorites include ).

The real gem of the set, though, is the collection of “1985 artifacts” included as well.  These accessories and extra parts can be used on any figure, to emulate some of the biggest movies of 1985.  What’s included?  How about a treasure map, gold coins, and Mikey’s jean jacket from The Goonies?  If that doesn’t float your Depthcharge, how about Andrew’s varsity jacket from The Breakfast Club (complete with a box of Unicron-branded cereal, ensuring the breakfast theme is literal as well as referential).  We even get a Doc Brown wig, “Jetfire B Goode” CD and Cybertron Sports Almanac, to send your Transformers “back to the future.”

I love how fun these extra pieces are, and it’s really great to be able to pick and choose which five bots will land in Mr. Vernon’s detention, or who gets to travel back to the Cybertron of 1955.  It’s totally charming, perfectly in line with the goofball retro feel of this set, as well as the general silliness that surfaces often in the Kre-O collection.

The Transformers Class of ’85 box set will be available from Hasbro this week at San Diego Comic Con, with some going for sale next week for non-attendees at HasbroToyShop.com.  If you’re a fan of the 80s, Transformers or fun building toys, this set is a big winner.  Thanks to Hasbro for giving us the opportunity to take an early look at the Class of ’85!