Post by @90stoyvault

The original G1 Optimus Prime was already a complete world before Hasbro gave this 1984 Transformers toy a name. Released by Hasbro in 1984, the original G1 Optimus Prime transformed from a red truck into the Autobot leader, while his trailer opened into a mobile command center with a repair arm, launch system, and Roller scout vehicle. But the toy began in Japan as Takara’s 1983 Diaclone Battle Convoy. In that line, the robots were machines operated by tiny magnetic footed pilots. That is why the chest opens, the trailer contains control seats, and the entire set feels like a miniature world instead of one action figure with accessories. If you have ever wondered what toy became Optimus Prime, this is where the story begins. When Hasbro adapted Battle Convoy for Transformers, the cab became Optimus Prime, Roller became his scout, and the trailer became Autobot Headquarters. The original Marvel character profile described all three as connected modules of the same being. The engineering created the body. Marvel created the leader. Peter Cullen gave him a voice that made strength feel gentle. More than forty years later, every new Optimus Prime still traces back to this original toy. Did you have Optimus Prime or the Diaclone version? #Transformers #OptimusPrime #80stoys #Vintagetoys #toycollector