Triple Takeover Toycast

Triple Takeover
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Welcome to the Triple Takeover Toycast — a fun and informative fortnightly podcast all about Transformers and other amazing toy lines. From vintage rarities and prototypes to modern releases, cartoons, comics, and films, your hosts Sixo, Liam, Jason and Maz dive deep into toy history and pop culture with passion, humour, and plenty of nostalgia — plus the occasional special guest.

  1. Transformers Aftermarket Prices: When Did It Get This Expensive?

    4D AGO

    Transformers Aftermarket Prices: When Did It Get This Expensive?

    The general aftermarket value of second-hand Transformers items has skyrocketed in recent times, driven by what appears to be a collecting boom over the last five years or more. What was once a reasonably accessible hobby has become increasingly pricey, with even previously unloved releases now commanding premium prices. It's a hot topic that affects every collector, regardless of focus or budget. We're here to establish whether such price hikes are justifiable — is this simply the market responding to genuine demand, or is the perceived value of certain items being artificially inflated to take advantage of increased interest? We discuss why some toys become astronomically expensive even when they weren't particularly desirable on initial release, examining the psychology behind grail hunting, and how scarcity (both real and manufactured) affects pricing. There's also the practical question every collector faces: how can we continue to justify a hobby that's becoming ever more eye-wateringly exorbitant? We explore strategies for navigating the current market, from knowing when to walk away to understanding what actually holds value versus what's riding a temporary hype wave. There are definite frustrations to vent along the way, but we're also searching for solace and sensible approaches. With thanks to Moltara Imports for providing key insight on the wholesale and retail side of the equation, helping us understand the bigger picture behind the numbers we see. It's a conversation that needed to happen. Find Moltara at: https://linktr.ee/moltaraimports — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:05:06 Sponsor Segment: Valart & Moltara Imports 0:15:06 The Current State of The Aftermarket 0:28:12 Will The Aftermarket Ever Bottom Out? 0:35:44 Why Condition Matters 0:43:36 Are Vintage Toys Still... Toys? 0:52:29 When Prices Are Artificially Inflated 1:16:31 How Collecting is Becoming Inaccessible 1:25:55 Sponsor Segment: Moltara Imports 1:28:14 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

    1h 42m
  2. e-Hobby Exclusives: The Reissues That Became Grails

    MAR 17

    e-Hobby Exclusives: The Reissues That Became Grails

    The so-called e-Hobby era has become a landmark of Transformers collecting for many fans. Running predominantly through the 2000s, the TakaraTomy-affiliated online store offered recolours of classic Transformers toys in weird and wonderful colour schemes — sometimes referencing Diaclone or Micro Change releases, occasionally diving into exceptionally niche corners of the brand's lore, and often just embracing pure creative experimentation. What makes this period so fascinating is the dramatic shift in perception over time. Many of these toys weren't particularly appreciated when released, sitting plentifully available online for years before experiencing a swift and surprising renaissance. Today, individual e-Hobby releases can outstrip even the original vintage versions on which they're based, with some specimens commanding immense sums on the aftermarket. It's a remarkable transformation for what were once considered curiosities. Even aside from their current desirability, there's genuine substance here worth celebrating: lush new colour schemes afforded to beloved vintage classics, the sheer unbridled creativity at play, and a willingness to serve the most dedicated collectors with references that rewarded deep knowledge of the franchise. We discuss our favourite releases, the ones that got away, and why certain examples have achieved such legendary status. With Missing Link now promising a return-to-form that feels almost spiritually in-keeping with what the e-Hobby reissues offered, it's the perfect time to look back on what is, for many of us, one of the fondest periods of post-G1 collecting. If only it had gone on longer. — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:06:24 Sponsor Segment: Valart 0:10:14 Introduction to e-Hobby 0:26:23 New Characters From Old Toys 0:35:36 Will They Re-Do Some of These Repaint Ideas Again? 0:42:21 Availability on Release 0:50:01 Why Does e-Hobby Feel 'Exotic'? 1:09:52 Why Do They Still Feel Like Grails Now? 1:19:26 Sponsor Segment: TFSource 1:29:51 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

    1h 51m
  3. Transformers: The Hottest Head Sculpts

    MAR 3

    Transformers: The Hottest Head Sculpts

    We've tackled the topic of head sculpts before, but tonight we're returning with a mission: to highlight specific examples that represent the absolute best the franchise has to offer. Whether it's modern era mainline, Japanese exclusive fare, classic Generations, or our beloved Beast Wars, we're unpacking what makes a great Transformers head sculpt and why their design is so integral to making toys work and feel memorable. The choices we end up highlighting are all very different in style — spanning eras, size classes, and design philosophies — but they have one crucial thing in common: they're chock full of personality. These are the head sculpts that give their figures genuine character, the ones that make you stop and appreciate the artistry involved in capturing a character's essence at such a small scale. We discuss what separates a good head sculpt from a great one, why certain design choices resonate so strongly, and how sculptors manage to convey so much expression and identity in just a few millimetres of plastic. From intricate paint applications to bold stylistic choices, these are the heads that stick in your memory long after you've transformed the figure. Fair warning: this episode assumes Liam has actually prepared his picks. Results may vary. — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:05:19 Sponsor Segment: Valart 0:12:13 Liam's first choice 0:32:45 Sixo's first choice 0:45:54 Jason's first choice 1:01:11 Jason's second choice 1:09:09 Sixo's second choice 1:21:20 Liam's second choice 1:37:43 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

    2h 1m
  4. Beast Wars Neo: Balls to the Wall Weirdness

    FEB 17

    Beast Wars Neo: Balls to the Wall Weirdness

    Let it never be said that Triple Takeover doesn't enjoy a bit of beast. Having already done deep dives into the classic Kenner line and Takara's Beast Wars II, we're back for more — and this is where things get really weird, with 1999's Beast Wars Neo. Tonight it's all about the Maximals: a crew of twelve toys that run the gamut from intriguing repaints and retools to flat-out Japanese exclusive oddities. Sixo guides Liam and Jason through the roster one figure at a time, discovering some of the more noteworthy alternate modes from the entire Beast era — not to mention the somewhat inexplicable third modes on offer. With giraffes, penguins, horses, rabbits, sharks, and of course the line's notorious tanuki, Beast Wars Neo showcases the sheer creativity (and occasional bewilderment) of late-90s Takara design philosophy. The discussion leans towards the absurd at times — that was somewhat inevitable given the subject matter — but there's genuine reverence for what is, at the end of the day, a fabulous set of classic Transformers toys. Big swings, plenty of fun, and a roster that wasn't afraid to do something different. Fair warning: this episode gets weird. But that's exactly why our Beast Wars discussions always end up being some of the most entertaining episodes we record. Let's hope we don't balls it up. — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart 0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout? 0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact 0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits 0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance 1:02:27 Community Connection 1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource 1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

    1h 55m
  5. Henkei! Henkei! Transformers — Takara's Mid-2000s Masterclass

    FEB 3

    Henkei! Henkei! Transformers — Takara's Mid-2000s Masterclass

    We first covered the beginnings of Transformers Generations toys with 2006's Classics line back in episode #16, but now we're back for the Takara equivalent: Henkei! Henkei! Transformers. This Japanese roster — which also spans parts of 2008's Universe line and literally translates to "Transform! Transform! Transformers" — is a jewel in the crown of mid-2000s robots in disguise. Henkei! offered surprisingly varied — and often superior — repaint choices on already beloved moulds (including some which have arguably been unfairly maligned, as we'll discuss). It's a line of creative designs, intriguing transformations, and definite ingenuity, but coupled with Takara's attention to detail when it comes to finish, it's not hard to understand why it grabbed so much attention at the time. Even if the abundance of chrome proved surprisingly divisive. We're stepping back to an era before every character received regular Generations updates every few years — a time when classic characters were brought back with real flair for doing something different, and when A-list names like Bumblebee received their first toys in years. It's not an exaggeration to say that the figures in today's spotlight set the template for Generations toys to this day, and we're here to give them their due. — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart 0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout? 0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact 0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits 0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance 1:02:27 Community Connection 1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource 1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

    1h 41m
  6. Collector Burnout: When the Hobby Stops Being Fun

    JAN 20

    Collector Burnout: When the Hobby Stops Being Fun

    Collecting Transformers should be a joy, but what happens when it starts to feel like a chore? This episode tackles collector burnout — that creeping sense of being overwhelmed, stressed, or feeling obligated rather than excited by your hobby. It's a topic chosen by our patrons, and it's one we approach with honesty, care, and maybe a bit of catharsis. Burnout can happen to any collector. The pressure to acquire everything new, the sheer volume of releases, lifestyle changes, mounting clutter, and that nagging guilt about figures still in boxes — it all adds up. What starts as passion can slowly transform into obligation, and before you know it, the thing you love feels like work. We discuss why burnout happens, what the early warning signs might be, and practical ways to mitigate or avoid it altogether. We also reflect on our own experiences: have any of us genuinely faced collector burnout? The answers might surprise you. If you've ever felt exhausted by your collection rather than energised by it, you're not alone. This one's for anyone who's questioned whether they still love the hobby — or are just going through the motions. — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:06:16 Sponsor Segment: Valart 0:10:36 What Is Collector Burnout? 0:17:53 The Acquisition Problem & Social Media Impact 0:30:37 The Benefit of Creative Pursuits 0:40:01 Recognising Warning Signs & Finding Balance 1:02:27 Community Connection 1:13:01 Sponsor Segment: TFSource 1:23:38 Final Thoughts & Patron Questions — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

    1h 51m
  7. Transformers 2025 — Favourite Toys of the Year

    JAN 6

    Transformers 2025 — Favourite Toys of the Year

    As another year of collecting draws to a close, the Triple Takeover crew sit down to reflect on the Transformers toys that defined 2025 for them. Rather than chasing completeness or release lists, this episode focuses on personal favourites — the figures that made the biggest impression in hand, sparked the strongest emotional response, or simply reminded us why we enjoy collecting in the first place. From the long-anticipated Missing Link releases to standout modern designs and ambitious large-scale projects, it’s a year that offered a surprising amount of variety. We talk through what made figures like Sunstreaker feel genuinely special, why releases such as HasLab Omega Prime and Age of the Primes Superion stood out in a crowded landscape, and how 2025 balanced nostalgia with forward-looking ideas. Along the way, the conversation naturally widens into thoughts on collecting habits, changing priorities, and what really makes a toy memorable over time. It’s a reminder that the value of a collection is often measured in experiences rather than numbers. — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:06:09 Setting the discussion rules 0:11:05 Sponsor chat 0:13:58 Jason's first choice 0:23:20 Liam's first choice 0:38:39 Sixo's first choice 0:48:30 Jason's second choice 0:56:04 Liam's second choice 1:08:17 Sixo's second choice 1:18:45 Honourable mentions 1:32:52 Patreon Q&A — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

    1h 54m
  8. From Concept to Shelf: Sandstorm, Springer, and Nick Roche

    12/23/2025

    From Concept to Shelf: Sandstorm, Springer, and Nick Roche

    IDW artist Nick Roche returns to Triple Takeover to talk Transformers Generations: Thrilling 30 — the 2013–2014 toy line — and the unusual creative journey that links Sandstorm and Springer. Nick discusses supplying an original Sandstorm concept to Hasbro, how that design eventually became a finished toy, and how it was later retooled into Springer — released first, and coincidentally based on Nick’s own comic design for the character as seen in IDW’s Last Stand of the Wreckers. Along the way, the conversation drifts (as it tends to with Nick) into nostalgia, collecting, community, and the realities of working across different parts of the Transformers brand — including his more recent design work on Transformers Earthspark. Expect equal parts toy history, behind-the-scenes insight, and good-natured chaos. This episode began life as a commission from our patron, Josh Bell. — Chapters 0:00:00 Intro 0:05:54 Thrilling 30 In Context 0:10:58 How the Sandstorm Concept Came to Be 0:23:35 Nick's First Impressions of the Toys 0:42:28 Translating From Sandstorm Into Springer 0:49:27 How Nick Designed Springer for IDW 1:02:04 Owning Toys of Characters You've Created 1:18:53 TFSource Sponsor Segment 1:28:35 Patreon Q&A — Enjoying the show? There’s more than meets the ear... Find show notes at https://www.tripletakeover.com Join the conversation with us on Discord Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tripletakeover

    1h 48m
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About

Welcome to the Triple Takeover Toycast — a fun and informative fortnightly podcast all about Transformers and other amazing toy lines. From vintage rarities and prototypes to modern releases, cartoons, comics, and films, your hosts Sixo, Liam, Jason and Maz dive deep into toy history and pop culture with passion, humour, and plenty of nostalgia — plus the occasional special guest.

Information

  • Creator
    Triple Takeover
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    126
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Triple Takeover Toycast
  • Show Website
    Triple Takeover Toycast

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