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 Big Stinkers: Do They Deserve a Second Chance?

    19H AGO

    Transformers Big Stinkers: Do They Deserve a Second Chance?

    This episode is the opposite of our Hidden Gems discussion. Rather than bigging up amazing Transformers toys that nobody mentions, we're re-assessing former releases which are already well known — but not in a good way. These are the perceived stinkers, the Renford Rejects, the real bottom-of-the-barrel stuff. The toys that as soon as they're mentioned online, everyone will quickly jump in to give them a major kicking, swiftly pointing out in elaborate detail why they are just plain bad. And it's not so much that we disagree with a lot of the points commonly made — it's more that we think the toys we're putting in the spotlight maybe have more going on beyond their all-too-often highlighted flaws. Sometimes a toy can be a bit of a letdown but still offer something that makes it otherwise enjoyable, or perhaps it just doesn't deserve the harsh reaction it so typically garners. Maybe the hate is justified, or maybe time and perspective reveal redeeming qualities that got lost in the initial backlash. That's what we're evaluating here, as we each choose a toy from Transformers history to sit in the dock and be judged all over again. We examine why these figures earned their reputations, what they actually get right despite their failings, and whether the community's collective memory is fair or simply piling on. Some might still be irredeemable disasters, but others might surprise you with hidden merit that's been overshadowed by swift judgement. Do they deserve the hate? There's only one way to find out. — 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 50m
  2. Q-Transformers: Takara's Adorable Choro-Q Homage

    APR 14

    Q-Transformers: Takara's Adorable Choro-Q Homage

    Q-Transformers is a 2014 Japanese exclusive line centred around being both a homage to and a spin-off from Takara's own classic Choro-Q line of super-deformed cars (known as Penny Racers in the West). Except here, the central gimmick isn't a pull-back-and-go mechanism but the ability to transform from licensed-but-chibified real world vehicles into familiar robots in disguise characters. Plus, as the name suggests, they're super cute! We examine what makes this line a real sleeper hit for collectors. Despite their tiny size and unparalleled accessibility on the aftermarket, the toys boast impressive levels of detail and paint far beyond what you might expect. With a wide range of desirable and often unusual car model choices employed — from classic sports cars to obscure Japanese market vehicles — there's plenty here for Transformers fans and petrolheads alike to appreciate. We also unpick the origins behind the execution of the toys, comparing them to vintage Choro-Q design and indeed the Micro-Change-inherited minibots from Transformers' earliest years. There's a surprising amount of heritage baked into these diminutive figures, connecting them to decades of Takara's toy design philosophy. The enthusiasm at play in this episode is palpable throughout. This one started as a Patreon commission by our patron John Pearl, but we thought it was so deserving of the full episode treatment that here we are. Fair warning: this is peak enablement territory. — 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 25m
  3. Transformers Aftermarket Prices: When Did It Get This Expensive?

    MAR 31

    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
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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
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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
    128
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Triple Takeover Toycast
  • Show Website
    Triple Takeover Toycast

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