1987 Hasbro Transformers Headmaster Scorponok

The Transformers Scorponok was a large, triple-changing action figure manufactured by Hasbro in 1987.

Scorponok is a character in the Transformers franchise created by Hasbro and Takara Tomy. He appeared in the original “Transformers: Generation 1” animated series and toy line in the 1980s. Scorponok is traditionally portrayed as a Decepticon, often a leader or a figure, and is known for his ability to transform into a giant scorpion and a base for other Transformers.

Background

In the original Generation 1 (G1) era, Scorponok was introduced in 1987 as part of the “Headmasters” subline of the Transformers G1 series. In the animated series, he was depicted as the leader of the Decepticon Headmasters and later became the Headmaster partner of Zarak, a Nebulan ally. The original G1 Scorponok toy was a large figure that could transform between a robot, a scorpion, and a base. It featured a Headmaster gimmick, where the head of Scorponok transformed into a smaller figure, which was Zarak.

In the Marvel Comics series, Scorponok was a prominent character who allied with the Autobots against a common foe. In the Japanese continuity, he was a major antagonist in the “Headmasters” series.

Features

A key feature of G1 Scorponok was the Headmaster technology, where the head of the robot transformed into a smaller figure (see image above). This concept was a significant innovation in the Transformers toy line. Scorponok’s ability to transform between three modes (robot, scorpion, and base) was another notable feature, showcasing the engineering complexity of the toy.

Over the years, Scorponok has received various updates and reinterpretations. These include the Energon Scorponok (2004), Cybertron Dark Scorponok (2005), and the Titans Return Scorponok (2020), which was part of the “War for Cybertron Trilogy” and featured a modern reinterpretation of the G1 character.

Popularity and Legacy

Scorponok has remained a fan-favorite character in the Transformers franchise. His ability to transform into multiple modes, as well as his prominent role in the G1 animated series and comics, have contributed to his enduring popularity among collectors and fans.

Hasbro, in collaboration with Takara Tomy, has continued to produce new versions of Scorponok, catering to the character’s dedicated fanbase.

Video Reviews and Commercials

The video is a review of the Beast Wars Transformers Scorponok from the retro vintage collection reissued by Walmart. The reviewer expresses enthusiasm about unboxing the Scorponok, noting the old-school packaging with the Kenner logo. They mention that the toy is large and interesting, but they have misplaced the red firing missiles that accompany it. The reviewer also references a previous Scorponok release they intended to review but didn’t complete.

Availability and Collectability

The original G1 Scorponok toy is highly sought after by collectors, with prices for sealed, mint-condition figures often reaching a thousand dollars. The various post-G1 versions, such as the Energon and Titans Return releases, are also valued by collectors, though their prices tend to be more manageable. In addition, third-party companies have produced figures inspired by Scorponok, further expanding the options for collectors.

Scorponok’s popularity and the continued interest in the Transformers franchise suggest that the character will likely continue to be a part of the brand’s future releases and adaptations.

Sources:
https://www.actionfigure411.com/transformers/war-for-cybertron-earthrise/titan-class/scorponok-4359.php
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1431810331/1986-g1-transformer-scorponok-hasbro
https://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/hasbro-unveils-earthrise-starscream-teases-scorponok-and-more-during-nycc-transformers-live-stream-nycc2019/44024/