Universe Cyclonus

with Nightstick

Series: Universe 2.0
Allegiance: Decepticon
Categories: Deluxe Targetmaster
Year: 2009

Constructed from the cast-off chassis of deactivated Decepticon warriors, Cyclonus was programmed by Unicron to be loyal only to Galvatron. Powered by nuclear engines, and a small fragment of his creator's supernatural power, Cyclonus wields enough might to sterilize the surface of an inhabited world by himself. He never unleashes this power without his commander's leave, however, and he focuses all of his energy on ensuring that Galvatron is obeyed without question by those under his command.

Remarks: Seeing as I've already done a full review for the Henkei! Henkei! version of Cyclonus, I'm only going to focus on the differences between the two figures here. Apart from the lack of chrome parts, the only difference is in the paint job. While the japanese version adhered closely to Cyclonus animated appearance, the US version here sticks closer to the paint job of the original G1 Cyclonus toy with a purple so dark it's almost black. It doesn't look bad, but the contrast to the unpainted gray plastic parts is much more pronounced here than in the Henkei version, giving the figure a somewhat unfinished look in my opinion. So of the two Cyclonus figures, I prefer the Henkei one.

Interestingly enough Cyclonus' Targetmaster partner Nightstick actually received a more detailed paint job than his Henkei counterpart. He lacks the chromed legs, but instead of an all-red face he has red eyes and a golden face, which looks a whole lot better. Still, in direct comparison the Henkei figures still beat out the US versions by a fair margin and the only reasons I own this one are a) because he was on sale and b) I finally wanted to give Cyclonus his "Armada". It's still a brilliant mold and if you don't want to spend the money to import the Japanese version, there is nothing wrong with getting this one (or the Reveal the Shield version, on sale right now). Not quite as good as the Henkei version, but still very good.

Rating: A-