Titans Return Slugslinger

 

Prelude: After Triggerhappy and Misfire this is the third (fourth, if you count Metalhawk) incarnation of this mold I’m reviewing. So this review here will focus mainly on the differences.

Robot Mode: Slugslinger got a new chest design and you can see the twin cockpits of his jet mode peeking out above the shoulders. A new paint job and entirely new head mold, a close match to the noggin’ of the original G1 Slugslinger completes the transformation of this mold into yet another new figure. He comes with a combinable weapon like most of the Titans Return figures, but in this case it’s not two identical weapons comprising half of a bigger weapon, but rather two different guns. Nicely done. Nothing else is new here, but it’s quite enough. Still an excellent robot mode and looking good in this version, too.

Alternate Mode: While G1 Slugslinger didn’t have much to differentiate him from the crowd, he did sport a rather unique design in his alternate mode. The twin cockpit design has carried over to this Energon incarnation and has resurfaced here in Titans Return, too. Of course the actual cockpit for his Titan Master partner Caliburst is further back, as neither of the two fake cockpits would be anywhere near large enough. Still, it’s nice to see this design again. Otherwise, still an excellent jet mode. No complaints.

Partner / Add-On: Yeah, Slugslinger has a Titan Master partner who becomes his head. Bet you didn’t see that coming. It’s not like every single Titans Return figure Deluxe-class and above has... oh, never mind!

Remarks: Slugslinger was among the new Decepticon Targetmasters introduced in 1987 and played a background role in the three-part series finale Rebirth. And... yeah, that’s pretty much it in terms of media presence for this guy, who is mostly known as the “Twin Cockpit Jet Guy” if anyone remembers him at all. Still, it’s nice to see him again in Titans Return. Comparing the three incarnations of this brilliant mold, I’d have to say that Triggerhappy remains my favorite with Slugslinger in the middle and Misfire bringing up the rear.

Rating: A