Triple Takeover Toycast

Triple Takeover

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.

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134 episodes
Updated July 21

Episodes134

Newest first

Oct 15, 2025 · 1 hr 48 min
Transformers Hidden Gems Vol. 6
What are some of the most overlooked Transformers toys — and do they really deserve to be forgotten? Following a recent Patreon poll, we’re back for a sixth round of Transformers 'hidden gems', with each of us nominating a figure from across the brand’s history that we think deserved a little more attention than it received at the time. In theory, we’re looking beyond the usual G1 favourites… though, as ever, sticking to that brief proves easier for some than others. Expect plenty of nostalgia, spirited defence of underappreciated toys, and a few familiar lines being quietly blurred along the way. — 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
Sep 30, 2025 · 2 hr 5 min
Transformers Marvel UK Revisited (with James Roberts)
The number 113 has become a recurring motif in James Roberts’ Transformers comics — most notably throughout More Than Meets The Eye and Lost Light. But where did that fascination come from? For our own episode 113, we’re joined by James Roberts himself to explore the inspiration behind those references, tracing them back to issue #113 of the original Marvel UK Transformers comic. From there, the discussion follows the story through to issue #120 and its conclusion in the 1987 annual, unpacking why this particular run left such a lasting impression. It’s a thoughtful look at influence, continuity, and the deep cuts that helped shape some of the most celebrated Transformers comics of the modern era. — 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
Sep 16, 2025 · 1 hr 41 min
Is Partsforming Really a Transformers Sin?
Partsforming is one of the most controversial aspects of Transformers design, despite being present since the very beginning of the brand in the 1980s. In this episode we take a closer look at why partsforming remains such a divisive topic among collectors. With modern designs often prioritising integrated transformations and cleaner silhouettes, we discuss how expectations have shifted over time — and why detachable parts continue to spark debate. From play value and accuracy to practicality and frustration, it’s a thoughtful conversation about one of Transformers’ most persistent design flashpoints. — 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
Aug 26, 2025 · 1 hr 41 min
Inside TFNation 2025 — The Experience and the Hauls
TFNation has been and gone for another year, and the (very tired) team sit down to reflect on the many highs — and hauls — from Europe’s largest Transformers convention. In this episode we talk through standout moments from the show, and the inevitable post-con exhaustion that follows a packed weekend of toys, panels, and catching up with fellow fans. But with energy levels running low, the real question is whether Liam can make it through the conversation at all. — 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
Aug 12, 2025 · 2 hr 4 min
Transformers SDCC Reveals — What Stood Out
San Diego Comic-Con always brings a wave of new Transformers reveals — and this year was no exception. In this episode we break down the latest announcements from SDCC, including reveals from Age of the Primes, Studio Series, and beyond. From initial reactions to broader thoughts on direction and design, we talk through what stood out, what surprised us, and what these reveals might signal for the future of the brand. — 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
Jul 29, 2025 · 1 hr 32 min
Transformers Pretenders — A Strange Turn in 1989
1989 was a year of major change for Transformers, introducing two very different new directions for the toy line — Micromasters and Pretenders. Having already explored one half of that shift, we now turn our attention to the Pretenders. Strange, colourful, and often divisive, these toys have become something of a cult favourite over time. But how were they actually received when they first appeared? In this episode we look back at the context surrounding their release, the reactions they sparked, and how perceptions of the line have shifted in the years since. Chosen by our patrons, it’s a chance to revisit one of the most distinctive — and misunderstood — chapters in late-G1 Transformers history. — 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
Jul 15, 2025 · 1 hr 45 min
The Future of Transformers Missing Link
Transformers Missing Link is back in the spotlight as we dig into the latest speculation and assess what might be coming next. With names like Ultra Magnus, Galvatron, and even Metroplex entering the conversation, we weigh up the rumours, the likelihood of future releases, and what Missing Link could realistically look like as it continues to evolve. And, of course, we’re joined by our own Missing Link, Maz, to help guide the discussion. — 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
Jul 1, 2025 · 1 hr 41 min
Transformers SS86 Megatron — The Gun Debate
Studio Series SS86 Megatron has finally arrived — and few Transformers releases in recent memory have sparked quite as much discussion. From early rumours through to the official reveal, nearly every aspect of this figure has been debated, dissected, and argued over. In this episode we work through the controversy, the design decisions behind the toy, and why reactions have been so strong, considering what SS86 Megatron represents for the line as a whole. — 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
Jun 17, 2025 · 1 hr 56 min
Transformers Hidden Gems Vol. 5
'Hidden gems' returns, as we once again shine a spotlight on Transformers toys we think deserved far more attention than they received at the time. In this episode each of us brings a pick to the table, celebrating overlooked figures from across the brand’s history and making the case for why they’re worth a second look. And while the intention is to look beyond the usual G1 favourites, sticking to that brief proves — as ever — a little more flexible than planned. — 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
Jun 3, 2025 · 2 hr 3 min
Transformers 1989 Micromasters — Small Toys, Big Vibes
Our exploration of individual years in Transformers toys continues, this time focusing on the 1989 Micromasters. One of the biggest resets in the original line, Micromasters brought a new scale, new play patterns, and a surprising amount of personality. In this episode we look at why these mini marvels were such a bold shift at the time — and why they’ve become such a fondly remembered part of late-G1. Along the way, we also attempt to answer the important question: just how many Micromasters does Jason actually own? — 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
May 20, 2025 · 1 hr 50 min
Technobots vs Terrorcons: The Battle of the 1987 Combiners
Following the Scramble City combiners of the previous year, 1987 introduced the Technobots and Terrorcons with a fresh take on a familiar design. In this episode we look at Computron and Abominus, two combiners that have grown into fan favourites over time. From their individual components to their combined forms, we discuss what sets each team apart and why opinions remain so divided when it comes to choosing a favourite. — 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
May 8, 2025 · 1 hr 46 min
From Masterpiece to MPG: The Evolution of Optimus Prime
The announcement of MPG-17 means a fourth Transformers Masterpiece Optimus Prime is on the way — but what actually sets it apart from the versions that came before? In this episode we look at how the Masterpiece line has approached Optimus Prime over the years, using MPG-17 as a jumping-off point to discuss design philosophy, changing expectations, and how the line has evolved since its beginnings in 2003. — 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
Apr 15, 2025 · 1 hr 36 min
The Transformers Collection: Celebrating the 'Book Box' Reissues
The early 2000s marked the beginning of a major wave of nostalgia for Transformers — one that has continued ever since. A key part of that resurgence was Takara's 2002–2006 The Transformers Collection series, often referred to as the “book box” reissues. In this episode we take a closer look at what made these G1 re-releases feel so special at the time. From presentation and packaging to timing and accessibility, we explore why The Transformers Collection played such an important role in reshaping how classic toys were revisited and celebrated. — 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
Apr 2, 2025 · 2 hr 46 min
Robotmasters: A Curious Footnote in Transformers History
Despite being one of the formative Transformers toy lines of the pre-movie mid-2000s era, Takara’s Robotmasters is now largely overlooked by many collectors. In this episode we take a deep dive into the 2004 line, exploring its unusual mix of concepts, characters, and execution. Along the way we uncover a handful of genuine highlights — and a few moments that raise a smile — as we reassess where Robotmasters fits within Transformers history. — 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
Mar 18, 2025 · 2 hr 35 min
IDW's Transformers Last Stand of the Wreckers (with James Roberts & Nick Roche)
It’s our 100th episode extravaganza, so naturally we aimed high and invited back two of our all-time favourite guests. When that fell through, we somehow ended up with James Roberts and Nick Roche instead. Jokes aside, the pair kindly helped us mark the milestone with an in-depth and genuinely brilliant discussion of IDW’s The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers (2010) — one of the most celebrated Transformers comic stories ever published. We dig into its origins, themes, and lasting impact, as well as what made the series resonate so strongly with fans then and now. — 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
Feb 25, 2025 · 2 hr 6 min
Should Haslab Transformers Exist?
With the recent reveal of Liokaiser as a HasLab project, the whole subject of Transformers crowdfunding has come up for debate once again. HasLab campaigns promise ambitious, high-end figures that might never exist at retail — but they also come with long waits, high price points, and plenty of passionate discussion among fans. So what are the real pros and cons of this approach to getting toys made? In this episode we break down how HasLab works, why characters like Liokaiser end up in this space, and whether these crowdfunded releases genuinely represent good value for money — or simply ask collectors to buy in on faith. — 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
Feb 11, 2025 · 1 hr 57 min
Brave Exkaiser: When Takara Went Beyond Transformers
As Transformers began to wane at the turn of the 1990s, Takara stepped forward with a bold new direction in the form of Brave. Originally rooted in unused Transformers concepts, the Brave series quickly became a popular Japanese franchise in its own right. In this episode we take a closer look at the first year of Brave Exkaiser figures from 1990, exploring how the line established its identity and set the tone for what followed. So… are you feeling Brave? — 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
Jan 28, 2025 · 1 hr 55 min
What Makes a Great Transformers Combiner?
With Age of the Primes Superion recently revealed, combiners are firmly back on the minds of Transformers fans — along with the long-running debate over how these toys should work. Should combiners rely on partsforming? Should they transform as all-in-one figures? Or has the latest approach struck the right balance with its “skeleton”-style conversion? In this episode we break down the different philosophies behind combining toys and explore what makes for a satisfying combiner in practice. — 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
Jan 14, 2025 · 2 hr 9 min
Animating Transformers One (with Industrial Light & Magic)
We kick off 2025 with another deep dive into Transformers One — and this time, we’re going big. Joining us are three special guests from Industrial Light & Magic, the team behind the film’s stunning visuals: Stephen King (Head of Animation, ILM Sydney), Amy Beth Christenson (Art Director and Lead Character Designer), and Alex Fry (Compositing Supervisor). Together, they walk us through the creative process behind the movie, covering everything from character design and visual storytelling to hidden details and Easter eggs. It’s a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of the most visually impressive Transformers projects to date. — 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
Dec 25, 2024 · 2 hr
Transformers 2024: Favourite Toys of the Year
As 2024 draws to a close, we take a moment to look back on a spectacular anniversary year for Transformers and celebrate some of the highlights from the past twelve months of collecting. In this episode we reflect on the standout toys we picked up along the way, the surprises we didn’t see coming, and the curveballs that made the year such an interesting one for fans. It’s a relaxed, celebratory look back at a year packed with memorable releases. — 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