Premium Redesigns Bring Slag and Sludge Back to Life
Takara Tomy just announced the next wave of its beloved Dinobot Island line, spotlighting two fan‑favorite G1 members: Slag and Sludge. These figures aren’t simple recolors; they arrive with brand‑new swords, firearms, and a stash of nine effect parts that let collectors recreate iconic battle moments. An extra back piece for Sludge even serves as a detachable dinosaur‑mode head, adding a playful twist to the classic transformation.
Pricing, Pre‑order Window, and Release Timing
Both figures are priced at 19,800 yen (about US$125) and will hit shelves in late March 2027. Japanese fans could start pre‑ordering on October 2, 2026, with the window closing on November 11, 2026. The timing aligns with Takara Tomy’s broader push to revitalize G1 nostalgia across multiple upcoming releases.
Historical Roots of the Dinobots
The Dinobots—Grimlock, Slag, Sludge, Snarl, and Swoop—first thundered onto the scene in the original Transformers cartoon’s "S.O.S. Dinobots" episode. Their dinosaur‑based designs have become iconic, spawning countless reinterpretations in toys, comics, and even the 2018 web series Transformers: Power of the Primes, which introduced the massive Combiner Volcanicus.
Takara Tomy’s earlier Dinobot Island Part 1 set delivered meticulously crafted Grimlock and Ratchet figures, setting a high bar for detail and articulation. Part 2 promises to keep that momentum, though it remains unclear whether future releases will tackle the remaining classic members Snarl and Swoop.
Beyond the Dinobots, the company recently teased the Twincast and Rewind dual‑figure pack, slated for May 2027 at 27,500 yen (≈US$175). While those packs lack the metallic sheen of the Dinobot line, they faithfully reproduce the look of the original animated series, underscoring Takara Tomy’s commitment to authenticity.

Collectors eager for a blend of nostalgia and fresh play value should keep an eye on these upcoming releases. Whether you’re displaying Slag’s fierce saber or swapping Sludge’s head for a dino‑mode grin, the new premium designs offer a compelling reason to revisit the golden age of Transformers.
















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