The smaller figures (also called "regular" figures) are part of the automatic transformable pieces. It basically means that you flip up a switch or push down a tail and the figure flips into robot form in a matter of seconds. It's a pretty neat idea but unfortunately it doesn't really make you want to pick the figure up all the time!! I think this complaint has been in the minds of many Beast Wars fans because Kenner/Hasbro recently has added multi-step transformations to the smaller figures. In a way....this definitely will add a lot of variety to the entire toy line!! The beginning releases will have automatic transformational springs and the later releases will be mult-step!! Kind of a neat mix!!!

The rest of the figures are mult-transformational. This includes the deluxe figures (on cards), the mega figures (in boxes), and the ultra figures (in boxes). One thing to take note.....the very first mega figures (Scorponok and Polar Claw) had automatic transformational spring activated weapons. These shot out and transformed in flight. Kind of a neat idea but scrapped early!!

Now that we covered the transformations, let's look at the gimmicks given to Beast Wars. Most of the figures have their individual weapons hidden among their bodies. This allows for easier accessibility and prevents loss of these pieces. I always liked that idea!! The later releases also have "energon rub stamps". Like Generation 1's rub stamp, they show the specific figure's allegiance!! The Beast Wars ones don't seem to work as well as the G1 figs though! But....it's a neat touch!!

The Beast Wars have excellent poseability as well as gimmicks!! The figures use ball and socket joints to allow you the ability to pose them in various ways! This is a very nice touch since it hasn't been done too often in the other Transformers toy lines.

The first releases did not impress me much. However......I think that the detail and originality has definitely improved with the newer figures. Especially with the release of the Transmetals and Fuzors!!

One word of advice......read Beast Wars pages....chat with Beast Wars fans....watch some of the show.....and give them a chance. If you didn't like them when they first came out.....buy the combiners and the Transmetals and see how you feel now. With their unique designs, attention to detail, variety in transformations and gimmicks, as well as excellent poseability......Beast Wars definitely is the king of the 90's action figures!!!! (not to mention...the third highest selling toyline thanks to the kiddies :)