Unicron Through the Ages: A Guide to the Planet Eater’s Playable Forms

Unicron, the Chaos Bringer, the Devourer of Worlds, is a force of nature no toy shelf can truly contain. Yet, brave Transformers fans have dared to capture his essence in plastic form, resulting in a fascinating array of toys across the franchise’s history. Buckle up, for we’re venturing into the Maw of Madness to explore every official Unicron figure ever released:

1. The Transformers: The Movie (1986) – $50, 14 inches

The OG. This chunky monstrosity captured the movie’s terrifying design, featuring a chomping mouth, light-up eyes, and transformation into a planet with Galvatron’s throne room nestled inside. He wasn’t perfect (poseability was limited), but he embodied Unicron’s menace.

2. Beast Wars (1998) – $15, 5 inches

A small, basic figure that transformed into a dragon-planet. Limited articulation and sculpt detail, but a fun, affordable way to own a mini-Unicron.

3. Armada (2002) – $40, 10 inches

This Unicron sported a more organic, beastly look, transforming into a fearsome dragon. He boasted light-up features and firing missiles, but transformation was finicky and he lacked the imposing presence of his predecessors.

4. Energon (2004) – $50, 12 inches

A return to the planet-eater mode, with a head that popped open to reveal Galvatron’s chamber. Improved articulation and gimmicks, but the sculpt felt cartoony and less menacing.

5. Cybertron (2005) – $80, 16 inches

A massive, imposing figure with impressive detail and articulation. Transforming him was an epic battle in itself, culminating in a planet mode with Galvatron’s chamber, light-up features, and firing missiles. A worthy successor to the 1986 toy.

6. Universe (2008) – $60, 12 inches

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A repaint of the Energon Unicron, featuring a darker, more serious color scheme. A decent alternative if you missed the original, but not a groundbreaking addition.

7. Transformers Prime (2012) – $100, 18 inches

This Voyager-class figure captured the show’s design, transforming into a dragon with Galvatron’s chamber in its chest. Great articulation and sculpt detail, but the smaller size and simplified transformation lacked the epic feel of earlier versions.

8. Transformers Generations Platinum Edition (2013) – $400, 14 inches

A retooled and upgraded version of the 1986 Unicron, boasting improved articulation, light-up features, and die-cast parts. A collector’s dream, but the hefty price tag kept it out of reach for many.

9. War for Cybertron Unicron (2021) – $350, 27 inches

The pinnacle of Unicron toys. This HasLab-funded behemoth was the largest Transformers figure ever made, dwarfing everything that came before. Featuring incredible detail, articulation, and features like a working Galvatron chamber and Hot Rod figure for him to devour, it was a true masterpiece.

So, which Unicron is right for you?

It depends on your budget, space, and preference for playability or display. The 1986 and Cybertron versions offer classic charm and epic transformations, while the War for Cybertron Unicron is the ultimate collector’s piece. Smaller options like the Beast Wars or Prime Unicron are great entry points. Ultimately, any Unicron figure is a portal to the Transformers mythos, reminding us that the universe hangs in the balance between creation and destruction, all controlled by a colossal metal maw.

Remember, even the smallest Unicron can hold the power to consume your wallet and shelf space. Choose wisely, and may your journey through the Maw of Madness be glorious!

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