Transformers Studio Series 86 Figure Line: The Ultimate Guide for Collectors

The Transformers Studio Series 86 figure line has taken the collecting world by storm, offering fans a nostalgic trip back to the iconic 1986 animated film, The Transformers: The Movie. Launched by Hasbro in 2021 to celebrate the movie’s 35th anniversary, this subline within the broader Studio Series collection brings screen-accurate representations of beloved Autobots, Decepticons, and other characters to life. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the Transformers universe, this guide dives deep into the Studio Series 86 figure line, exploring its origins, standout figures, checklist, and why it’s a must-have for any Transformers fan.

What is the Transformers Studio Series 86 Figure Line?

The Transformers Studio Series 86 (often abbreviated as SS86) is a premium toy line designed to recreate the characters and moments from The Transformers: The Movie. Unlike the main Studio Series, which focuses on the live-action Michael Bay films and Bumblebee (2018), SS86 zeros in on the classic G1 (Generation 1) animated aesthetic. These figures are celebrated for their movie-accurate designs, intricate transformations, and collector-friendly features like detailed sculpts, vibrant paint applications, and accessories inspired by key scenes.

Hasbro introduced SS86 as part of the broader Transformers Generations line, aligning its scale and engineering with the War for Cybertron trilogy (Siege, Earthrise, and Kingdom). This ensures compatibility with other modern G1-inspired figures, making it a seamless addition to any collection. With categories like Deluxe, Voyager, Leader, and Core Class, the Studio Series 86 figures cater to a range of budgets and display preferences.

Why the Studio Series 86 Line Stands Out

Nostalgia Meets Modern Engineering

For fans who grew up watching Optimus Prime’s fateful battle or Hot Rod’s rise to leadership, SS86 delivers a perfect blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge toy design. These aren’t just rehashes of the original G1 toys; they’re updated Transformers figures with improved articulation, sturdier builds, and transformations that reflect decades of engineering advancements.

Movie-Accurate Details

Each figure is crafted to mirror its on-screen counterpart from The Transformers: The Movie. From Grimlock’s towering Dino mode to Starscream’s coronation gear, the attention to detail is impeccable. Accessories like blast effects, weapons, and scene-specific backdrops enhance the display value, making these Studio Series 86 toys ideal for recreating iconic moments.

Collector Appeal

The SS86 line isn’t just for play—it’s a collector’s dream. With numbered releases (e.g., SS86-01 Jazz, SS86-06 Grimlock), limited Buzzworthy Bumblebee exclusives, and a growing roster of characters, it’s a treasure hunt for completists. The packaging, featuring artwork from the 1986 film, doubles as a display piece, adding to its allure.

Transformers Studio Series 86 Checklist: Key Figures to Know

Building a complete Studio Series 86 collection? Here’s a rundown of some standout releases based on community checklists (like the one on Reddit) and retailer listings (e.g., Collecticon Toys). Note that this list is current as of March 07, 2025, and new figures may still be in the pipeline.

Deluxe Class

• SS86-01 Jazz: A fan-favorite Autobot with a sleek racecar alt-mode and blaster accessory.
• SS86-02 Kup: The grizzled veteran transforms into a Cybertronian truck and includes an Energon canteen.
• SS86-03 Blurr: The fast-talking speedster converts into a hovercar in 18 steps.
• SS86-08 Gnaw: A Sharkticon with a menacing mace, marking the first non-faction figure in the line.
• SS86-11 Perceptor: A microscope alt-mode and scientific precision make this a standout.

Voyager Class

• SS86-04 Hot Rod: The youthful hero comes with the Matrix of Leadership and dual blasters.
• SS86-05 Scourge: Unicron’s reformatted minion transforms into a sleek hovercraft.
• SS86-09 Wreck-Gar: The Junkion leader sports a motorcycle mode and axe accessory.

Leader Class

• SS86-06 Grimlock: The Dinobot king includes Wheelie and transforms into a T-Rex in 24 steps.
• SS86-07 Slug: A fiery Dinobot with a triceratops alt-mode.
• SS86-12 Coronation Starscream: Complete with crown, cape, and throne—perfect for Decepticon royalty.

Core Class

• SS86 Rumble: A cassette companion for Soundwave (still awaiting a full SS86 release).
• SS86 Spike Witwicky: A human figure in an exosuit, adding a unique twist to the line.

Buzzworthy Bumblebee Exclusives

• SS86-13BB Cliffjumper: A Target-exclusive repaint of the scrappy Autobot.
• SS86-20BB Prowl: A battle-damaged version of the Autobot strategist.

This is just a snapshot—check online communities like Reddit’s r/transformers for the latest updates, as fans meticulously track releases and gaps (e.g., missing numbers like SS86-27 and SS86-28).

Top Picks for Your Studio Series 86 Collection

Best for Display: SS86-12 Coronation Starscream

With his elaborate coronation accessories, Starscream steals the show. Pose him on his throne for a dramatic shelf centerpiece.

Best Transformation: SS86-06 Grimlock

Grimlock’s 24-step transformation from robot to T-Rex is smooth and satisfying, earning praise from collectors for its intuitive design.

Best Value: SS86-01 Jazz

At the Deluxe price point, Jazz offers movie-accurate detailing and solid playability, making it a great entry into the line.

The Future of Studio Series 86: What’s Next?

As of March 2025, the SS86 line continues to expand. Rumors and leaks suggest fan-favorite characters like Soundwave, Wheeljack, and Ultra Magnus (in a new mold) could join the roster. The recent reveal of SS86 Blaster has sparked excitement, hinting that Hasbro isn’t done mining The Transformers: The Movie for inspiration. Collectors also speculate about potential Quintesson or Lithone figures, though these remain unconfirmed.

The line’s numbering system has seen quirks—e.g., SS86-24 assigned to both Scrapheap and a Buzzworthy Ironhide—leaving room for surprises. With Hasbro’s track record, expect more Studio Series 86 figures to fill out the Autobot and Decepticon ranks in 2025 and beyond.

Where to Buy Transformers Studio Series 86 Figures

Hunting for these Transformers collectibles? Here are your best bets:

• Hasbro Pulse: Exclusive drops and pre-orders for diehard fans.
• Collecticon Toys: A curated selection of SS86 figures with competitive pricing.
• BigBadToyStore & TFSource: Reliable retailers for pre-orders and hard-to-find releases.
• Target: Home of Buzzworthy Bumblebee exclusives like Cliffjumper.
• eBay: For scalper-priced rarities (e.g., Grimlock often fetches $100+).

Pro tip: Join Transformers forums or follow X posts for real-time stock alerts, as popular figures sell out fast.

Why Collectors Love Studio Series 86

Posts on Reddit and reviews from collectors highlight a few key reasons:

• Faithful G1 Representation: SS86 nails the G1 look without the fragility of vintage toys.
• Affordability: Compared to the pricier Masterpiece line, SS86 offers premium quality at a lower cost.
• Community Buzz: From checklist debates to custom display ideas, the line fosters a passionate fanbase.

One Reddit user summed it up: “SS86 has done better than Classics ever could—it’s the best G1 line we’ve gotten in years.”

Transformers Studio Series 86 Checklist table:

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