"It's like, how much more black could this be? And the answer is none. None more black."

(It's always nice to title a toy review with a Spinal Tap quote...)

Repaints and evil "dark" versions of hero characters are just about the biggest cliché going when it comes to Transformers, but that doesn't mean they aren't worth owning.

Scourge from the Robots in Disguise line was basically an evil version of Laser Optimus Prime from the Japanese G2 line. He's been simplified, with Laser Prime's electronics removed and a paint scheme that's more basic, more monochrome, and... well... black.





Also very traditional is the design and play value of the toy. Scourge, in all his Decepticon badness, has inherited the classic transforming trailer concept that we all know from G1 Optimus Prime.



The shiny chrome tanker unfolds to form a battle station that the transformed truck can use to fight Autobot foes. It features projectile disks, and a variety of large and small missiles that are fired by springs, or an air pump launcher.

In robot mode the truck is simple. With its limited articulation and giant red sword, Scourge was obviously designed for the younger fans, as well as older collectors like myself who just can't resist a robot with big shoulders and a sword.