Between Hasbro and TakaraTomy, there has been a significant volume of new Transformers product of late — so much so that many collectors are forced to pick and choose through practicality if nothing else. Between mainline Generations, Studio Series, MPG, Missing Link, reissues, Collaborative releases, and much more, it's a great time to be a fan. But what has tickled our fancy more than anything else in the first six months of 2026?

Today, we're taking turns to choose one toy — all of which were very definitely released this year! — that we each feel represents the pick of the crop to date, and perhaps best showcases where our own specific collecting tastes currently sit. With three very different selections on the table, it makes for an intriguing snapshot of both the year's output and our individual priorities as collectors.

It prompts plenty of chat about expense versus affordability, particularly given the extreme price tag of one example. However, from premium high-end pieces to more accessible mainline fare, our choices reflect the sheer breadth of what's available right now, and the difficult decisions every collector faces when budgets don't stretch to everything.

One thing's for sure: the year may only be half done, but there's been plenty going on.

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