Transformers Action Figures Are Back and Bigger Than Ever with Boys 8 -12 Years Old

With the huge success of Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen in movie theaters, the Transformer action figures are once again a must have toy for boys from 8 - 12 years old.

Growing up in the 1980's the original Transformers action figures were some of the most wanted toys. My friends and I knew exactly when new shipments would arrive at KB Toys and Toys 'R Us and we would make sure our parents took us to the mall on those days.

Now, with the blockbuster status of the new Transformers movie, Transformers action figures are back and bigger than ever. The original Transformer action figures were only a couple of inches in length, but the current figures are more than a full foot in height. Many of the new Transformer action figures have special features like flashing lights, speech and removable and usable weapons.

According to my 8 year old nephew, the most popular Transformer action figure among his friends is Optimus Prime. Optimus transforms from a semi-truck to a robot and he comes with swords that are removable. The coolest feature of Optimus Prime is that he talks and he has really interesting engine revving sounds. Also, his eyes and chest light up.

Optimus Prime is a bit pricey, expecially compared to the original Transformers from the eighties. Most online retailers are selling Optimus for forty to forty five dollars. That is quite a steep price for an action figure but once the hysteria surrounding the movie dies down there will most likely be discounts available.

A less expensive alternative to Optimus Prime that is popular among my nephew's friends is Bumblebee. Bumblebee transforms from a Camaro to a robot. When it is in robot mode it has a missile launcher which shoots a good two feet. Bumblebee is bright yellow and grey.

Bumblebee is priced between ten and fifteen dollar at most online stores. Compared to Optimus, Bumblebee's transforming actions are much less sophisticated. Also, he does not have many of the bells and whistles that Optimus brings to the table such as speech and flashing lights. But at about a quarter of the price of Optimus, Bumblebee may be a good alternative for the budget conscious shoppers.

The excitement surrounding the Transformer 2 movie is undoubtedly spurring the popularity of the new crop of Transformer action figures, but these are quality toys that most boys will continue to play with long after the movie leaves theaters, making these toys well worth their price. Plus, with the variety of Transformer action figures available you will be able to find on that fits your budget.

Because of the movable parts and small, detachable weapons, most of the Transformer action figures are for ages five and up. These toys present a choking hazard, so please read and follow the warnings and instructions on the packaging.