Wheel Raptor

Review by JoshB

Beast Drive is a new product line from 52TOYS, makers of the famous Beast Box line of transforming creatures. They are now doing something a bit different with Beast Drive, which features creatures that transform into vehicles. Each features a core that is accentuated by armor that can be mixed and matched between sets. The first release is Wheel Raptor. On its own, it retails for 34.99, or you can get it with the bonus clear parts for 47.99.

The box for this feels very model-kit like, but it's not entirely a model kit. Theres no graphics on the back.

Inside you can see that you get the core vehicle and three sprues of parts. This thing is an interesting hybrid of model kit and toy. While you do have to remove the parts from a sprue, the parts themselves are very toy-quality, and the finished product feels more toy than kit. It's not fragile at all. All the parts fit tight, and the whole thing is just very well engineered.

The whole thing took me about 20 minutes to assemble.

Here it is in car mode. At this point I haven't applied decals, so this is what it looks right out of the box. I mention this because the decals are water-slide type, and I worry that many people have not used those type of decals before and may not add them. I just want to say trust me, learn how and do the decals.

You can see that there are connection points all over. This enables you to combine parts with other figures in the line to build your own unique designs.

Each Beast Drive has a little beast pilot that is somehow reminiscent of it's alternate form. Here it's a cute little dinosaur, with movable legs and tail.

The cockpit of the car can open for seating.

Transformation seems daunting at first, but it's actually quite simple, and once you do it you won't forget it. It's a joy to transform, with every joint just tight enough to be uniquely satisfying. The end result is the Raptor mode of Wheel Raptor.

Wheel Raptor is super poseable, with over 20 points of articulation. He's nicely balanced and just looks great.

You can still open the cockpit in Raptor mode.

Another cool feature is the connection points are the same size as Tamashii Stands, so if you have one of those lying around it can make a cool display.

Now lets talk about the stickers. As previously mentioned, they are water slide decals. This means you have to cut the decal out you want, submerge it in water, slide it off of its backing, place it, and then dab the water away. While more difficult than traditional stickers, these are thinner and look more like paint detail. I really do suggest you look up a tutorial on youtube on how to use them. The results really make this toy look amazing.

If you opted to buy the bonus set, you will get this additional package.

Inside is three clear sprues of parts (the same sprues you got in the regular version, only clear). Once cut off the sprues you need to take all the parts off of the base and and put these on in their place.

Overall I am super impressed with this set. Stay tuned for our review of the next toy in this series!