Transformers anniversary to include new 'fan built bot' character

Will a fan-made character be a prime draw for
the toy collector?
According to a press release from Hasbro, fans of Transformers will get to celebrate the "robots in disguise" 30th anniversary by creating a new Transformer character.

The "Fan Built Bot" poll, kicking off today and running through May 5, will introduce a character that will become an action figure in Hasbro's upcoming "Thrilling 30" toy line and appear in Transformers comics.

The release says the Pawtucket, Rhode Island, toy company is opening up voting to give "kids and fans the opportunity to make the 'Fan Built Bot' character with votes determining everything from being an AUTOBOT or DECEPTICON — to its vehicle or other mode, color, personality and more."

This is a first for Transformers since their beginning in 1984, so it is obviously the kind of promotion to get people excited. Hasbro also announced that fans would have a voice in naming the character, though those details will emerge at a later point.

"This is the perfect way to kick off our anniversary celebration and the 'Thrilling 30' line of special edition figures," said Jay Duke, vice president of the Transformers brand at Hasbro. "It will be tremendous fun for everyone to keep track of the entire process from the designing of the character; leading up to its introduction as a toy."

The results of the poll will be announced by Hasbro at this year’s Comic-Con International in San Diego, as part of the official kick-off to the "Thrilling 30" anniversary celebration. Kids and fans will be able to purchase the “Fan Built Bot” character as a toy and will see the new character appear in official Transformers comic books.

-Aaron Sagers