Let's Build Lego's Transforming Optimus Prime

Is the brick-built version of Optimus Prime worthy of a spot in your collection?

We documented the entire build process, bag by bag, after we received a sample of the new 1,508 piece set. If you're curious about what lies ahead for the set you already pre-ordered, or are still on the fence about how cool a Lego Transformer could actually be, follow along as we dive head first into all 10 bags and spend about 4 hours building and wallowing in nostalgia for two

One of the shortest builds in this set was Bag one, and while the earliest steps in a larger Lego model are often all about building a sturdy framework that gets completely hidden later on, right out of the gate, we have already gotten one of Optimus Prime's recognizable features.

The second bag adds more lighting to the top of the truck's cab, as well as the robot's hips, which are an essential part of the transformation process.

Bag three introduces the start of Prime's legs with his upper thighs attached to his hips with articulated joints that facilitate posing and balance when the model is standing. The first pair of wheels are attached to the front wheels.

Bag four assembles Prime's right lower leg, which brings with it some fun detailing with the silver grill section, as well as some interesting technical elements with connections on either end for attaching this portion of the leg to the upper thigh and foot.

Bag five is basically a mirrored copy of the lower leg section assembled in the last step, but it ends with the addition of two pairs of back wheels, making Prime ready to roll out, but not quite ready to transform.

Bag six adds a pair of rotating fuel tanks on either side of Prime's legs and finally allows the half-assembled Autobot to stand on his own.

There is a lot going on with bag seven, which includes the front grill, headlights, bumper, and shoulders of Prime. There are just four decals that need to be applied.

The real payoff of the build is bag eight as it includes both of Prime's arms and his head. What is a robot fighting an alien war without some weaponry?

Bag nine makes Prime the best accessorized Autobot on Earth, as it includes his energon axe that can be attached to either arm, the Matrix of Leadership, and a glowing energon cube, all of which can be found in Prime's chest.

I was tempted to skip the last bag as number 10 only includes a buildable jetpack accessory for Prime, which would allow the Autobot to take to the skies. I would have liked to see a buildable version of Spike Witwicky in this bag.

The Lego version is more similar to the character as he appeared in the ‘80s animated series and movie rather than the original toy version. Prime looks great in robot mode, but don't expect the same level of play value as your childhood toy.