Ghostbusters have merged worlds in a new exclusive figure from Hasbro, which turns the iconic Ecto-1 into a transforming Cybertronian robot. The two franchises were both immensely popular in the 1980s, and it should be fun for fans of either or both to see them brought together. Both Transformers and Ghostbusters currently have theatrical projects in the works – a sequel to 2018’s Bumblebee and Ghostbusters: Afterlife, set to release later this year.
Along with massive brands like Star Wars and G.I. Joe, Transformers and Ghostbusters were dominant forces in ‘80s pop culture. Beyond their respective shows and films, the two franchises were incredibly successful in their merchandising arms (obviously the primary focus of Transformers). That initial popularity has kept Transformers a significant player in the field for decades, across numerous cartoons, toy lines, and massively successful live-action films. Ghostbusters hasn’t found the same level of modern success, but its relevance is maintained through various video games, movies, and other media.
Now, the two titans have ed together in a limited figure exclusive to Target. The world of Cybertron and the Ecto-1 has fused into a brand new transforming robot – Ectotron. The figure folds down into a detailed replica of the Ghostbusters-mobile, complete with smaller Slimer and Muncher figures. In robot form, Ectotron boasts its own gargantuan Proton Pack and blaster. The package includes the first issue of the Ghosts of Cybertron crossover comic, with an exclusive, collectible cover. Ectotron is currently on sale from Target for $59.99.
Though neither ever left the public consciousness, both Transformers and Ghostbusters look primed for major resurgences shortly. Netflix’s Transformers: War for Cybertron Trilogy has restored some goodwill to the franchise after sequel fatigue from Michael Bay’s live-action films. The show has been well-received so far, harkening back to the old G1 cartoon and accompanying toys in its visual style.
Ghostbusters will be looking for a similar return to popularity with Ghostbusters: Afterlife. The film, which was delayed from its planned release date in 2020, features of the original two films’ cast like Bill Murray and Sigourney Weaver alongside new characters played by Carrie Coon, Paul Rudd, Finn Wolfhard, and others. After the polarized response to 2016’s Ghostbusters reboot, it looks like the new movie will be playing pretty safely toward the essence of the first two films. While fans wait to judge it for themselves, they can enjoy the new crossover between Ghostbusters and Transformers – assuming they’re willing to put up the $59.99, of course.
Source: Target
