Recently I was checking out a couple of local import toy stores and I happen to see the new Transformers Masterpiece Skywarp toy by Takara. Here are pictures of the box and figure:

Box (Front):

Box (Back):

Figure:

When you first see the figure, it basically looks like the Masterpiece Starscream, with some differences such as two different face sculps (emotionless and snarling Skywarp) and the stealthy purple and black repaint. It is still made from the same diecast and plastic materials and the details and articulation are superb. The big reason why Transformer fans love the Masterpiece series is because the likeness of the toys are close to those of the cartoons series, thus justifying the high price for a toy. However, the big complaint by fans over the Takara Masterpeice Starscream, was the fact that the colours were nowhere close to those from the cartoon…until now. Earlier on, I looked around the net and found pictures of a nice custom paintjob done on a MP Starscream. However, there have been rumours circulating in different forums that mention that the pictured figure is actually the paint scheme for the American release of Starscream! I guess there are actually perks to living in North America! =)

-Stephen