Transformers: Scramble City

This 1986 OVA only released in Japan is incredibly nostalgic to me, yet completely strange and unfamiliar. Opening with footage from early G1 episodes, after about 7 or so minutes gets into the original OVA story. This is about where things get odd to me. While it largely features Transformers I recall from childhood, the whole Scramble City plot (which is unique to Japanese Transformers continuity) is peculiar. Add to that I saw this raw (which is better than fan commentary like on the Transformers: The Movie 20th Anniversary dvd), and it made for interesting viewing. Nevermind my confusion of when in the timeline this takes place.

The art and animation style is what one would expect of Transformers tv circa 1986. Don't expect to be blown away by a Transformers: The Movie level presentation, but it's decent all things considered. This exists to advertise the Scramble City toy line after all. The story moves fast, trying to get as many action figures on screen as possible for the many battles that take place in this brief 23 minute video. They definitely don't want the viewer to get bored. There are a few surprises I guess, and it ends on a cliffhanger that I believe was never resolved. But I'm guessing kids were supposed to get their grubby mitts on Scramble City toys, and play out the conclusion themselves.

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