Toy Review: Transformers the Movie Retro G1 Kickback Re-Issue
- Retlaw
- Jul 14
- 2 min read

Hey everyone! Retlaw here with our debut toy review, and it's a unique one as it combines both modern and retro elements. The figure in question is The Transformers: The Movie Retro Generation 1 (G1) Decepticon Insecticon, Kickback.
I picked this up at my local Ollie's Bargain Outlet earlier this week, and at $9.99, it was a steal! I would have bought it anyway since I've never owned any of the vintage G1 Insecticons before.
Right away, I loved the artwork on the package, though I'm not keen on the somewhat flimsy cardboard of the outer box. Mine had slight protrusions from the inner tray's tie downs at the back. It's not a big issue for me as I'm a loose collector and I buy modern items with the intention of opening them. On that note, you should check out the article by our own OasisAvatar on the topic of opening vs keeping sealed; the article can be found here and in the related articles section: https://www.nerdgasmtoynews.com/post/opening-the-box-is
Once I freed Kickback, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia, reminiscent of receiving G1 figures as a kid, and it made me extremely happy. The figure is beautifully done in his classic black, purple, yellow, and silver paint job. This time, Hasbro chose not to include any chromed parts, which is a bit disappointing, but understandable.
He comes packaged in his alternate form, a grasshopper, and his transformation is simple like all G1 figures. To transform him into robot mode, fold in the rear grasshopper legs to reveal his robot toes and straighten his legs. Next, combine all four front insect legs to form his robot arms and pivot them downwards. Then, rotate his insect head around and push back his antenna (be cautious as they are fragile). Finally, position his wings upright and attach his weapon to either arm.
Kickback does have a bit of diecast metal in his chest like the vintage version, but I couldn't find any other diecast parts on him.
In terms of accessories, there aren't many; however, he includes 6 Energon Cubes and his weapon.
Overall, he's an incredible little figure, and for the price I paid, I'm extremely pleased. He's a fantastic addition to my Transformers collection and looks great displayed next to my Transformers Legacy Kickback figure.
I will say this, if you're a sealed collector, avoid purchasing from stores like Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Ross Dress for Less, or other liquidation outlets, as they attach price tags directly onto the boxes (or cards), which can cause damage when you try to remove them.
Want your own G1 Transformers Retro Kickback? Buy him from our link below!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3U8qYXB
Big Bad Toy Store: https://www.bigbadtoystore.com/Product/VariationDetails/273010
Entertainment Earth:
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