Interview: Overgear Optimus Prime Developer Yūkiya Amano

Transformers: An Interview with the Developer of OG-03 Optimus Prime 

Translated & Interpreted by Jeremy Barlow © Soundwave's Oblivion 2026. 

“Transforming from a military truck into a robot, the resistance leader fighting for freedom arrives.” By Yoshida Kōhei 

7th July 2026 

OVERGEAR OG-03 Optimus Prime
Scheduled for release late February 2027
Price: ¥19,800 

Takara Tomy's collector-focused T-SPARK brand will release OG-03 Optimus Prime, the third entry in the Transformers OVERGEAR action figure series, in late February 2027.

"OVERGEAR" is a new Transformers series built around the concept of "real world mecha." These figures transform from highly realistic vehicle modes into robot modes featuring intricate detailing and a tactical aesthetic. With an extensive arsenal of weapons and customisation options made possible by standardised connection joints, they offer a wide variety of play possibilities.

The third instalment features Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobot resistance.

In OVERGEAR, the story follows the Autobots, who have formed a resistance movement alongside humanity, as they rise up against the Decepticons. Having secretly infiltrated Earth, the Decepticons have taken control of advanced bases and cutting-edge combat vehicles.

As the leader of the Autobot resistance, Optimus Prime commands a force of freedom fighters, including Ironhide.

He transforms into an eight-wheeled tank transporter, allowing him to infiltrate "GOA", the Decepticons' vast covert operation, without detection. When a crisis strikes, he transforms into robot mode and enters battle, wielding a versatile arsenal that includes a hatchet and assault rifle.

In this article, we spoke with Yūkiya Amano from Takara Tomy's Hobby Character Business Division (Collector Business Department) about the appeal of "OG-03 Optimus Prime", accompanied by photos of the prototype.

Combining the design heritage of previous Optimus Prime incarnations with OVERGEAR's distinctive tactical style.

Alert BTA-01

BTA-01 Alert meets Ai Alert
“Geez... fine, I'll do it!”
Transforms into a Subaru Impreza WRX patrol car. He often partners with Ai on patrol duty. Although somewhat meticulous and highly strung by nature, this keen sensitivity often allows him to detect the early signs of incidents before they occur.

Ai Kurumi
“You there! Pull over!”
A rookie police officer who has finally fulfilled her lifelong dream of joining the force, driven by the strong sense of justice she has possessed since childhood. Caring by nature, she sees herself as an older-sister figure to Alert, unaware that he is actually the one looking after her. It seems she has had some connection with the Transformers since before she ever met Alert...

Profile
Birthday: June 11 (Gemini) 

Blood Type: A 

Hobbies: Drawing portraits 

Favourite Sport: Softball 

Favourite Colour: White 

Favourite Food: Hamburgers, Soft-Serve Ice Cream 

What she doesn’t like: Parallel parking, getting up early