Re: Takara Tomy bans third party custom Transformers Products in Japan?
 

I'm sure a restricted license for accessories would be possible for any 3rd party company but, realistically, the fee would be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Imagine the price-hike on those items.
There is a reason why Hasbro and Takara don't make such accessories... most likely it's not a viable venture. It might be profitable for 3 or 4 people bootlegging without a license from their basement but not an international company.

Look at the kerfuffle Lucas's team makes over fan-made Stormtrooper armour. That's why getting the stuff is all through word of mouth and secret connections.

Like it or not everyone has a right to protect their personal or intellectual property. Nobody should be able to profit from something you invented or produce without giving you a return.

Re: Takara Tomy bans third party custom Transformers Products in Japan?
 

Yup.

I just don't see the issue of the add-on sets as you need the original figure to make them work. The blatent rip-offs though are crossing through that grey area.

Re: Takara Tomy bans third party custom Transformers Products in Japan?
 

the stuff that's out so far are fugly anyway. wonder if hasbro has balls to do this.

TFclub devastator would be great though. oh well.

Re: Takara Tomy bans third party custom Transformers Products in Japan?
 

I'm surprised they took this long to do it. Bummer though.

lol...what? Then we'd miss out on things like FP Springer, Swindle, and Blast Off.

Re: Takara Tomy bans third party custom Transformers Products in Japan?
 

hey guys I just realized, remember that Xovergen group that created Rolling Thunder Optimus? Didn't they say they were planning to make an upgrade set for WFC Optimus and Megatron? Are they in Japan too? :( ............

Re: Takara Tomy bans third party custom Transformers Products in Japan?
 

I think their in Singapore, or some of the members are. The Rolling Thunder prime figure hasn't done well in sales. I think thats why they haven't announced any thing new, and any updates on the WFC Prime and Megatron weapons. They basically screwed themselves by forcing retailers to pickup both colors of the prime figure, and controlling the way it was sold.