TFtember: Blaster

Blaster

Since Soundwave was so popular, why not an Autobot version?

Beginning life as a Micro Change Radi-Cassee Robo, the Japanese version of the toy was a functional radio but that feature was sadly removed by the time it hit the states. Much like Soundwave, he had very limted articulation. 

In 1987, Blaster got reissued in Japan as Twincast. Basically the same toy only in blue rather than red. He also made to 1990's Action Master series, being equipped with a rather neat jetpack. 

The file card paints him very similar to Jazz, in that he's obsessed with Earth music. Rock N Roll, to be specific. He's also the communications guy, which makes sense. 

The comic, however, is wildly different. First, he makes it to the last issue so kudos on that. He is introduced as a grim and brooding rebel, a mark that increases as he is relentlessly hunted by Grimlock (of all robots). Blaster has a dim view of humans as well, often wondering if any Earthlings could be trusted. He role grew smaller as the series continued, eventually becoming little more than a background guy by the end. Disappointing after all that, I must say. 

Voiced by Buster Jones, his cartoon version is more in line with the file card. He does have a rivalry with Soundwave, which makes sense. He does take over Jazz's role as the 'Autobot in love with Earth culture'. Aside from that he plays it more or less the same. He also survives the Movie; even if he doesn't do that much in it aside from kicking Ravage.