Generation 2 (toyline)

Transformers: Generation 2 was the name for the toy series that debuted in 1993, two years after the last G1 figures were off the shelves. At its inception, G2 featured re-releases of several Generation 1 figures, with many given new accessories; all figures received updated paint deco. As the line continued, completely new toys began appearing, including the Go-Bots, Hot Wheels-styled figures with simpler transformations and "precision" wheels; the Cyberjets, realistic fighter planes that transformed into robots with newly engineered and enhanced poseability; the Rotor Force, which featured firing plastic rotor weapons; the light-up Laser Rods and Laser Cycles, which featured LED weaponry.

Two new versions of Optimus Prime and Megatron were also released: Optimus Prime received a Laser Rod upgrade, featuring a light-up sword, fully realized battle station enclosed within his trailer, and added poseability. Megatron was re-imagined as a military tank, and featured a missile launcher and electronic voice and sound effects. Later in the line, both Prime and Megatron were re-imagined again, this time featuring air-launched foam missiles.

The series debuted to lackluster sales, despite featuring fan-favorites like the Dinobots and Constructicon. Many fans disliked the overly colorful paint jobs on many figures, which ran the gamut from a neon orange Aerialbot fighter jet, to neon purple on several of the militaristic Combaticon vehicles.

(Note: The Generation 2 toyline exists in the Unicron Trilogy universe.)