Now begins Transformers: Armada! This was a major new initiative for 2003, a collaboration between Hasbro and Takara that not only saw a new toyline, but a whole new mythology that would be detailed in a new animated series and comic books. The classic idea of Autobots versus Decepticons returned, but a new third faction of Mini-Cons added extra play features and collectibility to the line. Mini-Cons were small vehicles that could be affixed on the larger robots, powering them up. Most large toys in the series came with at least one Mini-Con, and Mini-Cons can be swapped from figure to figure thanks to standardized pegs and slots. First up from the Armada line is Hot Shot, an energetic young Autobot who turns into a bright yellow Audi TT. He came bundled with Jolt, a Mini-Con who turns into a bright red helicopter.
