We'll have to wait for the Takara's ROTF version of the MA-21 Prime, which I'm sure is coming, to see him chromed out.

 

No, that's incorrect. You're basing it on the prototype on the back of the box. Hasbro's Optimus Prime does indeed have those bits painted silver.

The only difference I can see is the grey piece under the neck, as mentioned, that is red on the domestic release. Even though it's minor, it does make it look a little better.

I am surprised that Ironhide remained grey; it would've been all sorts of win if he were his proper black.

On an unrelated note, is the Sideways pictured truly the dark version? It's hard to tell from the pic.

 

Yeah, it looks a bit better with the grey chest, but at the same time they kept the red neck, it makes it look really werid...

 

What speech sample do the leaders have - same as American with "I am Optimus prime" or same as Europe just "Optimus Prime"?

 

Speech is the same as the American Release "I am Optimus Prime" I tried it yesterday at Yodabashi Camera.

 

BTW, is Japanese Movie 2 Sideways any different than the U.S. release?

I bought the U.S. release on Friday, and am now in Japan. I didn't bring my Sideways to compare, but I don't see any difference.

 

I'm curious to see what Takara'll do with Human Alliance.

I'd love to see them with rubber tires and diecast metal.

 

Apparently it was more of a running change, since some people have scored darker, previously assumed "TakaraTomy version" in the US.
(I could be wrong though, hope someone can confirm  )

 

Gotcha covered, bro:
http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/trans...reakaway-variant-comparisons-information.html

 

Wow awesome comparison shots! Looks like only lighter Sideways figures are available to me ATM. I'll hold out for the darker version. Thank you ams.