After a lengthy period of anticipation and community speculation regarding which Decepticon would join Takara Tomy’s popular Missing Link series, the wait is officially over. Soundwave has been confirmed for the lineup, and Takara Tomy is treating fans to a double release right out of the gate with the D-01 and D-02 (Anime Type) versions, highlighting just how important the iconic communications officer is to the franchise. Following the earlier Missing Link Soundwave rumors makes this official reveal a thrilling payoff for collectors keeping close tabs on upcoming releases. The D-01 edition captures the authentic G1 toy charm, mirroring how the figure appeared on retail shelves in the 1980s but upgrading it with contemporary articulation and engineering that vintage molds could only dream of. Meanwhile, the D-02 Anime Type translates that same core design into the vibrant, cel-shaded look of the classic cartoon, a style that has become an instant fan-favorite across the rest of the Missing Link range. The underlying philosophy of the Missing Link line isn’t about completely redesigning these classic characters; instead, it explores what the original toys might have looked like if modern manufacturing and engineering had been available back in 1984. Because Soundwave’s original design was already so exceptional, it benefits tremendously from this approach of refinement rather than total reinvention. Both variants are scheduled to open for pre-orders on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, so collectors will want to act fast before they inevitably sell out.
Soundwave D-01
The Soundwave D-01 figure is showcased in both its classic microcassette recorder alternate mode and its robot form, alongside a complete arsenal of accessories. Included in the spread are the Electric Launcher, Vibration Blaster Gun, missiles, headphones, a command microphone equipped with a cord, and electronic surveillance pods. A miniature companion figure, known as Scout Robo, is also shown in both cassette and robot modes.
As a special Takara Tomy Mall exclusive purchase bonus, Missing Link D-01 Soundwave comes packaged with an exclusive illustrated Cassettebot collection card created by Yufumi Ichikawa. This card highlights Scout Robo (Scoutorobō)—the traditional Japanese designation for Scout, Soundwave’s blue reconnaissance cassette from the original Japanese G1 continuity. Additionally, buyers will receive a separate, dedicated collection card featuring Soundwave himself.
Soundwave D-02 (Anime Type)
The Soundwave D-02 (Anime Type) model appears in both robot and microcassette recorder configurations, boasting a distinct cartoon-inspired decoration. This version features cleaner, brighter color saturation across its navy and gray panels, along with a prominent Decepticon insignia graphic displayed inside the transparent chest window. The accompanying gear includes the Electric Launcher, Vibration Blaster Gun, missiles on a runner, headphones, a wired command microphone, and a battery case, while Condor is featured in both its cassette and robotic bird modes.
Purchasing the Missing Link D-02 Soundwave (Anime Type) through the Takara Tomy Mall nets buyers another exclusive bonus: an original illustrated Cassettebot collection card by Yufumi Ichikawa. This card showcases Condor, the iconic Japanese name for Laserbeak, the Decepticons’ faithful avian spy from the animated series. Alongside the Condor card, collectors will also receive a matching Soundwave collection card as part of this limited webshop promotion.
