Part 9/12:

Transformers’ origins as a toy line are central to its enduring success. The franchise’s toys are not only popular among children but also serve as collectibles for older fans, ensuring a broad demographic appeal. The films periodically introduce new characters and toy lines—each sequel effectively acts as an advertisement for the latest toys, often generating hundreds of millions of dollars in additional merchandise sales.

In the early 2000s, Hasbro's investment in film and television content transformed it into a media conglomerate, with the franchise becoming an ever-expanding ecosystem. The company’s strategic focus is now centered on creating content that drives merchandise, ensuring long-term profitability beyond theater receipts.