Construct-Bots is a line of Transformers-themed building toys with interchangeable parts, somewhat similar to Kre-O. In contrast to Kre-O's brick-based kits, however, Construct-Bots are action figures with a wider range of articulation that can be changed between modes without being disassembled. Elite and higher price-point sets come packaged in a translucent plastic storage tray that highlights key pieces in the set.
Construct-Bots were announced in early 2013 in advance of Toy Fair, and began hitting store shelves later that year. They had a substantial presence at BotCon 2013, featuring prominently in the Hasbro presentation with much of the line on display, both in stock and custom configurations.
In 2014, the design of the figures was changed markedly; All joints on the figures are now ball-jointed, and their torso superstructure combined the waist and torso and added a spring loaded "spine" part. Figures no longer reuse parts from other models and are more or less totally unique. Most 2014 parts are not compatible with parts from 2013 figures. All Beast Hunters (barring Predaking) and Age of Extinction Construct-Bots use the newer design. Unfortunately, the newer designs used rubberized ball-joint tips which were prone to dry rot after a few years.
Construct-Bots packaging features the pseudo-motto "Construct Convert Customize", highlighting the key features of the line.
- Construct - Construct-Bots toys are built by attaching body parts, armor pieces, accessories, weapons, joint pieces, and even faction symbols to a modular skeleton. The sets are assembled using three types of joints: rubberized ball joints, 5mm pegs and sockets, and ratcheting clips.
- Convert - Construct-Bots can be transformed from robot mode to an alternative (e.g., vehicle, animal, etc.) mode. Unlike brick-built Kre-O robots, Construct-bots can be transformed with minimal, if any, reassembly. This reassembly is generally limited to repositioning accessories and weapons using the ratcheting clips or 5mm pegs. Transformations are generally comparable to those of the inner robots of Pretender toys with various hinged body panels being rearranged to enhance the alternative mode.
- Customize - A multitude of extra 5 mm pegs, sockets, and bars for the ratcheting clips are provided by the modular skeleton and the various other parts. A single Construct-Bots set can be customized by rearranging the skeleton or rearranging armor parts and accessories (such as by moving wing pieces from the arms to the legs). A Construct-Bots set may be further customized by including or substituting pieces from other sets.
It is not clear what, if any, continuity they fit into. Several characters resemble their Generation 1 namesakes; others take their cues from Transformers: Prime and Age of Extinction.