I know it seems early but we are half way there so lets hear what you guys think.
HO
Engines
Oliver
Arry & Bert
Stanley
Rolling Stock
Toad (if Oliver)
Red Coaches
A Van of some kind
Off Rail
Trevor
Large
Edward or Toby
Rolling Stock
Express Coaches
Mail Van
Various Trucks
For HO Scale
Engines:
Oliver
Rolling Stock:
Toad
Off-Rail:
Trevor
Hoping for the future along with what I mentioned above:
Daisy
Boco
Trevor
Spiteful Brakevan
These seem to be more of a wish list than predictions...
I believe this would be more fitting in the wish list category, however, my 2013 predictions are:
Engines:
Arry and Bert: For 2013, I think they will be taking a break from new molds.
Rolling stock:
Retiring Tar Wagon, and Red open wagon: Tar wagon is not seen often in the TV anymore, if at all, and red open wagon is one of their worse sellers.
That seems more realistic, rather than the so many engines listed before. Bachmann is not that quick! :)
Here are my predictions. I know not all of these will be released in one year, but the longer list gives more options.
HO Scale - Locos
Oliver: Seems likely. We've got numbers 1-10. We might as well add number 11 and add another classic character to the range.
'Arry and Bert: They've been featured quite a few times since their introduction in season 5, and we've already got Diesel, so all that's really needed is face changes, livery changes, and ladder removal.
Rosie: She's become a pretty popular character. Although a good portion of her appearances are cameos, she seems like a likely candidate for the range.
Molly: I know, sounds weird, but Bachmann has surprised us before. I feel if Bachmann was to surprise us again, Molly would be that one wild card thrown on top of the deck. Don't ask me for my reasoning, because I don't have any. I just feel like she'd be the one. Her color maybe? The fact that she's the only female tender engine besides Emily? I don't know. There's just something about her.
Whiff: Basically the same reasoning as ORN197. He's had frequent appearances in the CGI series, and even had a large role in Misty Island Rescue. I think he'd be a nice addition to the range.
Rolling Stock
Toad: If Oliver is released there is no doubt in my mind.
Plant/Scrap Wagon: This was originally featured in Henry's Forest for transporting new trees, but it has commonly been seen in the CGI series as a scrap car. With the lack of rolling stock being released and its uniqueness, I think this would be a pretty decent seller.
Red Coaches: I'm surprised these haven't been released yet. They've made appearances in the series in just about every season since their introduction in season 2. I'm sure these will be seen soon.
Rocky: It honestly wouldn't surprise me if Rocky was announced. He'd probably be released in packs because of his several parts, but ya never know. He may end up being an expensive piece of rolling stock, but it's not like the rest of the range is cheap :P
Off-Rail
Trevor: There aren't really any other road vehicles to be released, and he's a classic character. He'd be a beautiful model with Bachmann's craftsmanship, and there aren't really any other suitable Trevor models currently on the European and American markets to fit an HO/OO scale layout.
Butch: If Trevor wasn't announced, I'd imagine Butch with his recent role in the TVS.
Accessories
I've the slightest clue of what's to come accessory wise :P
Large Scale - Locos
Toby: Seems likely enough. He's a steam team member and an original character. I'd imagine he'd be pretty easy to make; he's small and square :P
Edward: Again, member of the steam team and original character. He's basically James' size, and with the shorter wheel base he'll easily be able to maneuver the standard 4ft radius curves.
Rolling Stock
Henrietta: If Toby is released, of course she will be too :P
Express Coaches: Not quite sure how likely these are because of their length, but they'd be a great addition to the range. There's always a chance :)
Ventilated Van: The LS range could use some vans ;)
Cattle Wagon: The cattle wagon was the first van in the HO range to be released. I could even see it being released before the ventilated van.
RF Container Wagon: Not the best seller in the HO range, but it's a flat bed, and it's short, so it can easily handle the standard curves.
Off-Rail
Bertie: If any road character was to be released in this range, it'd be Bertie. There's no doubt in my mind. He's had appearances in every season, and he was the first road vehicle released in the HO range. His release would make sense.
Accessories
Sir Topham Hatt/Conductor Figurines: Only thing I can think of that would be reasonably priced :P
For 2013...
HO
(Engines)
Oliver- Personal favorite of mine, it would finish the #1-11 engines. Popular character.
Rosie- Popular character, with a decent amount of screen time, would make another girl character (even though I'd rather see a Daisy)
'Arry and Bert- Can easily be made, would make more diesels I mean since there is only 3, decently popular
Stepney, BoCo, or Daisy- If classics, why not one of them?
(Rolling Stock)
Red Coaches- I have no clue how long we've been asking but can EASILY be made.
Toad- Only if Oliver cuz one without the other seems wrong
Chinese Dragon- It would be REALLY awesome
LS
(Engines)
Diesel
Toby
Rosie
HIGHLY doubtful but if Duck I would totally start buying LS
(Rolling Stock)
Henrietta
Van
Red Coach?
(yes...no reasoning for LS)
It's all fun doing this but it's obvious they will put out only one engine we possibly won't want and a Large scale Toby.
Although my predictions are similar to others, here they are:
HO Scale
1. Engines
*Oliver (for reasons stated above)
*
2. Rolling Stock
*Toad (for reasons stated above)
*Red Coaches (for reasons stated above)
*we may not get any rolling stock at all (I'm sorry for sounding negative)
Large Scale
1. Engines
* I don't know, we may not get any
2. Rolling Stock
*Van of sorts
ho scale sorry i don't have large scale up because im not into it. :-[ Sorry people who like it :-[
engines:
OLIVER
arry and bert
stanley
lady
diesel 10 PLEASE!!!!!!
narrow gauge engines
rolling stock:
toad
flying kipper van
troublesome truck with cgi face
log loaders from misty island
milk wagon: yellow redesigned from the cgi show "thomas and friends"
buildings:
GREAT WATERTON
whiff's waste dump
wellsworth
toby's shed
cranky with cgi face
"old whizzy" from misty island
off rail:
bertie, harold, butch, trevor ,and captian with cgi face
sets:
flying kipper: comes with henry from season 1,flying kipper van [3],van [brown][2],and a brake van
percy's mail delivery: comes with percy,and 3 cgi mail vans
busy day at bredom docks: comes with cranky,salty,2 trucks,1 brown van [sorta like the mail van but brown],and 2 ships that would be seen on the tv show "thomas and friends"
and thats it!
timwojo ;D
HO Scale Engines
Oliver:Seems pretty likely, and then we will have engines 1-11!
Arry and Bert:I think the range could use more diesels, and these two seem perfect. Just a simple mod of Diesel and new faces and paint, viola!
*This one is a wish item*Lady: Of course like people have said in the past, she isn't too well known, but I think Bachmann would do wonders with her.
HO Rolling Stock
Toad:Can't have Oliver without Toad.Everyone knows that!
Red Branchline Coaches:I don't know, seem like nice coaches.(Especially for James)
to be honest, id be happy if they discontinued making engines after we get Oliver, the characters started getting dull after the early seasons.
ENGINES:
OLIVER
STEPNEY (please, please, please...)
ARRY
BERT
ROLLING STOCK:
RED COACHES
MISC. GOODS VANS
ROAD:
ACCURATE SIZED BERTIE
BULGY (BUS VERSION, NOT FRUIT STAND)
TREVOR? (has he showed up lately?)
Logically, I'd presume that Rosie, Whiff, Charlie or 'Arry and Bert will be produced next, due to their regular appearances in the show and in particular Rosie's strong marketing presence in other Thomas merchandise.
I'm perfectly happy with the Hornby Stepney, Oliver and Toad I have, so would feel it a little bit of a waste if Bachmann announced these.
I'd definitely like to see more than one model produced for HO next year.
I'd predict Toby or Diesel for large scale.
My predictions are:
HO scale
Locomotives
Oliver - The last of the numbered engines, and is quite popular with the older fan-base.
'Arry and Bert - As stated, simply modify the Diesel model for two brand-new products.
Stepney - This one's more of a wish than an actual prediction. :P
Rolling Stock
Red Branchline Coaches - Would make excellent coaches for smaller engines such as Percy and James.
Toad - You can't have Oliver without his trusty brake van!
Breakdown Train - It just looks so awesome! ;D
Non-Rail Characters
Trevor - He's the last of the classic off-rail vehicles.
Large Scale
Locomotives
Toby - Popular and small in size.
Rolling Stock
Ventilated Van - The Large Scale line is in need of some box cars.
Salt Wagon - Same reason as Vent. Van.
I don't usually do this kind of thing (simply because I really can't predict what Bachmann will make next), but here it goes:
HO Scale Range:
Locomotives:
Oliver--Just because the demand for him from older fans has been so great since the announcement of Duck. Oliver is also the last engine left for Bachmann to release to complete its recent stream of classic characters.
Stanley--Stanley isn't as prominent a character as one in the so-called "Steam Team", however he isn't a one-time character either. His consistent appearances, in my opinion, make him a likely candidate for Bachmann's next project.
Harvey--What child hasn't wanted to stage an elaborate train crash (and an equally elaborate rescue operation afterwards)? Harvey would be a good candidate for Bachmann to make next, his constant association with accidents will satisfy any child's desire to re-enact their favourite accident scenes!
Rolling Stock:
Toad--If Oliver is made, then Toad should also be made (after all Toad is Oliver's primary companion). If Bachmann neglected to release Toad at the same time they released Oliver, I doubt Toad would ever be released.
Red Coaches--Generic passenger coaches which would suit most engines nicely.
The Breakdown Train--For the same reason as Harvey, although I have no doubt Bachmann would release the Breakdown Crane before they ever considered releasing Harvey--the Breakdown Train can be pulled by any engine, and so would better complement Bachmann's existing range of Thomas engines than Harvey would.
Large Scale:
Locomotives:
Toby--Small (easier/cheaper to manufacture) and still retains the recognition of the present Thomas & Friends audience.
Edward--A bigger leap than Thomas or Percy, but not one as big as Gordon or Henry. Nicely situated in the middle for difficulty and cost of manufacture, and also retaining that recognition factor. Also a nice complement to James.
Rolling Stock:
Henrietta--Should Toby be released, Henrietta should also be made to complement Toby (not many existing Large Scale Rolling Stock items fit Toby that well, in my opinion).
Vans--Something the Large Scale range doesn't have yet. Perhaps a van a little less dull than an ordinary one (i.e The Fireworks Vans).
Mind you, I don't predict that all of these will be released, but that what Bachmann do release next year will be out of these.
JWR3001
These are all OO Scale predictions. I don't have any Large Scale equipment.
Scenario A:
Revisions:
This scenario occurs should Bachmann decide to take a break from new products and revise Thomas, Percy and James to the higher standard of Bachmanns newer products. This is a Quality vs Quantity scenario. All of these revisions would most likely take the CGI designs seen in the Large Scale range.
Candidates:
- Thomas
- Percy
- James
- Annie & Clarabel
- Henrys Tender
- Brake Van (made to look like a CGI brake van)
Scenario B:
Take it Easy:
In this scenario, Bachmann takes a break from whole new toolings, and reuses their Diesel tooling for either:
A: Arry & Bert, who had their first role in Season 5, but became the characters they are today in Season 6, not very classic.
(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20101221035420/ttte/images/0/0a/%27ArryandBert.png)
B: Paxton, a newer engine who would be easy to make. Could be a way for Bachmann to test how popular sales would go with newer engines. Seems possible because of the upcoming Blue Mountain Mystery movie, and that he requires only a new face to be made, so almost no effort on Bachmanns part. Sidney and Norman seem to have been left in the dark for now.
(http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/a/a5/Paxton.png)
C: All of the above occurs.
Scenario C:
Keep it Classic:
This scenario occurs should Bachmann decide to knock out the last of the classic era characters, which includes:
A: Oliver. If Bachmann is able to make Duck, then the next logical step would be Oliver.
(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20091031174521/ttte/images/7/7c/ToadStandsBy5.jpg)
B: You can't have Oliver without Toad, and with Scruffey already in the range, the three would make a great set together!
(http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110210184324/ttte/images/3/32/SnowEngine40.png)
C: It's been awhile since we've gotten a road engine, and I'm sure most people agree that Trevor is wanted the most!
(http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100227044552/ttte/images/0/09/Edward%2CTrevorandtheParty22.PNG)
D: BoCo is another fan favorite from the classic era. He hasn't seen much light in newer episodes, but he would be a pretty easy engine to make on Bachmanns part.
(http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120321000009/ttte/images/d/da/BuzzBuzz19.png)
E: Daisy and BoCo have a shared mechanism in the show, Bachmann could just as easily do this with Daisy and BoCo. Just change the bogie wheels!
(http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20091210120007/ttte/images/1/16/CallingAllEngines56.jpg)
F: Stepney has stuck around the show for a bit as a minor character, but his Season 4 episodes gained him a lot of popularity, as the Hornby Stepney clearly showed.
(http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120406162405/ttte/images/c/c0/RustytotheRescue32.png)
There's no telling which character Bachmann would do next, and in what order, but those are all of the classic era characters left for Bachmann to do, unless Bachmann wanted to do Bulgy and George too, but they don't see highly demanded.
Scenario D:
Any sort of combination of more than one scenario.
Rolling Stock:
The HO range hasn't seen many new wagons and coaches lately, most likely due to Bachmann prioritizing the Large Scale range. Here's some popular wagons Bachmann could make:
Scrap Wagon: Middle wagon, the really long one. A classic wagon that has been in the show since Season 2, but gets more regular use now.
(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120302093145/ttte/images/e/ee/PercyandtheCalliope14.png)
The Breakdown Train: This could sell very well. Packaged with a crane and a flat bed, fans would be very eager to buy two of them, as well as a Works Unit, so that they can have a complete Breakdown Train. It also has a less complicated design than Rocky, who would require a lot more detail and more pieces, while the Breakdown Train is very straightforward, ideal for the range.
(http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/3/36/ThomasandtheBreakdownTrain30.jpg)
The Works Unit: Very much part of the classic Breakdown Train "set."
(http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20101204135228/ttte/images/c/c2/ThomasandtheBreakdownTrain11.jpg)
Red Coaches: These have been so highly demanded for so long, and they would be easy to do too. Bachmann already has a tooling for Annie and Clarabel, they would just have to be modified to have no faces, and the brake coach redesigned to be like in the TV series.
(http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/9/9b/PingyPongyPickUp19.png)
The Old Van: A popular van among the fans, whose popularity only increased when a fan made version was made in the train simulator Trainz, and was widely used by everyone. A symbol of the classic era troublesome trucks.
(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20091227053617/ttte/images/d/de/ACloseShave9.png)
Alternate versions could be done as:
(http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100728090360/ttte/images/a/ae/TheWorld%27sStrongestEngine33.jpg)
or as:
(http://www.1999.co.jp/itbig00/10009695a8.jpg)
For Large Scale next year I'd definitely like to see Toby, it would be a fine addition. Bachmann haven't made any diesels in the large scale range yet so Diesel would be a nice one. I'm sure there would be a big market for that because people would buy to chop up and convert to a class 10 or 8. As for the rolling stock, there is a market for box vans. Personally, I'd LOVE to see the mail coaches come out in large scale, there is nothing on the large scale market like this though I doubt they will be released next year.
Here are my predictions
2013 Oliver and Toad ,and also Boco because they have Bill and Ben
Off track Trevor
2014 Ary and Bert ,and Stepney
Take note these are my opinions. If you dont like them don't say anything. If you do just tell me. ;)
Next year, it would be nice if they at least announce 2 engine characters in the HO line. :-\
Locomotives:
•Oliver
•BoCo
Rolling stock:
•Red branchline coaches
•Toad the brakevan
•Chinese dragon
At least those products would make next year more exciting.
HO Engines
1. BoCo
2. Oliver
3. 'Arry and Bert
4. Revisions of the main 3 Thomas, Percy, and James, perhaps also resizing of Henry's tender
HO Rolling Stock
1. More Troublesome Trucks with faces, perhaps provide some to coloured ones like the red and brown wagons
2. Red Coaches
3. Toad
4. More Brake Van variants (darker colours, different classes as seen in Season 16 and probably a Brake Van with a troublesome truck face or a face resembling The Spiteful Breakvan)
5. More variants of vans
6. Bring back the Red Coaches
Like Sparks I will give various situations for OO scale.
Situation 1: Classic Charectors:
As far as classic engines are concerned, Oliver is the next engine in number turns and Bachmann have shown they keep older fans in mind by releasing Duck. Oliver is the engine everyone wants Bachmann to make after Duck's confirmation. (http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110323202454/ttte/images/8/84/Oliver'sFind23.png)
If Oliver was done, the only classic engines left would be Daisy and Boco. The older fans would love to have these charectors in the Bachmann range. Sharing a chassis is a big advantage too. (http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/6/67/Percy%27sPredicament2.png)
(http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/5/5a/BoConameplate.jpg)
However, despite mass cult like following from older fans, I can only see either of these 2 being done if they were reintroduced to the series by Andrew Brenner, released to tie in with the older audience the WWII film is due to attract or after a couple of years.
Situation 2: HIT Engines:
The CGI series is really going now and with that it cannot be too long before we get a model of another HIT engine. A charector that shines with fans and in the show itself is Rosie. Rosie is second only to Emily as a female engine. The range would benefit from another female charector. Fans have grown to her, which is rare for a HIT Charector.(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb57524/ttte/images/1/17/RosieCGIpromo.png)
One charector that has a large part in the show at the minute is Hiro. Hiro would be a first CGI only charector for the model range. Hiro had a large introduction right at the start of the CGI era in a very successful film. Younger fans love the story of Hiro's discovery, with this comes a certain cult status for Hiro. Two versions of Hiro could be produced a Patchwork Hiro and a normal Hiro. Another Tender Engine would be greatly appreciated, he is a large tender engine too which we haven't seen since Spencer was introduced.
(http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/2/25/HerooftheRails312.png)
(http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/a/a1/Hiro.PNG)
There would be some sense in making Charlie too. He appears alot in the series. He has been delvoped greatly since his introduction 3 series s ago. A simple, small engine that alot of people would purchase just as they got into the range or if they were into the range in a big way already, a supplementary charector to their large collection of big stars from the show. (http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/8/83/CharlieCGIpromo.png)
These releases would probably take place at different times although I could see one of the tank engines coming out at the same time as Hiro so that people had a selection of new releases to choose from/complement each other.
Situation 3: Twin Trouble:
This is probably the least likely situation but I will put it out there anyway. It has been a couple of years since Dash and Bash first hit our screens and they have been with us for lots of episodes since. They would both use the same tooling. I cannot see them being released though because of 2 pairs of twins being in the range at the minute. (http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/0/0b/Dashpromo.png)
(http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/8/80/Bashpromo.png)
Situation 4: Diesel Power:
One of Thomas's most recognisable charectors is Diesel 10. He has recently bounced back into the front of all fan's minds due to his appearance in DOTD. Diesel 10's claw is iconic and a big draw for fans. He is a very popular charector and would be a very sought after model. To me, Diesel 10 is one of Bachmann's most logic options. (http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/c/c6/Diesel10CGI.png)
Unlike most people, I don't feel Bachmann will make a model of Arry and Bert due to the fact that twins is something I think Bachmann will not do for a while now. As well as that, I don't feel that they are very popular engines.
And that is my opinion, as always feedback is welcomed and I will do other OO items next week
well put, but one thing, Bachmann would never do bash and dash, i mean, theres one reason that points to this, look at their chassie, Bachmann would never make a chassie like that, especially considering the fact that an engine is put to several drop tests before it can pass on, and the wheels are completely open so there's not a way to put electric copper picks up wires to get the electricity from the track to the wheels and up to the motor, and plus the wheels could also break easily considering the lack of plastic that would actually hold them to the chassie, and im sure 8 year old's (as indicated as recommended age on the Bachmann packaging) wouldn't know to be careful with models as much as us older folk know to, so yeah, bash and dash, as likely to happen as the narrow gauge engines, and...
wait there... i know im bringing this up again... but whats the chances of the narrow gauge engines now that blue mountain mystery is coming out?
Nil They would be too complicated and the market for them is too small. I agree about Dash and Bash, hence why I said they were probably the most unlikely to be chosen
@Yorkshireman Stepney would also be on the list of classic engines left if Oliver was announced.
Oh silly me ;) Oh course he would. Stepney would be great from Bachmann, but I highly doubt it will happen regrettably :(
I assume that Oliver will be the ONLY locomotive character announced in the HO line next year. :'(
For HiT engines, I can see Hiro, Stanley, or Rosie, not so much Bash & Dash or Diesel 10.
Stanley is a engine, which I could definitely see appearing in the range.
If only Bachmann could announce more than one engine character a year. Maybe tone down the real-life locos a bit, and focus a little more on Thomas.
Its not going to happen and I'm glad. I'm a railway modeller and thomas fan so I get where the money goes. They can release more than one engine a year, they have done it before and will do it again. Is there any engines I listed that people strongly agree on bar the obvious one (Oliver)? Personally Rosie and Hiro are the engines I want with Oliver, course ;D
I think Rosie has a much higher chance than Hiro she is smaller and more recognizable. Personally I don't like Rosie or Hiro too much. If there had to be a newer series character announced I would hope it would be Stanley.
Personally if I wanted to see an engine with Oliver for next year I would say Stepney. He's another small tank engine who I think could hold some great potential for Bachmann.
I would be more than satisfied if next year in HO we had:
Oliver
Stepney
Toad
Trevor
Kudos if anyone sees what I did here
They were all saved from scrap! Nice :D
You know what? I think that would be an excellent idea for next year! Forget 'Arry and Bert, let's have:
•Oliver
•Toad
•Stepney
•Trevor
They were all saved from scrap. I'm sure Bachmann can make all of them next year. I don't know why my decisions keep changing, but those are what Bachmann needs to make next year! Let's help increase the demand for Stepney! I'd buy all of them!
Yeah that's really the best idea I have heard and it has the scrap gimmick with it too.
Well, 'Arry and Bert can be their decision as it only takes a little bit of editing from Diesel to do.
Not to mention they're the ones who want TO scrap engines, so next year could be a "Saved from Scrap" Pack. ;D
Quote from: Cupix the Azelf on August 05, 2012, 09:14:42 PM
Well, 'Arry and Bert can be their decision as it only takes a little bit of editing from Diesel to do.
Not to mention they're the ones who want TO scrap engines, so next year could be a "Saved from Scrap" Pack. ;D
If Bachmann were to make 4 loco characters next year, that'd be a lot of work!
Yes, well, Trevor isn't really a motorised character and I think it's about time that there should be a year where Bachmann would focus more on the Thomas range... because I'm greatly disappointed with what they've provided for this year. >:(
Only good thing is that those 2 items were interesting ideas, especially Duck since he's our Number 8 and is on high demand for more merchandise and to return to the show which may happen next Season thanks to Andrew Brenner being the new writer, he helped with the Season 3 stories so he may have some Classic series potential within him... AND he's using the community-made Thomas wiki to help him with info, facts and origins. ;)
It would only be two new molds the others would just be re paints, not much work. Remember, though Emily was delayed she Spencer and Toby were announced all at once plus along with rolling stock. BACHMANN can handle it.
Quote from: Cupix the Azelf on August 05, 2012, 09:49:53 PM
Yes, well, Trevor isn't really a motorised character and I think it's about time that there should be a year where Bachmann would focus more on the Thomas range... because I'm greatly disappointed with what they've provided for this year. >:(
Only good thing is that those 2 items were interesting ideas, especially Duck since he's our Number 8 and is on high demand for more merchandise and to return to the show which may happen next Season thanks to Andrew Brenner being the new writer, he helped with the Season 3 stories so he may have some Classic series potential within him... AND he's using the community-made Thomas wiki to help him with info, facts and origins. ;)
I'm very disappointed about this year's announcements, too! Let's hope Daisy and BoCo return in CGI! I would LOVE to have a year when Bachmann focuses more on Thomas! And maybe announce:
•Oliver (locomotive)
•Stepney (locomotive)
•'Arry and Bert (locomotives)
•Toad (rolling stock)
•Trevor (off-rail)
I think Oliver, Toad, Trevor, and the Red Coaches would be a good full set of HO items for 2013.
If anything more, then just a few wagons (maybe the scrap wagon, a grey or brown troublesome truck van with a laughing face, or the works unit), but that would be a good load for next year, and I wouldn't mind if Oliver was the only engine if those items were released too.
I agree Sparks. I believe they will be the 2013 announcements. The red coaches are badly needed. Currently there are no 'every engine' coaches in the range. Trevor is in very high demand as is Oliver. With Oliver, Toad is also a must. Rosie may appear, due to her major role as a female charector now but she is most likely to appear in 2014. The Plant Vans are the only new wagon I can see arriving for a while. They are fairly sought after, from what I have seen here.
(http://images.wikia.com/ttte/images/6/65/BolsterWagonCGI.jpg)
Those are not new, they have been around since Season 2. :)
I mean new in terms of new mold ;)
I'm intrested in seeing alot of things mentioned already.
Engines:
More diesels, I'd really like Diesel 10, Arry and Bert would be nice too, or Boco.
I think Hiro would be awsome to see too.
And the red coaches and Trevor.
More scenery/structures would be great too.
Why can't we just make up our minds about next year's products? Bachmann can only do so much. :-\
We don't really have to make up or minds, we all want different things. BACHMANN's minds are the ones that need to be made up.
Quote from: thomasj219 on August 07, 2012, 12:02:21 AM
We don't really have to make up or minds, we all want different things. BACHMANN's minds are the ones that need to be made up.
I guess you're right. Along with Oliver, they need to decide which others they should make.
We are all putting our opinions out there for Bachmann to see. There is nothing to say Oliver will be produced anyway. Its likely, but not certain.
It'll be fine, as long as Oliver and Toad aren't the only ones next year. Because this year's announcements we're disappointing. Just 2 things! 1 engine, and 1 freight car. They need to know that the red branchline coaches have been in demand for so long. I suppose it'll be okay if AT LEAST those got released with Oliver and Toad.
You do understand that Oliver and Toad are NOT confirmed yet right? Only because you speak of them as though they are, they are likely and in extreme demand but they may not be made. Also this year's announcements were actually quite satisfying I thought, with all for the large scale range as well. We got Duck and if we have to sacrifice another engine and some rolling stock for that year to get him I say...so be it.
Around what time of the year are the new products typicaly announced? Haven't really paid that much attention to the product line and I've only been buying in the range for about 2 years now. Also does anyone know what sort of contract Bachmann has with Thomas? How many years are left on it at the moment or anything of that nature? I'm really just starting to get into it and I'm happy there is so much great stuff in the line.
Anyone else take much notice of the mail cars changing to the mail logo seen in the CGI stuff instead of the original "Sodor Mail" lettering? I wanted to get a 2nd one to match my old one and see they've changed. And most of the ebay sellers have the new printing even if they're using the old stock photos.
The products are always announced in February at the toy fair in New York. BACHMANN's deal with Thomas has no time constraints as far as we know, they will continue to add to the line as long as it is profitable on both ends. Which it should be for some time, HORNBYS range has been going since 1985 and shows no signs of stopping even if the range is not added to as much as BACHMANN'S. And yes we have noticed not only the mail car changing but tankers as well. Unfortunately that is what will happen to all of that type of stock eventually, HiT wants them to keep up with the current look of the show. You should still be able to find the old style without too much difficulty you just need to do careful shopping.
Okay, now I understand everything.
Quote from: thomasj219 on August 07, 2012, 03:02:23 PM
The products are always announced in February at the toy fair in New York. BACHMANN's deal with Thomas has no time constraints as far as we know, they will continue to add to the line as long as it is profitable on both ends. Which it should be for some time, HORNBYS range has been going since 1985 and shows no signs of stopping even if the range is not added to as much as BACHMANN'S. And yes we have noticed not only the mail car changing but tankers as well. Unfortunately that is what will happen to all of that type of stock eventually, HiT wants them to keep up with the current look of the show. You should still be able to find the old style without too much difficulty you just need to do careful shopping.
Thanks for that input...I'll need to keep an eye out around February for news :)
As for the changes like the mail cars...it seems a little strange since in alot of ways the range seems to go more in the direction of the show's roots with Bill/Ben, Donald/Douglas, Duck and other items coming out in the past couple years which I don't seem to see all that much if at all on the CGI series...though I haven't seen much of it other than the 3 movies and a handful of TV episodes.
Yes but you must understand all those characters must be approved by HiT first. BACHMANN has been known to fight for characters they know we want even if HiT does not, like Duck. So it is not surprising to me that BACHMANN gives in on the smaller things like changing the rolling stock so they can cotinue to make the characters we want. It keeps the range making money for them because they know what their customers want and it establishes a good relationship with HiT as it shows they can reach compromises and don't just do things their way. Sort of a give and take system, plus it makes HiT more willing to do characters that BACHMANN wants in the future because of proven success.
So HiT gets updated stock and we get Duck. Keep in mind that what I have said here is by no means fact but based on obersvarion of the range over the years it can easily be assumed things are done this way, it's the best buissnes for all concerned. As for us, we are the happy customers who deal with updated stock but get Duck as well, and that is a trade I would make any day and I'm sure so would most of you. :)
Anything for our loved Ducky I say.
Quote from: thomasj219 on August 07, 2012, 06:56:02 PM
Yes but you must understand all those characters must be approved by HiT first. BACHMANN has been known to fight for characters they know we want even if HiT does not, like Duck. So it is not surprising to me that BACHMANN gives in on the smaller things like changing the rolling stock so they can cotinue to make the characters we want. It keeps the range making money for them because they know what their customers want and it establishes a good relationship with HiT as it shows they can reach compromises and don't just do things their way. Sort of a give and take system, plus it makes HiT more willing to do characters that BACHMANN wants in the future because of proven success.
So HiT gets updated stock and we get Duck. Keep in mind that what I have said here is by no means fact but based on obersvarion of the range over the years it can easily be assumed things are done this way, it's the best buissnes for all concerned. As for us, we are the happy customers who deal with updated stock but get Duck as well, and that is a trade I would make any day and I'm sure so would most of you. :)
Diesel must have been a piece of cake. Because he appears a lot now.
Yes which is why I think HiT won out with the face. Hopefully they see that was the wrong choice.
Quote from: thomasj219 on August 07, 2012, 08:00:18 PM
Yes which is why I think HiT won out with the face. Hopefully they see that was the wrong choice.
Because Diesel's old devious-looking face suits him a lot better. That friendly-looking CGI face defeats his devious character. He looks like he loves pink fluffy kittens! At least they gave him the silver side rods he used to have. They must have also given him the CGI face, so he won't scare kids. Because if they gave him an ANGRY face, and if a kid saw that, they'd freak out!
I Really doubt kids would freak out, kids today are so sheltered that everything is scary now. It's sad.
tell me about it.... ::) that's why there aren't as many awesome crashes in Thomas any more, because parents kept writing into HiT saying that the show was to violent. give me a break ::) i read some were a while ago i forget were though. :P
Since BoCo and Daisy are very unlikely for Bachmann to make, our only hope is for those diesels to return in the CGI series. With an old writer back, it's likely that old classic characters will return. Let's not give up hope!
Quote from: Cupix the Azelf on August 08, 2012, 11:22:05 PM
Well, according to donaldthescotishtwin, Season 17 Episode 1 will be an adaption to Super Rescue which will mark the return of Duck, the Scottish Twins, a full appearance and probably bigger role for Flying Scotsman (since only his tenders appeared and his name wasn't mentioned in that Season 3 Episode). Also making their appearance as no longer RWS-exclusive characters: Diesel 199 and Diesel 7101/Bear. ;)
Although there's no real proof that this is real yet, but I really hope it is, it will be one of the best episodes ever, especially since it'll be a comeback for great writing.
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,14573.msg168914.html#msg168914
No Super Rescue.
I know that.
I'm wishing Andrew would do that, but I doubt it at this rate. :(
I wouldn't get your hopes down, Andrew will be great for the series. It can't get any worse. I just hope that we get back Thomas's branchline in it's true form. It would be great to see Ffarquhar again. Single line too!
Well, according to Blue Mountain Mystery, Andrew Brenner edited the script... I saw the movie last week and I really enjoyed it... could that be the start of seeing Andrew's amazing writing charm? :o
I'm not kidding, I enjoyed every minute and every second of that movie, the writing was brilliant and it wasn't boring in some cases like DOTD (sort of) and MIR (definitely). No offense to the fans of those other movies, of course. ;)
Cupix is right. There is no use expecting the worst. Times are changing and we can finally move on from 8 years of awful writing. Brenner is wise to look at previous stories on TTTE wika. The reintroduction of old charectors (Duck ect), the introduction of new British Locomotives and the reintroduction of old locations are all likely. The CGI Percy's Scarf and The Sad Story of Henry are both massive leaps forward towards the links with older stories. ;D
Where did you hear that? Or was it merely a suggestion? I would love that too, I feel we shouldn't get our hopes too high but I do feel Andrew will do right by us. Arc is a completely new company and will probably want to be different from Nitrogen style wise, which may lead to a slightly darker style. However it could mean an even lighter cartoon style, I hope not but we can't be sure. Anyway I feel brenners writing will have an impact on which way that decision goes and I think he will steer them in the right direction.
SPOILERS!!!!!! DO NOT READ IF YOU WISH NOT TO BE INFORMED ON THE UPCOMING MOVIE, BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY! The movie features a scene where the engines have flashbacks on past events on "bad" things they did. Percy remembers the scene in "A scarf for Percy", Henry remembers "The sad story of Henry", and Thomas remembers "Down the Mine". The flashbacks are short sequences of the classic stories in CGI, with the engine narrating. ;)
NO WAY GET OUT!!! That's amazing, the first thing Brenner even slightly touches and this is the result. I have a feeling we are really going to enjoy Season 17! Thank you Mr Brenner for appreciating Thomas' TRUE nature.
Quote from: Calebtrain on August 10, 2012, 04:55:03 PM
SPOILERS!!!!!! DO NOT READ IF YOU WISH NOT TO BE INFORMED ON THE UPCOMING MOVIE, BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY! The movie features a scene where the engines have flashbacks on past events on "bad" things they did. Percy remembers the scene in "A scarf for Percy", Henry remembers "The sad story of Henry", and Thomas remembers "Down the Mine". The flashbacks are short sequences of the classic stories in CGI, with the engine narrating. ;)
How do you know? Did the movie come out already?
I may be wrong, but I'm assuming he saw it in theaters. Limited engagement right?
UnknownThomasFan1 uploaded the clips to YouTube a few days ago but took them soon after. Not sure where he got them though.
Yep, He's right. ;D I will be uploading them to YouTube as unlisted, and I'll post the link later. :)
Oh please notify as soon as you do, ;D if you make it private I would love if you could list me as allowed to view. My name is the same on YouTube. Thanks again for telling us about this I am really eager to see it now.
Quote from: thomasj219 on August 11, 2012, 11:07:38 PM
Oh please notify as soon as you do, ;D if you make it private I would love if you could list me as allowed to view. My name is the same on YouTube. Thanks again for telling us about this I am really eager to see it now.
I catched it when it when it was completly public, and I can't wait now!
It's not catched it's caught
It's up! ;)
http://youtu.be/SH8wteRXSj4 (http://youtu.be/SH8wteRXSj4)
nice vid
Quote from: Calebtrain on August 12, 2012, 11:49:06 AM
It's up! ;)
http://youtu.be/SH8wteRXSj4 (http://youtu.be/SH8wteRXSj4)
Just Epic, watching that it would be interesting to see classic episodes remade in CGI it would bring the story more to life since there where rescrictions with the models.
Can't believe my eyes! So happy Andrew is involved in the series again, I really feel this is a turning point.
No, it's called correct use of grammar, something which I learned in school and if you start now you'll go far in life.
Just because it's too funny now to resist, You're means "You Are" Your means "Your" (As in your couch, television, foot etc.) So it's really "You're a perfectionist." not "Your a perfectionist." and he is right, good grammar is a very useful tool. It really is the thing that makes the difference on wether you come across as smart or dumb in writing. Plus since most important things in life require writing of some sort ( job application, school application etc.) it is a GREAT skill to have honed.
Everyone, please stop arguing about grammar, and get back on topic.
Anyways, I would LOVE to see very early episodes get CGI revisions!
Quote from: Sodor Perfection on August 12, 2012, 05:29:42 PM
No, it's called correct use of grammar, something which I learned in school and if you start now you'll go far in life.
It was a joke because your username has perfection in it! I learned it in school too!
Quote from: TrainFan97 on August 12, 2012, 06:30:51 PM
Everyone, please stop arguing about grammar, and get back on topic.
Anyways, I would LOVE to see very early episodes get CGI revisions!
We are really not arguing, just pointing something out, no one is angry.
Quote from: thomasj219 on August 12, 2012, 08:33:07 PM
Quote from: TrainFan97 on August 12, 2012, 06:30:51 PM
Everyone, please stop arguing about grammar, and get back on topic.
Anyways, I would LOVE to see very early episodes get CGI revisions!
We are really not arguing, just pointing something out, no one is angry.
Okay. But still, if very early Thomas episodes were to get CGI revisions, I'd watch them! CGI has more life in it. The models were restricted, and there's many things you can't do with them.
Quote from: Calebtrain on August 12, 2012, 11:49:06 AM
It's up! ;)
http://youtu.be/SH8wteRXSj4 (http://youtu.be/SH8wteRXSj4)
(O.O) epic!
Yea I would watch too but to me nothing would compare to the models. They have this indescribable charm that is hard not to love.
Quote from: thomasj219 on August 12, 2012, 09:25:35 PM
Yea I would watch too but to me nothing would compare to the models. They have this indescribable charm that is hard not to love.
After all, models were how it always was before. Then late in the 2000's, it got switched to CGI. They did a brilliant job with models.
I don't really mind the CGI. I think that Nitrogen did a great job at the animation. I'm looking forward to the new animation, but there will be nothing like the good ol' models. ;)
Quote from: Calebtrain on August 12, 2012, 11:49:06 AM
It's up! ;)
http://youtu.be/SH8wteRXSj4 (http://youtu.be/SH8wteRXSj4)
That was really impressive! My favorite part was when the track caves in during the "Down the Mine" flashback, as compared to the original episode in which the hole just spontaneously appears. :P
I love that they tried to keep the camera angles the same. Even tha DANGER sign was exactly how it used to be. Great work.
That was awsome. If the whole episode was to be remade in CGI, it would be interesting to see how the classic scenery/sights are portrayed in in CGI, like the Vicker's orchard and the bridge where Bulgy got stuck.
That would be extremely interesting, I would watch. The only thing I didn't like about one flashback was at the mine the trucks were all different colors :/
Well, those are some scenes you wouldn't expect to see in CGI Thomas! It's interesting to see how Nitrogen Studios reinvented each scene, I enjoyed each one & I hope to see more like them in the future series.
I'm equally suprised about even seeing them at all--the original stories were filmed some 20+ years ago, I don't think many Thomas fans of the new generation would have heard of them before--all the more reason to include them, I suppose!
JWR3001
Quote from: thomasj219 on August 15, 2012, 12:52:54 AM
That would be extremely interesting, I would watch. The only thing I didn't like about one flashback was at the mine the trucks were all different colors :/
i didn't like that part of the scene either. I never really liked the whole idea of different color trucks (i.e. red, blue, orange/brown) but recently i learned, after looking for some more trucks on Hattons, that there were different color trucks on different railways, only they were privet owner wagons. If they could introduce more privet owner wagons, like S.C.Ruffey, into the series to make it more realistic.
I heard rumors that said that they will announce Diesel 10 next year. Are you sure that Diesel 10 will sell very well?
Quote from: TrainFan97 on August 17, 2012, 03:18:49 PM
I heard rumors that said that they will announce Diesel 10 next year. Are you sure that Diesel 10 will sell very well?
Sorry, the rumors are wrong, Diesel 10 is not being made by Bachmann anytime soon. Truthfully there is no reason for him to be built by Bachmann.
Quote from: PasqualeCS96 on August 17, 2012, 03:24:14 PM
Quote from: TrainFan97 on August 17, 2012, 03:18:49 PM
I heard rumors that said that they will announce Diesel 10 next year. Are you sure that Diesel 10 will sell very well?
Sorry, the rumors are wrong, Diesel 10 is not being made by Bachmann anytime soon. Truthfully there is no reason for him to be built by Bachmann.
Pinchy would have to be manually operated, and it would be difficult to move it like on the show.
realistically, I can see Oliver being made for the range, but in a way I don't feel like the next release will be him. I feel that Bachmann might throw us a curveball here. One of the engines I think has a very good chance of being made is Whiff. He's a very popular TV character, small in size, and no one's expecting him XD
Quote from: PasqualeCS96 on August 17, 2012, 03:24:14 PM
Truthfully there is no reason for him to be built by Bachmann.
I know that the rumours are false (I don't think Bachmann are the type to dip their feet in spreading rumours), but I must say that I don't quite agree with that statement.
Diesel 10 is a lot like Diesel, Arry & Bert in that he is a villain of the show (and arguably a more interesting one at that) and will appeal to children who want to recreate their favourite "good guy vs. bad guy" scenes (a lot like action figures). There are also several things about him that will definitely earn a "thumbs-up" from kids, like the fact that he is larger than most engines, or that he has a claw (something which no other engine has). I have a hunch that kids will be more excited to see Diesel 10 rolling by on their train sets than some of the more minor, one-off characters.
If Bachmann can find some way of creating a safe and operable "pinchy" (which seems to be the only complication at this point), then I can't see why they shouldn't make him. There is definitely potential in making Diesel 10
Of course I don't decide what Bachmann makes...as far as I'm concerned, what they make for 2013 is anyone's guess! ;)
JWR3001
And hopefully it's at least Oliver and Toad. ;)
If Bachmann were to make 'Arry, Bert, and Diesel 10, they WILL have CGI faces. I liked the model faces a lot better. But if CGI is what modern kids are into, it's their choice.
Seeing that Diesel was one of the first characters to have a CGI face. Maybe they may/may not have these CGI faces (at least for the characters that appeared in the CGI series as of now and as of last year's line up, Diesel).
Idk, I thought the CGI implements were supposed to be on the Large Scale models only, but hey, I guess I was wrong on that! -_-'
Quote from: Zorran202 on August 21, 2012, 08:02:19 PM
Seeing that Diesel was one of the first characters to have a CGI face. Maybe they may/may not have these CGI faces (at least for the characters that appeared in the CGI series as of now and as of last year's line up, Diesel).
Idk, I thought the CGI implements were supposed to be on the Large Scale models only, but hey, I guess I was wrong on that! -_-'
Quote from: TrainFan97 on August 18, 2012, 12:02:14 AM
If Bachmann were to make 'Arry, Bert, and Diesel 10, they WILL have CGI faces. I liked the model faces a lot better. But if CGI is what modern kids are into, it's their choice.
Donald and Douglas didn't get CGI faces, nor Bill and Ben thank goodness.
Pasquale, don't mean to criticize you, but are you saying CGI faces are bad?
Quote from: Cupix the Azelf on August 21, 2012, 11:21:29 PM
Pasquale, don't mean to criticize you, but are you saying CGI faces are bad?
Yes, thats exactly what I'm saying. The model faces were 100% better. I don't want this to go any further either, that is just my two cents on CGI.
Agreed on both counts.
Yes, I agree on both as well.
Well, just want to remind you that Bachmann may listen to us on what we want, but not entirely on details, I believe that's HiT's decision... (hence the reason Fred Pelhay and Rickety were cancelled) especially since we weren't expecting Diesel with a CGI face?
Just because a company may not always choose to go in that direction doesn't change the fact that we believe it is the better choice for the model.
I don't mind the CGI animation (given the current state of the world...), but the faces (especially on a certain character I like) needs some teensy tiny bit of adjusting to do...
Given the rising chances of old characters returning (ones that stuck around during our childhoods), perhaps Oliver would be the next contender (seeing that the first GWR engine is close to being on a shelf in a store and that DD, BB, and Diesel were made for the range)... Just me though.
Well with production moving to a different company Thomas may have a whole new look soon.
Hopefully yes, if they can try to replicate the model faces in CGI and make it look more realistic insted of that Saturday morning kids animated cartoon rubbish I will be happy.
Quote from: PasqualeCS96 on August 17, 2012, 11:53:02 PM
And hopefully it's at least Oliver and Toad. ;)
I think we're all hoping that. ;) I just hope that if they are made, they will use model era faces, although CGI faces for the characters were used. Nonetheless, model face or CGI face, it would be great to have these characters for the Thomas range.
Great list, what are your thoughts on the Red Coaches?
Quote from: thomasj219 on September 06, 2012, 02:34:09 PM
Great list, what are your thoughts on the Red Coaches?
Considering the lack of rolling stock we've been getting recently, I can imagine Bachmann doing Toad with Oliver along with one piece of rolling stock that'd be easy for Bachmann to manage. Something like the log car or a new troublesome truck would be ideal in this case. I personally found the log car more likely in that case, as awesome as a new troublesome truck sounds.
Personally I'd love it if they did the red coaches, but I think Bachmann could see Oliver and Toad as a higher priority compared to them at the moment. That being said I'd love to be proven wrong and I think they'd be a more logical choice to come out with Oliver, Toad, and Trevor since they are all popular in demand.
True, also they were always pulled by Oliver and Duck, along with others.
Quote from: thomasj219 on September 06, 2012, 04:58:13 PM
True, also they were always pulled by Oliver and Duck, along with others.
The red coaches would be nice since the Red Express caoches were discontinued.
Quote from: PasqualeCS96 on September 06, 2012, 06:51:08 PM
Quote from: thomasj219 on September 06, 2012, 04:58:13 PM
True, also they were always pulled by Oliver and Duck, along with others.
The red coaches would be nice since the Red Express caoches were discontinued.
At least the red branchline coaches would be better.
:'( 2012 was a disappointing year for new Thomas additions. ;D I hope 2013 will be much better. As for my WISH LIST or hopeful predictions I would like to see the following as a minumum:
Engines: Belle, Diesel 10, Flynn, HIRO, Murdoch, Rosie, Stepney, Victor, Whiff
Cars: Rocky, Garbage Car, Kevin
Other things: Knapford Station (Building), Diesel Works, Toby's Shed, Farmer McCall's Farm, Whiff's Waste Dump
These are just a few of my wishes. I know it will be many years before Bachmann gets around to all the Thomas items but we can only hope they will pick up the pace a little.
Quote from: jleight on September 08, 2012, 10:15:16 AM
:'( 2012 was a disappointing year for new Thomas additions. ;D I hope 2013 will be much better. As for my WISH LIST or hopeful predictions I would like to see the following as a minumum:
Engines: Belle, Diesel 10, Flynn, HIRO, Murdoch, Rosie, Stepney, Victor, Whiff
Cars: Rocky, Garbage Car, Kevin
Other things: Knapford Station (Building), Diesel Works, Toby's Shed, Farmer McCall's Farm, Whiff's Waste Dump
These are just a few of my wishes. I know it will be many years before Bachmann gets around to all the Thomas items but we can only hope they will pick up the pace a little.
Victor is Narrow Gauge.
That's true, but Bachmann has made trains that run with any HO track that are based on narrow gauge lines. Of course, I am speaking of their Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Set.
Ok, educate me. If Victor is narrow gauge then how does he get around the Steam Works? Do they have separate tracks for Victor to run on? Not to be smart but I don't understand.
Yes he does have separate tracks.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZHZcYXj_ZA
There's also the episode "Don't Bother Victor."
And not to be rude or anything, but Knapford Station has been released. Soooo... :-\
Quote from: Brandude!!! =D on September 08, 2012, 05:25:02 PM
And not to be rude or anything, but Knapford Station has been released. Soooo... :-\
I think what jleight means is that he would like to see an actual building for Knapford Station in addition to the platforms
Ohhhhhhh, ok.
My original predictions list still remains the same but with the somewhat hype going on about revisions here is what I think we would most likely get if revisions really were going to happen anytime soon:
Duck - Already confirmed to be out in 2013
Red coaches - These have been in demand for quite some time, if we get no engines I certainly hope we get some decent rolling stock this year. The red coaches would hit the nail with the hammer on that note for many fans!
Trevor - Same reasons as I noted in my earlier post.
Set of signals - I know this sounds a bit random, but I'm kinda surprised Bachmann actually hasn't made signals for their Thomas range, apart from the signal gantry but I don't feel like that really counts since it's a plasticville repaint and it's discontinued...
Revisions - If I had to take a guess at what would be revised it would be along the lines of Thomas, Percy, and James. Just a few repaints to make them look more accurate and new faces to represent their current looks for the CGI series.
Large scale remains the same as I posted earlier just because I don't see how HO revisions would affect the progress of that range.
If we're sticking just to the classics, then I agree completely with ModelTrainFan538's predictions.
The red coaches, passenger and brake, would be marvelous. I would fully expect Trevor to come along soon, to finish off the S2 wave of non-rail characters, and I'm surprised at the signals- don't know why I didn't think of them before. They are certainly needed for the range.
The Bachmann James needs those oddly excluded parts (red part under smokebox, wheels, etc) licked up in black, and an open cab if at all possible :3
Percy could also benefit from having a few modifications. Other than his face, Thomas looks fine as-is. :)
I would only add the inclusion of the Multipurpose (Scrap/Tree/Log) Bogied Wagons seen in Seasons 2 & 3 (and more recently in CGI as well), or the China Clay Wagons, which are essentially shorter versions of this truck.
If we weren't keeping to strictly 'classic characters/stock', I'd go with the flow and say Arry and Bert would follow soon, considering how easy it has been for others to modify the Bachmann Diesel body to make the two. One modeler in particular comes to mind.
I would also like it if perhaps a character not released by either of the two HO/OO Thomas model making companies to come to light, the likes of Rosie and Stanley come to mind, mostly because I really like them. However, I believe it wouldn't just be Thomas modelers and young ones picking up these from their local hobby store. I could see many getting their hands on Rosie to convert her to a USA Dock Tank, and Stanley would just require a lick of new paint and a smokebox door to convert him to a new industrial tank engine. I mean, there is already a model of his prototype in O gauge, and that seems to be doing well- imagine the possibilities for OO/HO gauge! :D