Future suggestions/predictions thread

[DustyMarie53!]

Is there a link to ordering the Kato happy face for Thomas? I can't seem to find it.

Currently they are Japanese exclusive, and likely to stay that way. You can however order them via proxy websites such as Buyee but I'm admittedly unsure how to do that via KATO directly. I believe a member of this forum has done exactly that, so it may be worth shooting N Scale Sudrian a private message to look into it further if desired.

[Mulfred100]

He'll be too expensive and there's alot you aren't taking in to account for Connor. Firstly I can't see Mattel greenlighting Connor without Caitlin so I feel like even though both engines have their own arc in the series, However I think Mattel will still want them to be released together not one without the other. I mean thats kind of the point of them both to being with. Then there's their coaches too which would require new tooling because you can't really release Connor or/and Caitlin without their coaches too pull so that's more money for Bachmann to have to spend on tooling. I mean yes once you have a coach you can just repaint it and sell multiple units for their rake of coaches but it's still a cost. At least with Hiro and Rebecca it's just the cost for the engine. They haven't got any specific rolling stock they need and they aren't tired too heavily marketing wise with any other engines (who isn't already available) as I say I think Connor is too heavily tied to Caitlin to make alone then when you do add Caitlin into the mix the price doubles because now you need to make two big tender engines not just the lone one. Plus the added difficulty of Connor being a Hudson while Caitlin is a P-7 so it's not like Donald and Douglas where it's essentially the same tooling.

Except Mattel themselves have had multiple wave releases of either just Caitlin, or just Connor. They aren't locked at the hip. Same as say, them not having to announce a Porter alongside a Salty reintroduction. Mattel have also only ever made their coaches once, so once again, not a requirement on their end. So, there's no real reason to assume Bachmann would be locked into either. It's also not like Bachmann is strangers of selling stuff like Toad in N scale without Oliver or having the express coaches not in the HO line for years. I do agree he would be expensive however that's exactly why I'm arguing in favor of him. Being the engine type he is has the most likelihood to mitigate that high production cost based on Beau, that I don't think any other tender engine (aside from Hiro) could reach. But same point could be made maybe that's why big engines simply aren't worth pursuing anymore, which I raised in the original comment.

Well name some then? Because every one I've checked of the big merch lines have had them together baring wood which both were planned and only Caitlin was released which we all know what happened there and plarail who eventually released both.
Every single argument you've made there isn't applicable to Connor and Caitlin though. You mentioned Salty and Porter. Salty has been around for YEARS before Porter so that argument doesn't work. As for Rolling stock like Toad, yes but he's a cheap simple model to make not a massive tender engine that'll cost $300+ and the Express Coaches again going back to my point about Connor and Caitlin, they are pretty much exclusively seen pulling their own coaches where as Gordon and the NWR engines still had/have products in the range that suit them. Plus the Express Coaches were available and discontinued and reintroduced so that's invalid to the Connor argument. Plus you gleefully glossed over the point about needing coaching tooling required for their coaches because again can't really do the engine without the coaches can you. And why Connor? Why not Caitlin? Since Doug has ruled out they won't be using the Hudson for Connor like Beau surely since both require new tooling she would be just as plausible. Heck it might even mean Bachmann can make her basis

[DustyMarie53!]

Well name some then? Because every one I've checked of the big merch lines have had them together baring wood which both were planned and only Caitlin was released which we all know what happened there and plarail who eventually released both.
Every single argument you've made there isn't applicable to Connor and Caitlin though. You mentioned Salty and Porter. Salty has been around for YEARS before Porter so that argument doesn't work. As for Rolling stock like Toad, yes but he's a cheap simple model to make not a massive tender engine that'll cost $300+ and the Express Coaches again going back to my point about Connor and Caitlin, they are pretty much exclusively seen pulling their own coaches where as Gordon and the NWR engines still had/have products in the range that suit them. Plus the Express Coaches were available and discontinued and reintroduced so that's invalid to the Connor argument. Plus you gleefully glossed over the point about needing coaching tooling required for their coaches because again can't really do the engine without the coaches can you. And why Connor? Why not Caitlin? Since Doug has ruled out they won't be using the Hudson for Connor like Beau surely since both require new tooling she would be just as plausible. Heck it might even mean Bachmann can make her basis

Adventures and 2014 Take N Play debuted Connor and Caitlin in separate cases when they released, they were not sold on store shelves together initially. I do not know if the same is true for TWR and 2013 Take N Play because I did not collect them at the time. Plarail similarly took 5 years before Caitlin got a single release.  It's proof these two characters are not conjoined at the hip nor does Mattel mandate it as such, but we can already infer Bachmann doesn't really care about that thing, again via Toad being announced so early on in the N scale line's life. He's simpler sure, but they could have lead with the graham farish brake van they are doing now which is arguably even easier. You're making the assumption Bachmann has to release Connor, the coaches, and Caitlin all at once instead of just simply spreading them out like they have before. In fact, they could launch say, the coaches first like they did with G Scale Emily's to test the waters since it would be the cheaper of the new molds. But again, Bachmann has proven before they do not require the coaches to be announced alongside the engines immediately. Look at Henrietta in G scale, or rather the lack thereof. Or look at how they didn't immediately announce the express coaches or Henrietta alongside Gordon and Henrietta in N as another example. So, who's to say they even make their coaches until demand begins to exist for them?

To add on why I didn't focus on Caitlin, it's a rather simple answer. Connor was on the mind because Doug addressed him directly but didn't immediately shoot him down like Diesel 10, just the specific idea of reusing the existing tooling was dismissed. He was simply on my mind, and I would expect him to be the one they lead with especially now that he has been directly acknowledged via livestream. Plus, her basis isn't as iconic as the Hudson so wouldn't particularly line up with my point regarding Beau I was presenting within the original question. However, I actually personally like Caitlin more. She'd be the next one I'd expect after him but didn't feel the particular need to add her on for the questions because I figured the answer for them both would be the same anyhow. In hindsight though I do kind of wish I added both to get a better sampling. After all, I'd rather it be the other way around though and they lead with Caitlin so others may feel the same way. I'm actually going to edit that into the initial question because it is a fair point

[Mulfred100]

Well name some then? Because every one I've checked of the big merch lines have had them together baring wood which both were planned and only Caitlin was released which we all know what happened there and plarail who eventually released both.
Every single argument you've made there isn't applicable to Connor and Caitlin though. You mentioned Salty and Porter. Salty has been around for YEARS before Porter so that argument doesn't work. As for Rolling stock like Toad, yes but he's a cheap simple model to make not a massive tender engine that'll cost $300+ and the Express Coaches again going back to my point about Connor and Caitlin, they are pretty much exclusively seen pulling their own coaches where as Gordon and the NWR engines still had/have products in the range that suit them. Plus the Express Coaches were available and discontinued and reintroduced so that's invalid to the Connor argument. Plus you gleefully glossed over the point about needing coaching tooling required for their coaches because again can't really do the engine without the coaches can you. And why Connor? Why not Caitlin? Since Doug has ruled out they won't be using the Hudson for Connor like Beau surely since both require new tooling she would be just as plausible. Heck it might even mean Bachmann can make her basis

Adventures and 2014 Take N Play debuted Connor and Caitlin in separate cases when they released, they were not sold on store shelves together initially. I do not know if the same is true for TWR and 2013 Take N Play because I did not collect them at the time. Plarail similarly took 5 years before Caitlin got a single release.  It's proof these two characters are not conjoined at the hip nor does Mattel mandate it as such, but we can already infer Bachmann doesn't really care about that thing, again via Toad being announced so early on in the N scale line's life. He's simpler sure, but they could have lead with the graham farish brake van they are doing now which is arguably even easier. You're making the assumption Bachmann has to release Connor, the coaches, and Caitlin all at once instead of just simply spreading them out like they have before. In fact, they could launch say, the coaches first like they did with G Scale Emily's to test the waters since it would be the cheaper of the new molds. But again, Bachmann has proven before they do not require the coaches to be announced alongside the engines immediately. Look at Henrietta in G scale, or rather the lack thereof. Or look at how they didn't immediately announce the express coaches or Henrietta alongside Gordon and Henrietta in N as another example. So, who's to say they even make their coaches until demand begins to exist for them?

To add on why I didn't focus on Caitlin, it's a rather simple answer. Connor was on the mind because Doug addressed him directly but didn't immediately shoot him down like Diesel 10, just the specific idea of reusing the existing tooling was dismissed. He was simply on my mind, and I would expect him to be the one they lead with especially now that he has been directly acknowledged via livestream. Plus, her basis isn't as iconic as the Hudson so wouldn't particularly line up with my point regarding Beau I was presenting within the original question. However, I actually personally like Caitlin more. She'd be the next one I'd expect after him but didn't feel the particular need to add her on for the questions because I figured the answer for them both would be the same anyhow. In hindsight though I do kind of wish I added both to get a better sampling. After all, I'd rather it be the other way around though and they lead with Caitlin so others may feel the same way. I'm actually going to edit that into the initial question because it is a fair point

Marie you keep missing my point and throwing out characters and items that still don't apply to Connor or Caitlin. Toby in G Scale still fits in with or without Henrietta. Just like Gordon fits into the N Scale line with or without his express coaches because they are diverse characters seen pulling a vast array of rolling stock and not looking out of place. My point is regardless of if Bachmann released Connor or Caitlin or their coaches eventually all 3 will have to come because they are so connected. If you released Connor then you and I both know the first thing would be everyone saying "well where's his coaches? What's he gonna pull? Where's Caitlin?" So I feel like Bachmann has to at least Greenlight one and their coaches at least in the same calendar year. However they would be costly and I don't know if Bachmann would feel confident enough to go for it. Now I could be wrong Bachmann could announce one and in 2027 the coaches then in 2030 the other but I feel like these two over any other engines (not yet released) do require their rolling stock be released along side. Even over engines like Samson and Bradford or the international engines and their rolling stock. Speaking of tender engines and I'll get shot down in flames for these two. Yong Bao or Merlin? I think out of all the BWBA engines Yong Bao is probably the most beloved even over Beau. And Merlin is a fun tender engine.

[DustyMarie53!]

Marie you keep missing my point and throwing out characters and items that still don't apply to Connor or Caitlin. Toby in G Scale still fits in with or without Henrietta. Just like Gordon fits into the N Scale line with or without his express coaches because they are diverse characters seen pulling a vast array of rolling stock and not looking out of place. My point is regardless of if Bachmann released Connor or Caitlin or their coaches eventually all 3 will have to come because they are so connected. If you released Connor then you and I both know the first thing would be everyone saying "well where's his coaches? What's he gonna pull? Where's Caitlin?" So I feel like Bachmann has to at least Greenlight one and their coaches at least in the same calendar year. However they would be costly and I don't know if Bachmann would feel confident enough to go for it. Now I could be wrong Bachmann could announce one and in 2027 the coaches then in 2030 the other but I feel like these two over any other engines (not yet released) do require their rolling stock be released along side. Even over engines like Samson and Bradford or the international engines and their rolling stock. Speaking of tender engines and I'll get shot down in flames for these two. Yong Bao or Merlin? I think out of all the BWBA engines Yong Bao is probably the most beloved even over Beau. And Merlin is a fun tender engine.

You know what. This on me. I apologize. I was more focused on the point they needed to happen together I wasn't piecing together exactly what you were saying, yeah this makes sense. Even if they spaced it up like I (lets say, coach 2030, Connor 2031, Caitlin 2032) that's still a pretty costly undertaking. I do think ultimately it would pay off but I'd also be reluctant. This does raise an interesting question though. Are Den and Dart unlikely for the same reason? They'd be cheaper, but they are still pretty linked and I don't believe they've had a toy released not together since before 2015. So would they also be a hard sell for Bachmann since they'd probably have to be announced together? Or do you think they'd be simple enough to mitigate that?

Yong Bao actually is interesting. Bachmann has produced his basis before so they could in theory use similar techniques to make him. I do think him being in AEG is proof of his longevity and popularity. Merlin also I'd say would be an interesting one for his color. I'd definitely by him

I'd also like to throw a bone to Carlos. I think him being so close to his basis could give him a niche in the line. He's also a much smaller tender engine so would be an easier swing then most others. I don't think he's particularly likely, nor do I think many will ask for him. But he's one I'd personally like to see. He's also the only TGR newbie without a toy now which is a shame because he has such a nice design.

[NWRLevi]

I think both Merlin and Yong Bao hold some potential. Out of the two, however, I would prefer if we got Merlin over Yong Bao since he's a smaller tender engine, so could be cheaper. His overall design is also pretty unique, considering his 3 funnels and silver paint. Carlos is also an interesting choice, and seeing him added to the line could be pretty cool. Considering he's pretty realistic, I could definitely see some mass appeal with him.

[Awesometrain77]

Tbh we have to keep in mind they go based on popularity Carlos is by no means popular and unlike Beau, they don't have his basis . Compare to a engine that has a very similar size Merlin who was very popular in the fandom when JBS came out and considering one on the Bachmann USA team models, the southern region I feel like he is just more likly. However don't get me wrong I would love to see Carlos in the range but I honestly can't see him happening before Merlin .

As for Conner and catlin I do think that they will be very pricey models and if they were to get made while they are more popular than Merlin from what I can tell . I dont think there are as popular as diesel 10 who would likely be the same scale as a OO scale streamlined Hudson when you think about it but that's just me again I would really like to see Connor Caitlin happen but I do want to see diesel 10 more .

Also, if they end up doing Connor and Catlin would it be worth making new tooled Pullman luxury coaches that could be used for several items such as aurdy and Aiden

[Cheeky_ULP]

If Bachmann really wants to make the most of engine tooling repaints, I feel like they should at least try to pitch Norman and Dennis to Mattel before continuing to scrape the barrel for Big World Big Adventures era characters.



Dennis is a model era character, true, but he does have the distinction of being noted several times as a sibling of Norman in Norman's bios and merchandise. To me personally, it makes him "somewhat" of an honorary CGI character, compared to BoCo or Stepney, whom of which were never mentioned in the CGI era in any regard. I really get the impression that had BWBA not jumped in, we could've seen Dennis surface in the CGI era with Norman.



Topping that off, Norman has had a few speaking roles throughout the CGI era, and is often marketed with Paxton and Sidney as a trio (probably because they're each red, green, and blue), so he has a notable presence in CGI. Bachmann has made Paxton, and is now making Sidney, so why not round off the trio? To me, Norman and Dennis is a win-win for Bachmann and its consumers; niche and quirky, but bold and unique additions to the range.

[harrison05]

I couldn't give 2 scraps about Norman in the show. But I would 100% buy him if Bachmann made him I think he would look fire. (I'd buy Dennis in a heartbeat but because we have the cgi mandate rn I had to say Norman)

[Awesometrain77]

Okay so to the topic of what I want to see in 2025 .
Trevor is the last Awdry character they can with the CGI mandate that would be probable for them to make .
I also would like to see a classic model face troublesome van. 
A orange van with the face that is so iconic https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/f6/MainTroublesomeVanModel6.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/250?cb=20190111121837

While they are at it they should also make Lei a 12 ton van that appears in BWBA

In addition to those I would also like to see some re-introductions of some rolling stock those being
The M truck and well wagon

As for new engines streamlined Thomas would be a nice addition a with a blue Annie and clarabel
Percy's chocolate crunch could also be cool
Diesel 10 is someone is very popular and considering how well preorders for Rebecca have went I think he should happen .

As for narrow gauge I think a narrow gauge set is a good idea

[DustyMarie53!]

I do think realistically we probably won't see Diesel 10 and Harvey next year. If they were in the cards as potential candidates, I doubt Doug Blaine would have talked about them so recently. Not that I think they are out of the question, nor should that mean requests stop. Just being realistic. A company is unlikely to say, "hey this product has issues" and then announce it practically right after. Even if they are announced at NMRA (which is where I'm expecting new HO tools to be announced from here on out) that's still less than a year of a difference.) I'd reckon we'll have to wait until 2026 before they are seriously considered again, but I could be wrong.

[RailsByRick]

Are preorders actually going well for Rebecca? The last I knew she wasn't in the the top three according TrainWorld's preorders. That doesn't mean that she might not be fourth or fifth, but I just don't see huge demand for Rebecca.

[Awesometrain77]

The 25th  anniversary of the line is in 2027 something they could do Is rerelease arry and Bert and uncancel Duncan , and give us diesel 10 for the NMRA 2027. 

but I really do think that diesel 10  would be perfect for the 80th anniversary anniversary

However streamlined Thomas my other idea I could definitely see happening and in 5 years from then they could make turbo Thomas for the 85th .
Streamlining Thomas could have a new CGI face which they could put on the normal Thomas at a later point a perfect excuse to update the face since Bachman does not want to halt  making a new version of Thomas that has a new face would be ideal.
Anyway if we don't get diesel 10 next year a second choice would havery but I do know that he also is not that likely. Both of them are super popular.TATMR is also going to be 25 years old next year so that's another reason why I would like him to be announced . However, if I were to give one more realistic suggestion it would be Judy and Jerome .

I also think we need a new set I do know that Bachman likes to make the n scale  sets but we only have 3 HO sets so what if they compromise and finally give the narrow gauge engines they're own  set
It would come with skarloey and a exclusive red coach that people suggested for ages which would give an incentive to buy the set . As well as a brown ng brake van which you would release by itself.

Lastly, if a new tool streamline, Thomas seems too risky which honestly is not then they could do a pink Thomas  from the adventure begins

[JLK2707]

I honestly do not see Bachmann doing Diesel 10 in 2027, not to be a pessimist, but because they said that they are just scared in case the plan for him flops.

[DustyMarie53!]

Are preorders actually going well for Rebecca? The last I knew she wasn't in the the top three according TrainWorld's preorders. That doesn't mean that she might not be fourth or fifth, but I just don't see huge demand for Rebecca.

The simple answer is we don't know for sure. Trainworld let's you search by wishlisted items. She is currently in 13th place for preorders, out of 7923 current preorders. This does not inherently equal sales. DCC Thomas and N scale Gordon are higher wishlisted and we know they are top preorders. However we won't know for sure until it's confirmed from an official source how good her preorders are. She is currently in 37th place for wishlisted items in the Thomas line out of 194. These are good signs but again, no way of knowing for sure right now. She releases on their on the 16th so maybe reviews will boost her up come release of the full batch. We will just have to wait and see.

If you're curious the currently lowest wishlisted Thomas preorder is the dark grey gondola for the narrow gauge line, above only the G scale Farmer Mccoll which is now discontinued. However what is at the bottom consistently fluctuates. DCC Thomas, Salty, N Gordon, Rebecca, and DCC Percy have remained consistently in the top 15 wishlisted for preorders on Trainworld, in that order.