These Transformers started with a different approach... all-animal alt modes. They began with almost statue-like realistic animals, added metalized animals with vehicluar modifications and animal crossbreeds, and ended with highly stylized cyborg animals.

Japan added 2 more Beast Wars series of their own, Beast Wars II and Beast Wars Neo, each of which featured a different crew. Beast Wars 2 started with animals vs vehicles, but the vehicluar Destrons eventually aquired animal forms. Neo involved warm-blooded animals vs dinosaurs, most of whom were re-released as Dinobots during Beast Machines.

    I only picked up Maximals, but these selections were all based on their character... even Stinkbomb, whom I picked up as a cheap alternative to Gaskunk from Car Robots.