ROCKSTAR THERMO TROPICAL FIRE
This is a review of ROCKSTAR THERMO TROPICAL FIRE, a fat-burning, high-caffeine series that was first launched exclusively at AMPM in the U.S. in 2019 and rolled out nationwide in January 2020.
In early 2020, just before international travel restrictions were imposed due to COVID-19, I managed to spot and secure this drink in Los Angeles. Over time, the design underwent slight changes, but the series did not expand its flavors. Instead, it continued to be quietly sold for about two years.
ROCKSTAR THERMO TROPICAL FIRE
Manufacturer | ROCKSTAR |
---|---|
Country of Origin | USA |
Price | 2.99 USD |
Flavor | Strawberry |
Total rating | ★★★☆☆ |
Author: Energy Drink-kun
In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 7,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.
Flavor of ROCKSTAR THERMO TROPICAL FIRE
Upon opening, a sweet strawberry aroma bursts forth. The liquid is a natural, lightly champagne-gold hue with good transparency. Let’s take a sip.
The initial taste is dominated by a sweet strawberry flavor, accompanied by the unique fragrance of tropical fruits that lingers in the nose.
The name "TROPICAL FIRE" suggests a blend of various fruity flavors, but the actual taste is overwhelmingly strawberry.
If you're expecting a tropical fruit mix, you might feel slightly disappointed.
That said, the sweetness resembling strawberries and the tropical fruit-like aroma are of high quality, free from the cheap taste often associated with artificial sweeteners. If you didn't see the flavor name before drinking, many would likely rate it highly.
Energy Ingredients of ROCKSTAR THERMO TROPICAL FIRE
It contains 300mg of caffeine, 650mg of leucine, 175mg of isoleucine, 175mg of valine, 4mg of CoQ10, and green tea extract.
These ingredients are promoted as supporting fat-burning when combined with exercise. While the actual effectiveness depends on the dosages, those familiar with supplements will recognize that the components align well with the concept of a "ROCKSTAR THERMO" product.
Design of ROCKSTAR THERMO TROPICAL FIRE
The design is packed with details across the front of the can. Starting from the top, the bold mention of 1000mg of BCAAs makes a strong impression.
In the middle, the large "X" and "THERMO" emphasize the thermogenic energy theme. Below that, the flame silhouette, the caffeine content of 300mg, and "THERMOGENIC" are prominently displayed.
The "X" on the can front hints that this product follows the discontinued "XDURANCE" series.
On the side of the can, ingredient icons are lined up vertically.
The packed vertical list creates an impression of a highly functional product.
However, there's no Rockstar logo or branding visible on the front.
Here’s how it looks on store shelves. If you already know it’s a new Rockstar product, you might recognize it, but to the average shopper, it would seem like an unidentified energy drink. Shelf appeal is crucial in such cases.
I spotted this at a liquor store in Los Angeles in 2022, despite the product being discontinued. I was surprised it was still available.
The Rockstar brand name and series name are located on the back of the can.
Perhaps they intentionally concealed the Rockstar branding to market it as a distinct fitness-oriented energy drink.
At the time, bang was rapidly gaining market share, and Monster Energy had launched the new REIGN brand to compete. It’s likely that ROCKSTAR THERMO was introduced in response to this trend.
Energy Drink-kun's Personal Rating
- Flavor
- Aroma
- Weight
- Freshness
- Munchiness