I actually prefer Nexus being the component that makes combiners possible. Having him be the combiner always felt backwards to me. In that version, where the combined bot was a singular member of the original 13 Transformers, he felt like more of a Magmatron than a Devastator - a single bot who could split into pieces rather than a new entity formed from a combination of others. Having him be a single bot who can combine with others feels truer to the concept IMO. I would have preferred it if he were a universal torso, but being the prototype torso works. The idea of having him become a frame is interesting.
Anyway, given where we're at, I'd really love to see a Heatwave (presumably renamed) who could become the frame for the Nexus combiner. It would help complete the FunPub homage and sidestep the issue of getting a frame out there as a complete standalone product without having to repurchase Nexus.