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New Recruit

2012-09-10T20:59:40Z

198.137.20.24: /* Quotes */

{{episode|
|otherseries=''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Transformers: Prime]]'' ep 44
|prev=Out of the Past
|next=The Human Factor
|image=NewRecruit-honortobehere.jpg
|caption=[[Superman]] meets [[Nolan North|Superboy]] for the first time.
|title="New Recruit"
|airdate=[[September 7]], [[2012]]
|written by=[[Marty Isenberg]]
|directed by=[[Vinton Heuck]]
|animation studio=[[Polygon Pictures]]
|production company=[[Hasbro Studios]]
}}
'''A Decepticon escape pod lands on Earth and the Autobot Smokescreen emerges, while Starscream uses the Apex Armor to go on a quest for Red Energon.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:NewRecruit-exercise.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Jane Fonda would be doing a facepalm at this.]]

[[Raf Esquivel|Raf]] and [[Jack Darby|Jack]] cruise the [[Internet]] for pictures of [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] to replace with tap-dancing monkey pictures, while [[Miko Nakadai|Miko]] forces [[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] to exercise so his legs don't atrophy. Jack notices a picture which Raf identifies as a Cybertronian escape pod. [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] suggests bringing in [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] as Bulkhead still isn't combat-ready, which [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] promptly shoots down due to [[Hurt|recent events]]. [[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus]] orders Ratchet to come along with them instead, as there might be an injured Autobot in the pod. They [[GroundBridge]] into the crash site to find it's a Decepticon pod, and they're immediately under attack from their foe. The [[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]], augmented by [[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticons]], turn out to be a challenge, but then a new figure appears running through the trees. The newcomer's fire accidentally hits the [[energon]] leaking from the pod, and the Autobots take cover as it explodes, taking out the Decepticons. The over-enthusiastic newcomer happens to be [[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]], an Autobot rookie who becomes in awe when he meets ''the'' Optimus Prime. The Autobots are initially suspicious, remembering [[Con Job|the last time a new Autobot turned up]], but Smokescreen's tales of [[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]] and guarding the Hall of Records convinces Prime that he is legitimate.

Back at base, Miko's excited to meet the new Autobot. Smokescreen relates the story of the last days of Iacon and how he was captured by Decepticons during the siege, before escaping from a Decepticon transport ship in an escape pod. Smokescreen thinks with him there they'll have the war ended in no time, and Bulkhead drags himself in to show the newcomer how the war is going. Miko volunteers Jack to show Smokescreen around.

[[Image:NewRecruit-Starscreammonkey.jpg|right|thumb|300px|So many gifs of animals, so little time.]]

In the ''[[Harbinger]]'', [[Starscream (Prime)|Starscream]] searches the Internet for interesting stuff and happens on an image of [[Red Energon]] at a construction site.

Jack shows Smokescreen around where the Cybertronian relics and [[Airachnid (Prime)|Airachnid]] are stored. Bulkhead is upset that the others have brought in a replacement for him, but as they point out, Smokescreen is a newbie and needs a lot of training. Raf finds the same Red Energon photo that Starscream did. Smokescreen's keen to go out on the mission, but the others point out his need for training and an [[alternate mode]].

Starscream arrives at the construction site, only to find it deserted and the Red Energon gone.

Smokescreen and Jack scope out vehicles driving near [[Jasper]], and the Autobot is disappointed in the available vehicle forms. Meanwhile, Prime, Arcee and Bumblebee arrive at the dock where the Red Energon's been moved, and discover Starscream is already there. The Decepticon activates the [[Apex Armor (Prime)|Apex Armor]] and Optimus sends Arcee and Bumblebee to get the energon while he takes on Starscream. He reports back to base what's happening, and Smokescreen wants to go help, but is overruled by Ratchet.

Having dealt with Optimus, Starscream climbs up the crane after Arcee and Bumblebee. At base, Bulkhead urges Ratchet to let him go help, but Ratchet ignores him until they realize Smokescreen is missing. Ratchet finds him in the storeroom looking at the [[phase shifter]]. Meanwhile, Starscream reaches Arcee, only for Optimus to punch him right off the crane. Starscream tries to grab some of the Red Energon on the way down, breaking off a chunk. As Optimus starts hauling up the basket with the energon in it, Starscream grabs the bottom of the crane and tips it. He's interrupted by the arrival of Smokescreen through the GroundBridge. Using the phase shifter, the new Autobot kicks Starscream right out of the Apex Armor. While Smokescreen stands triumphant, Starscream fires off a missile at the crane, the ensuing explosion destroying the Red Energon meteor. Though the Autobots atop it survive, Starscream gets away with a chunk of Red Energon he broke off.

After they return to base, Smokescreen returns the phase shifter and the Apex Armor, after which Optimus officially welcomes him to [[Team Prime]]. Bulkhead looks on sadly, and though Miko tries to give him some encouraging words, he turns and limps back down the corridor.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] (1)
*[[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] (4)
*[[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] (6)
*[[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]] (7)
*[[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] (8)
*[[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]] (11)
|c2=
*[[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]] (9)
*[[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticons]] (10)
*[[Airachnid (Prime)|Airachnid]] (13)
|c3=
*[[Raf Esquivel]] (2)
*[[Jack Darby]] (3)
*[[Miko Nakadai]] (5)
|c4=
*[[Starscream (Prime) |Starscream]] (12)
}}

==Quotes==
"The tap-dancing monkey strikes again!"
:—'''Jack''' on Raf's latest anti-Bumblebee-sighting hack.

"All these Cons came out of one pod?" 
"Humans refer to the phenomenon as a 'clown car'!"
:—'''Arcee''' asks a question, and '''Ratchet''' offers an explanation.

'''Miko''': What's your story, Smoke? Where did you come from? How did you get here? How many blasters are you packing? 
'''Smokescreen''': So these are the lifeforms we're supposed to protect? Are they all like this? 
'''Ratchet''': Fortunately not.
:—Smokescreen meets Miko.

"The Red Energon is mine, humans, for you are powerless in the face of the mighty Star- What? Where is it?!"
:—'''Starscream'''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> melodramatic entrance is deflated.

"Starscream?! I heard stories of that stiletto-heeled creep back on Cybertron!"
:—'''Smokescreen''', quite familiar with Starscream and his feet.

"Any last words, Smokescreen?" 
"Just four—''kiss your armor goodbye!"
:—'''Starscream''' gets a last warning from '''Smokescreen''' before literally getting his tailpipe kicked.

"You aren't the only one sporting a fancy wrist-mounted device!"
:—'''Starscream''' on his fancy rockets.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* As the Autobots run from the upcoming pod explosion, Optimus' arm weapons silently transform back into his hands.

===Continuity errors===
* As Optimus's report on the situation didn't mention the Apex Armor, how did Smokescreen know he needed the phase shifter?
* The Insecticons seem to die very easily in this episode. Arcee and Bumblebee take out one in a few seconds when last time it took them an [[Tunnel Vision|entire episode]].
* How did Raf know the object crashing into Earth was a Cybertronian escape pod, having never saw one before?
*Whilst Starscream was browsing the internet, the Bumblebee picture that was removed during a [[One Shall Fall|previous episode]] by Raf was seen on the screen as well as the the Bumblebee picture replaced during the beginning of this episode, despite them being removed.

===Continuity notes===
* Bumblebee has gained more pictures of himself on conspiracy websites since "[[One Shall Fall]]".
* The Autobots remember when [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] first arrived [[Con Job|and how that turned out]].
* Ratchet is still upset at Wheeljack for pulling that "revenge stunt" with Miko in "[[Hurt]]".
* Bulkhead is still recovering from the injuries he suffered in "[[Toxicity]]". By now, he can walk unaided (albeit at a slow limp), and a conversation with Ratchet implies that he can transform and drive around to some extent.
* The [[Operation Bumblebee, Part 1|spark extractor]], [[Partners|immobilizer]], [[Tunnel Vision|phase shifter]], and [[Armada (episode)|Airachnid]] are part of Jack's tour.
* Starscream still has the Apex Armor he obtained in "[[Triangulation]]". Well, ''had''.

===Transformers references===
* Smokescreen references [[Constructicon (Prime)|Constructicons]], [[Halogen (Prime)|Halogen]], [[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]], the [[Cybertron Elite Guard|Elite Guard]], and the [[Autobot High Council|High Council]].
* Optimus recalls Alpha Trion as the master archivist in Iacon's Hall of Records, which was exactly his occupation in ''[[Transformers: Exodus]]''.
* Smokescreen bears the Autobot Elite Guard symbol from the ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' series, and upon scanning an Earth mode, [[Smokescreen (G1)|continues the]] [[Smokescreen (Cybertron)|tradition of]] [[Smokescreen (Movie)|Smokescreens wearing]] the number "38".
* In a likely coincidence (but with a chance of being intentional given the "[[Binder of Revelation]]"), in the [[TakaraTomy]] [[Transformers: Prime (toyline)|''Prime'' toyline]], some of the [[Arms Micron]]s have [[Arms_Micron#Energon_Crystals|Energon Crystals dubbed "Fast" energon]]... which are reddish-orange in color, rather like the red speed-imbuing energon introduced in this episode.
* The Decepticon warship Smokescreen was held captive aboard is similar in shape to [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]]' ship, [[Twilight (G2)|Twilight]].
* Smokescreen states that the Elite Guard was more of a boot camp for him, possibly as a reference to the ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Animated]]'' episode "[[Autoboot Camp]]".

===Real-world references===
* Ratchet mentions the human phenomenon of the clown car.
* Starscream searches for information on the internet, or as many refer to it, "The Information Superhighway."

===Trivia===
* Starscream finds Earth humor funny. Guess Ratchet [[One Shall Fall|isn't the only one]].
* As usual, the vehicle mode Smokescreen chooses completely [[Masters & Students|matches]] [[Crisscross|his]] [[Loose Cannons|body]]. However, this ''is'' the first time a Transformer changes his paint job after getting a new vehicle mode; Smokescreen's Elite Guard logos are exchanged for his number "38" and checker racer decal.
* A new kind of Energon has been introduced alongside the regular, [[Dark Energon|Dark]], [[Synthetic Energon|Synthetic]], and [[Tox-En|Toxic]] forms. Time will tell if using Red Energon has any negative effects...
[[Category:Prime episodes]]

New Recruit

2012-09-09T01:51:12Z

198.137.20.24: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode|
|otherseries=''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Transformers: Prime]]'' ep 44
|prev=Out of the Past
|next=The Human Factor
|image=300px-Prime-smokescreen-s02e18-1.jpg
|caption=I'm not [[Hot Shot (Prime)|Hot Shot]], [[Prowl (Prime)|Prowl]], [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]], or [[Bluestreak (WFC)|Bluestreak]].
|title="New Recruit"
|airdate=[[September 7]], [[2012]]
|written by=[[Marty Isenberg]]
|directed by=[[Vinton Heuck]]
|animation studio=[[Polygon Pictures]]
|production company=[[Hasbro Studios]]
}}

{{picsneeded}}

'''A Decepticon escape pod lands on Earth and the Autobot Smokescreen emerges, while Starscream uses the Apex Armor to go on a quest for Red Energon.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:NewRecruit-exercise.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Jane Fonda would be doing a facepalm at this.]]

[[Raf Esquivel|Raf]] and [[Jack Darby|Jack]] cruise the [[Internet]] for pictures of [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] to replace with tap-dancing monkey pictures, while [[Miko Nakadai|Miko]] forces [[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] to exercise so his legs don't atrophy. Jack notices a picture which Raf identifies as a Cybertronian escape pod. [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] suggests bringing in [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] as Bulkhead still isn't combat-ready, which [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] promptly shoots down due to [[Hurt|recent events]]. [[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus]] orders Ratchet to come along with them instead, as there might be an injured Autobot in the pod. They [[GroundBridge]] into the crash site to find it's a Decepticon pod, and they're immediately under attack from their foe. The [[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]], augmented by [[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticons]], turn out to be a challenge, but then a new figure appears running through the trees. The newcomer's fire accidentally hits the [[energon]] leaking from the pod, and the Autobots take cover as it explodes, taking out the Decepticons. The over-enthusiastic newcomer happens to be [[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]], an Autobot rookie who becomes in awe when he meets ''the'' Optimus Prime. The Autobots are initially suspicious, remembering [[Con Job|the last time a new Autobot turned up]], but Smokescreen's tales of [[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]] and guarding the Hall of Records convinces Prime that he is legitimate.

Back at base, Miko's excited to meet the new Autobot. Smokescreen relates the story of the last days of Iacon and how he was captured by Decepticons during the siege, before escaping from a Decepticon transport ship in an escape pod. Smokescreen thinks with him there they'll have the war ended in no time, and Bulkhead drags himself in to show the newcomer how the war is going. Miko volunteers Jack to show Smokescreen around.

In the ''[[Harbinger]]'', [[Starscream (Prime)|Starscream]] searches the Internet for interesting stuff and happens on an image of [[Red Energon]] at a construction site.

Jack shows Smokescreen around where the Cybertronian relics and [[Airachnid (Prime)|Airachnid]] are stored. Bulkhead is upset that the others have brought in a replacement for him, but as they point out, Smokescreen is a newbie and needs a lot of training. Raf finds the same Red Energon photo that Starscream did. Smokescreen's keen to go out on the mission, but the others point out his need for training and an [[alternate mode]].

Starscream arrives at the construction site, only to find it deserted and the Red Energon gone.

Smokescreen and Jack scope out vehicles driving near [[Jasper]], and the Autobot is disappointed in the available vehicle forms. Meanwhile, Prime, Arcee and Bumblebee arrive at the dock where the Red Energon's been moved, and discover Starscream is already there. The Decepticon activates the [[Apex Armor (Prime)|Apex Armor]] and Optimus sends Arcee and Bumblebee to get the energon while he takes on Starscream. He reports back to base what's happening, and Smokescreen wants to go help, but is overruled by Ratchet.

Having dealt with Optimus, Starscream climbs up the crane after Arcee and Bumblebee. At base, Bulkhead urges Ratchet to let him go help, but Ratchet ignores him until they realize Smokescreen is missing. Ratchet finds him in the storeroom looking at the [[phase shifter]]. Meanwhile, Starscream reaches Arcee, only for Optimus to punch him right off the crane. Starscream tries to grab some of the Red Energon on the way down, breaking off a chunk. As Optimus starts hauling up the basket with the energon in it, Starscream grabs the bottom of the crane and tips it. He's interrupted by the arrival of Smokescreen through the GroundBridge. Using the phase shifter, the new Autobot kicks Starscream right out of the Apex Armor. While Smokescreen stands triumphant, Starscream fires off a missile at the crane, the ensuing explosion destroying the Red Energon meteor. Though the Autobots atop it survive, Starscream gets away with a chunk of Red Energon he broke off.

After they return to base, Smokescreen returns the phase shifter and the Apex Armor, after which Optimus officially welcomes him to [[Team Prime]]. Bulkhead looks on sadly, and though Miko tries to give him some encouraging words, he turns and limps back down the corridor.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] (1)
*[[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] (4)
*[[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] (6)
*[[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]] (7)
*[[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] (8)
*[[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]] (11)
|c2=
*[[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]] (9)
*[[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticons]] (10)
*[[Airachnid (Prime)|Airachnid]] (13)
|c3=
*[[Raf Esquivel]] (2)
*[[Jack Darby]] (3)
*[[Miko Nakadai]] (5)
|c4=
*[[Starscream (Prime) |Starscream]] (12)
}}

==Quotes==
"The tap-dancing monkey strikes again!"
:—'''Jack''' on Raf's latest anti-Bumblebee-sighting hack.

"All these Cons came out of one pod?" 
"Humans refer to the phenomenon as a 'clown car'!"
:—'''Arcee''' asks a question, and '''Ratchet''' offers an explanation.

"Better hope the '''hot shot's''' blasters are as big as his mouth."
:—'''Bulkhead''' isn't too impressed with the newest member of the team.

"Don't tell me it's '''another''' Bumblebee sighting..."
:-'''Ratchet''' says what we're all [[Shelfwarmer|thinking]].

"The Red Energon is mine, humans, for you are powerless in the face of the mighty Star- What? Where is it?!"
:—'''Starscream'''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> melodramatic entrance is deflated.

"Starscream?! I heard stories of that stiletto-heeled creep back on Cybertron!"
:—'''Smokescreen''', saying what we're all thinking about Starscream's feet.

"Any last words, Smokescreen?" 
"Just four—''kiss your armor goodbye!"
:—'''Starscream''' gets a last warning from '''Smokescreen''' before literally getting his tailpipe kicked.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*As the Autobots run from the upcoming pod explosion, Optimus' arm weapons silently transform back into his hands.
*Smokescreen's elite guard logos disappear after he aquires an earth mode in exchange for his number 38 and checker racer decal.

===Continuity errors===
*As Optimus's report on the situation didn't mention the Apex Armor, how did Smokescreen know he needed the phase shifter?
*The Insecticons seem to die very easily in this episode. Arcee and Bumblebee take out one in a few seconds when last time it took them an [[Tunnel Vision|entire episode]].
*Unlike Bumblebee's experience in "Tunnel Vision", Smokescreen used the phase shifter to pass through the Apex Armor and manage to kick Starscream out of it. Shouldn't Smokescreen have passed through Starscream as well?

===Continuity notes===
*Bumblebee seems to have gained more pictures of himself on conspiracy websites since "[[One Shall Fall]]".
*The Autobots remember when [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] first arrived [[Con Job|and how that turned out]].
*Ratchet is still upset at Wheeljack for pulling that "revenge stunt" with Miko in "[[Hurt]]".
*Bulkhead is still suffering injuries from "[[Toxicity]]", but now he can walk a bit.
*Jack references the Spark Extractor, gained in "[[Operation Bumblebee, Part 1]]", the Immobilizer gained in "[[Partners]]", and the Phase Shifter, gained in "[[Tunnel Vision]]", the latter of which Smokescreen uses against Starscream.
*Airachnid is shown in stasis lock in an Insecticon pod from "[[Armada (episode)|Armada]]".
*Starscream still has the Apex Armor he obtained in "[[Triangulation]]". Well, that is until Smokescreen kicks him out.

===Transformers references===
* Smokescreen references [[Constructicon (Prime)|Constructicons]], [[Halogen (Prime)|Halogen]], [[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]], the [[Cybertron Elite Guard|Elite Guard]], and the [[Autobot High Council|High Council]].
* Optimus recalls Alpha Trion as the master archivist in Iacon's Hall of Records, which was exactly his occupation in ''[[Transformers: Exodus]]''.
* Smokescreen bears the Autobot Elite symbol from the ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' series.
* In a likely coincidence (but with a chance of being intentional given the "[[Binder of Revelation]]"), in the [[TakaraTomy]] [[Transformers: Prime (toyline)|''Prime'' toyline]], some of the [[Arms Micron]]s have [[Arms_Micron#Energon_Crystals|Energon Crystals dubbed "Fast" energon]]... which are reddish-orange in color, rather like the red speed-imbuing energon introduced in this episode.
* The Decepticon warship Smokescreen was held captive aboard is similar in shape to [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]]' ship, [[Twilight (G2)|Twilight]].
* Smokescreen states that the Elite Guard was more of a boot camp for him, possibly as a reference to the Animated episode, [[Autoboot Camp]].
===Real-world references===
*Ratchet mentions the human phenomenon of the clown car.
*Starscream searches for information on the internet or as many refer to as "The Information Super Highway."

===Trivia===
*Starscream finds Earth humor funny. Guess Ratchet [[One Shall Fall|isn't the only one]].
*As usual, the vehicle mode Smokescreen chooses completely [[Masters & Students|matches]] [[Crisscross|his]] [[Loose Cannons|body]]. However, this is the first time a Transformer changes his paint job after getting a new vehicle mode.
*A new kind of Energon has been introduced with the regular, Dark, Synthetic, and Toxic forms, respectively. Perhaps it will also be called Red-En for short.

[[Category:Prime episodes]]

New Recruit

2012-09-09T01:49:59Z

198.137.20.24: /* Quotes */

{{episode|
|otherseries=''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Transformers: Prime]]'' ep 44
|prev=Out of the Past
|next=The Human Factor
|image=300px-Prime-smokescreen-s02e18-1.jpg
|caption=I'm not [[Hot Shot (Prime)|Hot Shot]], [[Prowl (Prime)|Prowl]], [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]], or [[Bluestreak (WFC)|Bluestreak]].
|title="New Recruit"
|airdate=[[September 7]], [[2012]]
|written by=[[Marty Isenberg]]
|directed by=[[Vinton Heuck]]
|animation studio=[[Polygon Pictures]]
|production company=[[Hasbro Studios]]
}}

{{picsneeded}}

'''A Decepticon escape pod lands on Earth and the Autobot Smokescreen emerges, while Starscream uses the Apex Armor to go on a quest for Red Energon.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:NewRecruit-exercise.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Jane Fonda would be doing a facepalm at this.]]

[[Raf Esquivel|Raf]] and [[Jack Darby|Jack]] cruise the [[Internet]] for pictures of [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] to replace with tap-dancing monkey pictures, while [[Miko Nakadai|Miko]] forces [[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] to exercise so his legs don't atrophy. Jack notices a picture which Raf identifies as a Cybertronian escape pod. [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] suggests bringing in [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] as Bulkhead still isn't combat-ready, which [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] promptly shoots down due to [[Hurt|recent events]]. [[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus]] orders Ratchet to come along with them instead, as there might be an injured Autobot in the pod. They [[GroundBridge]] into the crash site to find it's a Decepticon pod, and they're immediately under attack from their foe. The [[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]], augmented by [[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticons]], turn out to be a challenge, but then a new figure appears running through the trees. The newcomer's fire accidentally hits the [[energon]] leaking from the pod, and the Autobots take cover as it explodes, taking out the Decepticons. The over-enthusiastic newcomer happens to be [[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]], an Autobot rookie who becomes in awe when he meets ''the'' Optimus Prime. The Autobots are initially suspicious, remembering [[Con Job|the last time a new Autobot turned up]], but Smokescreen's tales of [[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]] and guarding the Hall of Records convinces Prime that he is legitimate.

Back at base, Miko's excited to meet the new Autobot. Smokescreen relates the story of the last days of Iacon and how he was captured by Decepticons during the siege, before escaping from a Decepticon transport ship in an escape pod. Smokescreen thinks with him there they'll have the war ended in no time, and Bulkhead drags himself in to show the newcomer how the war is going. Miko volunteers Jack to show Smokescreen around.

In the ''[[Harbinger]]'', [[Starscream (Prime)|Starscream]] searches the Internet for interesting stuff and happens on an image of [[Red Energon]] at a construction site.

Jack shows Smokescreen around where the Cybertronian relics and [[Airachnid (Prime)|Airachnid]] are stored. Bulkhead is upset that the others have brought in a replacement for him, but as they point out, Smokescreen is a newbie and needs a lot of training. Raf finds the same Red Energon photo that Starscream did. Smokescreen's keen to go out on the mission, but the others point out his need for training and an [[alternate mode]].

Starscream arrives at the construction site, only to find it deserted and the Red Energon gone.

Smokescreen and Jack scope out vehicles driving near [[Jasper]], and the Autobot is disappointed in the available vehicle forms. Meanwhile, Prime, Arcee and Bumblebee arrive at the dock where the Red Energon's been moved, and discover Starscream is already there. The Decepticon activates the [[Apex Armor (Prime)|Apex Armor]] and Optimus sends Arcee and Bumblebee to get the energon while he takes on Starscream. He reports back to base what's happening, and Smokescreen wants to go help, but is overruled by Ratchet.

Having dealt with Optimus, Starscream climbs up the crane after Arcee and Bumblebee. At base, Bulkhead urges Ratchet to let him go help, but Ratchet ignores him until they realize Smokescreen is missing. Ratchet finds him in the storeroom looking at the [[phase shifter]]. Meanwhile, Starscream reaches Arcee, only for Optimus to punch him right off the crane. Starscream tries to grab some of the Red Energon on the way down, breaking off a chunk. As Optimus starts hauling up the basket with the energon in it, Starscream grabs the bottom of the crane and tips it. He's interrupted by the arrival of Smokescreen through the GroundBridge. Using the phase shifter, the new Autobot kicks Starscream right out of the Apex Armor. While Smokescreen stands triumphant, Starscream fires off a missile at the crane, the ensuing explosion destroying the Red Energon meteor. Though the Autobots atop it survive, Starscream gets away with a chunk of Red Energon he broke off.

After they return to base, Smokescreen returns the phase shifter and the Apex Armor, after which Optimus officially welcomes him to [[Team Prime]]. Bulkhead looks on sadly, and though Miko tries to give him some encouraging words, he turns and limps back down the corridor.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] (1)
*[[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] (4)
*[[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] (6)
*[[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]] (7)
*[[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] (8)
*[[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]] (11)
|c2=
*[[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]] (9)
*[[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticons]] (10)
*[[Airachnid (Prime)|Airachnid]] (13)
|c3=
*[[Raf Esquivel]] (2)
*[[Jack Darby]] (3)
*[[Miko Nakadai]] (5)
|c4=
*[[Starscream (Prime) |Starscream]] (12)
}}

==Quotes==
"The tap-dancing monkey strikes again!"
:—'''Jack''' on Raf's latest anti-Bumblebee-sighting hack.

"All these Cons came out of one pod?" 
"Humans refer to the phenomenon as a 'clown car'!"
:—'''Arcee''' asks a question, and '''Ratchet''' offers an explanation.

"Better hope the '''hot shot's''' blasters are as big as his mouth."
:—'''Bulkhead''' isn't too impressed with the newest member of the team.

"Don't tell me it's '''another''' Bumblebee sighting..."
:-'''Ratchet''' says what we're all [[Shelfwarmer|thinking]].

"The Red Energon is mine, humans, for you are powerless in the face of the mighty Star- What? Where is it?!"
:—'''Starscream'''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> melodramatic entrance is deflated.

"Starscream?! I heard stories of that stiletto-heeled creep back on Cybertron!"
:—'''Smokescreen''', saying what we're all thinking about Starscream's feet.

"Any last words, Smokescreen?" 
"Just four—''kiss your armor goodbye!"
:—'''Starscream''' gets a last warning from '''Smokescreen''' before literally getting his tailpipe kicked.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*As the Autobots run from the upcoming pod explosion, Optimus' arm weapons silently transform back into his hands.
*Smokescreen's elite guard logos disappear after he aquires an earth mode.

===Continuity errors===
*As Optimus's report on the situation didn't mention the Apex Armor, how did Smokescreen know he needed the phase shifter?
*The Insecticons seem to die very easily in this episode. Arcee and Bumblebee take out one in a few seconds when last time it took them an [[Tunnel Vision|entire episode]].
*Unlike Bumblebee's experience in "Tunnel Vision", Smokescreen used the phase shifter to pass through the Apex Armor and manage to kick Starscream out of it. Shouldn't Smokescreen have passed through Starscream as well?

===Continuity notes===
*Bumblebee seems to have gained more pictures of himself on conspiracy websites since "[[One Shall Fall]]".
*The Autobots remember when [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] first arrived [[Con Job|and how that turned out]].
*Ratchet is still upset at Wheeljack for pulling that "revenge stunt" with Miko in "[[Hurt]]".
*Bulkhead is still suffering injuries from "[[Toxicity]]", but now he can walk a bit.
*Jack references the Spark Extractor, gained in "[[Operation Bumblebee, Part 1]]", the Immobilizer gained in "[[Partners]]", and the Phase Shifter, gained in "[[Tunnel Vision]]", the latter of which Smokescreen uses against Starscream.
*Airachnid is shown in stasis lock in an Insecticon pod from "[[Armada (episode)|Armada]]".
*Starscream still has the Apex Armor he obtained in "[[Triangulation]]". Well, that is until Smokescreen kicks him out.

===Transformers references===
* Smokescreen references [[Constructicon (Prime)|Constructicons]], [[Halogen (Prime)|Halogen]], [[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]], the [[Cybertron Elite Guard|Elite Guard]], and the [[Autobot High Council|High Council]].
* Optimus recalls Alpha Trion as the master archivist in Iacon's Hall of Records, which was exactly his occupation in ''[[Transformers: Exodus]]''.
* Smokescreen bears the Autobot Elite symbol from the ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' series.
* In a likely coincidence (but with a chance of being intentional given the "[[Binder of Revelation]]"), in the [[TakaraTomy]] [[Transformers: Prime (toyline)|''Prime'' toyline]], some of the [[Arms Micron]]s have [[Arms_Micron#Energon_Crystals|Energon Crystals dubbed "Fast" energon]]... which are reddish-orange in color, rather like the red speed-imbuing energon introduced in this episode.
* The Decepticon warship Smokescreen was held captive aboard is similar in shape to [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]]' ship, [[Twilight (G2)|Twilight]].
* Smokescreen states that the Elite Guard was more of a boot camp for him, possibly as a reference to the Animated episode, [[Autoboot Camp]].
===Real-world references===
*Ratchet mentions the human phenomenon of the clown car.
*Starscream searches for information on the internet or as many refer to as "The Information Super Highway."

===Trivia===
*Starscream finds Earth humor funny. Guess Ratchet [[One Shall Fall|isn't the only one]].
*As usual, the vehicle mode Smokescreen chooses completely [[Masters & Students|matches]] [[Crisscross|his]] [[Loose Cannons|body]]. However, this is the first time a Transformer changes his paint job after getting a new vehicle mode.
*A new kind of Energon has been introduced with the regular, Dark, Synthetic, and Toxic forms, respectively. Perhaps it will also be called Red-En for short.

[[Category:Prime episodes]]

New Recruit

2012-09-09T01:49:14Z

198.137.20.24: /* Quotes */

{{episode|
|otherseries=''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Transformers: Prime]]'' ep 44
|prev=Out of the Past
|next=The Human Factor
|image=300px-Prime-smokescreen-s02e18-1.jpg
|caption=I'm not [[Hot Shot (Prime)|Hot Shot]], [[Prowl (Prime)|Prowl]], [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]], or [[Bluestreak (WFC)|Bluestreak]].
|title="New Recruit"
|airdate=[[September 7]], [[2012]]
|written by=[[Marty Isenberg]]
|directed by=[[Vinton Heuck]]
|animation studio=[[Polygon Pictures]]
|production company=[[Hasbro Studios]]
}}

{{picsneeded}}

'''A Decepticon escape pod lands on Earth and the Autobot Smokescreen emerges, while Starscream uses the Apex Armor to go on a quest for Red Energon.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:NewRecruit-exercise.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Jane Fonda would be doing a facepalm at this.]]

[[Raf Esquivel|Raf]] and [[Jack Darby|Jack]] cruise the [[Internet]] for pictures of [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] to replace with tap-dancing monkey pictures, while [[Miko Nakadai|Miko]] forces [[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] to exercise so his legs don't atrophy. Jack notices a picture which Raf identifies as a Cybertronian escape pod. [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] suggests bringing in [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] as Bulkhead still isn't combat-ready, which [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] promptly shoots down due to [[Hurt|recent events]]. [[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus]] orders Ratchet to come along with them instead, as there might be an injured Autobot in the pod. They [[GroundBridge]] into the crash site to find it's a Decepticon pod, and they're immediately under attack from their foe. The [[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]], augmented by [[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticons]], turn out to be a challenge, but then a new figure appears running through the trees. The newcomer's fire accidentally hits the [[energon]] leaking from the pod, and the Autobots take cover as it explodes, taking out the Decepticons. The over-enthusiastic newcomer happens to be [[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]], an Autobot rookie who becomes in awe when he meets ''the'' Optimus Prime. The Autobots are initially suspicious, remembering [[Con Job|the last time a new Autobot turned up]], but Smokescreen's tales of [[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]] and guarding the Hall of Records convinces Prime that he is legitimate.

Back at base, Miko's excited to meet the new Autobot. Smokescreen relates the story of the last days of Iacon and how he was captured by Decepticons during the siege, before escaping from a Decepticon transport ship in an escape pod. Smokescreen thinks with him there they'll have the war ended in no time, and Bulkhead drags himself in to show the newcomer how the war is going. Miko volunteers Jack to show Smokescreen around.

In the ''[[Harbinger]]'', [[Starscream (Prime)|Starscream]] searches the Internet for interesting stuff and happens on an image of [[Red Energon]] at a construction site.

Jack shows Smokescreen around where the Cybertronian relics and [[Airachnid (Prime)|Airachnid]] are stored. Bulkhead is upset that the others have brought in a replacement for him, but as they point out, Smokescreen is a newbie and needs a lot of training. Raf finds the same Red Energon photo that Starscream did. Smokescreen's keen to go out on the mission, but the others point out his need for training and an [[alternate mode]].

Starscream arrives at the construction site, only to find it deserted and the Red Energon gone.

Smokescreen and Jack scope out vehicles driving near [[Jasper]], and the Autobot is disappointed in the available vehicle forms. Meanwhile, Prime, Arcee and Bumblebee arrive at the dock where the Red Energon's been moved, and discover Starscream is already there. The Decepticon activates the [[Apex Armor (Prime)|Apex Armor]] and Optimus sends Arcee and Bumblebee to get the energon while he takes on Starscream. He reports back to base what's happening, and Smokescreen wants to go help, but is overruled by Ratchet.

Having dealt with Optimus, Starscream climbs up the crane after Arcee and Bumblebee. At base, Bulkhead urges Ratchet to let him go help, but Ratchet ignores him until they realize Smokescreen is missing. Ratchet finds him in the storeroom looking at the [[phase shifter]]. Meanwhile, Starscream reaches Arcee, only for Optimus to punch him right off the crane. Starscream tries to grab some of the Red Energon on the way down, breaking off a chunk. As Optimus starts hauling up the basket with the energon in it, Starscream grabs the bottom of the crane and tips it. He's interrupted by the arrival of Smokescreen through the GroundBridge. Using the phase shifter, the new Autobot kicks Starscream right out of the Apex Armor. While Smokescreen stands triumphant, Starscream fires off a missile at the crane, the ensuing explosion destroying the Red Energon meteor. Though the Autobots atop it survive, Starscream gets away with a chunk of Red Energon he broke off.

After they return to base, Smokescreen returns the phase shifter and the Apex Armor, after which Optimus officially welcomes him to [[Team Prime]]. Bulkhead looks on sadly, and though Miko tries to give him some encouraging words, he turns and limps back down the corridor.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] (1)
*[[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] (4)
*[[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] (6)
*[[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]] (7)
*[[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] (8)
*[[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]] (11)
|c2=
*[[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]] (9)
*[[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticons]] (10)
*[[Airachnid (Prime)|Airachnid]] (13)
|c3=
*[[Raf Esquivel]] (2)
*[[Jack Darby]] (3)
*[[Miko Nakadai]] (5)
|c4=
*[[Starscream (Prime) |Starscream]] (12)
}}

==Quotes==
"The tap-dancing monkey strikes again!"
:—'''Jack''' on Raf's latest anti-Bumblebee-sighting hack.

"All these Cons came out of one pod?" 
"Humans refer to the phenomenon as a 'clown car'!"
:—'''Arcee''' asks a question, and '''Ratchet''' offers an explanation.

"Better hope the '''hot shot's''' blasters are as big as his mouth."
:—'''Bulkhead''' isn't too impressed with the newest member of the team.

"Don't tell me it's '''another''' Bumblebee sighting..."
:-'''Ratchet''' says what we're all [[Shelfwarmer|thinking]].

"The Red Energon is mine, humans, for you are powerless in the face of the mighty Star- What? Where is it?!"
:—'''Starscream'''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> melodramatic entrance is deflated.

"Starscream?! I heard stories of that stiletto-heeled creep back on Cybertron!
:—'''Smokescreen''', saying what we're all thinking about Starscream's feet.

"Any last words, Smokescreen?" 
"Just four—''kiss your armor goodbye!"
:—'''Starscream''' gets a last warning from '''Smokescreen''' before literally getting his tailpipe kicked.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*As the Autobots run from the upcoming pod explosion, Optimus' arm weapons silently transform back into his hands.
*Smokescreen's elite guard logos disappear after he aquires an earth mode.

===Continuity errors===
*As Optimus's report on the situation didn't mention the Apex Armor, how did Smokescreen know he needed the phase shifter?
*The Insecticons seem to die very easily in this episode. Arcee and Bumblebee take out one in a few seconds when last time it took them an [[Tunnel Vision|entire episode]].
*Unlike Bumblebee's experience in "Tunnel Vision", Smokescreen used the phase shifter to pass through the Apex Armor and manage to kick Starscream out of it. Shouldn't Smokescreen have passed through Starscream as well?

===Continuity notes===
*Bumblebee seems to have gained more pictures of himself on conspiracy websites since "[[One Shall Fall]]".
*The Autobots remember when [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] first arrived [[Con Job|and how that turned out]].
*Ratchet is still upset at Wheeljack for pulling that "revenge stunt" with Miko in "[[Hurt]]".
*Bulkhead is still suffering injuries from "[[Toxicity]]", but now he can walk a bit.
*Jack references the Spark Extractor, gained in "[[Operation Bumblebee, Part 1]]", the Immobilizer gained in "[[Partners]]", and the Phase Shifter, gained in "[[Tunnel Vision]]", the latter of which Smokescreen uses against Starscream.
*Airachnid is shown in stasis lock in an Insecticon pod from "[[Armada (episode)|Armada]]".
*Starscream still has the Apex Armor he obtained in "[[Triangulation]]". Well, that is until Smokescreen kicks him out.

===Transformers references===
* Smokescreen references [[Constructicon (Prime)|Constructicons]], [[Halogen (Prime)|Halogen]], [[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]], the [[Cybertron Elite Guard|Elite Guard]], and the [[Autobot High Council|High Council]].
* Optimus recalls Alpha Trion as the master archivist in Iacon's Hall of Records, which was exactly his occupation in ''[[Transformers: Exodus]]''.
* Smokescreen bears the Autobot Elite symbol from the ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' series.
* In a likely coincidence (but with a chance of being intentional given the "[[Binder of Revelation]]"), in the [[TakaraTomy]] [[Transformers: Prime (toyline)|''Prime'' toyline]], some of the [[Arms Micron]]s have [[Arms_Micron#Energon_Crystals|Energon Crystals dubbed "Fast" energon]]... which are reddish-orange in color, rather like the red speed-imbuing energon introduced in this episode.
* The Decepticon warship Smokescreen was held captive aboard is similar in shape to [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]]' ship, [[Twilight (G2)|Twilight]].
* Smokescreen states that the Elite Guard was more of a boot camp for him, possibly as a reference to the Animated episode, [[Autoboot Camp]].
===Real-world references===
*Ratchet mentions the human phenomenon of the clown car.
*Starscream searches for information on the internet or as many refer to as "The Information Super Highway."

===Trivia===
*Starscream finds Earth humor funny. Guess Ratchet [[One Shall Fall|isn't the only one]].
*As usual, the vehicle mode Smokescreen chooses completely [[Masters & Students|matches]] [[Crisscross|his]] [[Loose Cannons|body]]. However, this is the first time a Transformer changes his paint job after getting a new vehicle mode.
*A new kind of Energon has been introduced with the regular, Dark, Synthetic, and Toxic forms, respectively. Perhaps it will also be called Red-En for short.

[[Category:Prime episodes]]