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Ginrai (human)

2008-02-21T19:12:59Z

24.89.177.234: /* Masterforce animated series */

{{picsneeded|Toys}}{{disambig2|the American trucker|the Nebulan scientist who is sometimes called Ginrai thanks to trademark issues|Hi-Q}}

:''Ginrai is a human and [[Autobot]] [[Godmaster]] from the [[Masterforce]] portion of [[Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].

''[[Image:Ginrai comb1.gif|thumb|300px|"Hair this perfect doesn't just '''happen!'''"]]

Born in Nagano, [[Japan]], '''Ginrai''' found the country's atmosphere stifling for most his early life, and left for the [[United States]] at age seventeen to find himself. He took a job as a long-haul truck driver for [[Union Transportation]], which offered him the freedom and solitude of the open road. His easy-going personality earned him many friends amongst his "brothers" in the trucker fraternity.

:''RTM dub name'': '''Optimus Prime'''

==Fiction==
===''Masterforce'' animated series===
[[Image:Ginraiarmor.jpg|thumb|left|It rides up the crotch.]]
:''Voice actor:'' [[Hiroshi Takemura]] (Japanese)

The story that would bring Ginrai into contact with the Transformers began an indeterminate number of years ago, when the super-energy alien being and self-styled "Decepticon god" [[Devil Z]] stole several [[Transtector]]s - including one intended to be used by the legendary Autobot leader [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] - from an area of space known as the [[G Nebula]]. Already filled with the [[Chokon Power|Tenchokon]] of the nebula, the Transtectors were then scattered across the Earth by Devil Z, that they might absorb the planet's [[Chokon Power|Chichokon]]. Devil Z planned to have human beings bond to the Transtectors, adding their inherent [[Chokon Power|Jinchokon]] to the equation, thereby creating a new super-robotic lifeform - [[Godmaster]]s.

Through un-divulged circumstances, the Transtector intended for Prime assumed the form of a red tractor trailer cab, and came to rest in a small garage in California. The unwitting [[garage owner (Masterforce)|garage owner]] rented the cab to several truckers, but always found it returned early, with complaints of unusual, even supernatural, incidents.

[[Image:250px-Ginrai_tf.jpg|thumb|right|Prime? Never heard of him.]]

Two years after coming to America, Ginrai happened to be transporting an ill dolphin from [[Baney Aquarium]] to the Ocean Research Institute of California, run - unbeknownst to him - by the Autobot [[Pretender]] [[Diver]]. Destiny stepped in when Ginrai's truck broke down on the way, and he pulled in at this very garage, where the owner rented him the Transtector to complete his delivery. In the glove box of the cab, he discovered a pair of [[Master-Braces]] and slipped them on his wrists, only to discover that he was unable to remove them. When Diver laid eyes upon the bracelets, he recognized the basic design of them, and insisted that Ginrai take him back to the garage where he had found the truck. On the way, however, they were attacked by the Decepticon Godmaster brothers [[Hydra and Buster]], who forced the truck off a cliff. Accidentally touching the bracelets as he attempted to escape the crushed cab, Ginrai was infused with the Masterforce and a suit of armor materialized around him, healing both himself and the Transtector, as they combined and transformed. Now a Godmaster himself, Ginrai saw the shocked Decepticon off. {{Storylink|The Hero is Chosen, and His Name is Ginrai!|MF ep 10}}

Ginrai was at first unsure of what to make of his new powers, and was not entirely keen on joining the Autobots, as the notion of operating as part of a command structure, and being tied down to a specific place ran directly counter to his desire for freedom in his life. Although he promised to aid them when necessary "for the sake of the world" - a mantra that he admitted he had a weakness for - he soon bore witness to the true evil of the Decepticons when Hydra and Buster killed several of his fellow truckers while searching for him. Ginrai was still, however, not entirely willing to join the Autobots, but fate kept on pushing him to do so - he soon suffered a prophetic dream, after which he discovered three more pairs of Master-Braces in his Transtector, indicating the presence of more Godmasters on Earth.

When Ginrai brought the bracelets to Japan for study at the Autobot base, events began to escalate as Transtector activated on its own, transporting Ginrai to his birthplace of Nagano, or more specifically, a construction site at the base of Mount Yatsugatake there. Blasting for a tunnel through the mountain had been blocked by a mysterious object, which proved to be a trailer for Ginrai's truck, which burst from the tunnel during another battle with [[Hydra and Buster|Buster and Hydra]]. Later still, the two brothers lured Ginrai into a public battle that they might blame the conflict on him, and turn public opinion against the Autobots; the plan was failed, but a friend of Ginrai's offered the suggestion that his becoming a Godmaster was the will of God himself.

[[Image:180px-Super ginrai.jpg|thumb|left|A bird? A Plane? No, it's Super Ginrai.]]

Not long thereafter, in a battle with [[King Poseidon]], Ginrai discovered that his cab and trailer were capable of performing a "Double On," merging together to create the super-robot, "Super Ginrai." Additionally, after appearing on TV in hopes of locating the remaining three Godmasters, to whom he would give the Master-Braces, Ginrai successfully located [[Lightfoot]], [[Ranger]] and [[Road King]], and recruited them to the Autobot side. With this success, the Autobot leader [[Metalhawk]] stepped down as commander and requested that Ginrai take his place. After some deliberation, and much hassling from the other Autobot Pretenders, who wouldn't let him say no, Ginrai accepted.

[[Image:God_ginrai.jpg|thumb|right|Ginrai, when somebody asks you if you're a God, you say YES!]]

When [[Grand Maximus]] arrived on Earth to inform Ginrai's Autobots of the impending arrival of the Decepticon super-weapon, [[Black Zarak]], he provided them with the schematics necessary to create the drone, [[Godbomber]]. Metalhawk and the Pretenders raced to finish the construction of Godbomber, but as the so-called "Bomber Project" neared completion, Ginrai was lured into the desert by a disguised Buster and Hydra (under the auspices of performing some stunt driving for a movie), and was attacked and resoundingly defeated by the Decepticon Ambassador of Destruction, [[Overlord]]. Following a failed attack on the Bomber Project facility, the barely-healed Ginrai insisted upon taking the fight to the Decepticons, combining with the completed Godbomber to form "God Ginrai." In his new form, Ginrai confronted Overlord and Black Zarak on the moon, where he fully embraced his role as protector of Earth, and defeated the Decepticons with the aid of Grand Maximus.

Some time later, Black Zarak was able to return to Earth and merge with Devil Z, forcing the Autobots into a series of battle to protect countries all around the Earth. Tracking the villains to the Matterhorn, God Ginrai was forced into a final battle with the hybrid entity atop the mountain and succeeded in decapitating the villain, but Black Zarak then assumed a new hydra alternate mode, which God Ginrai destroyed with his God Fire Guts attack. His powers boosted by the [[Headmaster Junior]]s God Ginrai then executed the almighty Final Fire Guts attack, destroying Devil Z.

With Devil Z's death, the bonding between Transtector and human that he had engineered ceased to exist, and Ginrai and the other humans were separated from their Transtectors. The Transtectors, however, had been evolved through their partnership with the humans, and continued to exist as true super-robot life forms. Having imprinted his human partner's personality, Ginrai's Transtector departed for space to pursue the surviving Decepticons and rejoin the greater war.

===''Masterforce'' manga===

The ''Masterforce'' manga forgoes re-telling Ginrai's origins, simply indicating that he exists, then introducing him in the midst of a battle with Buster and Hydra. Similarly, the other Autobot Godmasters are introduced in such a manner, although here, their creation comes ''before'' Ginrai's acquisition of his trailer, and they present it to him at an opportune moment. The most notable moment for Ginrai in the manga comes when he and the Autobots are taken to the planet [[Athenia]] by the [[Trainbot]]s, and Ginrai succeeds [[Fortress Maximus|Fortress]] as [[Supreme Commander]] of the Autobots, a rank there is no indication he attains in the anime.

===''Victory'' animated series===

The Ginrai Transtector - now having taken its human partner's name as its own, becoming known as Ginrai itself - joined with the Autobot forces in space, where he became good friends with [[Star Saber (G1)|Star Saber]] and his adopted human son, [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]]. Before long, Star Saber was appointed Supreme Commander of the Autobots, while Ginrai became commander of the Defense Force for Space Sector Two. Operating out of a base in the G Nebula, Ginrai's time was occupied battling the Decepticon forces under Overlord's control, so much so that Star Saber occasionally had to respond to emergencies in Sector Two, such as a [[Breastforce]] attack on planet [[Micro]].

Feeling guilty over taking up Star Saber's time in such a manner, Ginrai was quick to come to his aid when he was lured into a trap on Earth by Decepticon [[Emperor of Destruction]] [[Deathsaurus]]. Confronting Deathsaurus in battle, Ginrai was struck by a blast from the villain's Living-Metal-Destroying Cannon and badly damaged. Despite the best medical efforts of [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]], [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], and [[Minerva]] Ginrai's body was left useless and immobile. Due to a slip by Perceptor, however, he learned of the existence of a reconstruction process conceived by Star Saber that would allow him to become a power-up for the Autobot leader. Star Saber refused to allow him to submit to the process, revolted at the notion of using his close friend's body in such a way, but Ginrai insisted. Perceptor and Wheeljack brought his life functions to an end, and then restored him to Star Saber's specifications as [[Victory Leo]].

{{-}}
==Toys==
===Masterforce===
*'''Super Ginrai''' (1988)
:''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-307'''

:A remoulded version of the American Powermaster Optimus Prime figure, Ginrai is a red, blue and grey tractor trailer, only able to transform into robot mode when the small Ginrai human figure is put into engine mode and snapped into place in the truck's grill, unlocking the clasp that holds the legs in place. When the cab is in robot mode, the trailer can become a battle station; either robot or station can be armed with any of the toy's weapons, including two black guns and two grey double-barrelled "cannon craft," which can be piloted by the small Godmaster figures. The two components can be merged into "Super Ginrai", whose head is a separate piece, and could go on to combine with the separately-sold Godbomber to become God Ginrai.

:Differences between Powermaster Optimus Prime and Ginrai include a die-cast metal cab with translucent blue plastic windows, shortened smokestacks, a more metallic grey plastic, chrome on the Godmaster Ginrai engine, and silver paint rather than stickers for the small robot's upper legs. Only in the reissue are there blue eyes for the small Ginrai robot.

*'''God Ginrai''' (1988)
:''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-310'''

:Super Ginrai was also sold in a giftset with Godbomber, who could disassemble his parts and combine with Super Ginrai to form God Ginrai. Godbomber's legs became boots, to which the Ginrai's grey cannons attached, his chest and wings formed a backpack, while his arms clipped over the top of Ginrai's own, and his back became a chromed chestplate, to the top of which the his spring-loaded "God Cannon" plugged.

*'''God Ginrai (reissue)''' (2002)

:The God Ginrai giftset was reissued in Japan in 2002 with blue eyes for the small Ginrai robot and a slighty different shade of red paint on the cab. It was, however, notoriously over-produced, and retailers were still selling it some time later at greatly reduced prices.

*'''Powermaster Optimus Prime w/ Apex Armor''' (2002)

:The American release the God Ginrai reissue, albeit with [[remold|remolded]] [[missile|missiles]], used the Ginrai name for the [[powermaster]]/[[godmaster]]/[[Nebulan]] figure instead of [[Hi-Q]]. This marks the first time the Ginrai character had been sold as a US release, even if the larger figures represented the Optimus Prime character and the new Apex Bomber character instead of the lifeless transtector and drone.

*'''Fire Guts God Ginrai''' (eHobby exclusive, 2002)

:Released to coincide with the 2002 reissue, this redeco of the God Ginrai gifset cast the Autobot leader in reds and oranges, representing Ginrai using his "God Fire Guts" attack from the animated series. It was limited to 1600 pieces.

{{-}}

==Trivia==
* The human Ginrai's appearance is designed after screen actor Ishihara Yūjirō.

* Originally, the [[Alternators]] Dodge Ram mold that eventually ended up as [[Optimus Prime (G1) toys|Optimus Prime]] was intended by Hasbro to be a completely different character altogether (which character is unknown), but Takara reportedly demanded the Ram be made into Optimus out of fear that the toy (whose vehicle mode is scarce in Japan as a real vehicle) wouldn't sell as well in their market if it wasn't a popular and easily recognized figure; as the figure reportedly cost twice as much to build as the others, Hasbro had to agree in order for Takara to continue fronting part of the production cost. In an ironic turn of events, the Dodge Ram was prematurely solicited by Takara not as "Convoy" (Optimus Prime), but as his Masterforce look-alike Ginrai. As a matter of fact, the head sculpt for the Alternators Optimus Prime toy ''is'' based on the Super Ginrai (Powermaster Optimus Prime's "super mode") toy's head sculpt. Ultimately, however, Ginrai was cancelled, with only Hasbro releasing Optimus Prime as originally planned. Eventually, Takara released the Dodge Ram as as part of the new [[Kiss Players]] line, now named "Convoy" (Optimus Prime).

[[Category: Autobots]]
[[Category: Autobot leaders]]
[[Category: Godmasters]]
[[Category: Humans]]
[[Category: Victory characters]]<div id="wikia-credits"><br /><br /><small>From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</small></div>

Optimus Prime (G1)/toys

2007-11-16T18:57:56Z

24.89.177.234: /* Titanium */

[[Image:Convoy-final1024.jpg|right|thumb|350px|For Decepticons, this is what Judgment Day is gonna look like.]]

Over the past 23 years, [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Generation 1 '''Optimus Prime''']] has received the largest number of toys for any single [[Transformers]] character, a testament to the character's enduring popularity and status as a hero to many fans.

==Toys==

===Generation 1===
* '''Optimus Prime''' (1984, 1985, 1991, 2000, until the end of time)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-01'''

: The original Optimus Prime toy, as well as Diaclone Battle Convoy that it based based upon, transformed into a late 1970s red Freightliner FL86 Cab over Engine triple-axle semi trailer truck. His cab is partially constructed of die cast metal with rubber tires. The windscreen section can open to reveal ultimately-unused chairs that were originally designed for Diaclone's driver figures.

:His trailer opens up into his [[Combat Deck]], which features a missile-armed repair drone pod (with seating for one) mounted upon a boom lift arm. Situated in the base of this boom is a spring-loaded launcher that can be used to launch [[Roller]] out of the Combat Deck. Roller himself has seating for 4 passengers, and can be equipped to carry Optimus Prime's rifle or a fuel pump. The interior space of the trailer allows storage room for one Autobot car.

:In robot mode, Optimus Prime's design would go on to influence every Optimus Prime toy that will follow this iconic version. He is armed with a black laser rifle, that, due to design, cannot be held straight. His fists are actually inserted into his headlights and must be stored elsewhere while in vehicle mode (there are pegs to store them in the trailer).

: Optimus was made available as a mail-away toy in the [[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]] offer in the US in 1986 to coinside with the Transformers Movie in 1986. He cost $21.50 and 5 [[robot points]], and comes with a special Movie Edition Certificate, and a round sticker that says " Movie . Edition . Transformer with the Autobot symbol in the middle ( these two items are considered RARE,)

:Over 23 years, there have been many, many releases and variants of this mold. [[Optimus Prime (G1) toys #Trivia|See the list here]]. The cab robot was also used, with a different trailer, as the cab for G1 [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]].

* '''Convoy Jnr.''' (1985)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''TF Jnr-01'''
[[Image:Convoy_Junior_toy.jpg|right|thumb|130px|Prime's kid brother.]]

: Convoy Jnr. was a smaller, simplified version of G1 Convoy. He featured a very similar transformation sequence, but had no clear windows nor rubber tires. He was intended as a low-cost alternative for younger children.

:He did not have a plastic trailer included, but did have a cardboard trailer that the owner was supposed to construct themselves.

* '''Convoy''' (Versus set, 1985)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''VS-X'''

: This Japanese-[[exclusive]] release of Optimus Prime came with the Japanese release of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. There are no differences between this release of Convoy and the individually released toy.

* '''Good-Bye Convoy''' (Multipack, 1986)

: This set contains a special version of Convoy with blue windows and was packed with [[Mirage (G1)|Ligier]] and [[Red Alert (G1)|Alert]].
* '''Optimus Prime''' (Powermaster, 1988, 2003)

[[Image:PowermasterOptimusPrime_toy.jpg|left|thumb|My Japanese release has a lot more bling.]]

:Powermaster Optimus Prime is the first new toy of the Autobot leader since the original toy's release in 1984. He is an all-new design, utilizing the [[Powermaster]] gimmick of requiring the partner figure, who transforms into an engine module, to be inserted into a special area on the main toy before it is able to transform.

:Optimus Prime is composed of two parts, his truck cab and his trailer. His new truck cab is reminiscent of the original Optimus Prime truck cab, but is constructed entirely of plastic, lacks vacuum-metalized plastic and has no clear windows. It also transforms differently in that the front of the truck is no longer the robot mode's chest. His chest is now formed out of the truck's cabin rear, styled after his cartoon appearance. He is armed with two long black rifles, based in part upon his cartoon rifle.

:Prime's new trailer is essentially a heavily armed version of the original, with two double-barreled heavy laser cannons mounted on two arms with visible fists. The rear has a fold-down ramp to allow the storage of a smaller transformer, or perhaps spare accessories. The trailer can be transformed into a Powermaster battlestation that can allow other Powermaster engine figures to man the heavy laser cannons.

[[Image:GodGinrai_toy.jpg|right|thumb| And bigger boots, too.]]

:The main selling point of the toy is the ability of the truck cab to combine with the trailer to form Super Optimus Prime. The cab portion folded in half and sat in the chest cavity of the trailer's torso, giving him the classic Optimus Prime truck-chest appearance. The two double-barreled cannons were attached to his shoulders and a large, separate head piece was mounted onto the hole on top of the truck cab.

:The Japanese release actually represented a new character named [[Ginrai]] and had a cab that was partly constructed out of die-cast metal, vacuum-metalized plastic and had clear blue windows. The trailer was retooled so the super robot's fists could slide in and out of the arms. This Japanese version was eventually used for Hasbro's own reissue in 2003 as part of the Commemorative Reissue collection. This set also included the originally Japanese-exclusive God Bomber drone trailer that attached onto the back of Ginrai's trailer in vehicle mode, and could become extra armour in super robot mode.

:This toy was later redecoed into the Japanese-exclusive Nucleon Quest Super Convoy.

:There were several different prototypes made for this toy. [[Optimus Prime (G1) toys #Trivia|See a list here]].

* '''Optimus Prime''' (Action Master, 1990)

[[Image:ActionMasterPrime_toy.jpg|left|thumb|150px|Eastbound and Down.]]

: The largest ''[[Action Master]]'' set, Optimus Prime came with extended hood truck pulling a large, heavily armed trailer, referred to as an "Armored Convoy". Optimus Prime could sit in the cab of the truck, while other Action Master figures could stand on the guard rails or sit in the turret in the trailer.

:As with all ''Action Master'' toys, Optimus Prime himself could not transform. His sculpt is based heavily upon the Generation 1 cartoon model, though the colour scheme may be based upon his Powermaster (pre-supermode cab robot only) body, with blue forearms as opposed to just blue fists, although unlike the Powermaster cab robot it has blue thighs as well. His truck cab vehicle and the trailer do transform, though neither have robot modes. The truck cab can transform into a small plane, while the trailer transforms into a battle station with turrets that several Action Masters can man.

:Action Master Optimus Prime's figure and rifle was included with the Japanese-exclusive "New Year" reissue of G1 Convoy in 2002, sporting a more [[Show-accuracy|show-accurate]] repaint. (To compare the two; both versions are featured in the large collage image at the head of the article in the right and left-hand corners.)

{{-}}

* '''Star Convoy''' (Powered Master, 1991, 2005)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-372'''
[[Image:StarConvoy_toy.jpg|right|thumb|"... and that's why you're my Micromaster now, [[Hot Rod (G1)|bitch]]"]]

: A Japanese-exclusive, the final new-design G1 Convoy toy was a departure from previous versions. He now transformed into a small extended hood cab truck of made-up model pulling an implausibly large trailer equipped with motorized caterpillar treads. The trailer could additionally pull along the auxiliary trailer transformer [[Grandus]], on which the shuttle [[Sky Garry]] could land, forming the spaceship '''"Battlestars"'''. Even without combining, Star Convoy's truck mode was a behemoth, including a [[Micro Trailer]] semi as a small accessory and an upgraded [[Roller]] that was now patterned after a tracked ballistic missile carrier.

:Unlike previous Convoy toys, the cab section did not separate from the trailer, instead forming the arms of his imposing 12-inch tall robot mode. He lacks any sort of leg articulation in this mode, but his battery powered treads can provide him with locomotion. Star Convoy's chest can open to reveal a control center for [[Micromaster]] figures such as his partner figure [[Hot Rod|Hot Rodimus]] to ride in.

:He can also form a Micromaster base, that is more like his legs opened up, with his upper torso more or less staying exactly the same. Like [[Dai Atlas]], his base mode can connect with other Micromaster base sets.

:Star Convoy was reissued by Takara in 2005, with notable paint deco and sticker improvements, such as his white parts being painted metallic silver and the star crest on his chest painted with plated gold chrome paint..

* '''Nucleon Quest Super Convoy''' (2001)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-307X'''

:This release of the God Ginrai tooling was a Toys ''R'' Us Japan [[exclusive]] black repaint, made to represent the original Convoy/Optimus Prime equipped for a special mission. All of his red and blue plastics were changed to black, his clear blue windows were now tinted red, making his overall colour scheme very reminiscent of the now-familiar 'Black Convoy' colour schemes.

* '''Orion Pax''' (2006)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''67'''

[[Image:OrionPaxDion_toys.jpg|right|thumb|150px|"Welcome to The Past!"]]

: This Japanese e-Hobby exclusive was a redeco of [[Targetmaster]] [[Kup]], made to represent the character [[Optimus Prime#Generation 1 cartoon|Orion Pax]] from the G1 television series episode [[War Dawn]]. He came with a re-deco of [[Wheelie]] as [[Dion]].

===Generation 2===
* '''Optimus Prime''' (1993, 1994)
[[Image:G2Prime_toy.jpg|left|thumb|I AM OPTIMUS PRIME.]]

:The first ''Generation 2'' Optimus Prime toy was largely identical in sculpt to the original release. However, his trailer was cast in black plastic, with the original blue and silver striped sticker replaced with a red and silver one that had "Optimus" in large block letters on it. The trailer also featured a soundbox attachment with a sculpted Autobot symbol on the front. The soundbox could activate a truck engine noise, a laser gun sound effect and a (badly) garbled voice that said "I am Optimus Prime!". This soundbox could also be attached onto Optimus Prime's back and be used as a sort of backpack.

:The other new additions were two black spring-loaded missile launchers that fire red projectiles. In vehicle mode, these attached to the soundbox (an echo of Powermaster Optimus Prime's cannons, perhaps), and could be held in Optimus Prime's fists in robot mode.

* '''Optimus Prime''' (Hero, 1994)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''TRF-1'''
[[Image:CombatheroPrime_toy.jpg|right|thumb|BE A HEEEERO]]

: Hero Optimus Prime was the first new-mold Optimus Prime toy in the ''Generation 2'' line. He transformed into a Kenworth truck of unknown model. The truck and trailer forms his robot mode, but cannot disconnect.

:In robot mode, the front halves of his truck cab become his feet, with the bottom of the trailer section becoming his chest and arms. His primary gimmick is an air-powered missile launcher, that can fire one of three foam missiles using an air bellows.

: This mold was also used to create [[Sureshot (G2)|Sureshot]] and the Kay-Bee Toys-exclusive [[Destructicon]] [[Scourge (RID)|Scourge]].

* '''Laser Optimus Prime''' (1995, 2006)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''TRF-13'''

[[Image:LaserOptimusPrime_toy.jpg|left|thumb|Not cast in the 2007 movie.]]

: Laser Optimus Prime was another new-mold toy that transformed into mid-1990s Western Star 4964EX, pulling a grey and black fuel tank trailer. On the sides of the trailer is a humourous sticker depicting Laser Optimus Prime using a flamethrower to burn down a forest, with the words "Optimus Prime Octane" over the image.

:In robot mode, like Combat Hero Prime, the bottom of the truck became his familiar windowed chest based upon the original Optimus Prime toy. His main gimmick was light up LED headlights, and a [[lightpipe]] in the bottom of his right fist, illuminated by an LED in his right forearm, that would illuminate his clear sword or his double-barreled rifle if they were used in that hand. All three LEDs were activated simultaneously by pressing the sunroof-like depression on the roof of the truck.

:The trailer unfolds to form a battle station bristling with many firing weapons. Primarily, it can fire an air-powered missile launcher, a ripple rocket launcher with 5 missiles that can be launched individually (this turret can also be mounted in Laser Prime's hand) and a 'disc launcher', that fired several blue plastic discs adorned with the ''Generation 2'' Autobot sigil. This disc launcher is the only weapon that can be used in vehicle mode.

:This mold was redecoed in 2000 as [[Car Robots]] [[Scourge (RID)|Black Convoy]], and slightly retooled as Scourge. After Scourge, the next use of this mold was planned to be [[Toxitron]], which ended up being canceled. The slightly retooled version of this mold was released in 2006 in Japan as reissue Battle Convoy, which was the name of this toy during the Japanese ''Generation 2''. The reissue used the [[Robots in Disguise]] modified tooling, with a slightly modified deco using silver vacuum-metalized plastic on his chest and trailer sides along with additional paint applications and G2 symbols. The mold was also redecoed to create a new G2 version of Ultra Magnus as an [[E-Hobby]] exclusive (unusual in that the character was killed in the course of Japan's G1 fiction).

:In addition to being probably the most popular Generation 2 figure, Laser Optimus Prime was, prior to 2003, a regular contender for most popular ''Transformers'' toy ever, back in the days of the annual Transformers fan awards, "The Trannies." The toy won twice, and actually lost once to his repaint, Scourge. The launch of the [[Armada]] and [[Alternators]] line, along with ''Masterpiece'' Prime, saw Laser Prime drop down that list distinctly.

* '''Optimus Prime''' (Go-Bot, 1995)
[[Image:G2GobotsPrime.jpg|right|thumb| Sweet ride, Prime]]

: Gobots Optimus Prime transforms into a red Hot Wheels-sized Lamborghini Diablo. In robot mode his transformation and headsculpt greatly resemble [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]. Like most Go-Bots, he features high speed axles and can roll very well across smooth surfaces, but lacks the weight to propel him quickly. He is armed with a small red laser rifle.

:The Japanese release of this toy swapped out the orange plastic for neon yellow, and had a large tampograph on the car's hood that was shaped like a stylized letter 'T', with the Transformers logo in it. Going against the grain, this toy was released in Japan with the name "Optimus Prime" instead of "Convoy".

:This toy was redecoed from the ''Generation 2'' Gobot [[Firecracker]]. The plastic colors are a "solid" version of Firecracker's color layout, substituting opaque red for transparent red plastic.

===Machine Wars===
* '''Optimus Prime''' (Ultra, 1997)
[[Image:MachineWarsPrime.jpg|left|thumb|Minus mouthplate]]

: Available only at Kay-Bee toys (well, at first), ''[[Machine Wars]]'' Optimus Prime is a redeco and slight modification of the European Generation 1 exclusive [[Turbomaster (subgroup)|Turbomaster]] leader [[Thunder Clash]], transforming into a Cybertronic truck cab. The Trailer unit unfolds to become a missile-launching assault tower. The tower's gravity-feed missile launchers were retooled to accommodate the new, longer spring-loaded missiles in lieu of the much smaller original projectiles due to projectile choke-gate [[For safety reasons|safety testing]].

{{-}}

===Smallest Transforming Transformers===
* '''G1 Convoy''' (2003)
: ''Japanese ID Number:'' '''GTF-01A (truck) and GTF-01B (trailer)'''
[[Image:WSTF_Convoy.jpg|right|thumb|You didn't find my trailer, did you? Haw haw.]]

: ''Smallest Transforming Transformers'' Convoy is the smallest fully transforming Optimus Prime toy yet. He features an accurate transformation sequence based on the original full-sized toy, but understandably has no detachable hands, and has little articulation. His sculpt is based upon his cartoon appearances. He comes with a tiny version of his laser rifle.

:His [[Combat Deck|trailer]] was available separately as a shortpacked figure.

:This mold was repainted in wave 2 of ''Smallest Transforming Transformers'', this time in cartoon colours and as a limited 'chase' variant based upon Ultra Magnus' colours. In wave 2.5 he was again available in cartoon colours, with the chase figure being the trailer painted in cartoon colours.

===20th Anniversary/Masterpiece===
* '''Optimus Prime''' (2003/2004)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-1'''
[[Image:20thAnniversary_OptimusPrimesm.jpg|left|thumb|And the fandom rejoiced (and complained).]]

: ''20th Anniversary'' Optimus Prime is the most successful attempt to have a somewhat authentic 1980s Freightliner cab-over truck transform into a cartoon-proportioned robot mode of Optimus Prime.

:Sculpted with detail, Optimus Prime is loaded with non-obtrusive gimmicks such as working spring-loaded suspension, a 'talking' movable [[mouthplate]], flip-up communications panels and a light-up Matrix chamber with a removable vacuum-metalized Matrix of Leadership that can also be pulled open.

:In robot mode, he is able to assume many poses, yet limited to the top-heavy design of the robot mode. In vehicle mode, he has a hitch for a trailer, but none was included due to cost. He is partially constructed of die cast metal and features rubber tires.

:Optimus Prime features many accessories including the aforementioned Matrix, his [[Ion blaster]], a transparent orange energon axe, and Megatron in gun mode, with stock, silencer and scope accessories. This small Megatron can be held in his hand, but cannot transform.

:The initial Hasbro release of 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime featured his Ion blaster cast in grey plastic, with later assortments cast in black plastic. Further releases included a small poster featuring artwork by [[Pat Lee]].

:The main differences between the US and Japanese releases are the application of "battle damage" paint applications to the US version, and fact the US release has much smaller smokestacks, while the Japanese release has full-size stacks. Hasbro reported that the smokestack change was due to safety concerns.

:The Japanese Takara release of this toy, dubbed ''"Masterpiece'' Convoy", has a cardboard trailer that the owner must construct himself.

:ToyFare Magazine named the US release "Best Toy Ever".<ref>[http://www.wizarduniverse.com/magazine/toyfare/000054376.cfm ToyFare Magazine Best Toys Ever]</ref>

:This mold was [[redeco]]ed into ''Masterpiece'' [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], then tweaked to make the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]''-themed "DVD" release (see below).

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* '''Convoy Perfect Edition''' (2006)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-4'''
[[Image:MP04Convoy2.jpg|right|thumb|300px|You just paid $170 for a big box on wheels.]]

: For the re-release of ''Masterpiece'' Convoy, Takara packed him with a proper full-size, fully transforming plastic and die-cast metal trailer. The trailer can open up to reveal his Combat Deck, with storage for his accessories and a functional repair drone. The interior has enough room to accommodate one [[Alternators]] toy in vehicle mode.

:[[Roller]] is conspicuously absent from this 'Perfect' edition. Additionally, there have been reports that this release of ''Masterpiece'' Convoy has much poorer quality control, as the paint on his chest chips more easily.

===Robot Masters===
* '''G1 Convoy''' (2004)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''RM-01'''
[[Image:RMConvoy_toy.jpg|left|thumb|120px|My vehicle mode is dangerous and unroadworthy!]]

: Robot Masters G1 Convoy is essentially a heavily simplified version of 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime, featuring a similar sculpt and a similar (though significantly easier) transformation sequence. However, due to its size and pricepoint, it does not feature a Matrix chamber or the number of gimmicks in his larger toysake.

:Included is a Ion blaster and a small missile launcher.

* '''G1 Convoy with DVD''' (2004)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''RM-10'''
[[Image:RM_DVDConvoy_toy.jpg|right|thumb|120px|I'm shiny!]]

: This special edition release of G1 Convoy is decked out in metallic paint and the Ion blaster is painted black. In addition to the sculpted Autobot sigil on its left shoulder, another Autobot sigil is tampographed onto the right shoulder. Otherwise it is the same toy.

:It comes packed with a DVD containing a short cartoon detailing the Robot Masters storyline up to that point.

* '''G1 Convoy Limited Black Version''' (2005)

: This release is simply a black repaint of Robot Masters G1 Convoy.

: Available only via mail-order through ''Dengeki Hobby'' magazine

===Universe===
* '''Optimus Prime''' (Spychanger, 2004)
[[Image:SpychangerG1Prime.jpg|right|thumb|Why won't they repaint my full-size toy in these colours?!?]]

: Universe G1 Optimus Prime is a [[redeco]] of the ''Robots in Disguise'' [[Scourge (RID)|Scourge]]'s [[Spychanger]] toy. He replaces most of the black plastic with predominantly red and blue, with silver for detailing, with an overall deco making him resemble the original Optimus Prime. Like most Spychangers, he features high speed axles and can roll very well across smooth surfaces, but lacks the weight to propel him quickly.

===Hybrid Style===
*'''G1 Convoy''' (2006)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''THS-02'''
[[Image:THS02Convoy.jpg|left|thumb|250px|Expensive and tiny.]]

: THS-02 G1 Convoy is a finely detailed, partially die-cast metal transforming toy of G1 Optimus Prime. As with most modern G1 Optimus Prime toys, he is based somewhat upon 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime, but is a totally new designed created under the supervision of famed Macross mecha designer [[Shoji Kawamori]].

:Standing at 3' 3/4 inches tall in robot mode, THS-02 Convoy features possibly the most complex transformation sequence ever seen on a Transformers figure this small. However, the small size also works against the design, as concessions from the vehicle mode truck cab had to be made to accommodate the proportions of the robot mode.

:He comes with a fully-transforming and highly detailed trailer that opens up into his Combat Deck/repair bay, with a functioning repair drone and Roller, who features six-wheel steering. His other accessories include his Ion blaster (with adjustable grip), his energy axe, Sideswipe's jet pack, and several different hands, all of which can be stored in individual compartments within the trailer.

:This figure was also released by e-Hobby in a limited edition black version (THS-02B), who is most decidedly NOT Nemesis Prime; he's just a black Optimus Prime/Convoy.

===Alternators===
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2006)
:''Alternator ID number:'' '''21'''
[[Image:Alternators_OptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|I don't come with a creepy girl...]]

: [[Alternators]] Optimus Prime transforms into an accurate 1:24th scale Dodge Ram SRT-10. The vehicle mode features rubber tires, functional steering, opening hood, tail gate and doors with a detailed cabin interior. His robot mode body sculpt details are based upon the 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime toy. However, his headsculpt is based upon Powermaster Optimus Prime. He is armed with a small pistol that is formed from his engine.

: This mold was later redecoed into [[Kiss Players]] Convoy and Alternators [[Nemesis Prime (Alternators)|Nemesis Prime]].

===Kiss Players===
* '''Convoy X Melissa''' (2006)
[[Image:Kiss_Convoy_toy.jpg|left|thumb|150px|...And yet, I do!]]

: Kiss Players Convoy is a redeco of ''Alternators'' Optimus Prime. Unlike the Alternator's bare red plastic, he is covered in a deeper red paint. Some of his body parts are cast in different colours, such as his shins, and has a much more intricate paint deco based upon Masterpiece Convoy. He is armed with his small engine pistol and a pink surfboard that can be reconfigured into either two small blades or a large double-bladed sword.

:He comes with a small figurine of [[Marissa Faireborn]](with no pants) and a Kiss Players CD featuring recordings of the radio play.

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===Titanium===
* '''War Within Optimus Prime''' (3" Robot Masters, 2006)
[[Image:TitaniumRMWWPrime.jpg|left|thumb|90px|Squattie]]

: War Within Optimus Prime is the first toy representation of Optimus Prime as he appears in the popular [[War Within]] comic book series. Constructed partially of die-cast metal, this three inch version cannot transform and has some articulation, limited to his shoulders, head and waist.

* '''Optimus Prime''' (3" Robot Master, 2006)
[[Image:TitaniumRMG1Prime.jpg|right|thumb|90px|Drop and give me twenty, soldier!]]

: The first Titanium representation of G1 Optimus Prime has a well-proportioned sculpt based on his 20th Anniversary toy. Constructed partially of die-cast metal, this three inch version cannot transform and has some articulation, limited to his shoulders, head and waist.

* '''War Within Optimus Prime''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
[[Image:TitaniumHeroes_WWPrime.jpg|left|thumb|150px|And then some squirrels quietly disappeared.]]

: The second War Within Optimus Prime toy in the Titanium series, but also the first official transforming toy from the War Within series. Personally designed by comic artist [[Don Figueroa]] (who created much of the War Within comic designs), Optimus Prime transforms into a cybertronic truck. He is armed with a silver painted Ion blaster, on which the words 'DON' can be clearly seen sculpted into the body.

:He is partially constructed out of die-cast metal and plastic, but some design flaws lead to relatively weak plastic joints holding up heavy die-cast parts.

* '''Optimus Prime (Battle Damaged)''' (3" Robot Master, 2006)

: This is a repaint of the 3" G1 Optimus Prime titanium figurine, with a 'battle-damaged' deco.

*'''Optimus Prime & Bumblebee''' (2-pack, 2007)

: A Toys 'R' Us [[exclusive]] two-pack, this set features "Supermetal Finish" (read: shiny) versions of the "Robot Master" ''Titaniums'' Optimus Prime and Bumblebee.

* '''War Within Optimus Prime Vs. War Within Megatron Battlepack''' (Multipack, 2007)

: A Toys R Us-exclusive item, this ''Titanium'' two-pack features the previously released ''War Within'' Optimus Prime and the upcoming ''War Within'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] figures. Also included is an exclusive variant cover ''War Within'' comic book. Missing, however, is the unique base that comes with all single-pack 6-inch Titaniums (including the original release of War Within Optimus). The Megatron figure is also lacking its base, this despite bases for ''both'' figures being depicted on the instruction sheet. The resulting inconsistancy in their collections has left some fans, already unhappy with the majority of Titanium designs, even more jaded. Poor babies.

===Classics===
* '''Optimus Prime''' (Voyager-class, 2006)
:''Japanese ID Number:'' '''C-01'''

[[Image:ClassicsPrime_Voyager.jpg|right|thumb|210px|Rub my symbol, Marissa. Oops, wrong toyline.]]

: Classics Optimus Prime is an all-new modern Optimus Prime design based upon the original Optimus Prime, as is the intention for the ''Classics'' toyline. He transforms into a modern cab-over style truck of made up model, dominated by a large aerofairing on his roof. He was not designed to pull a trailer, and subsequently does not come with one.

:In robot mode, he transforms similarly to Powermaster Optimus Prime and the recent [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Cybertron Optimus Prime]] in that the back of the truck forms the front of the robot mode's torso, although in this instance the iconic "pectoral windows" swivel around for both modes. His proportions are based heavily upon the cartoon and comic models of Optimus Prime. In this mode, his aerofairing transforms into a large Ion blaster, and his smokestacks transform into a smaller blaster. Additionally, both can combine together to form a back-mounted shoulder weapon.

:As with most Classics toys, he features a heat-sensitive [[rubsign]].

:This mold was repainted into Classics [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]].

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* '''Optimus Prime''' (Multi-pack, 2006)
[[Image:ClassicsPrime_Vs.jpg|left|thumb|They did me right, [[#20th_Anniversary.2FMasterpiece|once]].]] [[Image:ClassicOptimusVsVehivule.jpg|right|thumb|Not even a [[Guiltar]] wannabe.]]

: This Classics Optimus Prime is a smaller, deluxe-class toy bearing a greater resemblance to the original G1 toy. He is only available in a special Versus pack with a similarly unique Classics [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] toy. His vehicle mode and robot mode is based upon the original toy, but due to limitations in design, budget and gimmick, does not succeed very well. His thighs cannot collapse into his lower legs, meaning they are exposed in vehicle mode, as is his head. Although to be fair, you wouldn't really notice the leg thing if he had a trailer.

:He comes armed with a small machine gun that can be mounted on the back of his truck like a turret. Oh, and he can throw a wild punch with a push of the button on his back.

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* '''Optimus Prime''' (20th Anniversary DVD Edition, 2006)
[[Image:DVD_20thPrime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Discounted at a Walmart near you.]]

: This is a redeco of the 2004 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime, released to coincide with the 20th Anniversary of the original Transformers animated movie and DVD release. He is painted in flatter, non-metallic colours to more closely resemble the original cartoon model, as well as the Voyager-class Classics Optimus Prime figure. The color of the light of his feet has changed too. As a cost-cutting measure, all vacuum-metalized plastic has been replaced with with silver and gold paint. Confusingly, his Ion blaster is now cast in blue plastic.

:He comes with all the accessories he was packed with in his previous release, but includes a display base that can say phrases and sound effects from the movie. However, original actor [[Peter Cullen]] was unavailable, forcing Hasbro to use an in-house voice that sounds nothing like Optimus Prime and a lot like Christopher Walken.

===Pepsi===
*'''Pepsi Optimus Prime''' (Autobot, 2007)
[[Image:PepsiOptimusPrime.JPG|thumb|right|300px|Subservience to Corporate America is the duty of all servile beings. So drink up, chumps; you ''know'' how to swallow.]]
: Sold by [[Hasbro Toy Shop]] at various conventions, Pepsi Optimus Prime is a repackaging of a virtually unaltered 2005 Japanese [[Pepsi Convoy]]. (Again, his stacks are shortened [[for safety reasons]].) However, this U.S. release is, officially, a different character. Whereas the Japanese release's bio explicitly identifies the product as a separate character from [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Convoy]] (created with help from NASA, no less), the U.S. bio conversely indicates that their version of the character most definitely ''is'' Optimus Prime. His motivation for schilling Pepsi is, apparently, that he wanted a new disguise but basically couldn't be arsed to actually reformat into a new [[altmode]].

: Inspired by a 1985 special limited release of Optimus Prime with bonus Pepsi decals for his trailer in the US market, Pepsi Optimus Prime sports an egregious number of new new Pepsi-themed paint masks and decals, as well as an entirely new trailer unit, specially designed to carry a single 500ml-size bottle (a common size in Japan), three 350ml cans, or 12 bottle caps (bottle cap figurines being a common and popular collectible item in Japan).

===Takara Sport Label===
*'''Convoy Nike Free 7.0''' (2007)
:Having already tainted his spark in an alliance with PepsiCo, Prime enters an unholy alliance with Nike, perhaps in the hopes of fighting fire with fire in combating Megatron's bid to exploit the energy potential of sweatshops...
[[Image:NikemusPrime.jpg|thumb|right|220px|Comfortable ''yet stylish'' jogging is the right of all fashionable beings.]]
:This rather unusual product line, thus far comprising only three entries, entirely utilizes the same body mold with different heads, marking this the first time Optimus and Megatron have had identical bodies.

:Something of a [[shellformer]], Nikemus Prime is colored primarily white and red in his alt mode of a realistic-looking, scaled-down Nike sneaker, complete with (gratuitously long) real fabric shoelaces. In robot mode he incorporates some additional blue and silver in predictable areas and has a somewhat uniquely-shaped yet instantly recognizable G1-inspired head. An undocumented aspect of his transformation is that his gun, which splits in two halves and secrets inside his [[kibble]] when transforming (much like [[Rattrap]]'s) has two handle pegs on opposite sides, so that it can be held either at its far end or halfway along its length. The former position makes the weapon look (''charitably'') more like his traditional ion blaster.

:Somewhat perversely, Sneakerus Prime's feet are sculpted in the likeness of his own sneaker alt mode, so in effect ''he is wearing himself!'' Creepy.

*'''Convoy Nike Free 7.0 Marine Version'''
:A redeco of the first Shoeimus Prime in white and blue, which would make you think it's [[author intent|''obviously intended'']] to represent [[Ultra Magnus]]. However, the packaging declares it to be Convoy, so officially...
: (As an odd postscript to this tale of footwear-induced madness, although the promo pictures all showed the shoeformer as a white and navy blue sneaker that transforms into a white and aqua blue robot, the product actually released sported [''geddit?''] much darker colors for all the robot-mode parts, with a deep teal instead of aqua, and almost all the white replaced by an [[Neon|icky]] tan/cream/grey color, including the head. Basically, the figure looks like the promo picture viewed through really dark sunglasses. Although this certainly doesn't make it look any more like Prime, you might argue that it looks a little less like Magnus. Sorta. Maybe. Not really.)
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===Revoltech===
* Series No. 019 '''Convoy''' (2007)
[[Image:Revoltech_Convoy.jpg|left|thumb|100px|Windowbra!]]

:A non-transforming but ''highly'' articulated Optimus Prime action figure(ine), Revoltech Convoy uses the Revoltech "revolver joints" for maximum poseability. Prime comes with a Matrix and Ion blaster accessories, as well as a few alternate hands. His sculpting is explicitly in the style of [[Pat Lee|Pat "serfdom" Lee]]'s interpretation of Prime, but due to physical constraints has no lack of perspective.

:This figure was (surprise, surprise) also redecoed into an [[Ultra Magnus]] variant.

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===Transformers Music Label===
* '''Convoy iPod Docking Bay''' (2007)
: Not content with the delicious PR of being associated with Pepsi or the bitchen' street cred garnered by his Nike cross-promotion, Japan's wacky, endorsement-addicted version of Optimus Prime set his sights on getting a slice of that sweet, sweet Apple™ pie.
[[Image:IPodimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|290px|You just paid 140 bucks for a new headsculpt, didn't you? I bet you don't even ''own'' a damn iPod...]]
: iPodimus Prime pulls an all-white trailer of similar proportions to his vintage G1 load, with rear wheels and discreet propping feet so it can also stand alone. The trailer transforms (sorta), by rotating a substantial wedge of its full length 90 degrees, kinda like a rectangular Rubik's Cube. This exposes two small speakers and "reveals" an alcove (although a huge gap is still clearly evident in trailer mode) featuring an electronic port in which to plug an iPod or iPod nano, thus becoming a working iPod dock. The dock features three working buttons; power, skip up and skip down, as well as an Autobot sigil indicator light. Included is a wall-plugging (Japanese) A/C adaptor with a long lead that plugs into the reverse of the trailer.

: The cab is yet another iteration of the original Optimus Prime/Convoy toy, based on the [[Ultra Magnus]] retool as distinguished by the elongated hubcap pegs on the front wheels. Indeed, the iPod-aesthetic all white deco would make you think this figure ''should be'' Magnus, but no, the packaging clearly says "Convoy", making it twice in one year that Takara has released a white-[[redeco]] Prime that ''isn't'' Magnus.

: The figure comes with the snub-nosed variation of Prime's ion blaster rifle (in black) and no sticker sheet, as even the silver "rib stripe" is painted on rather than the traditional factory-applied sticker. The Trailer has discreet peg holes on its underside to store Prime's fists when in boom-box hauler mode.

:Of particular note to manic Prime [[completist]]s is that this otherwise traditional reissue of the G1 Prime cab has a brand new head sculpt which is essentially a miniaturisation of the Masterpiece/20th Anniversary Prime's noggin. Not only does this give the "classic" Prime toy a more [[Show-accuracy|show-accurate]] head, it's also the first iteration of this familiar mould in which the head is actually poseable. Being one of the better-articulated early G1 toys, Prime can finally look in any direction he can aim.

: Cue inevitable redeco in 3... 2... 1...

===Transformers (2007)===
*'''Softimus Prime''' (2007)
[[Image:Softimus Prime.jpg|left|thumb|100px|Freedom is the right of all sentient beings... in bed.]]

:Softimus Prime is, as his name suggests, a plush G1 Optimus Prime toy. Obviously, he has no problems with articulation and passes the drop test with flying colors. His main draw is the ability to "transform" into his Freightliner FL86 vehicle mode by turning the plush toy inside out, his transformation roughly similar to the Powermaster cab Prime's. He is love.

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===Attacktix===
[[Image:Attacktix_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|He shoots sideways]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Starter Set, 2007)
: ''Attacktix ID number'' '''TF2-19'''
:Faction: Autobot
:Class: Leader
:Special: Last Stand - 13/26 (50%) success ratio
:Point Cost: 40
:Base Speed: 6
:Attack Type: Shooter (Force Blast)
:Optimus Prime will shoot you down. He was released as part of the 2007 Starter Set along with ''[[Generation 1]]'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' [[Landquake (Energon)|Landquake]]) and ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]'' [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]].

:Optimus' Last Stand special allows him to stand up if he's the only figure in your team left in play. If you're down to two men you might even be tempted to shoot your own man just to keep Optimus Prime in play. Don't though. [[Peter Cullen]] wouldn't approve.

:Sadly you can't bring him into play with the ''Cybertron'' [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Super Optimus Prime]] vehicle mode because he's not ''Super'' Optimus Prime.
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===Diablock===
*'''Diablock Convoy''' (2007)
: ''ID number:'' '''01''' ('''Mecha Builder Vol.03''')
Rounding out a bumper year of Japanese-[[exclusive]] G1 Primes, the Takara-lisenced Kawada brand Diablock Convoy is a Lego-style block building figure similar in premise to the earlier American [[Built to Rule]] sets. However, Diablock Optimus Prime differs significantly from his BTR predecessors in two crucial regards:
*Unlike prior BTR figures, Diablock Optimus Prime is an accurate (albeit obviously stylised) representation of the toy on which it is based.[[Image:DiablockPrime.jpg|right|thumb|320px| We have the technology. We can ''rebuild him''. Except, uh.. for his face.]]
*Also unlike BTR, once fully-built Diablock Prime is capable of completely transforming to his truck cab altmode ''without'' having to be partially disassembled and put back together first.

Forming a roughly 11-inch figure when fully assembled, Diablockimus Prime is highly articulated, using 12 ball-jointed block pieces, giving him a range of motion similar to Masterpiece Prime, with the exception of the head, which can only move up and down, not side-to side. Speaking of the head, it is by far the most stylised aspect of the figure, with no real attempt to approximate Prime's face or mouthplate inside a simplified helmet, mainly featuring only a reversed block that gives the odd impression of a cycloptic eye. It is possibly intended to actually represent his forehead grill, as a yellow block inside his head construction remains barely-visible through a slit in his face, possibly intended to represent the classic toy's yellow eyes.

The figure's transformation scheme is based on the original G1 figure, the only differences being that the fists are not removed but become the headlights, and instead of flipping backwards inside the chest, Blockimus Prime's noggin flips forwards with the aid of sideways-opening windows, akin to Masterpiece Prime. A "laser rifle" in the shape of his ion cannon can be built from black bricks, and stickers bearing the Autobot [[faction symbol]] can be placed on Block Prime's shoulders, although this is not recommended as it is designed to permanently stick to multiple tiles which dislodge easily and may damage the sticker.

==Merchandise==
===Metalforce===
* '''Convoy''' (2000)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''MFC-01'''
[[Image:MetalforceConvoy.jpg|left|thumb|180px|I'm expensive!]]

: ''Metalforce'' Convoy is a large vinyl figurine sculpted to very closely resemble Optimus Prime as he appeared in the original television series, and at the time was the most accurate product depiction of Optimus Prime's cartoon appearance.

:The figure has useful swivel joints at the shoulders and neck, and not-so-useful ones at the wrists and knees. It comes fully painted and pre-assembled, but true to his garage figure origins his Ion blaster must be cut free using a hobby knife, then assembled. His clear blue chest window piece is removable to allow the installation of his [[Matrix of Leadership]], as is a [[The Transformers: The Movie (1986)|Movie]]-style Matrix cover (not pictured). He also comes with an alternate hand that allow him to hold his accessories, as well as unpainted and uncut duplicates of his Matrix, hands and helmet, for some reason...

:Metalforce Prime was available in both a matte-paint "anime" version that more precisely echoed the colours of the actual series, and a metallic-paint version (pictured), which is less [[show-accuracy|show-accurate]] but more shiny. The plain-colours version was the first release and has an Autobot symbol tampograph on his shoulder as per [[Generation 1 (cartoon)|the cartoon]], while the later metallic-finish version instead came with a decal sheet.

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===Heroes of Cybertron===
The ''Heroes of Cybertron'' PVC figurine line is an adaptation by Hasbro of Takara's own ''Super Figure Collection'' line. The main differences between the two lines is that Hasbro cast Autobot and Decepticon figures in clear blue or clear red PVC respectively, then completely painted the figurines. This allowed the eyes to 'glow' when placed in front of the light source.

* '''Optimus Prime''' (2002)
[[Image:HOCPrime.jpg|right|thumb|80px|Hey Spike, pull my finger.]]

: This figurine of Optimus Prime is sculpted based upon his television appearances. He is armed with his black Ion blaster and his articulation is limited to his shoulders and neck.

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* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime Apex Armor''' (2002)
[[Image:Aaoptimus.jpg|left|thumb|80px|Don't tell anyone, but this crap is HEAVY!]]

: Actually a repaint of SFC God Ginrai, this figurine's sculpt is based upon Ginrai's television appearances in the series [[Masterforce]]. The figure is depicted as fully combined with both his trailer and Apex Bomber.

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* '''Optimus Prime with Plasma Weapon''' (2002)
[[Image:HOCPrime_axe.jpg|right|thumb|90px|Energon Axe: Only used in one episode. Ever.]]

: The second third HOC Optimus Prime figure is a modification of the first - replacing his right hand/rifle with his energon axe, and replacing his left pointing hand with a closed fist.

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* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime Spark Attack''' (2002)
[[Image:Pmoptimus.jpg|left|thumb|80px|This can't be [[Spark Attack]]! His is so energetic that... he BURNS.]]

: This figure was based upon the "[[Ginrai|God Ginrai]] ''Fire Guts'' repaint".

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===KT Collection===
*'''Convoy''' (2004)
[[Image:Optimus_Prime_KT.jpg|thumb|right|100px|Thanks for helping me... [[City of Steel|pull myself together]].]]
: This figure was produced by [[Wikipedia:Kaiyodo|KT]] and included in a set of four others. The figure is actually a mini bust of Optimus Prime, which includes the head and the upper body without arms. The chest design comes with translucent blue windows and a grill on the midsection. There is also a button in the back. Pushing the button will open the chest and cause the Matrix to emerge, similar to the scene in [[Transformers: The Movie]].

*'''Convoy "Revival version"''' (''Figure-Oh'' exclusive, 2004)
: The 82nd issue of the hobby magazine ''Figure-Oh'' <small>(meaning ''Figure King'' in Japanese)</small> came with a [[redeco]] version of Optimus Prime's mini bust. It is painted completely silver, making him appear to be coated with the special alloy from [[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2]].

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===Transformers (2007)===
*'''Optimash Prime''' (2007)

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===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:Robot_Hero_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Mini-Me!]]
*'''Optimus Prime Vs Ravage''' (2007)

: Packed with [[Ravage]], Optimus Prime is one of the first figures in the Transformers segment of the ''Heroes'' franchise. As with all ''Heroes'' figures, Optimus Prime is a simple, yet well-detailed two-inch tall figurine with exaggerated, cartoony proportions. He is sculpted holding his Ion Blaster rifle in his right fist and his left arm in a pointing pose. He is also love, and demands that you pull his deathfinger.

[[Image:Robot_Hero_Supermetal_Optimus_Prime.jpg|left|thumb|150px|Cuteness is the right of all sentient beings.]]
*'''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (2007)

: "Supermetal Finish" Optimus Prime came in a set also including "Hologram" Mirage, Cliffjumper, "Supermetal Finish" Megatron and Skywarp.

[[Image:Robot_Hero_Matrix_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|150px|'Til all are cute.]]
*'''Optimus Prime Vs Unicron''' (2007)

: Packed with [[Unicron]], a second SD Optimus Prime for the Transformers segment of the ''Heroes'' franchise. This version of the Chibimus Prime has him opening the Matrix of Leadership to shine the Autobots' darkest hour. Better him than [[Hot Rod|Rodimus]].

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===Gold Convoy Trophy===

: A gold chrome [[Gold Convoy Trophy|trophy]] in the likeness of Optimus Prime was given as an award to an unknown number of distinguished [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] employees way back in the 1980s. If you're an Optimus Prime merchandise completist, good bloody luck finding this one.

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==Trivia==
[[image:PrototypeTHB.jpg|100px|left|thumb|Not so Optimus Prime.]]

*The first prototype for Battle Convoy, the ''[[Diaclone]]'' originator of Optimus Prime, was vastly different from the final version, complete with an entirely different transformation and a car carrying trailer. The head lacked the faceplate.

*At [[BotCon 2005]], [[Hideaki Yoke]] revealed that Optimus Prime (or more accurately, ''Diaclone'' Battle Convoy) was not designed by a single person, but rather a team of [[Takara]] designers as the one who was originally assigned the job had fallen behind. It is said that a young [[Shoji Kawamori]] was also a member of this team at some point, who would design '''THS-02 Convoy''' over 20 years later. The patent for the toy, however, lists Hiroyuki Obara as the designer.

{{-}}

*The toy that would ultimately end up as the original Optimus Prime toy was originally released in August 1983 as No.17 Battle Convoy from Takara's Diaclone Car Robo toyline in Japan. In 1984, Joustra released their own version (still with ''Diaclone'' sticker on the trailer) as part of their Diaclone line in Europe, either simply called ''Truck'' (according to the pack-in catalog) or ''Diaclone'' (in the pack-in comic). It's possible that GiG also released a version called ''Camion Convoy'' as part of their Trasformer line in Italy, but to this day no packaged sample has surfaced.

===The many releases of Optimus Prime===
[[Image:SeveralG1Convoy.jpg|200px|right|thumb|My name is Legion, For we are many.]]
Over the years, the original Optimus Prime has been repackaged and reissued multiple times:
*In the USA and Canada, limited edition promotional versions were available sporting Pepsi stickers;
*In addition to the standard Japanese 01 Convoy release, Takara also released the toy as part of the VSX Convoy vs. Megatron two-pack in 1985;
*Takara released a variant sporting clear blue windows and as part of the ''Good Bye Convoy'' set (packaged with Alert/Red Alert and Ligier/Mirage) in 1986;
*French company Ceji Revell released a version with red feet in the UK in 1984;
*Milton Bradley (MB) released the toy in Europe in late 1985, following trademark issues;
*Hasbro re-released the toy in Europe in 1986, including another red feeted variant;
*GiG released the toy as ''Commander'' as part of their Transformers line in Italy in 1985, including an all-plastic variant in 1986;
*Hasbro reissued the original toy as part of their European [[Classics (Euro)|Classic]] line of reissues in 1991;
*Hasbro released a redecoed version with additional accessories as part of their ''Generation 2'' line in 1993;
*Takara reissued the original toy in its original 1985 Japanese packaging in 2000, with an all-black recolor being available from assorted Japanese conventions and another variant with gold chromed parts as a lucky draw prize;
*Takara reissued the toy again as ''New Year Special'' version in January 2002, sporting clear blue windows (similar to Good Bye Convoy) and featuring additional accessories such as a Matrix necklage and a [[Show-accuracy|show accurate]] recolor of the Action Master Optimus Prime figure;
*Hasbro reissued the toy in the USA and the UK as part of their ''Commemorative Series'' line of reissues in 2002, sporting shortened down smokestacks for safety reasons;
*Takara reissued the toy once again in 2003, as part of their ''Transformers Collection'' line of reissues, numbered 00 and featuring additional accessories such as an energon axe;
*Takara released a recolored version featuring a new trailer in December 2005, called ''[[Pepsi Convoy]]''.
*Hasbro released their own version of Pepsi Convoy, named "Pepsi Optimus Prime", as a Hasbro Toy Shop exclusive in 2007, featuring the familiar [[For safety reasons|safety]]-shortened smokestacks of the Commemorative Series reissue.
*In August 2007 TakaraTomy yet again did a rerelease similar to the 2000 Convoy rerelease, this time as part of the "Transformers Encore" line.
*TakaraTomy released [http://seibertron.com/advertisement.php?id=8 "Convoy iPod Docking Bay with Speakers"] in September 2007. It is an iPod speaker/dock in the shape of a truck, featuring an all-white version of Convoy with a remolded head reminiscent of Masterpiece Convoy as the cab, and a trailer housing a pair of speakers and a docking point for an iPod.

===Powermaster Optimus Prime===
[[Powermaster]] Optimus Prime, being the grand toy rebirth of Optimus Prime post-movie, apparently received a lot of thought during the design process. Prime went through an inordinate number of design changes from concept to final with at least three very major revisions:

[[image:EarlyPMPrime1.jpg|100px|right|thumb|Overcompensating.]]
*The earliest version, as shown in the first patent application for the toy, was to have the Prime cab be a triplechanger, turning from truck cab to jet or robot<ref>[http://v3.espacenet.com/origdoc?DB=EPODOC&IDX=JP63132686&F=0&QPN=JP63132686 Patent #JP63-132686]</ref>. The nosecone of the jet and robot legs were released by the Powermaster lock in the same fashion as the legs in the final version. Optimus would have had winged arms in non-super robot mode. The super robot mode's head was also integrated into the trailer's hitch... and lacked a faceplate.

[[image:EarlyPMPrime2.jpg|100px|left|thumb|Blockhead.]]
*The second known version <ref>[[Transformers Generations Deluxe]], p22, p106</ref> ditched the triplechanging gimmick on the cab and simplified things a good bit. This Powermaster Prime has several distinct characteristics only seen in the second design, such as the wider "block head" and two faux smokestacks on top of either shoulder as opposed to one. Also, in a rather odd twist, this design features a black head and fists for both super and regular modes rather than the traditional blue. It also had yellow eyes in either mode a la the original Optimus Prime.

{{-}}

*The third version <ref>[[Transformers Generations Deluxe]], p106</ref> would quite possibly have been the most gimmick loaded Transformer in the history of the line, simultaneously being a Powermaster, [[Headmaster]], and triple changer. The Headmaster also would have been a triplechanger, turning into a sort of armored four-wheeled rover (Roller II?) and robot as well as a rather silly looking Optimus Prime head with four vertically aligned wheels jutting off the sides. It seems that when the extra Headmaster gimmick was scrapped, the super mode head remained separate rather than being reintegrated into the trailer hitch such as on the earliest design. Notably, the body of this design is extremely close to the final design.

*A fourth version is shown in the 1987-88 Transformers product catalog that has several minor differences from both Powermaster Prime and [[Ginrai|God Ginrai]], such as having God Ginrai's sliding fists but in red, a completely different trailer hitch assembly partially based on the third design, an offset Autobot symbol in base mode, extended feet also based on third design, far more detailed super mode outer leg panels, completely different front bumper, and the first instance of single faux shoulder smokestacks rather than two. It is still unknown as to why Powermaster Prime has completely different arms from God Ginrai or all earlier concept versions.

'''Minor note:''' Powermaster Prime's animation model as used in the commercials and as a character guide for the Marvel comics is a composite of the second and third designs. The body of the model is actually a straight tracing of the concept lineart for the third version (including its different rifles and twin faux shoulder stacks), with a slightly simplified drawing of the second version's head drawn on top.

===Alternators Optimus Prime===
Originally, the [[Alternators]] Dodge Ram mold was intended by Hasbro to be a completely different character altogether than Optimus Prime (which character is unknown), but Takara reportedly demanded the Ram be made into Optimus out of fear that the toy (whose vehicle mode is scarce in Japan as a real vehicle) wouldn't sell as well in their market if it wasn't a popular and easily recognized figure; as the figure reportedly cost twice as much to build as the others, Hasbro had to agree in order for Takara to continue fronting part of the production cost. In an ironic turn of events, the Dodge Ram was prematurely solicited by Takara not as "Convoy" (Optimus Prime), but as his Masterforce look-alike [[Ginrai]]. As a matter of fact, the head sculpt for the Alternators Oprimus Prime toy ''is'' based on the Super Ginrai (Powermaster Optimus Prime's "super mode") toy's head sculpt. Ultimately, however, Ginrai was cancelled, with only Hasbro releasing Optimus Prime as originally planned. Eventually, Takara released the Dodge Ram as as part of the new [[Kiss Players]] line, now named "Convoy" (Optimus Prime).

==External links==
* [http://www.toybin.org/search.php?q=1984+Autobot+Optimus+Prime ToyBin Optimus Prime Toy gallery]
* [http://www.tfu.info/1984/Autobot/OptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm Optimus Prime on TFU.info]

== Footnotes ==
<references />

[[Category: Action Masters]]
[[Category: Alternators]]
[[Category: Attacktix]]
[[Category: Autobots]]
[[Category: Autobot leaders]]
[[Category: Battlestars characters]]
[[Category: Beast Wars characters]]
[[Category: Classics characters]]
[[Category: Combiners]]
[[Category: Convention exclusives]]
[[Category: E-Hobby]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category: Go-Bots]]
[[Category: Kiss Players]]
[[Category: Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category: Mail order exclusives]]
[[Category: Powermasters]]
[[Category: Robot Heroes]]
[[Category: Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]
[[Category: Toys "R" Us exclusives]]
[[Category: Unreleased toys]]<div id="wikia-credits"><br /><br /><small>From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</small></div>

Dreamwave Productions

2007-11-01T16:31:59Z

24.89.177.234: /* Other */

[[Image:Dreamwave.jpg|right|thumb|250px|"We're not saying you should buy Dreamwave comics, only that you'll regret it."]]

'''Dreamwave Productions''' was a fairly unknown independent comic book publisher when it obtained the ''Transformers'' license in 2001. For a time, there was gigantic buzz surrounding Dreamwave's relaunch of the Generation 1 title, even pushing it past Marvel and DC's top titles. Many comic book fans had been away from Transformers for a long time and were overjoyed to see highly detailed manga-style art driving a childhood favorite.

Dreamwave published a good deal of ''Transformers'' books, including many varied miniseries, before capitulating to the notoriously fickle comic-buying public. Towards the end of 2004 delays started getting more and more frequent. This was followed by rumors of writers and artists leaving because they weren't being paid, which were then confirmed. In early January 2005, Dreamwave declared bankruptcy, and there were no Transformers comics to be had for more than half of 2005.

==History==
===The beginnings===
Dreamwave Productions was originally launched by brothers [[Pat Lee|Pat]] and [[Roger Lee]] as a studio within [[Wikipedia:Image Comics|Image Comics]] in 1996, at the height of the Image boom.

In 1998, Dreamwave would start to publish various <strike>blatantly plagiarized</strike> originally created titles such as ''[[wikipedia:Ghost in the Shell|Darkminds]]'' and ''[[wikipedia:Record of Lodoss War|Warlands]]'', as well as accepting work-for-hire assignments for other publishers such as the four-issue limited series ''Wolverine/Punisher: Revelation'' for Marvel. Other titles such as ''Shidima'', ''Fate of the Blade'' or ''Arkanium'' would follow. Furthermore, Dreamwave also collaborated with [[wikipedia:VIBE (magazine)|VIBE]] and [[wikipedia:Wizard (magazine)|Wizard: The Comics Magazine]] on various projects, developed an advertising campaign for the [[wikipedia:Dr. Martens|Dr. Martens]] shoe label and created the production designs for the music video to [[wikipedia:Janet Jackson|Janet Jackson's]] song "Doesn't Really Matter".

Initially, the "hook" for Dreamwave's financial success was the drawing style of its president, Pat Lee, which many readers viewed as "manga-like" (although readers of actual Japanese Mangas had a different opinion on this matter).

===Splitting from Image and getting the Transformers license===
In 2001, issue #111 of ''Wizard: The Comics Magazine'' ran a feature named "Big 80s", featuring various popular properties of the 1980s such as ''Thundercats'' or ''Masters of the Universe'' in new interpretations by modern artists. Pat Lee and Dreamwave submitted their own take on the ''Transformers'', one of Pat's personal favorites from his childhood days. That same year, a group of Dreamwave employees (including Alvin Lee, who had worked with Pat on the ''Wizard'' piece) departed from their company to form their own business, UDON Studios.

Shortly afterwards, [[Hasbro]] was offering the license for Transformers comics, with the premise being that the artwork should look close to the sample Dreamwave had done for ''Wizard''. Several companies, including Marvel (with UDON being supposed to handle the art), were interested,<ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?column=litg&article=1365 Lying in the Gutters confirming that other publishers were interested in the Transformers license]</ref> but ultimately it was Dreamwave who offered Hasbro the biggest amount of money, thereby acquiring the license in December of 2001<ref>[http://tformers.com/New-Transformers-Comic/130/news.html TFormers confirms that Dreamwave acquired the Transformers comic license]</ref> - money which Hasbro would ultimately never see in full. To commemorate the new flagship title, Dreamwave officially cut all ties with Image and became an independent publisher on their own.

===Success of the Transformers titles===
Dreamwave's launch title, ''[[Prime Directive|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 1]]'', written by [[Chris Sarracini]] and drawn by Pat Lee, became an instant hit, dominating Diamond's sales charts for months. Dreamwave would soon expand their range of Transformers comics to include an ongoing ''Transformers: Armada'' series (which later evolved into ''Transformers: Energon'' to accompany the respective toylines), initially also written by Sarricini. Although the [[War and Peace|second ''Generation 1'' volume]] was originally supposed to be written by Sarracini again, he was replaced by new writer [[James McDonough]] (who originally worked under the alias "Brad Mick"), thereby ultimately writing an entirely different story than what was originally intended<ref>[http://tformers.com/article.php?sid=1051 TFormers citing a ''Wizard Edge'' article that hints at the originally proposed plot for Dreamwave's Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]</ref>. With [[Original Sin|issue #5]] of the [[Generation 1 (Dreamwave comic)|third ''Generation 1'' volume]] (now an ongoing title), McDonough was joined by his longtime friend [[Adam Patyk]], now forming a writing duo, eventually shifting out his "Brad Mick" alias.

Furthermore, Dreamwave hired fan-favorite [[Simon Furman]] to pen various ''Transformers: The War Within'' mini-series, the first official Transformers fiction ever to be not directly based on an existing toyline. Furman would be joined by artist [[Don Figueroa]], whom Dreamave had hired directly out of the fandom. More fan artists such as [[Guido Guidi]] and [[Joe Ng]] would soon follow Don into the professional comic book world. Meanwhile, Furman would later also take over the ''Armada'' title as a writer.

===Trouble on the horizon===
The first problems arose in 2003, when it turned out that Dreamwave had only acquired the license for distributing ''Transformers'' titles in the USA, which resulted in a temporary hold in the international distribution until the matter was settled.<ref>[http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=580 Newsarama reporting on problems resulting from Dreamwave's lack of a license for an international release of their ''Transformers'' titles]</ref>

Following the success of their ''Transformers'' titles, Dreamwave put their own titles ''Warlands'' and ''Darkminds'' on hold, instead focussing on other licensed books such as ''[[wikipedia:Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles|Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles]]'', numerous [[wikipedia:Capcom|Capcom]] franchises such as ''[[wikipedia:MegaMan|MegaMan]]'', and ''[[wikipedia:Duel Masters|Duel Masters]]'' (a [[Hasbro]]-backed Japanese import card game/toyline). None of those titles would last particularly long, however, and some (mainly numerous Capcom titles) never even got the first issue out. This was also when rumors of creators not getting paid first came up.<ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?column=litg&article=1760 Lying in the Gutters reporting on early rumors of Dreamwave artists not getting paid]</ref> Rumors about a rigid "house style" committing other artists to draw in a style close to company president Pat Lee started to circulate as well, most evident in the second ''War Within'' miniseries, where the original pencils by artist [[Andrew Wildman]] were drastically reworked by the inker, with rather disappointing results.

In mid-2004, Dreamwave announced the "addition" of new creators<ref>[http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/forums/showthread.php?t=31236 The infamous "Dreamwave adds Transformers' creators" press release]</ref>, failing to mention that this also meant the departure of Adam Patyk and James McDonough from the company. Although Dreamwave tried to contain this delicate bit of information by asking websites to consider any public statements by the two regarding their current situation with Dreamwave as "private" and thus delete them<ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?column=litg&article=2033 Lying in the Gutters reporting on Dreamwave's attempt to contain information about Patyk and McDonough's firing]</ref>, some sites ignored that request, thereby revealing that Patyk and McDonough were owed a significant amount of money for their work.<ref>[http://www.tformers.com/article.php?sid=3842 TFormers.com quoting a statement by Patyk and McDonough]</ref> At the same time, Pat Lee would start to do contractual work for Marvel and DC again, such as issues of ''House of M'' or ''Superman/Batman''.

===The end===

While other artists and writers, including Simon Furman, at least temporarily joined the fold of creators not getting paid by Dreamwave, Chris Sarracini was asked to rewrite the stories previously submitted by Patyk and McDonough.<ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?column=litg&article=2045 Lying in the Gutters reporting that even Simon Furman was temporarily not paid, and the stories by Patyk and McDonough were being rewritten]</ref> Likewise, a long-since announced ''Beast Wars'' title McDonough and Patyk had previously worked on was now supposed to be written by Furman instead. However, those stories would ultimately never be published, as Hasbro had already refused to renew Dreamwave's license to publish Transformers comics by this point. <ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?column=litg&article=2054 Lying in the Gutters reporting that Hasbro had revoked Dreamwave's ''Transformers'' license]</ref> Following numerous rumors, including one posted by [[Ben Yee]] on his own website [http://www.bwtf.com/ BWTF.com], Dreamwave officially declared bankruptcy on January 4, 2005, blaming the weak Canadian Dollar and other scapegoats for the company's failure, including a vastly incorrect claim about Dreamwave being the "only Canadian independent comics publisher".<ref>[http://www.tformers.com/article.php?sid=4053 Dreamwave's final press release]</ref>

By this time, Pat and Roger had already spent four months secretly moving most of Dreameave's assets to a new company named Dream Engine, whose website domain was registered to Roger's name. The existence of Dream Engine first became public in early January of 2005.<ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?column=litg&article=2059 Lying in the Gutters discovering the existence of Dream Engine]</ref>

===The aftermath===
The overall amount of Dreamwave's debt was far over a million dollars.<ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?article=2102 Lying in the Gutters' list of Dreamwave's creditors]</ref> While former Dreamwave employees never saw a single cent of the money they were owed for their work, Pat Lee repeated the performance a year later with Dream Engine, ultimately resulting in him departing from the new company and once again starting a new business, ''Pat Lee Productions''. Meanwhile, a Canadian entrepreneur named Christian Dery acquired the remaining Dreamwave assets, including the name "Dreamwave" and the rights to their "original" titles such as ''Warlands'' or ''Darkminds'', in August of 2005. Ultimately, however, no new Dreamwave comics would ever see the light of day, and the "new" Dreamwave ended up not paying employees ''either''.<ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?column=litg&article=2765 Lying in the Gutters reporting on trouble with the "new" Dreamwave]</ref> Eventually, Dreamwave II would close shop in mid-2006, selling back the remaining Dreamwave properties to Roger Lee and Dream Engine.<ref>[http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/index.cgi?column=litg&article=2769 Lying in the Gutters reporting on the final fate of the "new" Dreamwave]</ref>

==Series published==
=== Dreamwave G1 ===
*''[[Prime Directive|Prime Directive (G1 Volume 1)]]''
*''[[War and Peace|War and Peace (G1 Volume 2)]]''
*''[[Generation 1 (Dreamwave comic)|Generation 1 Ongoing (G1 Volume 3)]]''
*''[[The War Within]]''
*''[[The War Within: The Dark Ages]]''
*''[[The War Within: Age of Wrath]]''
*''[[Micromasters (comic)|Micromasters]]''

=== Unicron Trilogy ===
*''[[Armada (Dreamwave comic)|Armada]]''
*''[[Energon (comic)|Energon]]''

=== Transformers/G.I. Joe ===
*''[[Transformers/G.I. Joe Vol. 1]]''
*''[[Transformers/G.I. Joe Vol. 2]]''

=== Other ===
*''[[More Than Meets The Eye]]'' (G1)
*''[[More Than Meets The Eye]]'' (Armada)
* ''[[Dreamwave Summer Special|20th Anniversary Transformers Summer Special]]''

== Footnotes ==
<references />

== External links ==
* [http://tfarchive.com/comics/dreamwave/ By-issue guides, G1 timeline and information (TFArchive)]
* [http://seibertron.com/comics/series.php Cross-referenced information about series and creators (Seibertron)]
* [http://www.electric-escape.net/tf/comics/Dreamwave Another comprehensive guide (Electric Escape)]

[[Category: Comics]]
[[Category: Companies]]
[[Category: Dreamwave| ]]<div id="wikia-credits"><br /><br /><small>From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</small></div>