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Optimus Prime (Animated)

2012-03-27T02:55:10Z

69.171.163.30: Currently, he is now a "Hero of Cybertron" as the autobot who beat megatron.

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{{Template:Disambig3|Optimus Prime}}{{suite}}

:''Optimus Prime is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:OptimusPrimeAnimated.JPG|right|thumb|300px|"Freedom... [[Megatron (BW)|Yeesss]]..."]]

A washout from the [[Cybertron Elite Guard]], '''Optimus Prime''' was reassigned to [[space bridge]] repair duty under the supervision of [[Ratchet (Animated)|Ratchet]]. He is a relatively naive and idealistic young leader, prone to long-winded "inspirational" speeches who leads a small and inexperienced Autobot [[space bridge]] maintenance team. Recently, his crew has landed on [[Earth]], adopted jobs as semi-official superheroes and currently live in an abandoned Sumdac Systems warehouse.

Despite his humble "Bot Next Door" persona, he performs his job with a dedicated seriousness. He transforms into a red truck cab that can be fitted with many kinds of "[[trailer]]" attachments (most notably one that makes him look like a fire engine) and wields a kick-ass, rocket-propelled, extendable battle axe, as well as multiple arm mounted modifications, including grappler cables, fire extinguishers and bola-whip throwers. Despite his formidable abilities and skills, not everyone thought so highly of the young Prime. [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)|Sentinel Prime]] sneers at Optimus's lowly repair job, and [[Supreme Commander]] [[Ultra Magnus (Animated)|Ultra Magnus]] once held the young officer in low regard. More than anything, Prime wanted to be a hero. He's had the speeches, he had the moves...but what was he missing? Maybe [[Stan Bush|The Touch]]?

But since coming to Earth, Optimus has learned the truth about heroism. It's not about glory and destiny, it's about doing the right thing and going to your limit and beyond. Ratchet, for all his cynicism, knows that Prime is a hero, and after seeing him in action, Ultra Magnus himself admitted that Optimus has excellent leadership skills.

Currently, he is now a "Hero of Cybertron" as the autobot who beat megatron.

{{Quote|So, this is what it feels like to be a hero...|Optimus upon his death|"[[Transform and Roll Out]]"}}

==Fiction==
===''Animated'' cartoon===
{{Idw-tfa}}
:''Voice actor:'' [[David Kaye]] (English), [[Hiroki Takahashi]] (Japanese), [[Bernd Vollbrecht]] (German), [[Maciej Walentek]] (Polish), [[Marco Balzarotti]] (Italian), [[Alexandre Marconato]] (Portuguese), [[Carlos Carvajal]] (Latin American Spanish, 1st and 2nd season), [[Javier Rodríguez Castellanos]] (Latin American Spanish, 3rd season), [[Seok Jeong Yang]] (Korean), [[Hesham Hamada]] (Arabic)

[[Image:Arrival5-Optimusvehiclemode.jpg|left|thumb|300px|TRUKK NOT ... other... truck...]]

''Optimus did his [[Autobot boot camp]] training under [[Kup (Animated)|Kup Minor]], who gave him the name "Optimus" because of his cheery, optimistic outlook. Sentinel and [[Blackarachnia (Animated)|Elita-1]] were also in this training platoon. {{storylink|Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac II‎|The AllSpark Almanac II‎}}''

''During his later training days at the [[Autobot Academy]], Optimus impressed Ultra Magnus with his performance in a computer simulated battle against [[Megatron (Animated)|Megatron]]. Although Optimus "died" in the battle, causing his boisterous pal Sentinel to make a crack at his expense, Magnus pointed out that Optimus had just scored higher on the test than anyone in Academy history, and let Optimus know he had great hopes for him.'' {{storylink|The Arrival issue 5#Survival Skills|Survival Skills}}

[[Image:Alongcameaspiderthreefriends.jpg|right|250px|thumb|"Whoa-oh! Surprise hug from Mr. Freaky-Big!"]]

A thousand stellar cycles ago, Optimus and Elita-1 accompanied Sentinel on an unpermitted mission to [[Archa Seven|a forbidden organic planet]] in search of a lost [[Decepticon]] [[Twilight (Animated)|ship]] rumored to be carrying a huge payload of [[energon]] [[energon cube|cubes]]. The mission was declared a wash when the trio discovered that the planet was infested with [[Archa Seven arachnid|giant spiders]], but the trio found that their retreat was not an easy one. Separated from Sentinel in the chaos of a spider attack, Optimus and Elita found the Decepticon ship and its coveted energon cubes, only to be surrounded by another swarm of spiders. Optimus had Elita download his grappler abilities so that they could bring a giant stalactite down on the creatures, causing the energon cubes to explode in the process. As they attempt to swing their way to safety, however, Elita's download timed out and she plummeted back down into the heart of the conflagration, just as Sentinel arrived to bear witness. Knowing that to go after her would mean death, Optimus held Sentinel back from pursuing Elita and forcibly dragged him back to the surface just before they were caught in the explosion. {{storylink|Along Came a Spider}}

Sentinel never forgave Optimus for making him leave Elita behind, and bore a grudge against him for the next thousand years, constantly belittling him and sniping at him. When the failed mission came to the attention of Ultra Magnus, the two were brought to a military tribunal. Sentinel gladly placed the blame for Elita-1's death at Optimus' feet, and gallantly, Optimus took the fall for leading the mission. He was discharged from the Academy, never to join the Elite Guard. Luckily for Optimus, Magnus thought that maybe the bot he once had such high hopes for still had some potential, and gave him the rank of "Prime" and his own ship...a [[Omega Supreme (Animated)|rusted out junker]] filled with the incompetent young bots [[Bumblebee (Animated)|Bumblebee]] and [[Bulkhead (Animated)|Bulkhead]], plus a crotchety old medic, [[Ratchet (Animated)|Ratchet]].

During one of their routine [[Space Bridge]] terminal repair missions, Optimus Prime's crew stumbled upon a bot named [[Prowl (Animated)|Prowl]] who was trying to complete his [[Cyber-Ninja]] training. Unfortunately, an [[energon cube]] explosion destroyed his ship, so Optimus offered Prowl a place on his crew. The would-be cyber-ninja expressed frustration at the constant curveballs life had thrown at him thus far, and Optimus noted that he could easily relate to that sentiment.
{{storylink|Endgame, Part I}}

[[Image:Ani crew.JPG|left|thumb|300px|Call me Captainimus Prime!]]

Fifty years ago, Prime and his crew came across the [[AllSpark]] while repairing a space bridge and brought the artifact aboard their ship. During transport, they were discovered by the [[Decepticon]]s, and [[Megatron (Animated)|Megatron]] came after them. He proved too strong to take head on (in spite of [[Starscream (Animated)|his subordinate]] planting a bomb on his chassis), but when [[Teletran-1]] neared [[Earth]], Prime knocked Megatron overboard. The Autobots stayed in stasis for the next 50 years until they were accidentally awakened by an apparent intruder. Optimus and the Autobots took on Earth vehicles as alternate modes in an attempt to assimilate with what they believed to be the local dominant culture. Prime and his team were able to dispatch a bio-mechanical insectoid that was attacking Detroit. They were hailed as heroes for it.

[[Image:Sariprime.jpg|right|120px|thumb|Insert what where?!]]

Over the next several weeks, the Autobots got to learn human culture and customs, doing their best to prevent disasters and save lives. Eventually, Starscream came for the AllSpark, and Optimus found that the schemer could pack quite a punch. The Autobot officer was still able to keep Starscream from getting the artifact, though at the cost of his life. However, he was quickly revived by [[Sari Sumdac]] and her AllSpark-influenced [[AllSpark Key|key]]. Later, the Autobots helped rebuild parts of Detroit that were destroyed in their battle with Starscream. {{storylink|Transform and Roll Out}}

Unfortunately for Optimus, he had gained a reputation outside of Earth's atmosphere—not as a hero, but as the slayer of Megatron. The Decepticon [[Blitzwing (Animated)|Blitzwing]] placed a large bounty on his head, and pretty soon, [[Lockdown (Animated)|Lockdown]] came to collect. He captured Prime and stole his axe and grapplers. Fortunately, Ratchet saved him, finally getting the old bot to open up more. {{storylink|The Thrill of the Hunt}}

[[Image:TFA ep9 Optimus and Blackarachnia rooftop.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Optimus Prime is all left feet, but that's still not as many as Blackarachnia.]]

During the Autobots' first [[Halloween]] on Earth, the Decepticon [[Blackarachnia (Animated)|Blackarachnia]] ambushed [[Bumblebee (Animated)|Bumblebee]] and [[Bulkhead (Animated)|Bulkhead]] and kidnapped Sari. When Optimus Prime tried to fight Blackarachnia, she dodged all his moves, as she had trained with him. Prime was shocked to learn that Blackarachnia was his old Autobot Academy classmate Elita-1, who hadn't died but been mutated while fighting off the giant arachnids those many years ago. Blackarachnia tried to use Sari's AllSpark key to remove the organic aspects from her biology, but the key began to drain the life from everything organic around and nearly killed Blackarachnia herself. Prime removed the key, saving Blackarachnia and the organics. Still calling her Elita, Prime tried to convince her to return to the Autobots so they could try and help her. She repaid that kindness by injecting him with venom and telling him that she would never trust him again. Prime was left to reflect on the friend he'd failed not once, but twice. {{storylink|Along Came a Spider}}

When Decepticon energy signals were detected near the city, the Autobots quickly realized that their options were limited. Bulkhead mentioned that the [[Dinobot (Animated)|Dinobots]] might help, forcing [[Prowl (Animated)|Prowl]] to reveal how the two moved them to [[Dinobot Island (Animated)|Dinobot Island]]. Prime's reaction was...displeased, to say the least. Ranting that all he had to command were insubordinate malfunctions, Prime also concluded that the Key was no longer safe with Sari, and he ordered Ratchet to take it from her. As Sari ran off crying, Bumblebee mouthed off that their situation was an indication that Prime was unfit for command.

[[Image:Megatron Rising Optimus rant.JPG|right|170px|thumb|[[wikipedia:Red_Forman|Dumbasses]]!]]

Heading to Dinobot Island, Prime did not get off to a good start with [[Grimlock (Animated)|Grimlock]], mostly because Grimlock considered him lunch. After Prowl smoothed things over, Prime tried to convince them to help the Autobots fight the Decepticons, but Grimlock was uninterested. Receiving word from Ratchet that the Key had been stolen, Prime ordered Ratchet to guard the AllSpark while the Autobots headed back for the mainland. Prime himself also began to wonder if he was fit for command, seeing as all his decisions had blown up in his face. When Bumblebee contacted the Autobots to inform them that Starscream was at [[Sumdac Tower]], he refused Prime's order to hold back and went to attack the Decepticon on his own. Prime dryly noted that the day just kept getting better and better.

Then everything pretty much went to Hell when Megatron burst out of Sumdac Tower, to the shock and horror of just about everyone. {{storylink|Megatron Rising - Part 1}}

Quickly regaining their composure, the Autobots attacked. Megatron beat the [[Slag (slang)|slag]] out of them. Though Optimus fared slightly better, Megatron still brought him down fairly quickly. They were only able to escape when Megatron punished Starscream for his betrayal. Taking refuge within Sumdac Tower, [[Isaac Sumdac|Professor Sumdac]] explained his role in Megatron's revival and helped repair the Autobots with residual key energy. After Bumblebee called Prime to answer for his earlier assessment of them, Prime admitted he was wrong and asked them for forgiveness. When Ratchet and Sari showed up with Teletran-1, the Autobots took flight, hoping to lure the Decepticons away from Earth to prevent human casualties. Unfortunately, the Decepticons shot down the vessel and caused it to crash on Dinobot Island.

[[Image:Megatron Rising Optimus Megatron Key shove.JPG|left|200px|thumb|"Now, light our darkest hour!"]]

As the Autobots took on the Decepticons, Optimus faced down Megatron, which went as well as the first time. When Megatron got into the Autobots' ship, he took the AllSpark and placed the powerful artifact within him, using it as a weapon against Prime. However, Megatron had dropped the key, and Sari threw it to Prime. The Autobot officer used the key to send a surge of energy through the AllSpark, causing it to disperse while still in Megatron. With the threat passed, Prime apologized to Sari and returned the key, saying it was too important to be trusted with an Autobot. {{storylink|Megatron Rising - Part 2}}

After the battle with the Decepticons, the [[Cybertron Elite Guard]] arrived to take the AllSpark back to Cybertron. Optimus explained that the AllSpark had been dispersed and that the Decepticons had been defeated. Sentinel Prime accused Optimus of lying and took every chance he could to belittle his former friend, but [[Ultra Magnus (Animated)|Ultra Magnus]] decided to investigate their claims. Optimus took them to Dinobot Island, but the Autobots did not make a good impression on the Dinobots. Before they could investigate, they received a message from Ratchet, saying that [[police drone]]s had gone haywire at a Sumdac Systems manufacturing plant. Optimus managed to get Sari inside and shut off the assembly line, but the key was stuck in the console. Before Optimus could help, Sentinel pushed him aside and promised to see Optimus charged for high treason. Tired of Sentinel's slag, Optimus finally stuck up for himself and told Sentinel where to shove it, destroying the console the key was stuck in and revealing an AllSpark fragment. Ultra Magnus accepted the shard as proof of Optimus Prime's claims. Though Sentinel still refused to believe him, Magnus said that Optimus Prime displayed many qualities that Sentinel himself could use. {{storylink|The Elite Guard}}

[[Image:Returnofheadmaster optimuslaughs.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Ha ''Ha!'' [[Decapitation]].]]

When Sentinel and Optimus were at a press conference with [[Augustus Edsel|Mayor Edsel]], they received a call about a Decepticon sighting in old Detroit. After Sentinel mangled the roads en route, he told Optimus to split up and search on his own. Hours later, Optimus received a communication to from Sentinel to dismiss the police and come to Sentinel's location alone—and not to laugh when he got there. What Optimus found was Sentinel Prime's severed head, with his [[Structure|body]] having been stolen by the [[Headmaster (Animated)|Headmaster]]. He promised to help Sentinel find his body without letting Ultra Magnus or the other Autobots know, but not before taking a moment or two to enjoy the situation.

Heading for Sumdac Tower, Optimus confronted [[Porter C. Powell]], who denied knowing where Masterson was and told him the Autobots were no longer welcome at the facility. Optimus left, but immediately tapped in on Powell and Masterson's phone conversation, letting Optimus track Masterson to the docks. After encountering mini-Headmasters in the form of [[Tutor Bot]] and [[Sparkplug (robot dog)|Sparkplug]], Optimus was able to get aboard the ship before it sailed away. Finding the Headmaster with Sentinel Prime's body, Optimus Prime proceeded to beat the living slag out of his attacker, much to Sentinel's discomfort. Finally defeating the mad scientist, Optimus reattached Sentinel's head to his body, but Masterson walked away due to legal technicalities. When Ultra Magnus asked them about it the next day, Optimus covered for Sentinel, saying that Sentinel had volunteered to use himself as bait to capture Masterson, and Magnus praised their bravery. In an awkward moment, Sentinel thanked Optimus for all he'd done, and the two shook hands amicably. {{storylink|The Return of the Headmaster}}

[[Image:Sentinel vs Optimus%2C with Jazz in the middle.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Jay Leno VS. Bruce Campbell, Battle of [[chin]]s.]]

When word of Decepticon attacks came after learning that Megatron was still alive, Ultra Magnus decided that Optimus and his Autobots would be needed elsewhere repairing damaged space bridges. The Elite Guard also wanted Optimus to...leave out that whole destruction of the AllSpark and Megatron's survival thing for the time being. When they detected an AllSpark shard energy signature in a human train, the Elite Guard went to retrieve it. Detecting Starscream, Optimus realized it was a trap and was forced to place stasis cuffs on Sentinel Prime to leave the Elite Guard's ship. Meeting up with his crew, he helped them remove the shard and save the humans. Magnus and Sentinel, who by now had broken out of his cuffs, were about to rip Optimus a new one for insubordination, assault, and the lack of evidence over the Decepticons—at which point Starscream's body crashed mere meters away from them, having been offlined by Megatron (again). When Starscream knocked out Ultra Magnus, Optimus took command (much to Sentinel's displeasure). He managed to place the stasis-cuffs on Starscream, and Ultra Magnus decided that Optimus Prime and his team would be allowed to stay on Earth, locate the remaining AllSpark shards, and arrest the remaining Decepticons. {{storylink|Mission Accomplished}}

Later on, when Bulkhead brought [[Scrapper (Animated)|Scrapper]] and [[Mixmaster (Animated)|Mixmaster]] back to Autobot headquarters, Optimus was not impressed with their antics and demanded that they leave. Optimus warned Bulkhead that the duo were not worth spending time with and that they were not capable of learning the ways of an Autobot. After the Constructicons were 'persuaded' by Megatron that their talents would be better utilized in the Decepticon ranks, Prime was furious and despite Bulkhead's insistence that they were his friends, Optimus questioned that they didn't know any better.

Unfortunately, he was proved right when Mixmaster and Scrapper showed up and demanded that they hand over the AllSpark fragments, to which Prime naturally refused. A struggle ensued (in which Ratchet and Bumblebee insisted Prime was 'their dipstick') and Mixmaster held Bumblebee hostage and demands the AllSpark. Prime tried to stall for time and Bulkhead handed over the fragments, to Prime's dismay. Bulkhead then 'had one for the road' and his scheme came to light. With the fragments retrieved, Optimus consoled a distraught Bulkhead and assured him that as long as the Constructicons (now having lost their memory due to the explosion caused by the tainted oil) were not wearing Decepticon badges, they still had a choice. {{storylink|Rise of the Constructicons}}

[[Image:Animated Black Friday Prime Meltdown.jpg|right|175px|thumb|At the end of this day, one shall stand, one shall melt.]]

After learning that the Dinobots helped Meltdown escape, Prime took Prowl and Bumblebee to investigate Dinobot Island. There, he learned that Blackarachnia was manipulating the Dinobots, and had struck a deal with Meltdown to remove her organic half. However, Meltdown needed a [[genetic modifier]]. Blackarachnia, having poisoned Prowl and Bumblebee with her venom, told Prime to help Grimlock get the modifier in exchange for the antivenom that would save his Autobots. Though Prime tried to convince Grimlock of Blackarachnia's evil intentions, Grimlock would hear none of it. Returning to the mainland, Prime revoked his "protector of humanity" title long enough for Grimlock to "convince" [[Porter C. Powell]] to tell them where the modifier was. When Powell realized it was valuable, Prime was tempted to let Grimlock finish him off, but decided the Autobots didn't have time. On their return to Dinobot Island, however, Meltdown turned the tables on them. He revealed that he planned to remove Blackarachnia's NON-organic half, creating the all-organic Transformer he desired, and sicced [[Fusion creature|his earlier experiments]] on Prime and Grimlock. With the other Dinobots' help, they sent the mutants packing. Prime then removed the modifier before Meltdown could finish his experiments, and exposure to the modifier caused Meltdown to break apart. Blackarachnia urged Optimus to come closer, but Grimlock's jealousy caused him to attack, allowing Blackarachnia to flee. When Prime went to Prowl and Bumblebee, he found the anti-venom, and saved their sparks. Although Powell tried to have Prime arrested, Fanzone refused to do anything about it. Because she left the anti-venom, however, Optimus Prime was hopeful that somewhere beneath the anger and betrayal of Blackarachnia, there was still something left of Elita-1. {{storylink|Black Friday (episode)|Black Friday}}

When Bulkhead was kidnapped by Megatron, Bumblebee brought home [[Blurr (Animated)|Blurr]], an Elite Guard intelligence agent who had been assigned to monitor the Decepticons and investigate Optimus Prime's crew (good odds on [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)|the one]] who gave Blurr his orders). When Blurr revealed where the Decepticons were, and that they were building a space bridge with Isaac Sumdac's help, Prime ordered Ratchet and Sari to get the ship back online, while he and the others went to rescue Bulkhead and stop the Decepticons. Before he left, he admitted that he wasn't sure if Professor Sumdac was willingly cooperating with the Decepticons, but promised Sari that he would bring him home alive. Heading to the mines, they were ambushed by Blitzwing and Lugnut, who were incapacitated by Blurr. Reaching the control room, the Autobots were incapaciated by the [[Constructicon (Animated)|Constructicons]]. Fortunately, the Decepticons were too busy with the sudden arrival of Starscream and [[Starscream clone (Animated)|his clones]] to immediately kill them. {{storylink|A Bridge Too Close, Part I}}

Managing to free himself, Optimus found himself in the odd position of fighting side by side with Megatron. But the battle went against the Autobots, with Blurr and a pair of clones sucked into the space bridge and the other Autobots incapacitated. In typical Decepticon fashion, Megatron used Prime as a human (er, 'bot) shield against the clones. After the battle, Megatron decided to use Prime as a test to see if the space bridge worked, where Prime would eliminated by [[Shockwave (Animated)|Shockwave]] if it did. Fortunately, Prowl managed to get free from his stasis cuffs and shatter Optimus Prime's, allowing him to grapple Megatron. However, the power cut out, forcing Megatron to use the severed head of Starscream to further power the bridge, causing an overload. Prime managed to slap stasis cuffs on Megatron, taking him into the bridge, but the Autobots were nearly sucked in themselves before [[Omega Supreme (Animated)|Omega Supreme]] arrived and sacrificed himself to save them. As the bridge self-destructed, the Autobots managed to escape before the mountain came down on top of them. Though mourning the losses of Omega and Blurr, Megatron's plot was foiled, and the Autobots could breathe a collective sigh of relief.

Sighs of relief which turned to gasps of shock and horror when Sari noticed that the skin of her arm had been torn...revealing robotic circuitry underneath! {{storylink|A Bridge Too Close, Part II}}

Leaving the mine, Optimus carried Sari and Isaac with him as the Professor explained what he knew of Sari's origins: years ago, Sumdac found a body of liquid metal, which he touched, and Sari emerged. Remembering all too well the horror story of human manufacturing, Optimus pointed out several flaws in Isaac's story. Optimus provided the necessary muscle to prevent Porter C. Powell and Henry Masterson from trying anything funny when Isaac returned to Sumdac Tower and fired the two, and was on hand to witness Sari activated some sort of weapons system to eject them. Horrified, Sari decided she was better off with her "fellow machines", and Optimus promised to keep her safe until she was ready to talk. Realizing that she wasn't going to talk, Optimus tricked Sari into going to [[Burger Bot]], alerting Sumdac that they were heading there. Unfortunately, the Headmaster had found his Headmaster unit and Starscream's body, and attacked the trio. After a short battle, Optimus tricked Masterson into transforming, saying that a "n00b" like him couldn't do it. The attack managed to reconcile Isaac and Sari, and Optimus took them home, where Prowl revealed his theory that Sari was a protoform merged with Sumdac's DNA.

Later, Ratchet turned up with an unconscious Bulkhead and claims of a missing Bumblebee. Bulkhead theorized that Bumblebee had activated the [[plasma dynamic thruster]], sending him across the universe, and used a homing beacon generator to bring him home. Unfortunately, Bumblebee was swallowed by a [[Rock Lord|rock-like alien]]. As the Autobots tried to figure out how to stop the creature without harming Bumblebee, Sari used the Key to upgrade herself into a more powerful mech. She defeated the monster, but overloaded and was unable to control her movements, seriously injuring Bumblebee. The Autobots were able to remove the Key, only to discover Sari kept going and the Key had been drained. Ratchet was forced to deactivate Sari with his EMP generator.

Returning to the plant, Optimus informed Isaac of Sari's condition, deciding that this family was done keeping secrets from each other. Unfortunately, Megatron arrived, commanding Omega Supreme. Optimus and the others led Megatron out of the city, where he and Prowl boarded Omega, removing Megatron's influence. Unfortunately, Starscream took over Omega Supreme, and decided to conquer Cybertron. Optimus latched aboard the departing vessel, and shoved the plasma dynamic thruster into Omega, sending him warping across the galaxy randomly, ending the threats of Megatron and Starscream for a while. {{storylink|TransWarped}}

After reprimanding Bumblebee for playing video games while on monitor duty, Optimus led the Autobots out on a search mission when they detected a Cybertronian energy signature. While Optimus was away, he received an emergency call from Bumblebee, revealing that Wasp was at the plant. By the time the Autobots returned, Wasp had switched places with Bumblebee. Unable to convince his teammates of the ruse, Bumblebee fled, and just as Optimus and his remaining Autobots gave chase, Sentinel Prime and Jazz cut them off. Sentinel was unwilling to listen to Optimus's claims that Wasp was innocent and Longarm Prime was the real traitor, and he took off for Wasp. Optimus had their group split up to try and find Wasp first, ordering Ratchet to come with him while Bulkhead and Prowl went to check another section of the city. While searching, Optimus and Ratchet discovered two Cybertronian fliers and assumed they were Decepticons. Only after fighting with the pair did they learn that [[Jetstorm (Animated)|Jetstorm]] and [[Jetfire (Animated)|Jetfire]] were Elite Guard members who had been upgraded with flight protocols duplicated from Starscream.

As Optimus, Ratchet, and Jazz watched Sentinel flail about on the wet roads, still ignoring pleas to warn Cybertron about Longarm, Optimus asked how Jazz was able to stand the obnoxious Prime, and was surprised to learn that the Elite Guard ninja ignored "only half" of what Sentinel said. When the jet twins reported to Sentinel that Bulkhead and Prowl were working with Wasp, Sentinel ordered all of Optimus's crew arrested, despite Optimus putting it as simply as possible: Wasp wasn't a double agent, so Bulkhead and Prowl couldn't be his fellow double agents. Once they reached the others, Optimus had to deal with Sentinel's insistence on arresting them all to let Ultra Magnus sort them out, despite Prowl and Bulkhead now believing that Wasp and Bumblebee had switched places. Overruling Sentinel's demands, Optimus had everyone return to the plant, as that's where Wasp had to be if 'Bee's story was true. By the time they returned, Wasp had read up on Bumblebee's files and so was able to relate a number of 'Bee's adventures to "prove" he was the real deal. When Bulkhead had Bumblebee and Wasp play ''[[Ninja Gladiator]]'' to see who the real one was, Prime had no better suggestion. Wasp choked under the pressure and fled, and Jazz finally realized that Optimus had been telling the truth about Longarm being a double agent. An oblivious Sentinel asked why they hadn't told him this in the first place, and Optimus sighed in exasperation. {{storylink|Where Is Thy Sting?}}

With the Elite Guard remaining on Earth, the Autobots began a search for the rest of Megatron's Decepticons. During one search, Optimus saw an unfamiliar shadow with a strange helmet. Following it, Optimus, Prowl, and Jazz discovered Sentinel Prime had captured [[Sunstorm (Animated)|Sunstorm]] without making a sound. Despite his notorious ego, Sentinel refused to elaborate on the capture, and even bolted the clone's mouth shut when he started to talk. Returning to the Elite Guard ship, Optimus discovered that Sentinel had also captured Blitzwing and Swindle, as well, and was equally vague on the details. After helping Prowl investigate the mysterious helmeted figure, Optimus returned to the ship where he, Jazz, and Prowl were shocked to discover that Sentinel had captured Lugnut. Now convinced that Sentinel was lying to them, Optimus and the others eventually followed him to [[Tigatron Stadium]], where they discovered a stasis-cuffed Sentinel, the [[Ramjet (Animated)|Liar Starscream]], Lockdown (wearing the mysterious helmet), and that Sentinel had been having Lockdown capture the Decepticons in exchange for parts of the Elite Guard ship. After a battle, the clone was captured, but Lockdown escaped. Returning to the Elite Guard ship, the Autobots made contact with Cybertron, learning that Shockwave had attacked Ultra Magnus and stolen the [[Magnus Hammer]] in the process. Optimus decided not to inform Cybertron Command of Sentinel's misconduct, but instead gave Prowl all the credit for the captures. Sentinel expressed annoyance that he didn't get any credit for the captures, and Optimus told his former friend that when the smoke cleared, there would be a reckoning between the two Primes. {{storylink|Five Servos of Doom}}

[[Image:PredaconsRising-BASentinelOptimus.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Hail hail, the gang's all here!]]

However, Sentinel remained on Earth, convinced that Wasp knew something about the attack on Ultra Magnus. Efforts to locate Wasp were hampered by Sentinel's refusal to recognize Optimus's authority on Earth, claiming he was the ''primer'' Prime. Things came to a head when the Dinobot Swoop captured Wasp and took him to Dinobot Island. Realizing that Blackarachnia might be involved, Optimus tried to warn Sentinel about her, but he refused to listen, as usual. Reaching the island, Optimus found Blackarachnia draining Sentinel of his powers, and offered himself in Sentinel's place. Blackarachnia didn't care; as far as she was concerned, she had every right to slag them both for abandoning her. She also revealed that she had made Wasp into the technorganic Waspinator in the hopes that if she could change him back, she could change herself back into Elita-1. However, Waspinator heard this, and tried to attack Blackarachnia. Reaching critical mass, Blackarachnia wrapped herself and Waspinator into a cocoon to contain the transwarp explosion. The Autobots were barely able to avoid the blast radius, which appeared to destroy most of Dinobot Island. Optimus concluded that Blackarachnia sacrificed herself to save them, but Sentinel thought that she sacrificed Waspinator to escape. Although Sentinel did not press the issue, Optimus could see that he was deeply hurt by what he had experienced.

A short time later, the Elite Guard were preparing to leave, and Optimus Prime's crew were seeing them off. Optimus actually defended Sentinel when the twins poked fun at him, saying that for all his flaws, Sentinel was a good bot at spark. Sentinel later came out to talk to Optimus privately, and Optimus apologized, both for not telling Sentinel about Elita's survival, and for not letting Sentinel go back to try and rescue her. In turn, Sentinel apologized for coming up with the idea to go to the planet, but admitted that the time was past for apologies. Optimus ended the conversation on a lighter note, saying that Cybertron needed a leader, and for better or worse, Sentinel Prime was that leader. Sentinel agreed, and the two Primes finally appeared to bury the hatchet. {{storylink|Predacons Rising}}

Optimus Prime's mood soon soured as the [[Christmas]] season rolled in, and the latest must-have product from Porter C. Powell was advertised all over the city—the all-singing, all-dancing [[Soundwave (Animated)|Soundwave]]! After following a lone Soundwave and almost getting decapitated by a train, he decided he was obsessing over nothing and rejoined the other Autobots for some [[oilnog]]... not realizing it had been spiked by another Soundwave, forcing Optimus and the others into taking an early [[Stasis lock|stasis nap]].

[[Image:TFAni Human Error Part 1 Optimus Human.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Worst. Hangover. ''Ever!'']]

As Optimus woke up the next morning, he discovered, to his horror, that he and the others had inexplicably become human. Despite his hopes, Ratchet could find no rational explanation for their transformation. Deciding the best course of action was to head to Sumdac Tower, the Auto''men'' set off into the city. A quick stop at the Burger Bot turned to them fleeing from an attacking Decepticon armada, followed by Optimus and Prowl saving a woman and [[Gary|her son]] from a burning building, to (badly) fighting off an attacking Starscream and finally—perhaps worst of all—having to take public transportation to Sumdac Tower. However, no sooner had they arrived at their destination then they witnessed the tower blasted to ruins... by a Megatron-controlled Cybertron!

But just as the Autobots seemed on the brink of destruction, Optimus came to a realization—none of what they had experienced was real, but a virtual reality simulation! They took out the Decepticons together with superhuman feats, Optimus destroying Megatron himself with a well aimed axe into his cannon. As the dust settled and the Decepticons disappeared, they "imagined" themselves into their real forms once again. But as soon as they had made the transformation, a giant Soundwave scooped them up into the sky, blasting them all with energy.

In the real world, Optimus and his crew were all prisoners of the real Soundwave in the basement of the Autobot hideout, as part of the sonic warrior's plan to reprogram them into being Decepticons. As their captor started to accelerate the reprogramming, Optimus opened his eyes to reveal them glowing red... {{storylink|Human Error, Part I}}

[[Image:PrimeReadyToRock.jpg|thumb|left|200px| "I don't need no instructions to know how to rock!"]]

A wire from an attack Sari had made on Soundwave disrupted the connection, but after a failed escape attempt by Prowl, Soundwave reverted all the Autobots to their human forms and used his toy replica drones scattered around Detroit to begin hypnotising the human population.

Looking for a way to interface with Soundwave to escape and locating it in the form of his vehicle mode, Optimus gave the order to pursue the Decepticon utilizing the conveniently placed vehicles on which their own alternate modes were based. Unfortunately, Optimus didn't know how to drive extremely well. He still was able to pursue Soundwave, albeit with the fire hose out of control.

When Optimus and his group finally cornered Soundwave, it was revealed to be a trap: Hundreds of Soundwave's vehicle modes surrounded the Automen, and when the Autobots attempted to escape, their vehicles' seat belts wrapped around them as Soundwave began to reprogram them again.

Controlling the reprogrammed Autobots like puppets, Soundwave used them in a battle with Sari and the [[Substitute Autobot]]s, whom at first they soundly defeated. When Sari ordered the Substitute Autobots to attack all the Autobots at once, however, Soundwave began having trouble multitasking, until he decided to use just Optimus against them. Optimus soundly defeated the Substitute Autobots again and was about to kill Sari when the freed Prowl used his shuriken to blast Ratbat out of Soundwave's hands, liberating the rest of the Autobots. Optimus then grabbed Laserbeak, forced him into guitar mode, and engaged in a brief (''epic'') Battle of the Bands scenario before using Laserbeak to slice Soundwave and Ratbat in half, destroying the Decepticon's control over the citizens of Detroit. He and Sari then exchanged mutual new appreciation of each other's daily difficulties, Sari better understanding the stresses of command, Optimus now realizing the rigors of being human. {{storylink|Human Error, Part II}}

[[Image:TFAni Decepticon Air Swindle Optimus Hand.jpg|thumb||180px|right|"GIVE ME YOUR FACE!"]]
Optimus later congratulated Professor Sumdac and Bulkhead for completing a space bridge terminal in record time, and he was amazed when Sari single-handedly and expertly recalibrated the transwarp sequencers. However, he soon received a message from Sentinel Prime, who had accidentally freed several Decepticon prisoners on the Elite Guard ship, which decrypted to "Broken Lance", the coded distress call Sentinel used to use in their Academy days. Using the space bridge terminal to get to the ship, Optimus promptly emerged from Swindle's chest, having arrived in the pocket dimension which Swindle used to hold all his stock. Taking an elevator to the ship's energon storage chamber, Optimus slightly destabilized some energon cubes by perforating them with his axe, then put them in the elevator car and sliced the cables, so it exploded near the bottom just as the Decepticons pried open the doors. Slightly charred from the backblast, Optimus entered one of the service ducts and worked his way back to the brig area, grumbling as he did so.

Soon after, Prime freed his fellow Autobots and told Jazz to rewire the decontamination unit on the bridge as a freezing chamber to trap the Decepticons. At the same time, taking a cue from Sentinel's coded transmission, he made his Autobot symbol blink in [[Cybertronian optical code|Cybertronian Optical Code]] to tell Jazz that the decontamination chamber would be the only part of the bridge ''not'' to get frozen. After convincing the Elite Guard to surrender to the Decepticons (but not before using Sentinel as a slingshot against Lugnut), he endured Blitzwing locking them in the decontamination chamber and gloating all the while—until Blitzwing pressed the button and all the Decepticons on the bridge were frozen. Sentinel offered Optimus the Elite Guard spot that would be left when Sentinel became Magnus, but Prime declined, saying that he still had plenty to do on Earth. Optimus then returned to Earth on the Elite Guard's ship, and he and Sentinel traded salutes before they went their separate ways.
{{storylink|Decepticon Air}}

[[Image:Endgame2-OptimusPrimeInArmor.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Optimus cannot fly! [[To sell toys|What is happening?]]]]

When Bulkhead detected Omega Supreme on the Moon, Ratchet tried to convince Optimus to use the [[Magnus Hammer]] against Megatron to rescue Omega and Arcee. Optimus felt unworthy due to his discharge from the [[Autobot Academy]] and ban from the Elite Guard, and instead requested that Ratchet build him a modification to [[Optimus Prime (Animated)/toys#Wingblade|let him fly]]. As part of a counter to Ratchet's protest that "Autobots don't fly", Prowl volunteered his boosters to use as a basis for Optimus's mods. When Ratchet ran into trouble on the jetpack, Sari used her Allspark powers to find the problem, and Ratchet soon had an attachable winged jetpack for Optimus to test out. Optimus loved the new ability to fly, shouting "Yessssss!" as he slipped the surly bonds of Earth, but he was shot down by [[Slipstream (Animated)|Slipstream]]. With a jetpack that didn't even give him an advantage over a Starscream clone, and with Megatron's [[Lugnut Supreme]]s fast approaching, Optimus decided he no longer had a choice and picked up the Magnus Hammer, ready to stand up in this [[darkest hour]]. {{storylink|Endgame, Part I}}

Though hesitant about taking to the air given his previous performance, Optimus took to the skies with Prowl to drive the Lugnut Supremes away from Sumdac Tower while Ratchet, Bumblebee, Bulkhead, and Sari went to the Moon to sever Megatron's access to Omega Supreme. After a little trouble, Optimus was able to use the Magnus Hammer to cause a tornado that threw the clones to Dinobot Island, damaging one and rendering the other two unable to fly. However, they were still online and resumed their march to Sumdac Tower. Optimus instructed Prowl and Jazz to enter the clones and remove their AllSpark fragments while he himself fought Megatron. Unfortunately, when Omega was severed from the clones, it activated their hidden function as ''Starscream'' clones, complete with bombs capable of destroying everything within one hundred square miles. Omega returned in time to destroy one clone, and Prowl and Jazz used processor-over-matter to assemble stray AllSpark fragments and power a shield strong enough to contain the remaining clone.

[[Image:TFA-Endgame-PanAcrossEveryone.jpg|right|thumb|350px|Not bad for ol' what's-his-name.]]

Meanwhile, Optimus and Megatron continued to duke it out, eventually being encased in the shield with the third clone. As the final clone's bomb began to detonate, a flash of light removed Optimus from the blast. He was found minutes later by the Autobots, and they were exultant until they saw the price of victory: Prowl had merged his spark with the AllSpark fragments to save them all. As Optimus ran toward his fallen comrade, Megatron appeared and blasted the Autobot captain. Ratchet tossed the Magnus Hammer to Optimus, who beat the Decepticon leader down. Megatron goaded Optimus to finish it, but Optimus instead destroyed Megatron's fusion cannon, saying that killing him would be too easy. Instead, Optimus Prime and his crew, along with Sari and Omega Supreme, returned to Cybertron with Megatron, Shockwave, and Lugnut as prisoners, before cheering crowds (and a not-so-cheery Sentinel Prime) who hailed them as heroes. {{storylink|Endgame, Part II}}

{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|The Stunti-Con Job}}
{{-}}

===Toy bios===
Optimus Prime prefers to fight fairly and in the open. At the same time, he knows bad guys ''don't'', so he utilizes his "night mode" to sneak up on them without being seen. Good lesson, there. {{storylink|Optimus Prime (Animated)/toys#BumperBattlerNightwatch|Nightwatch Optimus Prime}} When the Autobots were preparing for an all-out assault on the Decepticons, Optimus ordered everyone to get their armor upgraded. Ratchet helped him install armor so strong that it can take fusion blasts with ease. {{storylink|Optimus Prime (Animated)/toys#ActivatorArmorUp|Armor Up Optimus Prime}}

===''Be the Hero'' books===
{{Note|As the following stories are [[multipath adventure]]s, details will vary depending on the path taken. See individual pages for information on alternate paths.}}
====''Prime Suspect''====
After saving a [[You|human child]] from being run over by an out-of-control truck, Optimus found that he was being pursued by [[Carmine Fanzone|Captain Fanzone]] and a squad of police. Some investigation turned up the fact that he was accused of breaking into [[HomeTech]]'s laboratory, and they had him doing so on security tape. Rendezvousing at the laboratory, Prime got [[Sari Sumdac|Sari]] and the kid from earlier to go in and look for the footage. Though ultimately unsuccessful, a clue was found that led the Autobots to HomeTech's main warehouse. Within, Prime encountered the Decepticon who had framed him, [[Blitzwing (Animated)|Blitzwing]], and the two battled at length until the other Autobots helped him taken Blitzwing down. With the deception exposed, Prime was confident his name was cleared. {{storylink|Prime Suspect}}

====''Quest for the AllSpark''====
Optimus and [[Ratchet (Animated)|Ratchet]] came up with a surefire plan when [[Megatron (Animated)|Megatron]] took over [[Detroit]]'s robot workforce in an attempt to get his hands on the [[AllSpark]]. The Autobots made false AllSparks and went to hide them around the city. Prime was intercepted by the clearance 'bot [[Crush-A]], and called in the rest of the Autobots, ultimately defeating their foe. {{storylink|Quest for the AllSpark}}
====''Web of Deception''====
When the Autobots' ship on the bottom of [[Lake Erie]] was struck by [[Sparkseeker]] torpedoes, Optimus was knocked offline and abducted by [[Lockdown (Animated)|Lockdown]]. He found himself strapped to an explosive device alongside one of the giant spiders from [[Archa Seven]]. Fortunately Ratchet was able to track him down and rescue him before the bomb could be triggered. {{storylink|Web of Deception}}
====''Time-Quake''====
Optimus and the other Autobots scoured Detroit, searching for the source of some strange temporal anomalies that had begun plaguing the city. Eventually they were able to track down the time machine that was responsible for the disturbances, and Optimus led his team in apprehending the culprit. {{storylink|Time-Quake}}

===Titan Magazines===
[[Image:SPROK%21.JPG|left|200px|thumb|No Country for Old Toys.]]
Optimus was swiftly overpowered by Starscream and [[Starscream clone (Animated)|his army of clones]], as were all the Autobots. The Dinobots arrived to save the day in return for lodgings during a rainy spell, leaving Optimus to ask Ratchet desperately for the weather forecast ''every day'' (the forecast being rain, rain, rain...). {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 17#Dino-MIGHT!|Dino-MIGHT!}}

Later, Detroit was hit by severe earthquakes, and Optimus led the Autobots in a rescue operation, personally holding up a collapsing bridge all by himself. These earthquakes turned out to be the work of the supervillain [[Quake-Maker]]. Optimus fought him but was easily beaten up—but forget Optimus, because the ''awesome'' Elite Guard operative [[Afterburn]] arrived, swiftly taking control of the Autobots and taking the villain down. Optimus was left a bit upset that Afterburn was so much better than him. {{storylink|Animated Comic issue 1|Burnout}}

He was apparently so upset that he didn't bother turning up afterwards, letting Afterburn dominate things. Prime's big contribution was to give everyone the day off. {{storylink|Animated Comic issue 3|Crossroads!}}

Later on, he ran afoul of the angry and impressively moustached [[General Macadam]], who was throwing a fit over Swoop buzzing a [[United States Air Force|USAF jet]]. Optimus gave the Dinobot a grilling over this...realising too late that Swoop, having been booted from Dinobot Island, had come for a job. Later on, Prime was ''very'' amused when Macadam angrily asked for help stopping the hijacked [[Wraith-X]], and had Bumblebee bring in Swoop for it.

There was no time to celebrate, though, as ''Megatron'' assaulted their headquarters! {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 23|Divebomb}} It turned out Afterburn, whom Megatron slaughtered, was a Decepticon infiltrator—and a sparkless drone one, at that—and he'd given their location away! Optimus and the gang held off a full Decepticon assault. In the aftermath, Optimus tried to boost Bumblebee's spirits by telling him he'd been a true hero in fighting Megatron, and that Afterburn hadn't been a ''real'' Transformer, so his death was no biggie. It was quite dodgy how easily Optimus wrote the guy off, to be frank... {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 24|Megatron's Revenge}}

Optimus later went to watch a race at [[Crazy Coyote Canyon]] to find the "King of Speed", and he permitted Bulkhead to join in if he wanted. He probably regretted this when Bulkhead won and Prime had to carry him in a victor's lap... {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 25|The Race}}
{{--}}

===''The Cool'' comic===
Upon discovering the Allspark, Optimus Prime and his crew fled from Megatron's ship into a space bridge gate and wound up before the planet Earth. Unfortunately, Megatron was already aboard the Autobots' vessel, and although he had gotten one of his arms mutilated in combat, had managed to take down the entirety of the ship's crew, with the exception of Optimus himself. Engaged in fierce melee combat with his foe, Optimus jettisoned the Decepticon out of the cargo bay day just, decrying Megatron's wish to rule the universe. Visibly strained from combat, Optimus then put himself and his crew in stasis to await the day he would have to face Megatron once more. {{storylink|The Cool Extra issue 3}}

To protect the [[AllSpark]], Optimus Prime lead his crew of Autobots to the [[Earth]] city of [[Detroit]]. The Decepticons [[Starscream (Animated)|Starscream]], [[Lockdown (Animated)|Lockdown]] and [[Blackarachnia (Animated)|Blackarachnia]] followed and attacked. Prime rescued [[Sari Sumdac]] from an explosion, protecting her with his body, then pitted himself against Starscream. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 1}}

Starscream succeeded in seizing the AllSpark, but Prime refused to let him keep it. Driving off a ramp and attacking him in the sky, Prime opened the AllSpark, dispersing its energy, killing himself in the process. Luckily, Sari's [[AllSpark Key|key]] was able to revive him. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 2}}

Prime then lead the Autobots in defense of [[Dinobot Island (Animated)|Dinobot Island]], but was unable to counter [[Soundwave (Animated)|Soundwave]]'s sonic attacks and [[Lugnut (Animated)|Lugnut]]'s aerial bombardments. The [[Dinobot (Animated)|Dinobot]]s arrived and drove the villains off, but then attempted to drive the Autobots off, too! Prime and [[Grimlock (Animated)|Grimlock]] sorted their issues out and parted on good terms. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 3}}

[[Image:TheCoolMegatronChokesPrime01.jpg|thumb|300px|right|GIVE ME YOUR CHIN!]]

Back in Detroit, Prime was attacked by Blackarachnia, who demanded to know why he'd abandoned her to die years ago. Prime explained that he and [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)|Sentinel]] had immediately formed a rescue party but could not locate her. Freeing himself from her webbing, Prime vowed to help her restore her body no matter what. Their touching moment was interrupted by an attack from [[Blackout (Animated)|Blackout]], which buried Prime in rubble. By the time the other Autobots could free him, Blackarachnia had already retreated with the other Decepticons, asking never to be called "Elita-1" again. Prime screamed furiously at this. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 4}}

Optimus was present outside [[Sumdac Systems]] headquarters to greet the revived Megatron, who politely remembered Prime's name. Megatron made short work of Prime, slamming him to the ground by the throat and blasting away the Autobots with his [[fusion cannon]]. Refusing to give up, Prime drew his axe and clashed with Megatron's swords. Later, Prime survived the battle to greet [[Ultra Magnus (Animated)|Ultra Magnus]] and the [[Cybertron Elite Guard|Elite Guard]], who were demanding an explanation for why he and his crew had yet to return to Cybertron. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 5}}

Optimus Prime later joined Prowl in a battle against [[Clone number 2716057|Clone #2716057]]. Though Prowl defeated the clone, Optimus berated him for being "too flashy" about it and destroying an entire park in the process. Prime then escorted the clone to a warehouse where [[Lockdown (Animated)|Lockdown]] was meeting with Megatron. Optimus demanded Megatron hand over ''his'' clone, but sang a different tune after it was revealed that the clones were packed with explosives. Prowl managed to send the explosives flying into the sky, and Prime complimented him on his quick thinking. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 6}}

Some time after that, Prime managed to find the location of the near-complete Decepticon [[space bridge#Animated cartoon|Space Bridge]] and launched a surprise attack. After kicking [[Mixmaster (Animated)|Mixmaster]] in the stomach, Prime once again clashed melee weapons with Megatron. The foes were forced to fight together, however, when Starscream arrived with his [[Starscream clone (Animated)|Clone Army]]. The pair fought well side by side until [[Slipstream (Animated)|Slipstream]] fired a shot at Megatron's head. The Decepticon leader blocked the shot by using Prime as a living shield, injuring the Autobot near-fatally. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 7}}

As the Space Bridge overloaded, sucking everything into itself, Optimus Prime recovered. Rushing the distracted Megatron, Prime slapped a pair of stasis cuffs on him and then kicked him square in the jaw, sending the Decepticon hurtling into the vortex. After the battle, Prime joined the other Autobots in bidding farewell to the fallen [[Omega Supreme (Animated)|Omega Supreme]]. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 8}}

[[Image:PrimeAllSparkGlowTheCool01.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]]

When Starscream attacked Detroit in Omega Supreme's body, Optimus went off...''somewhere'', and when he came back, he had his Wing Blade armor and the [[Magnus Hammer]], having received the hammer as per Ultra Magnus's wish {{storylink|The Cool Extra issue 1}}. Optimus combined his power with Megatron's to defeat Starscream. After ordering Prowl to remove all traces of Starscream from Omega's body, he set his sights next on Megatron. Optimus and Megatron agreed to conclude their rivalry with a final battle and flew off into the sky, clashing hammer with sword. {{storylink|The Cool Episode 9}}

Outmatched, Megatron fought back by powering his fusion cannon with Starscream's AllSpark fragment. The humongous blast shredded Optimus, who was then impaled through the [[spark]] chamber by Megatron's sword. Refusing to die, Optimus declared that his spark would shine until his last breath. Somehow, this caused the AllSpark fragment to be drawn to Optimus, where it immediately powered him up. Now endowed with a Heavenly aura and apparent invincibility, Optimus choke-slammed Megatron into unconsciousness. Later, Optimus and his crew returned to Cybertron with the shackled Megatron in tow, where they were hailed as heroes. {{storylink|The Cool Episode Final}}

{{-}}

==Games==
===Transformers Animated: The Game===
:''Voice actor:'' [[David Kaye]] (English)
[[Image:TFAnimated Game Optimus Prime.jpg|thumb|right|134px]]
Optimus decided that [[Bulkhead (Animated)|Bulkhead]] and [[Bumblebee (Animated)|Bumblebee]] could do with some more training, despite Bumblebee's assertion that video games counted. He had [[Prowl (Animated)|Prowl]] turn the Autobot hideout into an obstacle course for himself, Bulkhead and Bumblebee to practice on. Not long after, word came in that the robots at a [[Sumdac Systems]] factory had gone haywire, and the three Autobots headed there to investigate. While they were bashing their way through the drones, [[Ratchet (Animated)|Ratchet]] and Prowl got hold of a [[Decepticon Transmitter Drone]], which they used to intercept a transmission indicating that Megatron was looking for [[AllSpark]] fragments to power his Space Bridge. Though Optimus was keen to stop the Decepticon, Sari pointed out there were still rogue drones at the factory. After finding the AllSpark fragment that was causing the drones to malfunction, Prime had to take to the road to hunt down some more drones that were heading for Detroit.

Another transmission indicated that Megatron had all the fragments he needed to power his Space Bridge, so Optimus returned to the factory, where he, Bumblebee and Bulkhead tracked down another fragment. Optimus then chased the Transmitter Drone back to its point of origin — Megatron's mine lair. The three Autobots fought their way into the mine and confronted Megatron at the mouth of his Space Bridge. After a short battle, Megatron transwarped out, and the three Autobots attempted to follow him. Only Optimus and Bulkhead arrived on Cybertron, and had to search fruitlessly for Megatron until Bumblebee arrived. A transmission led them to the Space Bridge Nexus where they found Megatron. A protracted fight ensued, at the end of which Megatron transwarped out to parts unknown. Optimus was commended by [[Ultra Magnus (Animated)|Ultra Magnus]] and offered a place in the [[Cybertron Elite Guard|Elite Guard]]. He turned it down in favor of returning to Earth, where Ratchet wondered if he needed to examine Optimus's processor. {{storylink|Transformers Animated: The Game}}

===Transformers Battle Universe===
At the edge of time, when the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] needed a new host, Optimus Prime was among several warriors (and [[Optimus Prime|Prime]]s) summoned from the multiverse to battle for control of the prize. {{storylink|Transformers Battle Universe}}

{{--}}

==Toys==
{{main|Optimus Prime (Animated)/toys}}

==Merchandise==
:''Main article: [[Optimus Prime (Animated)/toys#Merchandise]]''

==Notes==
*The twin cylinder-shaped protrusions connected to Optimus's small antennae are inspired by the head design of the [[Transformers (film)|2007 movie]] rendition of [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]], as opposed to the [[Optimus Prime (G1)|traditional]] single cylinder.
*Optimus Prime features design elements from two different incarnations of [[Optimus Primal]]. The "skin" color of his face (and to a lesser extent, the presence of a retractable faceplate) is taken from Primal's first ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (franchise)|Beast Wars]]'' body, while the way his lips are drawn is inspired by Primal's ''[[Beast Machines: Transformers (franchise)|Beast Machines]]'' body. [[Derrick J. Wyatt]] thought since Prime is more of an inexperienced leader, he wanted to infuse some elements from Primal's design, who had a similar role in his series. <ref>[http://community.livejournal.com/tf_animated/271043.html#cutid1 Derrick Wyatt Q&A at the tf_animated livejournal community]</ref>
*His chest windows resemble those of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Star Convoy]], the incarnation of Optimus in ''[[Transformers: Return of Convoy (franchise)|Return of Convoy]]'', while his jetpack wings look like [[Ginrai|God Ginrai]]'s.
*His Cybertronic form, on the other hand, bears a strong resemblance to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Orion Pax]]. The toy takes this even further, with large shoulder-mounted wheels that also pay homage to Optronix.
*Optimus was killed off after only [[Transform and Roll Out|one episode]] (three if you want to get technical) ''and'' revived 1 minute and 15 seconds later. That's gotta be [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|a new record]].
*At the end of "Transform and Roll Out", Prime's spark is contained in the same place ordinarily reserved for the [[Matrix (disambiguation)|Matrix]] in other continuities.
*Despite nominally being a fire truck, Prime's alt mode features a detachable cab that can mount a number of different trailers, such as [[Headmaster (episode)|a lookalike of Generation 1 Optimus's trailer]] and a [[The Elite Guard|dump truck]]. Presumably, this would make his alt mode not a fire truck, but a semi-truck ''outfitted'' as a fire truck. Score one for the old fans!
*Like his Generation 1 counterpart, this Optimus's trailer almost invariably disappears COMPLETELY when he transforms, assuming it's there to begin with. This even happens when it isn't his trailer, such as in "[[Garbage In, Garbage Out]]". Even Prime himself is just as confused as to where it goes, as evidenced by "[[Career Day]]". [[Subspace]] shunting? [[Unicron Singularity]]? Or...something more?
*Optimus Prime's bio on his Happy Meal toy at McDonald's says he is a '''FIRE TRUCK CAB'''.
*To date, none of Optimus' toys come with his trademark 'grappler launcher' weapons.
*According to the packaging call-outs for Cybertron Mode, DVD two-pack and Voyager Optimus Prime, his weapon is an "Ion-Axe" (or "Ion Axe"). However, on Roll Out Command Optimus Prime, Optimus's weapon is an "Ultra-Axe". ''[[Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac|The AllSpark Almanac]]'' labels it a [[Solitarium]] weapon. The Japanese dub not only embraced the term "Ultra-Axe", but also added the "Ultra-" prefix to Prime's net (now the "Ultra-Net"), grappling hook (the "Ultra-Anchor"), and... jumping ability ("Ultra-Jump").
*[[TakaraTomy]] marketing director, [[Masahiko Yamazaki]], has claimed that the Japanese version of ''Transformers Animated'' takes place within the continuity of the [[Live-action film series|live-action film franchise]], thus making ''Animated'' Optimus Prime the same character as Movie [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]. Some of Yamazaki's other statements regarding this have been contradicted (primarily regarding [[Bulkhead (Animated)|Bulkhead]]), so take with a grain of salt.
*A round of punny Japanese. During the "next episode" preview at the end of "[[Transform and Roll Out|A New Chapter! Transformers]]", Bumblebee complains that the name "Oputimasu Puraimu" (as the natives pronounce it) is too long and difficult to remember. His renaming suggestions include: "[[Convoy (rank)|Convoy]]", "Oputi", "Opura", and "Pupu". Obviously, Optimus rejects all of them, saying that "Oputi" is more suited for a cute dog, "Opura" just sounds weird, and "Pupu", while cute, would be hard not to laugh at.
*According to <strike>David Kaye</strike> [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]], he (like any Autobot) sucks at golf.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EQsjGclmVQ&feature=related David Kaye at BotCon 2008]</ref>

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Optimus Prime''' (オプティマスプライム ''Oputimasu Puraimu'')

==External links==
* [http://www.tfu.info/2008/Autobot/CybModeOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm Optimus Prime at TFU.info]

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Animated Autobots]]
[[Category:Hall of Fame]]
[[Category:Matrix bearers]]
[[Category:Primes]]
[[Category:TransTech Autobots]]

Rumbler (SG)

2011-12-30T03:09:17Z

69.171.167.38:

{{factions|sgDecepticon}}
{{disambig2|Shattered Glass Megatron's drone companion|the Autobot Action Master|Rumbler (G1)}}
{{disambig2|the semi-sentient component to this universe's heroic leader|the semi-sentient component to the more common [[Optimus Prime (G1)|heroic leader]]|Roller (G1)}}
:''Rumbler is a heroic [[Decepticon]] drone from the "[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]" [[continuity family]].''
[[Image:Shatteredglassmegatrondecepticons.jpg|right|250px|thumb|I would if you'd let me down.]]
'''Rumbler''' is [[Megatron (SG)|Megatron]]'s loyal sidearm.

==Fiction==
===Shattered Glass===
[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] ambushed Megatron at the [[Temple of Knowledge]], taking him captive. He removed Rumbler, which [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] used as a footstool. When [[Optimus Prime (SG)|Optimus Prime]] later burst in, Megatron grabbed Ricochet's [[Targetmaster]] partner, [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]. But Nightstick took over Megatron's arm. Optimus used this opportunity to grab Rumbler. Activating its sword, he charged Megatron, who turned just in time for the blade to cleave his wrist. Regaining control of his arm, Megatron recalled Rumbler to his side. Optimus Prime was defeated. {{storylink|Do Over}}
{{--}}

==Toys==
===Botcon 2008===
[[Image:ShatteredGlasstoy-Megatron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Megatron's Bruticus Maximus cosplay needs work.]]

*'''Megatron & Rodimus''' (Convention Souvenir 3-Pack, 2008)
**''Accessories'': "Rumbler" Tank-cannon, missile, sword-blade

:Megatron is a [[redeco]] and [[retool]] of Ultra-class ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]], with a more heroic color scheme and a new head mold based on an early character model for ''[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]]'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. He comes with [[Rodimus (SG)|Rodimus]] and [[Divebomb (SG)|Divebomb]] as a bagged set, limited to 1100 pieces.

:Megatron transforms into a silver and black Cybertronian jet with red accents and blue translucents. Included is the "[[Rumbler (SG)|Rumbler]]" tank (which is originally a representation of ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]'' Megatron's tank form, and sort-of a homage of [[Megazarak (Universe)|Megazarak]]), which can plug onto the top of the vehicle mode and can also fire missiles out of its spring-loaded main gun (presumably meant to be a [[fusion cannon]]). [[Super Mode|Hyper Mode]] can be activated by tugging his transparent wing tips outward, which extends the blue sections, raises the upper gray parts of his wings in an "X-wing" configuration, and deploys the red weapons underneath. In robot mode, Rumbler can be attached to either of his arms as a cannon, or it can be flipped around and have a sword attached to the rear of its turret. Like most convention exclusives, the electronics from this accessory have been stripped out to keep costs down.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Decepticon/BCMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Rumbler (with Megatron) at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Notes==
* The list of Rumbler's appearances is presumably the same as Megatron's, since Rumbler is usually attached to Megatron's arm.
* Rumbler's connection to Megatron is likely a reference to [[Roller (G1)|Generation 1 Roller]]'s connection to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Generation 1 Optimus Prime]].

[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
[[Category:Drones]]
[[Category:Multi-component Transformers]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass Decepticons]]

Rumbler (SG)

2011-12-30T03:08:11Z

69.171.167.38: /* Botcon 2008 */

{{factions|sgDecepticon}}
{{disambig2|Shattered Glass Megatron's drone companion|the Autobot Action Master|Rumbler (G1)}}
{{disambig2|the semi-sentient component to this universe's heroic leader|the semi-sentient component to the more common [[Optimus Prime (G1)|heroic leader]]|Roller (G1)}}
:''Rumbler is a heroic [[Decepticon]] drone from the "[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]" [[continuity family]].''
[[Image:Shatteredglassmegatrondecepticons.jpg|right|250px|thumb|I would if you'd let me down.]]
'''Rumbler''' is [[Megatron (SG)|Megatron]]'s loyal sidearm.

==Fiction==
===Shattered Glass===
[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] ambushed Megatron at the [[Temple of Knowledge]], taking him captive. He removed Rumbler, which [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] used as a footstool. When [[Optimus Prime (SG)|Optimus Prime]] later burst in, Megatron grabbed Ricochet's [[Targetmaster]] partner, [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]. But Nightstick took over Megatron's arm. Optimus used this opportunity to grab Rumbler. Activating its sword, he charged Megatron, who turned just in time for the blade to cleave his wrist. Regaining control of his arm, Megatron recalled Rumbler to his side. Optimus Prime was defeated. {{storylink|Do Over}}
{{--}}

==Toys==
===Botcon 2008===
[[Image:ShatteredGlasstoy-Megatron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|]]
Megatron's Bruticus Maximus cosplay needs work.
*'''Megatron & Rodimus''' (Convention Souvenir 3-Pack, 2008)
**''Accessories'': "Rumbler" Tank-cannon, missile, sword-blade

:Megatron is a [[redeco]] and [[retool]] of Ultra-class ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]], with a more heroic color scheme and a new head mold based on an early character model for ''[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]]'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. He comes with [[Rodimus (SG)|Rodimus]] and [[Divebomb (SG)|Divebomb]] as a bagged set, limited to 1100 pieces.

:Megatron transforms into a silver and black Cybertronian jet with red accents and blue translucents. Included is the "[[Rumbler (SG)|Rumbler]]" tank (which is originally a representation of ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]'' Megatron's tank form, and sort-of a homage of [[Megazarak (Universe)|Megazarak]]), which can plug onto the top of the vehicle mode and can also fire missiles out of its spring-loaded main gun (presumably meant to be a [[fusion cannon]]). [[Super Mode|Hyper Mode]] can be activated by tugging his transparent wing tips outward, which extends the blue sections, raises the upper gray parts of his wings in an "X-wing" configuration, and deploys the red weapons underneath. In robot mode, Rumbler can be attached to either of his arms as a cannon, or it can be flipped around and have a sword attached to the rear of its turret. Like most convention exclusives, the electronics from this accessory have been stripped out to keep costs down.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Decepticon/BCMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Rumbler (with Megatron) at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Notes==
* The list of Rumbler's appearances is presumably the same as Megatron's, since Rumbler is usually attached to Megatron's arm.
* Rumbler's connection to Megatron is likely a reference to [[Roller (G1)|Generation 1 Roller]]'s connection to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Generation 1 Optimus Prime]].

[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
[[Category:Drones]]
[[Category:Multi-component Transformers]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass Decepticons]]

Transformers: Energon (cartoon)

2011-12-27T22:56:34Z

69.171.167.141: /* Scripting and dubbing */

{{nav-energon}}
[[Image:TransEnergonTitle.JPG|right|250px|thumb|Bringing you pain for far too long.]]

'''''Transformers: Energon''''' is cartoon series produced by [[Actas Inc.]] and [[Studio A-CAT]]. It aired in the US from January 2004 to June 2005 for <strike>52</strike> 51 episodes, in support of the toyline of the same name. It is a direct sequel to ''[[Transformers: Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'' and forms the second part of the "[[Unicron Trilogy]]".

The show takes place ten years after the finale of ''Armada'', opening in an age of peace on Cybertron and Earth which is destined not to last long. ''Energon'' pits the Autobots against an array of villains: the reborn [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]], the barely functional [[Unicron]], and the mysterious [[Alpha Quintesson|Alpha Q]] and his [[Terrorcon (Energon)|Terrorcon]] minions.

''Energon'', like ''Armada'', was written and animated in Japan and dubbed for US consumption. The series introduced to Transformers cartoons the technique of combining cel-shaded [[Computer-generated imagery|computer animation]] with 2D cel-animation, creating a fusion between the CGI of ''[[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]''/''[[Beast Machines (cartoon)|Machines]]'' and traditionally animated series such as ''[[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (cartoon)|Robots in Disguise]]''.

For ''Super Link'', "[[Taiyō no Transform!!]]" plays as its opening [[Japanese themes|theme]] and "[[Calling You]]" for its ending theme.

:''Preceded by: [[Transformers: Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]''
:''Followed by: [[Transformers: Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]]''

==Characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
'''Main Cast'''

* [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] ([[Garry Chalk]])
* [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] ([[Brent Miller]])
* [[Inferno (Energon)|Inferno/Roadblock]] ([[Michael Daingerfield]])
* [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]] ([[Matt Hill]])
* [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] ([[Scott McNeil]])
* [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] ([[Colin Murdoch]])
* [[Omega Supreme (Energon)|Omega Supreme]] (Scott McNeil)

'''Team Rodimus'''

* [[Rodimus (Energon)|Rodimus]] ([[Paul Dobson]])
* [[Prowl (Energon)|Prowl]] ([[Alistair Abell]])
* [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] ([[Ward Perry]])

'''Team Bulkhead'''

* [[Bulkhead (Energon)|Bulkhead]] ([[French Tickner]])
* [[Cliffjumper (Energon)|Cliffjumper]] ([[Doron Bell Jr.]])
* [[Downshift (Energon)|Downshift]] ([[Ty Olsson]])

'''Omnicons'''

* [[Arcee (Energon)|Arcee]] ([[Sharon Alexander]])
* [[Signal Flare (Energon)|Signal Flare]] ([[Michael Dobson]])
* [[Skyblast (Energon)|Skyblast]] ([[Terry Klassen]])
* [[Strongarm (Energon)|Strongarm]] (Scott McNeil)

'''Combiner teams'''

*[[Air Team]]
** [[Superion Maximus]] ([[Paul Dobson]])
** [[Storm Jet (Energon)|Storm Jet]]
** [[Sky Shadow (Energon)|Sky Shadow]]
** [[Terradive (Energon)|Terradive]]
** [[Treadshot (Energon)|Treadshot]]
** [[Windrazor (Energon)|Windrazor]]

'''Others'''
* [[Padlock (Energon)|Padlock]] ([[Ron Halder]])
* [[Autobot nurse]]s (?)
* [[Rhyming Omnicon fanboys]] ([[Tony Sampson]])

|c2=
'''Main Cast'''

* [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron/Galvatron]] ([[David Kaye]])
* [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus/Snow Cat]] ([[Don Brown]])
* [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]] ([[Alvin Sanders]])
* [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] ([[Michael Dobson]])
* [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave/Mirage]] ([[Doug Parker]])
* [[Shockblast]] ([[Brian Drummond]])
* [[Six Shot]] ([[Terry Klassen]])

'''Combiner teams'''

* [[Construction Team]]
** [[Constructicon Maximus]] (Don Brown)
** [[Steamhammer (Energon)|Steamhammer]]
** [[Bonecrusher (Energon)|Bonecrusher]]
** [[Duststorm (Energon)|Duststorm]]
** [[Sledge (Energon)|Sledge]]
** [[Wideload (Energon)|Wideload]]

* [[Destruction Team]]
** [[Bruticus Maximus (Energon)|Bruticus Maximus]] ([[Trevor Devall]])
** [[Barricade (Energon)|Barricade]]
** [[Blackout (combiner)|Blackout]]
** [[Blight (Energon)|Blight]]
** [[Kickback (Energon)|Kickback]]
** [[Stormcloud (Energon)|Stormcloud]]

|c3=
'''Regulars'''
* [[Kicker Jones|Kicker]] ([[Brad Swaile]])
* [[Misha Miramond]] ([[Ellen Kennedy]])
* [[Brian Jones (Energon)|Brian Jones]] ([[Ron Halder]])
* [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]] ([[Tabitha St. Germain]])
* [[Carlos Lopez]] ([[Matt Hill]])
* [[Miranda Jones]] ([[Nicole Oliver]])
* [[Rad White]] ([[Kirby Morrow]])
* [[Sally Jones]] (Nicole Oliver)

|c4=
* [[Alpha Quintesson]] ([[Trevor Devall]])
* [[Primus]] ([[Ron Halder]])
* [[Unicron]] ([[Mark Acheson]])

'''Terrorcons'''

* [[Scorponok (Energon)|Scorponok]] ([[Colin Murdoch]])
* [[Battle Ravage]]/[[Command Ravage]]
* [[Divebomb (Energon)|Divebomb]]/[[Blackout (Terrorcon)|Blackout]]
* [[Cruellock]]
* [[Insecticon (Energon)|Insecticon]]
|nonumbering=true
}}

==Episodes==
{{main|List of Energon episodes}}

{{collist|4|
#[[Cybertron City (episode)|Cybertron City]]
#[[Energon Stars]]
#[[Scorpinok]]
#[[Megatron's Sword]]
#[[The New Cybertron City]]
#[[Megatron Resurrected]]
#[[Megatron Raid]]
#[[Starscream the Mysterious Mercenary]]
#[[Battle of the Asteroid Belt]]
#[[Energon Tower]]
#[[The Legend of Rodimus]]
#[[Crisis in Jungle City]]
#[[Kicker Beware!]]
#[[Energon Grid]]
#[[Rodimus Friend or Foe?]]
#[[Go for Unicron!]]
#[[The Return of Demolishor]]
#[[A Tale of Two Heros]]
#[[Battle Stations]]
#[[Alpha Q: Identity]]
#[[Shockblast: Rampage]]
#[[Survival Instincts]]
#[[Each One Fights...]]
#[[Unicron Unleashed]]
#[[Open Fire!]]
#[[Ripped Up Space]]
#[[Team Optimus Prime]]
#[[Protection]]
#[[Imprisoned Inferno|Improsoned Inferno]]
#[[Jungle Planet (episode)|Jungle Planet]]
#[[Bulkhead (episode)|Bulkhead]]
#[[Farewell Inferno]] [[Return! Our Scorponok]]
#[[Crash Course]]
#[[Omega Supreme (episode)|Omega Supreme]]
#[[A Heroic Battle]]
#[[The Power]]
#[[Optimus Supreme]]
#[[Unicron Perishes]]
#[[Ambition]]
#[[Wishes]]
#[[Galvatron!]]
#[[Break Through]]
#[[Distribution]]
#[[The Omega Train]]
#[[Decepticon Army|Deception Army]]
#[[Ironhide Team]]
#[[Formidable]]
#[[Galvatron Terror]]
#[[Destructive Power]]
#[[Spark (episode)|Spark]]
#[[The Sun]]
}}
"Return! Our Scorponok" was to be "Scorponok's Scars", but it never aired and was probably never dubbed. It is not considered to exist in the English version of the series.

==Criticisms==
{{bigquote|Something cool ''finally'' happened!|[[Alpha Quintesson|Alpha Q]] announces that the series is over.<ref>No, really! In every preview for ''Super Link'', Alpha Q promised the audience that "Something cool might happen" in the next episode. When the series ended, he finally declared that the promised coolness had, at last, come to pass. He might be crazy, but he's not ''entirely'' wrong in the head.</ref>}}

The [[Unicron Trilogy]] was a franchise that got off to a poor start, fictionally speaking. ''Armada'' (the predecessor to ''Energon'') suffered from a bad beginning that, in the eyes of many, condemned the entire show. Although it improved as it went along (with the "Unicron Battles" story arc regarded as fairly good in comparison), the sub-par start left it laboring under a bad reputation that it never escaped. Many fans had hopes that ''Energon'' would be a return to glory.

It was quite the proverbial [[brick (term)|brick]] to the testicles, then, that ''Energon'', the televisual representation of Transformers for its 20th anniversary year, turned out to be just the opposite — a series with a strong beginning, which slowly but surely degenerated into what is widely considered the worst Transformers cartoon broadcast in the U.S. In retrospect, the fans' positive initial reaction may have been simply because it wasn't ''Armada.''

===Conceptual and storytelling flaws===
====Plotting====
The primary flaw of ''Energon'' is that it simply does not have enough plot to fill 52 episodes. The first half of the series moves at a respectable pace, and around episode #20, the villains achieve their objective — the restoration of Unicron. However, because there are another 30 episodes to fill, an attack by the Autobots and their allies [[Battle Stations|deactivates Unicron]]. The storyline is then essentially ''repeated'' for twenty more episodes, until Unicron is reactivated ''again'' and [[Unicron Perishes|destroyed ''again'']]. But even then, there are ''still'' thirteen more episodes to go, and with the ''driving aspect of the plot'' destroyed, viewers are served up a virtually pointless storyline full of [[To sell toys|repaints and combiners]], which added nothing to what had already taken place.

Individual episodes are likewise padded out with time-killing scenes such as [[stock footage]] sequences, generally a minimum of three per episode. An ''incredible'' amount of time is consumed in communication and report scenes, in which the characters stand around in front of video screens and [[Team Optimus Prime|tell one another things that the viewers already know]].

====Character de-evolution====
The series takes a ''very'' dismissive attitude towards characters and their development. With the exception of [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]] (who survives the series and resolves his long-running feud with [[Scorponok (Energon)|Scorponok]]), the writers seemed unable to carry personal sub-plots and conflicts through to any conclusion. Instead, they would either quietly drop these opportunities for character development, or (much more gallingly) the characters would die and/or get mindwiped, so the stories would not ''have'' to be resolved. Examples:

* Demolishor's uncertainty in the Decepticon cause? "Resolved" by having him sacrifice himself to save Megatron, then having Megatron resurrect him with no memories.
* Inferno's struggle against Megatron's Decepticon programming? Brought to an end by having him kill himself, then be resurrected, only to do ''absolutely nothing'' for the rest of the series.
* Kicker's hatred of Transformers? Vanishes with no explanation after roughly two episodes, save for the occasional kick to Ironhide.
* Rodimus and Optimus Prime's ideological feud over whether Unicron should be destroyed? Rodimus puts himself under Optimus's command for the mission to defeat Galvatron, and the argument never comes up again.
* Wing Saber's dedication to capturing Shockblast? Well, he captures him . . . but when Shockblast escapes again, Wing Saber doesn't say a word.

Many similar examples exist.

====Promoting toys====
Of course, any Transformers series exists [[to sell toys]], but in promoting the abilities and gimmicks of its toyline, ''Energon'' frequently ignored common sense to the most amazing degree in order to shoehorn these concepts into a setting and story where they didn't make sense.

[[Image:Carsinspace.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Their wheels spin and everything.]]
In choosing to set most of its action in the void of space, ''Energon'' foolishly robbed the Transformers of any real reason to ''transform.'' They can all happily fly in robot mode (in space, on planets, anywhere), inviting the question of why transformation is necessary. But, to promote the fact that the toys transform, characters would routinely change to vehicle mode anyway, even in outer space. Cue innumerable scenes of cars, trucks, and snowmobiles ''driving through space.'' Characters would even transform to vehicle mode on the ground, and then ''drive away into the air''. Everyone could control their flight with no problem in either form, completely invalidating the need for any variety in [[alternate mode]]. Conversely, on occasions when it might actually make sense to transform to a speedy vehicle form for fast or long-distance travel, characters often choose to run to where they're going instead.

Whereas the English version of the series takes its name from the central plot element (the collection of Energon), the Japanese version, ''Super Link,'' takes its name from the main thematic concept/[[gimmick]]: Autobots [[Powerlinx|powerlinxing]]. The Japanese version of the show contained a lot of waffling about the symbolic nature of this ("Even when one heart is weak, together, we are strong!"). Unfortunately, the fact remains that, almost without exception, these combinations are used in straight firefights, where combining two soldiers into one means ''fewer guns to fire at the enemy.'' Further, the resulting combined soldier rarely shows any sign of enhanced firepower.

Further failing to advertise the combining gimmick are the "Maximus" combiner teams. For about 90% of their screen time, the three giants are seen in ''only'' their combined super robot modes, rarely splitting into individual vehicles. The central torso units are seen as individual robots for perhaps 5 seconds in the entire series, and the show doesn't even acknowledge that the limbs could ''be'' individuals.

===Production flaws===
====Art and animation====

[[Image:Scorponok blacklines.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Rescale what now?]]
''Energon'', animated by [[Actas Inc.]] and [[Studio A-CAT]], introduced a new concept to Transformers cartoons: the blending of CGI with traditional cel animation. The animators rendered the Transformer characters in cel-shaded CGI, while animating humans and other aspects of the show through traditional means. On the plus side, this allowed for a consistently high level of cel animation quality (especially enjoyable after the often scattershot quality of ''Armada''). In particular, the show uses the CGI to show many characters in motion at once, often with a high frame rate that gives them a very fluid appearance (for example, the many charges of the [[Battle Ravage]] Terrorcon drones, replete with numerous stamping legs and bobbing heads and tails.)

On the other hand, the CGI animation is positively primitive. Characters possess no sense of weight and can not move in any manner but the most basic. Even ''walking'' is a challenge for characters with bulky models, like Ironhide, who is often reduced to swinging his arms and legs back and forth while sliding along a predetermined path. The black-line outlines of character models were often not rescaled for different shots, resulting in the characters sometimes appearing as indecipherable masses of heavy black lines.

[[Image:GuessIronhidesEmotion.jpg|right|250px|thumb|The above images feature: A horrified Ironhide witnessing Demolishor's death; a surprised Ironhide asking a question; a determined Ironhide charging into battle; and a fighting-mad Ironhide striking a decisive blow. Can you figure out which is which?]]
[[Image:Energon InfernoImprisoned torture.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Are you @&#%$ kidding me?!]]

Additionally, "emotion" is nonexistent; the blank-faced CGI models could not easily display any [[Dull surprise|facial expressions beyond "mouth open" and "mouth closed."]] Numerous characters don't ''have'' facial animation, even ones with mouths. Most prominent among these is Alpha Q, who has ''no facial animation at all'' despite the fact that he's basically nothing but four faces. In some cases, when it was necessary for a character to emote visibly (Megatron's pronounced yawning, Inferno's [[Imprisoned Inferno|tortured screaming]]), or to do something visually dynamic ([[Jungle Planet (episode)|acrobatic transformation]]), the CGI would actually be ''replaced'' with cel animation, because it just ''looked more impressive''. Does that seem ''right'' to you?

In addition, the show's CGI compares very poorly with ''Beast Wars'' and ''Beast Machines,'' both of which came out ''years'' previously, both of which were ''fully'' CGI (without the crutch of cel animation to fall back on), and both of which had characters who boasted complex, nuanced facial expressions and fluid, constant body language — even [[Diagnostic Drone|the ones with utterly inhuman faces and bodies]]. The only way to spare the animators' reputation is to assume that Energon's budget was miniscule in comparison.

Even within the limits of the animation, many bad editing, design, and lighting choices make the series difficult to follow visually. Unicron's body — primarily black, to match his ''Energon'' redeco toy — is frequently lost against the blackness of space. When Alpha Q energizes Unicron's head, it becomes the [[Energon Orb]], with no visual indication as to what it used to be. Scenes set underground or within Unicron's body are commonly underlit, to the point that the characters can't even be distinguished. Strange elements such as the [[Rift (Energon)|rift in space]] are inconsistently animated and described by the characters, making it difficult to figure out what they are.

====Editing====
At times, ''Energon'' tends to flow like a single feature-length film... a film that has been mercilessly chopped up into 22 minute segments. Thus, confusing, unclear elements like the [[Rift (Energon)|rift in space]] and [[Unicron]]'s dark, partially re-energized body are routinely shown in closeup without any introductory establishing shots, making it extraordinarily unclear what's happening or where for the viewer who's just watching one particular episode by itself. To be a ''little'' bit fairer, this "chopped-up film" sensation is not exactly uncommon in Japanese animated series with a defined length, but ''Energon'' is a good example of the method at its very worst.

The show's scene editing also tends to be very abrupt and choppy. Battle animation in particular routinely cuts between numerous, very short scenes, showing several simultaneous but unrelated events as if the viewer must be kept up to date on ''all'' of them in real time. This makes it difficult to grasp the significance of ''any'' of the events shown. When boiled down, this editing style often serves to mask the fact that not much is actually happening.

To make things worse for the credibility of the editors, "[[Scorpinok]]", "[[A Tale of Two Heros]]", "[[Imprisoned Inferno|Improsoned Inferno]]", and "[[Decepticon Army|Deception Army]]" all have blatant spelling errors '''''in the titles!''''' Making it more annoying is that only the latter two of those four were corrected for the DVD release.

====Music====
This is maybe the only good part of Energon... because the soundtracks for both versions are outstanding. The music created uses a combination of orchestral and synthesized sounds, and has pieces that can be used in any situation. Sadly one of the issues in Energon is the use of music that does not fit the tone of the scene; in "[[Imprisoned Inferno]]", the episode ends with triumphant music despite being a very somber event.

====Scripting and dubbing====
The original Japanese version of the show is, in short, sluggish and confusing... but at least the conversations make sense. Even that got lost when the show was ported for North American consumption.

The dub of ''Energon'' seems even ''more'' rushed than ''Armada,'' which was already known for being so hurried that dubbers were working with unfinished animation, got names wrong, and had moments of dialogue that didn't jibe with the action. ''Energon'' [[Battle of the Asteroid Belt|generally]] got completed animation, and ''usually'' got names right—but [[Misha Miramond|Misha]] gets three different names during the course of the show, and [[Downshift (Energon)|Downshift]] and [[Cliffjumper (Energon)|Cliffjumper]] are constantly confused.

The rushed dub script is full of mistranslations. Though some elements obviously needed to be altered to suit a Western audience, it seems that many portions of the dub were never checked to see if they made logical sense. As a result, the script is stilted, perfunctory, and repetitive, constantly throwing in cliche, time-killing phrases like "We've gotta [repeat the plot which everyone already knows]", "Let's do it!," and "It's time to [perform some action that's already blatantly obvious]". There is arbitrary new dialogue (that seems to exist purely due to writers' carelessness) which ''does not match what is occurring onscreen''. The final result is a show with some bizarre non-sequiturs and more than a few moments of ''genuine nonsense.''

To cite just one example: at the start of "[[Team Optimus Prime]]", Dr. Jones says, in a frustrated tone, "I ''can't'' get back the energon I sent to Kicker. That's ''impossible!''" The entire notion of "getting it back" is absurd on the surface, akin to trying to get back water that went down a drain; saying that not getting it back is ''impossible'' is even more ridiculous; and further, the original dialog is a passive lament, more along the lines of "It's not like that energon I sent is ever coming back." Similar examples exist in nearly every single episode of the show.

Another example of nonsensical non-sequiturs is in "[[Spark (episode)]]" when Superion Maximus (combined with Constructicon Maximus' limbs) dealing the final blow to Bruticus Maximus. Superion Maximus cries "Powerlinx!" which makes no sense, seeing as how he combined with Constructicon Maximus' limbs seconds earlier.

Outside of these accidents, there are also some strange ''deliberate'' changes, chief among them the tendency for [[Primus]] to be intermittently ignored. In one episode, Primus would be dubbed accurately, talking with other characters normally, while in the next, he would be deliberately edited out, with his lines erased or given to other characters, and references to him replaced with "the core". Other odd instances include Terrorcon drones having spoken lines randomly inserted in some scenes, never attributed to any one Terrorcon.

Given all of this, the quality of voice acting frequently suffers throughout the show. This can be a common result of the antiseptic ADR (Additional Dialogue Recording) environment, where actors perform solo, with no one to play off. But ''Energon'' is particularly bad in this regard. Lead talents such as [[Garry Chalk]] and [[David Kaye]] still turn in strong performances, but actors for many of the secondary characters clearly struggle to make something of the material they're given, often sounding flat and uninspired, or just confused. There are many times when ''all'' the actors clearly have no idea what their lines mean in the greater scheme of things, nor any idea of what they're really talking about; the Dr. Jones quote cited above is also an example of this problem.

There's also a pronounced amount of "filling dead air," with characters talking from offscreen simply to make noise where there was none originally. Take a drink every time someone goes "Uhh?" to break the silence, and you'll be hammered by the first commercial break.

{{bigquote|I really wish they would put this terrible series out on DVD. Not because I really want to watch it again, but because it would fill that unsightly gap between Armada and Cybertron with unsightly content.|The nicest words ever spoken about the Energon cartoon, [http://tinyurl.com/5tuucc "Gustavo!", August 2008]}}

==Home video releases==
===''Super Link''===
{{main|Interchannel}}
The ''Super Link'' version of ''Energon'' was released on DVD by Interchannel in [[Japan]] while the series was still on air.
[[Image:Tf Super Link vol 01.jpg|thumb|150px|]]
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 001 (2004)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 002 (2004)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 003 (2004)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 004 (2004)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 005 (2004)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 006 (2004)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 007 (2004)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 008 (2004)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 009 (2005)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 010 (2005)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 011 (2005)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 012 (2005)
*''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 013 (2005)
{{-}}

===''Energon''===
[[Image:Energon Ultimate Collection DVD.jpg|thumb|100px|]]
{{main|Paramount Pictures}}
When Paramount Home Entertainment released a handful of ''Energon'' collections on VHS and DVD in 2004 and 2005, several episodes were re-dubbed to fix numerous mistakes that occurred in the episodes that were broadcast, as well as throwing in some new dialogue.
*''Transformers: Energon—Volume 1: The Battle for Energon'' ([[June 27]], 2004)
*''Transformers: Energon—Volume 2: The Return of Megatron'' (2004)
*''Transformers: Energon—Volume 3: Shockblast Unleashed'' (2005)
*''Transformers: Energon—Volume 4: Omega Supreme'' (2005)
*''Transformers: Energon—The Ultimate Collection'' (2008)
{{-}}

==Footnotes==
<references />

==External links==
*[http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%83%95%E3%82%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%9E%E3%83%BC_%E3%82%B9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%91%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AA%E3%83%B3%E3%82%AF ''Transformers: Super Link'' at the Japanese Wikipedia]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Energon (cartoon)}}
[[Category:Energon media| ]]
[[Category:Television series]]

Transformers: Cybertron (cartoon)

2011-12-20T17:52:18Z

69.171.167.231: /* Praise and criticism */

{{disambig3|Cybertron}}
{{nav-cybertron}}

'''''Transformers: Cybertron''''' is a cartoon series produced by [[GONZO]] and ran in the United States in the years 2005-2006, serving as the third and final part of the "[[Unicron Trilogy]]" begun by its predecessors, ''[[Transformers: Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]''. The series premiered in the United States in July 2005.

The story centers on a [[Unicron Singularity|giant black hole]] that threatens to devour [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and other worlds. Only the power of the [[Omega Lock|Omega Lock]] can stop it; [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] and a small(?) team of [[Autobot]]s travel to various worlds in search of the lock and the four [[Cyber Planet Key|Cyber Planet Keys]] needed to activate it. [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]], even more obsessed with power and godhood, attempts to seize the lock and the keys to boost his own personal power.

The series' Japanese counterpart ''Galaxy Force'' was confirmed by [[We've]] Inc. in an October 2004 press release to be a continuation from the ''Energon'' series, but it was soon clear that this was not the case.<ref>[http://www.fantofan.jp/newsarchive2004.htm 22 October 2004 and 10 November 2004, Fantofan.jp]</ref> '' Galaxy Force'' afterwards was presented as a continuity reboot, willfully ignoring Hasbro's intent for the series. The ''Cybertron'' dub and toyline were consistently presented as a sequel to ''Armada'' and ''Energon'', and eventually, later Japanese materials eventually retconned ''Galaxy Force'' back into being the continuation it was conceived as. [[Japanese themes|Songs]] include opening "[[Call You... Kimi to Boku no Mirai|CALL YOU... Kimi to Boku no Mirai]]" and ending "[[Itsumo]]", and opening "[[Ignition!|IGNITION!]]" with ending "[[Growing Up!!]]" in the latter half of the run.

:''Preceded by: [[Transformers: Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]''

{{bigquote|Our worlds are in danger! To save them and the galaxy we ''must'' find the four Cyber Planet Keys before the Decepticons can use them for evil. ''It'' is our ''mission.'' Hot Shot! Jetfire! Vector Prime! Landmine! Scattorshot! Optimus Prime! Transform and roll out!|Optimus Prime|''Cybertron'' opening credits}}

==Storyline==
When the destruction of [[Unicron]] results in the formation of a massive black hole, [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] is threatened, and its population is evacuated to [[Earth]], taking the forms of local vehicles and machinery to hide from humanity. As this occurs, [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]]'s elite team of [[Autobot]] warriors are approached by the ancient Transformer [[Vector Prime]], who has emerged from his resting place outside of time to inform them of the legendary [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, ancient artifacts of power which can stop the black hole and save the universe. Lost due to an accident during an attempt to create a cross-universal [[space bridge]] network, the Cyber Planet Keys now reside on four worlds somewhere in the universe—unfortunately, Vector Prime's map showing their location is stolen by [[Decepticon]] leader [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]], and both forces relocate to Earth as the race to find them begins.

On Earth, the Autobots befriend three human children named [[Coby Hansen|Coby]], [[Bud Hansen|Bud]] and [[Lori]], who aid them in locating the [[Omega Lock]], the control device for the Cyber Planet Keys' power. With new "Cyber Key Powers" awakened in them, the Transformers battle on many fronts, searching for the Lock on Earth while [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] and [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] head for [[Velocitron]], the "Speed Planet", resting place of the first key. As Hot Shot competes in the planet's grand racing championship to win the key from planet leader [[Override (Cybertron)|Override]], the Lock is located on Earth in the bulk of the crashed Transformer spaceship the ''[[Atlantis]]''. Soon after, Autobot [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Overhaul]] heads for the next world, [[Animatron|Jungle Planet]], where the power of its Cyber Planet Key reformats him into Leobreaker. Megatron ingratiates himself with Jungle Planet ruler [[Scourge (Cybertron)|Scourge]], while at the same time, his scheming lieutenant [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] teams up with the mysterious [[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]], working towards his own goals.

Ultimately, the Autobots succeed in acquiring the Keys of both Velocitron and Jungle Planet, at which point the existence of Earth's own Cyber Planet Key is revealed. Starscream makes his power play and overthrows Megatron, stealing the Omega Lock and all three keys from the Autobots and using them to grow in size and power. Their forces bolstered by the ancient Autobots from Earth and the arrival of [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]], who combines with Optimus Prime, the Autobots fight their way through a vengeful Megatron and defeat Starscream - but the battle is not without casualties, as Hot Shot, Red Alert and [[Scattorshot (Cybertron)|Scattorshot]] are gravely wounded and rebuilt into the even more powerful [[Cybertron Defense Team]].

Returning to Cybertron, the Autobots use the Omega Lock and Cyber Planet Keys, which awaken the spirit of their deity and creator, [[Primus]] and transform Cybertron itself into the god's body. After a battle in which Starscream taps the power of Primus and grows to planetary size—only to be defeated by Primus himself—the location of the fourth and final key is determined as [[Gigantion]], the Giant Planet. Bested by Gigantion's leader [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]], Megatron taps into the power of Gigantion's Cyber Planet Key to become Galvatron. Sideways, now joined by the equally mysterious [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]], reveals himself to be an inhabitant of [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]], a world destroyed by the Gigantions, upon whom he and Soundwave seek revenge. Galvatron blasts them and Starscream into another dimension and finally acquires the Lock and Keys for himself, intending to use their power to accelerate the universal degeneration caused by the black hole and remake the cosmos in his own image. Vector Prime sacrifices his life to get the Autobots back to Cybertron, and the five planet leaders confront Galvatron within the black hole and defeat him. With all the Cyber Planet Keys now in his possession, Primus uses their power to finally seal the black hole, ending its threat.

As the planet's various civilizations attempt to return to life as normal, Galvatron attacks the Autobots for one final time. Without any troops to call his own, Galvatron engages Optimus Prime in a one-on-one duel, and is finally destroyed for good. With this final victory, Optimus Prime begins a new space bridge initiative, and the Transformers set sail for the four corners of the universe, and new adventures.

==Characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
'''Cybertron Native'''

* [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] ([[Garry Chalk]])
* [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] ([[Kirby Morrow]])
* [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] ([[Brian Drummond]])
* [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] ([[Paul Dobson]])
* [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Overhaul/Leobreaker]] (Paul Dobson/[[Dave Ward]])
* [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] ([[Brian Dobson]])
* [[Scattorshot (Cybertron)|Scattorshot]] ([[Richard Ian Cox]])

'''Speed Planet Native'''

* [[Override (Cybertron)|Override]] ([[Lisa Ann Beley]])
* [[Brakedown (Cybertron)|Brakedown]] ([[Michael Dobson]])
* [[Clocker (Cybertron)|Clocker]] (Brian Dobson)

'''Jungle Planet Native'''

* [[Snarl (Cybertron)|Snarl]] ([[Scott McNeil]])
* [[Backstop (Cybertron)|Backstop]] (Scott McNeil)

'''Earth Native'''
* [[Evac (Cybertron)|Evac]] ([[Ty Olsson]])
* [[Crosswise (Cybertron)|Crosswise]] ([[Michael Donovan]])

'''Giant Planet Native'''

* [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]] ([[Ron Halder]])
* [[Quickmix (Cybertron)|Quickmix]] ([[Michael Daingerfield]])

'''Others'''

* [[Vector Prime]] ([[Richard Newman]])
* [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] ([[Sam Vincent]])

'''[[Mini-Con|Mini-Cons]]'''

* [[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]]
* [[Recon Mini-Con Team]]
** [[Jolt (Cybertron)|Jolt]] ([[Brian Drummond]])
** [[Reverb (Cybertron)|Reverb]]
** [[Six-Speed]]

|c2=
'''Cybertron Native'''

* [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron/Galvatron]] ([[David Kaye]])
* [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] ([[Michael Dobson]])
* [[Thundercracker (Armada)|Thundercracker]] ([[Mark Oliver]])

'''Speed Planet Native'''

* [[Crumplezone (Cybertron)|Crumplezone]] ([[Mark Acheson]])
* [[Ransack (Cybertron)|Ransack]] ([[Louis Chirillo]])
* [[Dirt Boss (Cybertron)|Dirt Boss]] ([[Michael Donovan]])

'''Jungle Planet Native'''

* [[Scourge (Cybertron)|Scourge]] ([[Trevor Devall]])
* [[Undermine (Cybertron)|Undermine]] (Mark Oliver)
* [[Brimstone (Cybertron)|Brimstone]] ([[Terry Klassen]])

'''Earth Native'''

* [[Thunderblast (Decepticon)|Thunderblast]] ([[Maryke Hendrikse]])
* [[Lugnutz]] (?)

'''Giant Planet Native'''

* [[Menasor (Cybertron)|Menasor]] ([[Sam Vincent]])

'''Planet X Native'''
* [[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]] ([[Ted Cole]])
* [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]] ([[Robert O. Smith]])
* [[Laserbeak (Cybertron)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Noisemaze Mass Production Type Version]]
* [[Laserbeak drone]]
* [[Lugnutz|Lugnutz drone]]

'''Other'''

* [[Mudflap (Cybertron)|Mudflap]] ([[Dale Wilson]])
* [[Nemesis Breaker]]

|c3=
'''Regulars'''
* [[Coby Hansen]] ([[Sam Vincent]])
* [[Bud Hansen]] ([[Ryan Hirakida]])
* [[Lori]] ([[Sarah Edmondson]])
* [[Lucy Suzuki]] ([[Tabitha St. Germain]])
* [[Mikey Franklin]] ([[Michael Dobson]])
* [[Tim Hansen]] ([[Terry Klassen]])

|c4=
* [[Primus]] ([[Michael Donovan]])
* [[Scrapmetal (race)|Scrapmetal drones]]
|nonumbering=true
}}

==Episodes==
{{main|List of Cybertron episodes}}

{{collist|4|
# [[Fallen (episode)|Fallen]]
# [[Haven|Haven]]
# [[Hidden|Hidden]]
# [[Landmine (episode)|Landmine]]
# [[Space (episode)|Space]]
# [[Rush|Rush]]
# [[Speed|Speed]]
# [[Collapse|Collapse]]
# [[Time (episode)|Time]]
# [[Search|Search]]
# [[Deep|Deep]]
# [[Ship|Ship]]
# [[Hero (episode)|Hero]]
# [[Race|Race]]
# [[Detour (episode)|Detour]]
# [[Savage]]
# [[Sand|Sand]]
# [[Champion|Champion]]
# [[Ice|Ice]]
# [[Honor|Honor]]
# [[Primal|Primal]]
# [[Trust (Cybertron)|Trust]]
# [[Trap|Trap]]
# [[Invasion|Invasion]]
# [[Retreat|Retreat]]
# [[Revelation (episode)|Revelation]]
# [[Critical|Critical]]
# [[Assault|Assault]]
# [[Starscream (episode)|Starscream]]
# [[United]]
# [[Cybertron (episode)|Cybertron]]
# [[Balance|Balance]]
# [[Darkness (episode)|Darkness]]
# [[Memory|Memory]]
# [[Escape (episode)|Escape]]
# [[Family|Family]]
# [[Titans|Titans]]
# [[Warp|Warp]]
# [[Giant|Giant]]
# [[Fury|Fury]]
# [[City|City]]
# [[Ambush|Ambush]]
# [[Challenge|Challenge]]
# [[Scourge (episode)|Scourge]]
# [[Optimus (episode)|Optimus]]
# [[Showdown]]
# [[Guardian (episode)|Guardian]]
# [[Homecoming (episode)|Homecoming]]
# [[End|End]]
# [[Unfinished|Unfinished]]
# [[Beginning|Beginning]]
# [[Inferno (episode)|Inferno]] ("Lost" episode)
}}

==Differences with ''Galaxy Force''==
[[Image:GalaxyForcevsCybertron.jpg|thumb|150px|right|It rarely got this extreme.]]In contrast to ''Armada'' and ''Energon'', the dubs of which had stuck quite closely to their original Japanese counterparts (unrelenting plethora of errors notwithstanding), ''Cybertron'' went to much greater lengths to localize ''Galaxy Force''. English scripts for the series were written by [[David McDermott]], [[Marc Handler]], [[Seth Walther]], [[Stephanie Sheh]] and [[James W. Bates]] (but the series does not include episode writer credits, so precisely who wrote which episodes is left unknown).

On the most basic level, dialogue was frequently re-written, sticking to the ''intent'' of the original but adding many more colorful turns of phrase, flavor and character, doing away with much of the formality and unflappability with which the Autobots handled every situation (a common trait of the Autobots in Japanese ''Transformers'' cartoons). ''Cybertron'' would also ''add'' more dialogue to scenes that were silent in ''Galaxy Force''; in particular, the show's extensive use of [[stock footage]] was livened up with new dialogue from characters as they transformed. Paraphrased dialogue from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' was common. The show's soundtrack mostly remained unaltered; the only new music was a new theme tune recorded by [[Paul Oakenfold]], which was often used during transformation stock footage (but not with 100% consistency) and would sometimes be extended to replace the background music of the scenes that immediately followed said transformations. In other, more sparing instances, music would be replaced with ''different'' pieces from the original soundtrack; usually, this involved replacing melodramatic or "evil" music with more exciting tracks to ramp up action sequences.

A few aspects of the plot of the series were consistently modified or excised by the ''Cybertron'' dub, while some were created whole cloth. For instance, one of most notable changes of the series was the transformation of the male Nitro Convoy into the ''female'' Override, at the request of Cartoon Network. Other examples include the removal of suggestions in early ''Galaxy Force'' episodes that Coby had an unsteady relationship with his family, and the notion that Cybertron was consumed by the black hole in the first episode (since the characters were able to return to the planet later in the series without ill effect). In terms of newly-created ideas, ''Cybertron'' justified the continued presence of the Autobots' human allies Coby, Bud and Lori after their usefulness had realistically ended by crafting the concept of the [[Omega Frequency]], the signal of the [[Omega Lock]] which only they could hear, making them necessary in the search for the Lock and Keys. This particular example is indicative of ''Cybertron'''s efforts to make as much technical and logical sense as it could, where ''Galaxy Force'' was content to hand-wave many things off with [[Burning justice|Burning Justice]]. Innumerable times in the course of the cartoon, characters glow with energy that comes from nowhere; while ''Galaxy Force'' does not address this strangeness, treating it as a normal thing for Transformers to do, ''Cybertron'' regularly inserts explanations, or at least has the characters react in an amazed fashion to this unusual thing that is happening to them.

Outside of these major overarcing examples, there are sometimes other changes both major and minor made to the content of individual episodes for numerous reasons. TFWIKI.Net notes such changes on the individual episode articles.

==Praise and criticism==
With the bad taste of ''Armada'' and ''Energon'' still lingering in the mouths of the fandom, ''Cybertron'' had a long way to go to make itself seem like an appealing prospect. On the English side of things, it generally succeeded: the show's dub is ''much'' more polished, lacking the myriad errors that had plagued the previous shows and bringing many distinct voices and accents into the mix, along with numerous pop-culture and ''Transformers'' references. Since the scripts had comprehensible context and some actual ''work'' put into them, the voice actors were likewise able to turn in stronger performances than they had in prior years. This effort was not appreciated by all viewers, unfortunately; those who had previously viewed subtitled ''Galaxy Force'' episodes online objected to the English dub taking greater liberties and occasionally altering aspects of the series, and were not shy about letting people know it.<ref>[http://www.shortpacked.com/blog/comic/book-3-is-totally-gay/05-iacon-one-sketches/screwball/ The result of people watching the subbed version first.]</ref>

Like ''[[Transformers: Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]'' before it, ''Cybertron'' was animated using shaded [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]] for the Transformers characters, and cel animation for most everything else. Though [[GONZO]]'s ''Cybertron'' work was more advanced than that of [[Actas Inc.]] and [[Studio A-CAT]]'s work in ''Energon'', the CGI still suffers from most of the problems of its predecessor, including a restricted range of motion, a tendency for the Transformers to stand around like statues, and crude walk cycles. Few facial expressions exist beyond "mouth open" and "mouth closed" (though to the animators' credit, there is an occasional smirk, smile, growl, etc. And Optimus Prime at one point manages to look furious ''with his mouthplate up''.) The shading techniques used on the Transformer characters also means they look very strange alongside their traditionally-animated human cohorts.

There is a sense that ''Cybertron'' actively attempts to avoid the main problem that plagued ''Energon''—that is to say, running out of plot. Consequently, while the basic plot of ''Cybertron'' is far more focused and coherent than that of ''Energon'', its first half is quite ponderous and drawn out, ''especially'' in the case of the [[Velocitron]] story arc, in which ''thirteen solid episodes'' are taken up by race after generic race, doing ''very'' little to advance the plot. Conversely, then, in the final quarter of the series, the stories of [[Gigantion]] and [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]] seem ''very'' truncated, as if the drawn-out first half left no room to see these plots through to their fullest extent.

In addition, ''Cybertron'' delights in the use of the CGI [[Stock footage|stock transformation sequences]], using them to pad out episodes like the cinematic equivalent of Styrofoam packing peanuts. ''Cybertron'' often has the characters saying unnecessary dialog that adds little to the clips. What's worse, even the ''battle scenes'' frequently recycle the same "two characters charging at each other, their fists colliding in mid-air" stock footage.

==Continuity==
As noted above, the Japanese version (''Galaxy Force'') originally treated the story as a stand-alone, unconnected to any previous story. The American version draws connections to the ''Armada'' and ''Energon'' cartoons, but various incongruities still exist:

* In general, nobody really seems to remember the events of ''Energon''. The Autobots act as though they've never been to [[Earth]] before and have no familiarity with its culture, despite having spent ten years there in places like [[Ocean City]].
* The Autobots are utterly dependent on the three human kids to help them blend into human society, when they previously had numerous human allies including Dr. Jones and his family, Rad, Alexis & Carlos, and the innumerable human inhabitants of Ocean City and the other Cybertron settlements on Earth.
* Likewise, despite the Autobots' presence being fairly common knowledge in ''Energon'', it is considered urgent to hide the Autobots from Earth's population in ''Cybertron''.
* The Energon cities themselves are never seen or mentioned.
* [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] and [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] both have distinctively different voices than in the previous cartoons. [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] has essentially the same voice, but with a newly added accent. Also, Red Alert seems to have a bit more emotion and acts less mechanical as he did in Armada.
* Formerly prominent characters like [[Rodimus (Energon)|Rodimus]], [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]], the [[Omnicon|Omnicons]], and Kicker have vanished without a word; new characters [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Overhaul]] and [[Scattorshot (Cybertron)|Scattorshot]] appear out of nowhere; and Red Alert returns after being absent for all of ''Energon''.
* Returning characters are ''all'' in brand-new bodies with no explanation.
* When he first combines with [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Leobreaker]], Optimus Prime declares that he's never heard of two Autobots combining into one before. This is a rather odd statement, considering that such combinations were commonplace during ''Energon'', and Optimus himself had been combining with other Autobots since ''Armada''; given later events, it's possible he was referring to the specific manner in which they combined, though this is at best an awkward rationalization.
* Nobody seems surprised that Megatron and Starscream are alive and well again.
* The grand black hole is explained as a by-product of "Unicron's destruction". In ''Energon'', that event happened in [[Alpha Q's universe|Alpha Q's alternate universe]], a fact that's not mentioned in the show. Likewise, Cybertron was last seen in that same alternate universe. It's not much of a stretch to assume the Autobots moved it back where it came from, but in that case, why is it so close to the black hole?
* The collapse of the Energon sun would mean that everything the Autobots fought for during ''Energon'' was in vain, and Alpha Q's worlds would die again, left in darkness without a sun and consumed by the black hole. Nobody seems to notice this little setback. To the contrary, Red Alert's report mentions an uninhabited planet that's ''not'' one of Alpha Q's planets as the black hole's first victim.
* Some returning character's personalities, like Wing Saber and Sideways, are different from their portrayals in other series.

Within the show, most of these problems were never directly addressed; the cartoon simply went about telling its story without much regard to previous events. Indeed, vanishing characters and new bodies had previously occurred in the changeover between ''Armada'' and ''Energon'' with equally little attention, though the second show at least established the existence of a ten-year fictional gap between them, making it ''somewhat'' less intrusive (such a gap also exists between ''Energon'' and ''Cybertron'', but it was never noted in dialogue in the series).

However, external material has addressed some of the problems. The [[Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club (magazine)|''Cybertron'' comic]] storyline ''[[Transformers: Cybertron: Balancing Act|Balancing Act]]'', for example, [[Vector Prime|Vector Prime]] claims that the Autobots are suffering memory problems, caused by temporal disturbances from the [[Unicron Singularity|Unicron Singularity]]. Jetfire's new accent was explained on the Hasbro web site as a result of time spent on the planet [[Nebulos|Nebulon]].

===Energon comic===
Some fans believe that the cartoon follows the unfinished [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|''Energon'' comic book series]] from [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]]. Unsubstantiated rumors to this effect have swirled since the cartoon's debut, though the only "evidence" comes from media outside the cartoon:

* The [[Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club (magazine)|''Cybertron'' comic]] storyline ''Balancing Act'', written by Hasbro copywriter [[Forest Lee|Forest Lee]], is set the same universe as the ''Cybertron'' cartoon series. But the story references events from the ''Energon'' comic, such as the [[Mini-Con|Mini-Con]] [[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] hooking himself into the Planetary Database — a plot point begun by the [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|''Energon'' comic]], which would have been carried through if the book hadn't been canceled.

* The bio of the ''Cybertron'' toy [[Scorponok (Energon)|Dark Scorponok]] references his death at the hands of Megatron, as happened in the ''Energon'' comic but not the cartoon. However, this was overwritten when "Balancing Act" depicted Dark Scorponok as being pulled into the cartoon timeline from ''another'' universe.

The idea doesn't solve any problems; most of the contradictions between the ''Energon'' and ''Cybertron'' cartoons also exist between the ''Energon'' comic and the ''Cybertron'' cartoon. The cartoon contains no references to any events of the ''Energon'' comic.

The entire notion of a network television cartoon following up on a comparatively obscure, unfinished comic book seems counter-intuitive; furthermore, Hasbro material has presented many explanations for contradictions between the two cartoons. Why bother explaining why ''Cybertron'' Jetfire sounds different if he's not the same guy seen in ''Energon''? Why have Vector Prime explain the differences between the two cartoons if they're not in the same continuity? It would have been simpler to retract the statement that Cybertron was a sequel series.

==Home video releases==
===Galaxy Force===
{{main|Victor Entertainment}}
The ''Galaxy Force'' version of ''Cybertron'' was released on DVD by Victor Entertainment in [[Japan]] while the series was still on air. Several of the DVDs were packaged with exclusive [[redeco]]s of toys, such as a ''Masterforce'' [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]]-themed [[Thunderblast (Decepticon)|Chromia]] and a ''Generation 1'' [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]-themed [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Exillion]].
[[Image:Tf galaxy force vol 01.jpg|thumb|150px|]]
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 01 (2005)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 02 (2005)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 03 (2005)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 04 (2005)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 05 (2005)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 06 (2005)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 07 (2005)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 08 (2006)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 09 (2006)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 10 (2006)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 11 (2006)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 12 (2006)
*''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 13 (2006)
{{-}}

===Cybertron===
{{main|Paramount Pictures}}
[[Image:Cybertron Ultimate Collection DVD.jpg|thumb|150px|]]
Paramount Home Entertainment released a single ''Cybertron'' disc in 2005 as a follow-up to their four separate ''[[Transformers: Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]'' releases. They then took some time off to concentrate on the [[Transformers (2007)|live-action movie]] before finally releasing a complete box set in 2008.
*''Transformers: Cybertron'' — A New Beginning (2005)
*''Transformers: Cybertron'' — The Ultimate Collection (2008)

====Other====
Sometime in 2007, a complete DVD boxset of the ''Cybertron'' series was released in Malaysia which, despite initial appearances, was apparently ''not'' a bootleg, given that it was region-encoded (Region 3, to be precise). The set featured two English audio tracks (2.0 and 5.1) and was fully subtitled with an accurate transcription of the English dialogue. All told, this was more than the eventual American release managed. The set also moved "[[Inferno (episode)|Inferno]]", from its ill-sitting placement as episode 52 back to being the second episode on the set.
{{-}}

==Footnotes==
<references />

==External links==
*[http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%83%95%E3%82%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%9E%E3%83%BC_%E3%82%AE%E3%83%A3%E3%83%A9%E3%82%AF%E3%82%B7%E3%83%BC%E3%83%95%E3%82%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B9 ''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' at the Japanese Wikipedia]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Cybertron (cartoon)}}
[[Category:Cybertron media| ]]
[[Category:Cybertron episodes| ]]
[[Category:Television series]]

Reproduction

2011-10-25T05:45:51Z

69.171.187.74: /* Sexual reproduction */

[[Image:MangaDinoforceBabies.jpg|right|250px|thumb|HOW IS BABBY FORMED?]]
Various reproduction methods for the Transformers species have been demonstrated across various continuities.

==Mechanical construction==
Sometimes, new Transformers are simply built from scratch, and that's all it takes. A suitable Transformer body is constructed, and when finished and turned on, it just springs to life.
===Generation 1===
====Cartoon continuity====
Two notable examples of this type of reproduction appear in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]]: when [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] and company create the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]], {{storylink|S.O.S. Dinobots}} and later when the temporarily super-intelligent [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] creates the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]]. {{storylink|Grimlock's New Brain}}

[[Image:SOSDinobots buildingSludge.jpg|left|180px|thumb|"I've been workin' on the Dinobot, all the live long day..."]]
The Dinobots are initially very simple mentally and are ordered to be deactivated because they are too dangerous. Wheeljack then develops a set of crown-like devices to place on the Dinobots which greatly enhances their intellect, although they are still "dumb" and child-like compared to the other Autobots. The Technobots, on the other hand, are immediately fully functional, and some of them are even ''smarter'' than average Transformers. If one were to take these facts as canonically meaningful (rather than simply the whims of the writers of those episodes), it could be guessed that programming a functional Transformer brain from scratch is extremely difficult, such that even Wheeljack is not up to the job. Temporarily super-genius Grimlock may be the only one capable. However, one must also note that the Dinobots were built and programmed to be as similar to dinosaurs as possible, including the limited intelligence; the Technobots, however, were built by Grimlock with intelligence in mind, as it was the only way to counter [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]]' brute power.

At least on the surface, this "built from scratch" approach runs counter to claims in other episodes of the show that [[Vector Sigma]] is needed to create new Transformer life. (See below.) However, since Vector Sigma is presented as being a supercomputer and not a "magical" device like the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|comics']] [[Creation Matrix]], it could fall in with the speculative statements above regarding Grimlock and Wheeljack. Perhaps Vector Sigma is simply an advanced enough computer that it is capable of constructing a working mind.

====IDW comics continuity====
[[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]] [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]], [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]], and [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] are created by Decepticon scientists after many failed attempts. The failed attempts lived on and were collectively known as [[Insecticon swarm|"the swarm"]]. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron}}

== Infusion ==
[[Image:Creation Matrix 65.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Go on, rub it and make a wish...]]
In other stories, once a new Transformer body has been built, it must still be infused with life (what the fiction from the Beast era and after would gloss as a [[spark]]) from a "god-like" outside source. In the ''Generation 1'' cartoon, this source is Vector Sigma; in the Marvel comics, it is the Creation Matrix, which houses the essence of [[Primus]], the Transformers' creator-god. In the [[Beast Era|Beast era]] cartoons, sparks arrive from the [[Allspark]], perhaps through Vector Sigma. (In many continuities, each Transformer's life force is a fragment of Primus's own.) The [[Movie (franchise)|live-action movie]] continuities function with the [[AllSpark]] being the source of infusion as well, though in that case, "living" and "sentient" are not quite the same thing. (See: [[AllSpark Mutation]].)

[[Image:VectorSigmaG1.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Vector Sigma holds "Disco Night" every Friday at 11 pm.]]
In the [[Young Corgi]] book ''[[Desert of Danger]]'', Hot Rod refers to his creation after the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' left Cybertron as when he was "matrixed". How exactly this would have happened if Optimus Prime was aboard the ''Ark'' with the Matrix at the time is unknown, but one option might be the [[Matrix Flame]].

The Matrix Flame is an artifact which allows Transformers on Cybertron to access the power of the Matrix even when it is no longer on Cybertron. Literally a flame, it is used to breathe life in the super warrior [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] in the UK comics. The flame is somehow linked to the Matrix, and when the Matrix is transported to another dimension during "[[Target: 2006]]", the flame goes out, forcing the Autobots on Cybertron to investigate.

The [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] ''[[More Than Meets The Eye (G1)|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' guide provides yet another method of infusion. According to the guide's entry on [[protoform]]s in issue #8, in the [[Dreamwave Generation One continuity]], Transformers generally begin life as a skeletal mass of partially formed circuits—a [[Protoform]]. These are kept in stasis pods filled with nurturing nutrient gel. They can be built to certain specifications or be fairly general, allowing the robot to form naturally upon introduction of a spark. Sparks, and hence life, usually come from the Matrix, ''BUT'', if the Matrix is absent, life can be granted by attuning the protoform to an energy wavelength similar to the Matrix and then applying a concentrated burst of energon. This alternative is rarely used, as it is extremely resource-consumptive, requiring restrictively high amounts of energon.

[[Image:Allspark movie.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"RESISTANCE IS FUTILE."]]
The Movie continuity's [[AllSpark]] works by infusion as well, just on an even more impressive scale. It is capable of infusing any inanimate machine with life and simultaneously altering its structure so that it is capable of transforming into a Cybertronian-style robot. The AllSpark fragments spread across Detroit in the ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' continuity show the same ability to alter non-living machines into new Transformers (as well as unrelated powers like slowing time and remote controlling other Cybertronians.) Although, outside of the toy biographies for certain characters, the AllSpark in the movie merely creates non-sentient, animalistic life-forms out of ordinary machines, rather than fully developed Cybertronians. Suggesting that maybe, the Cybertronians 'evolved' over time. This is further hinted at by [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] when, whilst responding to [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]]'s comment about humans being primitive and violent, he responds; "Were we so different?"

'''''See also:''' [[Sacred implement]]''
{{-}}
== Resurrection ==
[[Image:Pmoptimusprimedeath.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Don't worry kids, he gets better. Again.]]
Though not quite the same as reproduction, a copy of the mind or essence of a previously living Transformer may be introduced into a new body and, through some vague process, return that Transformer to life. This occurs when [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] creates the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] in the ''Generation 1'' cartoon, and in the comic when Prime uses copies of the minds of existing Cybertronians to create the second-series Autobot cars on [[Earth]]. Another example from the comic occurs when Optimus Prime himself is returned to life merely by inputting a human's [[floppy disk]] copy of his mind into a new body.

A variation on this theme is [[Unicron]]'s ability to create new Robotic life. In the cartoon continuity, Unicron rebuilds [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] into [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], though it is unclear if these are the same being. Less ambiguous is the creation of [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]], [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] and the [[Sweeps]] from the apparently dead remains of [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]. In Marvel comic book continuity, Unicron exhibits a similar ability, fashioning three servants named [[Hook, Line, and Sinker]] from the remains of non-Cybertronian robots attempting to flee him. Some fans have speculated that the creation of the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] by super-genius [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] was aided in some fashion by Unicron's presence.

In his ending to the ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars Transmetals (N64)|Beast Wars Transmetals]]'' video game, [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] uses "a prototype cloning device, based on transreplication technology" to clone the deactivated Generation 1 Decepticons on the Ark into new protoform bodies, thus reviving them without altering the timeline (and erasing himself) by effectively doubling each robot.

This is included as a means of reproduction because it seems likely from the dialogue that the Autobot cars created via copied minds by Prime on Earth still existed on Cybertron when he left, meaning that if they survived the intermediate 4 million years, two of each of these individuals now exist.

In the [[Unicron Trilogy]] story "[[Linkage (comic)|Linkage]]", [[Redline]] and [[Falcia]] combine energy from their [[Spark frame|spark frames]] in order to create a new body for the mind/soul of [[Twirl]] to inhabit after her [[Mini-Con storage panel]] is destroyed in battle. This leads to an interesting relationship between Twirl and Falcia. (See "Familial relationships", below.)

== Budding ==
[[Image:G2issue5-PowerandtheGlory-BuddingSteps.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Budding doesn't look like much fun at ALL. It looks like Aliens versus Predator all over again.]]
The [[Generation 2 (Marvel comic)|''Transformers: Generation 2'' comic]] introduced the concept of asexual "budding". Bubbles and lesions of apparently liquid metal form on a robot's chest, accompanied by energy discharge. The process grows more intense, until a large mass of liquid metal bursts free from the chest and slowly forms into a [[protoform]]-like blank figure, and then solidifies into a full Transformer. Illustrations suggest that this is something of a communal event, with others surrounding the budding robot in a circle.

[[Image:TNA.gif|left|150px|thumb|With the right early screening, even pegwarming might some day be preventable.]]
It was revealed that (in the Marvel continuity at least) early Transformers reproduced this way until they reached the population level Primus desired. At this turning point, the practice stopped and all memory of it was erased. When the [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronians]] (possibly under influence of the [[Liege Maximo]]) rediscovered and revived the process sometime during the 4 million years after the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'''s loss, the successive generations of robots produced were increasingly less sentient and emotional (as Primus's lifeforce was apparently spread thinner and thinner between them), and the lifeform called the [[Swarm (G2)|Swarm]] was created as a byproduct.

It is established here that Transformers do have genetic material (the Transformer equivalent of DNA) within their cellular structures. (Yes, they also apparently have cellular structures—who knew?) This genetic material is passed down from "parent" to "child" through budding. Its make-up is seen in the picture at left. (Apparently, its design is not taught in the Transformer equivalent of high school Biology, as Megatron does not recognize what he's looking at until Perceptor explains.) This genetic material and basic Transformer cellular structure is also passed to the Swarm. Later, in [[IDW Generation 1 continuity|IDW continuity]], Transformer genetic material is given the designation [[CNA]], and it is what is altered by the malevolent Jhiaxus to create female Transformers.

The other notable fact is that Transformers who have undergone the budding process retain some sort of primal link to their offspring, thus even though they are galaxies apart, the ''Generation 1'' Decepticon [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] doubles over in pain when his descendant [[Mindset (G2)|Mindset]] is destroyed, and the Liege Maximo says he would know if his descendant, Megatron, were to die.

== Sexual reproduction ==
[[Image:Tfreprod marvel28.jpg|left|150px|thumb|"Film the birth?" "No, got some great footage of the conception, though!"]]
Despite most continuities having male and female genders (gender being a mental and social classification, as opposed to "sexes", a physical distinction) and a definite, strong history of [[transformer romance]] existing between these genders, there is little canonical evidence for Transformers reproducing sexually. (Though admittedly, there isn't a lot of direct evidence for [[Human|humans]] to have anal sex or the man putting his penuis in the woman's vagina or the woman sucking the man's dick or the man licking the womens[[Vagina|vagina]] or the man putting his penius in the middle of the woman's [[Boobs|boobs]] and the woman moving them up and down. Because
in most Transformers media, which is, after all, aimed towards kids.)

In the ''Generation 1'' cartoon, the male Transformer - [[female Transformer]] romance could perhaps be explained as an artifact of [[Quintesson]] mental programming very closely echoing the organic life forms the Transformers were built to serve.

On only two occasions in Generation 1 do we get a hint of male and female Transformer romance leading to the formation of family units and the creation of offspring. The first is subtle: [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]]'s backstory in some versions mentions his crashing on Quintessa with his parents. The second is more explicit: At the end of the Japanese [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Victory (manga)|''Victory'' manga]], we find out that [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] and his forces have been fighting all this time for the sake of their/the families living on top of the [[Planet-Destroying Fortress]], among which the [[Dinoforce]]'s [[Baby Dinoforce|children]]. Awww.

Apart from this, the best case for sexual reproduction in the species could probably be made from ''[[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'', where [[Rattrap]] makes numerous off-color remarks throughout the series, especially directed at [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]]. These comments strongly hint at something sex-like among Transformers, though it could, of course, be merely recreational rather than reproductive.

It is unknown what effect the ''[[Beast Machines (cartoon)|Beast Machines]]'' [[reformatting]] of Transformers into [[technorganic]] beings, which are equal parts organic life and mechanical structure down to a cellular level, has on their reproductive options. It is conceivable but unexplored whether this new form of Transformer life could reproduce sexually.

During a dream-like vision, Blackarachnia and Silverbolt meet in an ethereal state, and the two appear to "merge" their sparks, which may be as close to sexual intercourse as Transformers get, perhaps a more spiritual act than physical.

[[Image:Sariprime.jpg|right|120px|thumb|At that moment, Optimus realizes that there are some questions best left unanswered.]]

The [[Transformers (2007)|2007 motion picture]] once again brings up questions about the possibility of a less-than-mechanical form of reproduction. The first and most obvious of these implications comes from [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet's]] less-than-tactful observation of "the [[Sam Witwicky|boy]] want[ing] to mate with the [[Mikaela Banes|female]]." Although his grasp of the concept could stem merely from a familiarity with organic species in general, [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime's]] mention of [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] killing their father, in some related material, does suggest Transformers have some understanding of family units. In [[Revenge of the Fallen issue 4| the fourth issue of ''Revenge of the Fallen'']], [[Rampage (ROTF)|Rampage]] refers to [[Sam Witwicky|Sam's]] parents as his "protoform batch initiators." Make that of what you will.

In the ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' continuity, it seems clear that Transformers do not reproduce sexually. [[Optimus Prime (Animated)|Optimus Prime]] appears stunned when [[Sari Sumdac|Sari]] tells him where human babies come from, and later brings up the inconsistency when Sari's own origins are revealed.

On the flip-side, in IDW continuity, female Transformers are specifically created by [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]]. By altering fundamental [[CNA]], Jhiaxus introduced gender to the species from a malevolent curiosity about what would happen. The depth of the change in this case is unknown; is it limited to appearance and mentality or does it go deeper? If he was truly trying to see how females would affect the evolution of the species it is possible Arcee was created with the capability for some analog of sexual reproduction in mind, but given his abandonment of the experiment and Arcee's resultant unbalanced mental state it seems unlikely the depth of the change will be explored.

In the [[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|''Transformers: Prime'' episode]] "[[Darkness Rising, Part 1]]", [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] joked with [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]], asking him if he had heard that humans multiplied. Ratchet was expecting her and [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] to bring back two humans. When they brought back three, Arcee had implied that the teenagers had reproduced since then.
{{-}}

== Familial relationships ==
[[Image:PrimeDirective4 Cover SunstreakerSideswipe.jpg|left|150px|thumb|The Doublemint Twins they're not.]]
One confusing aspect of this apparent lack of sexual reproduction is the canonical use of genealogical terminology to describe certain relationships. The most common of these is when two Transformers regard each other as siblings: "brothers" (e.g. ''Generation 1's'' [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] or ''Robots in Disguise'''s [[Optimus Prime (RID)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]]) or "sisters" ([[Roulette (Universe)|Roulette]] and [[Shadow Striker (Universe)|Shadow Striker]]).

Again, the Dreamwave ''More than Meets the Eye'' guide provides a partial possible answer. According to the guide, when a spark naturally splits as it's being introduced to a protoform, it creates two robots who are "brothers", such as Sideswipe and Sunstreaker. When such a spark division is artificially induced, the pair created are referred to as "[[Cloning|clones]]". (This definition of "brother" may or may not apply to RID Prime and Magnus, whose brotherhood was said to result from the special circumstance of having been created simultaneously by Alpha Trion).

However, the "[[Beast Era|Beast era]]" widened the issue of reproduction with Rattrap referring to his "great-aunt" [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] and in general the practice of Maximals and Predacons referring to the Autobots and Decepticons as their respective "ancestors", as well as themselves as being their "descendants", implying a direct genetic (for want of a better term) lineage. Various sources of debatable canonicity suggest that [[Optimus Primal]] is specifically descended from [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], usually through the phrase "[his] ancestor Optimus Prime".

In the absence of sexual reproduction, the use and meaning of these genealogical references is difficult to explain. One possible explanation might be a situation such as when [[Airazor (BW)|Airazor]] is brought to life in ''Beast Wars''. Her [[spark]] and [[protoform]] are heavily damaged, and [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] allows some of his parts to be used as replacements while [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] guides the procedure. To compare to humans, this is something like assisting with childbirth and donating blood or organs. It is unlikely that this happened enough to cause "descendants" as they are described, however. The term may also be used in an ideological sense or even a technological sense, much as the CD or MP3 player is, in a way, a "descendant" of the gramophone.

[[Image:Linkage7_Twirl-Baby.jpg|250px|right|thumb|So, think Social Services handle cases like these often?]]
Other family designations exist as well. [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] has "parents" that were lost in his crash on [[Quintessa]], according to some background material. The aforementioned Mini-Con Twirl very specifically calls Falcia her "mother" (which Falcia ''hates'') and seems to treat Redline like a father, since the two's spark frame energies went into constructing her physical form. In the ''Armada'' cartoon, [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]] refers to [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] as his brother after Hot Shot saves his life, suggesting at least an understanding of the concept; on the other hand, the ''Armada'' cartoon is originally Japanese, and in Japan, 'brother' and 'sister' can be used as terms of affection or respect to an unrelated person. The [[Unicron Trilogy]] universe has also used the term "cousin" for certain Transformers on occasion. The Japanese Generation 1 ''Victory'' manga features Decepticon wives and children. Even the live-action movie features an Optimus and Megatron who are brothers, and it is mentioned in the related Nintendo DS game that Megatron "took the spark" of their father.

'''''See also:''' [[Relatives]]''
{{-}}

== Toys ==
[[Image:Classics cosmos concept.gif|right|250px|thumb|Echography of a sadly aborted Transformer.... Yes, those things happen.]]
In the real-life continuity, when two toy manufacturing companies love each other very much, [[Hasbro|one of them]] may start shooting Transformer design propositions to the [[TakaraTomy|other one]]. There, during several months of gestation, engineers will work on those designs, which will be developed into functional and manufacturable Transformers. Once the Transformer is ready to be produced, its design will be sent to marketing and ultimately to the chain manufacturer for the delivery. Voilà! A new Transformer is born!
{{-}}

[[Category:Biology]]
[[Category:Transformer culture]]

Diaclone

2011-10-14T02:53:19Z

69.171.167.121: /* Notes */

[[Image:Diaclone-GRB logo.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Di...a...cloooooooone!!!]]
'''''Diaclone''''' was one of two [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] toy lines (the other being ''[[Micro Change|Microchange]]'') from which the earliest [[The Transformers (toyline)|Generation 1]] ''Transformers'' toys came.

The ''Diaclone'' toyline was first introduced in [[1980]], but it was not until March [[1982]] that toys with [[Alternate mode|alt modes]] based on realistic, present-day vehicles began to appear as part of the "Car Robots" sub-line. The first one was the ''Diaclone'' predecessor of [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]], whom [[Hasbro]] now considers the first fully-fledged transforming car-to-robot toy ever designed.<ref name="hof2010">[http://www.hasbro.com/transformers/en_US/discover/movie-news/TRANSFORMERS-HALL-OF-FAME-INAUGURAL-MEMBERS.cfm Hasbro press release for the 2010 Transformers Hall of Fame inductees]</ref> Its vehicle form was based on an older Takara toy, the "Cosmo Countach" from the ''[[Microman]]'' "Micro Command" sub-line released in 1978, which transformed into a half-robot, half-car hybrid.<ref name="command">[http://www5e.biglobe.ne.jp/~mikuro/sub1-6.htm "Micro Command" toys, including the Cosmo Countach]</ref>

Before the [[Transformers brand]] was introduced, Takara directly exported some ''Diaclone'' toys to North America under the brand names ''[[Diakron]]'' and ''[[Kronoform]]'', but those lines met with very little success.

In [[1983]], [[Hasbro]] representatives discovered ''Diaclone'' and ''Microchange'' toys at the Tokyo Toy Show, and soon struck a deal to create the ''Transformers'' brand.

The [[1984]] and [[1985]] [[Autobot Cars]], 1984 [[Decepticon Planes]], 1985 [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s, 1985 [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s, [[Trainbot]]s, [[Omnibot (G1)|Omnibot]]s, [[Powerdasher]]s, [[Jumpstarter]]s, [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]], 1984 [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Generation_1|Optimus Prime]] and [[1986]] [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys#Generation_1|Ultra Magnus]] toys all originated from ''Diaclone''.

When ''Transformers'' proved an unqualified success, plans for a 1985 ''Diaclone'' line were scrapped, and ''Transformers'' was imported to Japan in its place. These aborted toys, which would have been part of a sub-line called ''Jizai Gattai'' ("Free Combination") were then incorporated into the ''Transformers'' toyline in 1986 as the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]], [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]], [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]] and [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]].

{{picsneeded|Catalog scans}}

==Toy range (incomplete)==
The following list covers all Diaclone releases that were later rereleased as Transformers, Diaclone molds with no Transformer releases are generally not listed as they fall outside the purview of this site.
===Baku-Ten Attack Robo===
These were released in the ''Transformers'' line as the [[Jumpstarter]]s, and both had light blue and white decos in their initial TF releases, which were changed again for the South American "Salt-Man" versions.

* Drill Tank Type ([[Twin Twist]]/[[Salt-Man Z]], yellow and black deco)
* Jet Type ([[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]/[[Salt-Man X]], dark green and white deco)

===Car Robots===
[[Image:Sunstreaker-diaclone.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Maybe they died when the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' crashed?]]

*No. 1 Countach LP500S — The Diaclone red deco was changed to yellow for release as [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]. 
*No. 2 Onebox Cherry Vanette — The Diaclone black deco was changed to red for release as [[Ironhide (G1)/toys|Ironhide]]. 
*No. 3 Countach Patrol Car Type — Not released as a Transformer. 
*No. 4 Onebox Ambulance Type — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]. 
*No. 5 4WD Hi-luxe — The Diaclone black deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]. The Diaclone version was also available in blue and yellow decos. 
*No. 6 Honda City R — The Diaclone silver deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Crosscut (Autobot)|Crosscut]]. The Diaclone version was also available in red. This mold was later redecoed as [[Screech (Generations)|Screech]]. 
*No. 7 Fairlady Z — The Diaclone blue deco was changed to silver for release as [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]]. The Diaclone version was also available in silver with a black hood. 
*No. 8 4WD Wrecker Type — The Diaclone red deco was changed to green for release as [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]]. The Diaclone version was also available in blue. 
*No. 9 Honda City Turbo — The Diaclone blue deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Skids (G1)|Skids]]. The Diaclone version was also available in black and red decos. 
*No.10 Fire Engine — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]. This mold was later redecoed as [[Artfire (Headmasters)|Artfire]]. 
*No.11 Fairlady Z Racing Type — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]. 
*No.12 J59 Jeep — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]. This mold was later redecoed as [[Detritus]]. 
*No.13 Police Car Fairlady Z — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Prowl (G1)/toys|Prowl]]. 
*No.14 Porsche 935 Turbo — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]]. This mold was later redecoed as [[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]. 
*No.15 New Countach LP500S — The Diaclone red deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]. The Diaclone version was also available in black and yellow decos, which were later used for [[Deep Cover]] and [[Tigertrack]] . 
*No.16 F-1 Ligier JS11 — The Diaclone blue deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]. A red version was also available as a Diaclone. 
*No.17 Battle Convoy — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged, except for some decals on the trailer, for release as [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]]. 
*No.18 Lancia Stratos Turbo — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Wheeljack (G1)/toys|Wheeljack]]. A remolded version served as the inspiration for [[Marlboor Wheeljack]]. 
*No.19 New Countach Police Car — The Diaclone police deco was changed to a fire chief deco for release as [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]. The original deco was later used for [[Clamp Down]]. 
[[Image:TrasformerSuperBuggy.jpg|thumb|250px|What, no TF love for Powered Buggy?]]
*No.20 Crane — The Diaclone deco was virtually unchanged for release as [[Grapple]]. This mold was later redecoed as [[Hauler]]. 
*No.21 Corvette Stingray — The Diaclone red deco was changed to blue for release as [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]]. The Diaclone red deco was released as Tracks in Europe and later as [[Road Rage (G1)|Road Rage]]. 
*Powered Convoy — The Diaclone deco was reversed for release as [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]]. The Diaclone version was also available in a chrome deco. The Powered Buggy accessory was excised from all Transformers releases.

===Construction Vehicle Robo===
These were, obviously, released in the ''Transformers'' line as [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] and his separate parts, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]. All of them had their yellow/orange deco changed to green.

*No. 1 Bulldozer ([[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]])
*No. 2 Power Shovel ([[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]])
*No. 3 Shovel-dozer ([[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]])
*No. 4 Truck Crane ([[Hook (G1)|Hook]])
*No. 5 Dump Truck ([[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]])
*No. 6 Concrete Mixer ([[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]])

===Dashers===
The Dashers were released in ''Transformers'' as the [[Powerdasher]]s. They were only available via mail-order and [[Robot Point]]s, and never even got individual names!

*Sky Dasher
*Drill Dasher
*F-1 Dasher

===Dinosaur Robo===
[[Image:DiacloneSwoop.jpg|thumb|200px|Ohh, so [[Show-accuracy|that's]] where his color scheme came from.]]
The Dinosaur Robo molds became the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] in ''Transformers''. Duh. All of the TF releases had softer plastic in certain places. There were also several differences in decos between the Diaclone and Transformers versions, mostly the replacement of blue paint with red.

*Tyrannosaurus ([[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]])
*Triceratops ([[Slag (G1)|Slag]])
*Brontosaurus ([[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]])
*Stegosaurus ([[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]])
*Pteranodon ([[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]])

===Double Changers===
The Double Changers were released as the [[Omnibot (G1)|Omnibots]], and like the Powerdashers, were only available via mail-order and Robot Points.

*Ferrari BB ([[Overdrive]])
*Savannah RX-7 ([[Camshaft (G1)|Camshaft]])
*Selica XX ([[Downshift (G1)|Downshift]])

===F-15 Robo===
The F-15 Robo mold was the source for the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]]. The black and purple deco used for [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] was created for the ''Transformers'' line, and was never available as a Diaclone. The decos and remolded wings for the [[Conehead]]s were also original to Transformers.

*Acrobat type ([[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]])
*Super-high-speed fighter type ([[Thundercracker (G1)/toys|Thundercracker]])

===Insecter Robo===
In Diaclone, these were mechs used by the Waruder, the "bad guys" of that universe. In ''Transformers'' they were released as the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]] with purple, black and yellow deco. Much later, they were released in their original decos as [[e-Hobby]] exclusives.

*Kabutoron ([[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]/[[Salvo]], original Diaclone deco)
*Battas ([[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]]/[[Shothole]], original Diaclone deco)
*Kuwagatler ([[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]]/[[Zaptrap]], original Diaclone deco)

===Train Robo===
The Train Robo molds were only released as Transformers in Japan during the ''[[The Headmasters (franchise)|Headmasters]]'' franchise as [[Raiden]] and his individual components, the [[Trainbot]]s.

*No. 1 Tôkaidô Bullet Train ([[Shōki]])
*No. 2 EF65 Blue Train ([[Getsuei]])
*No. 3 Tôhoku Jôetsu Bullet Train ([[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]])
*No. 4 Tôkai-type Express Train ([[Suiken]])
*No. 5 L-Special-Express-485 ([[Seizan]])
*No. 6 DE10 Diesel Locomotive ([[Kaen]])

===Triplechangers===
[[Image:DBlitzFace.jpg|right|150px|thumb|No feet, no face, no service.]]
Only the Jet Fighter Type [[Triple Changer]] was ever released in the ''Transformers'' line, but the Helicopter Type made a cameo in a [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] comic. [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] may have been in development when the change to the Transformers brand occurred.

*No. 1 Jet Fighter Type ([[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]], purple and beige deco/[[Overcharge (G1)|Overcharge]], original Diaclone dark green and white deco)
*[[Jet-helicopter Decepticon|No. 2 Helicopter Type]]

{{-}}

==Fiction==
===''Animated'' cartoon===
[[Wyatt Toys]] advertised Diaclone and [[Microman]] toys for sale in the [[Detroit Powell Press]]. {{storylink|Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac|The AllSpark Almanac}}

==Notes==
*Designs from Diaclone were plagiarized for the Korean animated movie ''Diatron 5'' (다이아트론5), which is currently haunting Walmart dollar bins as [http://www.amazon.com/SPACE-TRANSFORMERS/dp/B000FHDNZW Space Transformers].
*Like ''Transformers'' after it, ''Diaclone'' was also released in other countries, in some cases licensed to other companies:
**Takara themselves had a short run on the US market under the name ''[[Diakron]]'', featuring three toys that were later released as ''Transformers'' in different colors.
**Italian company [[GiG]] initially released toys under the name ''Diaclone'', but soon changed it to ''[[Trasformer]]'' {{sic}} in a blatant attempt of cashing in on Hasbro's success with ''Transformers'' without obtaining a second license, featuring a blend of ''Diaclone'' toys and elements original to Hasbro's ''Transformers'' line.
**French company [[Joustra]] released the toys under the name ''Diaclone'' in France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany, featuring a blend of [[Micro Change]] and Diaclone toys with unique packaging designs and origin stories, but eventually sporting factory-applied [[Autobot]] or [[Decepticon]] [[insignia|stickers]] due to production reasons.
**Takara themselves released toys in Finland under the name ''Diaclone'', sharing elements of the packaging design with GiG's ''Trasformer'' line. This release is notable for a unique black version of the Corvette Stingray (pre-[[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]]).

==See also==
* [[Pre-Transformer|Pre-Transformers]]
* [[Diakron]]
* [[Kronoform]]
* [[Micro Change]]

==External links==
* [http://www.diaclone.net Diaclone.Net]
* [http://1501bc.com/pretf/ Diaclone] at the Pre-Transformers Page

==Footnotes==
<references/>

{{stub}}
[[Category:Japanese franchises]]
[[Category:Non-Transformers toylines]]

Fury (Cybertron)

2011-09-15T00:03:17Z

69.171.167.51: /* Quotes */

{{disambig2|the episode of Cybertron|the character from G1|Nicholas Fury}}
{{episode
|series=Cybertron
|ep=40
|series2=Galaxy Force
|ep2=41
|image=GalvatronPepClub.jpg
|caption=
|title="Fury"
|japanese=マスターガルバトロン降臨
|romaji=Master Glavatron Kōrin
|translation=Enter Master Galvatron
|production code=
|production company=[[TV Aichi]], [[We've]], [[Tōkyū Agency]]
|writer=[[Kenji Sugihara]]
|director=[[Kei'ichirō Kawaguchi]]
|animation studio=[[GONZO]]
|airdate=[[October 15]], [[2005]] (Japanese) [[September 14]], [[2006]] (English)
|continuity=[[Unicron Trilogy cartoon timeline|Unicron Trilogy cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''In the wake of defeat, Megatron isn't happy.'''

==Synopsis==

[[Image:Cyb_ep40_wounded_megs.jpg|left|thumb|220px|A little kid's gonna give "Mean Megatron" Greene a Coke. ]]

In a lower layer of [[Gigantion]], [[Scourge (Cybertron)|Scourge]] helps the battered [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] walk after his thrashing at the hands of [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]]. The [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] offer words of encouragement, but Megatron isn't listening, as he growls that he needs more power.

Up on the surface of the planet, [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] recalls the [[Autobot]]s' brief but tumultuous time on Gigantion, before asking Metroplex to guide them to the central layer. The planet leader unfortunately tells Prime that they cannot: It's not that they don't ''want'' to, but their customs dictate that data on old cities be erased, so the lower levels are as much a mystery to them as they are to the newcomers. Undeterred by this turn of events, the Autobots determine to search the old cities for any remaining data. Given the size of the planet, narrowing down their search radius is a necessity, and to that end, they start unloading equipment from the ''[[Ogygia]]'' which will help [[Vector Prime]] get a general fix on the location of the [[Cyber Planet Key]] via the [[Omega Lock]].

[[Image:SpectralMegatronKey.jpg|right|220px|thumb|BURNING HEART-O I MUST SUCCEED!]]

Back underground, Megatron is fuming, literally. Ransack and Crumplezone get a little too close and get knocked backwards by the sheer force of Megatron's "aura of fury". Scourge assures everyone that it's not ''them'' he's angry at... and then Megatron's fury boils over, creating an energy blast that scatters the Decepticons and punches a hole to the surface. Megatron rises high into the air, and the Decepticons pull themselves from the rubble. Soundwave announces he's "droppin' outta this session" and flies off.
Megatron rumbles that he needs more power, and the Gigantion Cyber Planet Key reacts to his anger... as does the Omega Lock, which starts emitting the [[Omega Frequency]]. Megatron's spirit resonates with the Key, and he becomes intangible, plunging downward, through layer after layer of the planet, all the way to the lowest level and the resting place of the Key. When he reaches out to take it, the Key resists him, but Megatron persists and begins to draw energy from it. In a mighty blast of energy, Megatron shoots back through to the surface, tearing a huge hole in the planet. As the Decepticons look up at their leader, Megatron stands shrouded in a black miasma, and Thunderblast swoons at the sight.

[[Image:Cyb_ep40_dark_megs.jpg|left|thumb|220px|There's a monster on the loose, and it's not in Loch Ness!]]

Back at the ''Ogygia'', the Omega Lock's reaction has allowed Vector Prime to pinpoint the general location of the Key, but he warns that someone else has obviously located it first, and drawn energy from it. The Autobots split into groups to search (the fliers turning it into a little race), but by dividing themselves, the Autobots inadvertently make themselves the perfect target for the darkness-enshrouded Megatron. [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Leobreaker]], [[Snarl (Cybertron)|Snarl]] and [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] are the first to fall to the superpowered Decepticon leader, who takes them out so fast that their battle does not even damage the surrounding area. The three Autobots' unconscious bodies found by Optimus's team when Vector Prime realizes they have not reported in, but even as they are tending to them, elsewhere on the planet, [[Override (Cybertron)|Override]] finds herself being pursued by Megatron. She is knocked into the air, but [[Quickmix (Cybertron)|Quickmix]] catches her and fires at Megatron before engaging him hand-to-hand...only to be quickly knocked out and smashed into the ground (literally). Optimus's team soon finds them, too, and Override warns Optimus about the upgraded Megatron, prompting the Autobot leader to recall all his troops.

[[Image:Cyb ep40 meet galvatron.jpg|right|220px|thumb|[[Puppet|Déjà]] [[Wishes|vu]], anyone?]]

Jetfire's team receives the recall order just as [[Coby Hansen|Coby]] is crawling through an old computer, and he instructs the human to get out immediately. Coby, however, spots a data chip in the distance, and asks for five minutes to check it out. While he successfully recovers the chip, those five minutes prove to be a fatal delay: having bested the [[Cybertron Defense Team]], Megatron and the Decepticons arrive at Jetfire's team's position. [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] and [[Evac (Cybertron)|Evac]] tackle Megatron so Jetfire can get Coby and [[Lori]] away safely, but this attempt is in vain, as Megatron wipes out all three Autobots pretty much instantly. As he turns on the humans, the wounded Jetfire grabs his leg, but is saved from being completely destroyed by the timely arrival of Optimus Prime. Prime fires on Megatron, to virtually no effect, and Megatron responds by knocking Prime out of the air with a single flying kick. As he stands over his fallen foe, Megatron's black aura dissipates, and his newly-colored armor is revealed as he announces he is now '''Galvatron''' (again)!

[[Image:Cyb_ep40_one_finger.jpg|left|thumb|220px|Apparently, Galvatron has been taking [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]'s "Totally Lopsided Takedowns" class.]]

Metroplex has at Galvatron, but the Decepticon stops the giant's [[Sparkdrinker]] axe with ''a single finger'', then pushes him back easily. Metroplex powers up his weapon with a Cyber Key, but Galvatron actually takes the weapon from Metroplex's hands and bashes him with it, knocking him out for the count. Vector Prime leaps in, but is dispatched with a single swipe of Galvatron's hand, and the Decepticon leader then activates his bladed shield to bash Optimus around some. Prime refuses to stay down, so Galvatron whips out his gatling cannon, which sends Optimus flying. In victory, Galvatron emits a lightning storm, and one bolt screams towards the kids at the top of a high tower... but Optimus ''somehow'' gets in the way of the bolt, saving them.

[[Image:Cyb_ep40_prime_vs_galvy.jpg|right|thumb|220px|It doesn't get more anime than this...]]

Recalling the promise he made to their parents to keep the children safe, Optimus powers up into [[Super Mode]] and the two leaders charge one another. Their fists collide spectacularly, and Galvatron is pushed back. But Prime falters, and Galvatron is ready to go again... until Metroplex hurls the gigantic Sparkdrinker at Optimus. Prime manages to summon a Cyber Key to power it up, and the two rush at each other ''again'', this time to do the classic run-past-each-other-then-stand-dramatically deal. When the dust clears, Optimus falls to his knees, and Galvatron stands triumphant...for about five seconds, as numerous wounds open on him. The Decepticons rush to Galvatron's aid, and he decides to call it a day. They run, and Soundwave, who has been watching this whole time, also flies off.

The Autobots return to the ''Ogygia'', and use the machinery Coby recovered to plot a course underground. The ship heads for the coordinates, but along their way, they pass by the crevice Galvatron tore when he emerged from within the planet... which now contains the ''[[Atlantis]]'' starship!
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] (6)
* [[Snarl (Cybertron)|Snarl]] (7)
* [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] (8)
* [[Evac (Cybertron)|Evac]] (9)
* [[Vector Prime]] (10)
* [[Override (Cybertron)|Override]] (11)
* [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] (12)
* [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Leobreaker]] (13)
* [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] (14)
* [[Scattorshot (Cybertron)|Scattorshot]] (15)
* [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] (16)
* [[Quickmix (Cybertron)|Quickmix]] (18)
* [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]] (19)
* [[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]] (20)
* [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] (23)
* [[Six-Speed]] (27)
* [[Drill Bit (Cybertron)|Drill Bit]] (28)

|c2=
* [[Scourge (Cybertron)|Scourge]] (1)
* [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron/Galvatron]] (2)
* [[Thundercracker (Armada)|Thundercracker]] (3)
* [[Ransack (Cybertron)|Ransack]] (4)
* [[Crumplezone (Cybertron)|Crumplezone]] (5)
* [[Thunderblast (Decepticon)|Thunderblast]] (17)
* [[Nemesis Breaker]] (19)
* [[Menasor (Cybertron)|Menasor]] (24)

|c3=
* [[Coby Hansen]] (21)
* [[Lori]] (22)
* [[Ernesto]] (29)
* Lori's Mom (30)
* [[Robert Hansen]] (31)
* Mrs. Hansen (32)

|c4=
* [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]] (25)
* [[Laserbeak (Cybertron)|Laserbeak ]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==
"We'll find that needle a whole lot faster if we're searching only part of a haystack!"
:—'''Scattorshot'''

"He's trippin' 'cuz he got served."
:—'''Soundwave''', referring to '''Megatron''''s strange behaviour

"You're ''so'' square."
:—'''Wing Saber''' to '''Jetfire'''

[[Image:Cyb_ep40_thunderswoon.jpg|right|thumb|220px|*sigh* Women-swooning over the first guy who powers up and beats the mortal crap out of the Autobots.]]

'''Ransack:''' "He beat them like a drum!" 
'''Thundercracker:''' "Megatron opened a ''big'' can o' whoop-butt on them!" 
'''Crumplezone:''' "Whooooop-''butt!''" 
'''Menasor:''' "Aye, laugh, but his power scares me." 
'''Thunderblast:''' "It scares ''me'' how hunky he is! Hee hee hee!" 
'''Scourge:''' "Hunky?"
:—The Decepticons discuss Galvatron's power.

"I have changed. I am no longer Megatron. Megatron was a ''loser''!"
:—<s>'''Megatron'''</s> '''Galvatron''' introducing his new identity.

"I am invincible. I am Galvatron!" 
"New look, same old lines."
:—'''Galvatron''', who is lame, and '''Optimus Prime''', who is right.

"I want to thank you." 
"Thank me?" 
"Losing to you...inspired me to evolve. But now I'm going to take your weapon from your grasp and ''disgrace'' you with it!"
:—'''Galvatron''' taunts '''Metroplex''' before making good on his boast.

"Nothing you say or do will make you my equal!" 
"You're right!" 
"I ''know''!" 
"I'd ''never'' stoop down low enough to be ''your'' equal!"
:—'''Galvatron''' and '''Optimus Prime''' deliver less-than-impressive banter.

[[Image:Cyb_ep40_take_a_whack.jpg|right|thumb|220px|We were wrong, it does get more anime.]]
"You don’t really expect to beat Galvatron with an axe?" 
"I'm gonna take a whack!"
:—'''Galvatron''' and '''Optimus Prime''' again.

"If you're going to keep asking for it, I'm going to keep giving it to you! It's on!" 
"I wish you'd shut up!"
:—'''Galvatron''' gets the best comeback ever from '''Optimus'''.
{{--}}

==Notes==
===Differences with ''Galaxy Force''===
*''Cybertron'' adds the customary sound of the Omega Frequency when the Lock powers up.
*After Prime and Megatron's final attacks upon each other, ''Cybertron'' has Megatron mock Prime, before his injuries suddenly get the better of him. In ''Galaxy Force'', Megatron is ''aware'' that he has been injured before his wounds open, and calmly dubs the outcome "interesting".

===Animation or technical errors===
[[Image:Cyb_ep40_biggest_fans.jpg|right|thumb|220px|And still more anime.]]
* Ransack is missing the black "mask" around his eyes at several points during this episode. We have seen this error in a few prior episodes, but it really started to happen with noticeable frequency on Gigantion.
* The three Decepticon fans on Crumplezone's back when he and Ransack celebrate Galvatron's reveal are gone in the next shot, even though the fans in their hands are still there (compare the picture at right with the one at the head of this article).

===Continuity or plotting errors===
* So... now there's this gigantic hole in the planet, yes? Which presumably leads from the Key at the center of the planet... all the way to the surface where the Decepticons are... so... why don't they just fly down the hole and snag the Key all easy-peasey? The ''Galaxy Force'' version of the next episode will even see the Autobots suggest doing this! (To be fair, it ''does'' look like the hole doesn't go to the bottom of the planet's layers and only a few Autobots can fly...)
* When Metroplex throws his axe to Optimus, Galvatron fires a few shots from his machine gun...that never hit anything! The shots are never seen again as Optimus activates Cyber Key power on Sparkdrinker for the final clash with Galvatron.
* Speaking of which, Galvatron spontaneously switches weapons in the following clash. Before the stock footage, he's using his machine gun, but after Optimus powers up Sparkdrinker, he's wearing his arm blade instead.

===Transformers references===
*Optimus Prime flashes back to the events of "[[Family]]", recalling the promise he made to the children's parents.
* Galvatron mutters "Such heroic nonsense" before powering up with a Cyber Key, the infamous line [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] uttered before brutally killing [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] in the movie. Scourge previously offered a different spin on the line back in "[[Cybertron (episode)|Cybertron]]".
* On that note, the way Jetfire grabs Galvatron's legs to try and protect the children seems very similar to the way Ironhide grabbed Megatron immediately before his death. Luckily for Jetfire, he does not pay for this act with his life.
* Later, Galvatron adds another instance of over-use of movie lines with "Why throw away your life so recklessly?", (which would later be used again in "[[Unfinished]]").

===Real-world references===
* When Megatron communes with the Key, Vector mutters he "felt great disturbance within the force", a line ripped straight from the first ''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' movie, spoken by [[Obi-Wan Kenobi]] and referring to the [[Force]]. There was even a ''Star Wars'' novel named "[[Wikia:starwars:Vector_Prime_%28novel%29|Vector Prime]]"!

===Trivia===
*The blacked-out figure of Metroplex that has been seen in the ''Galaxy Force'' opening sequence since "[[Titans]]" is now blacked-out no longer, transitioning the sequence into the finalized form it will retain until the end of the series.
*Okay, okay, ''this'' is ''technically'' the last time we see Nemesis Breaker... but it's only in flashbacks to last episode.
*Quickmix uses his left-arm pipes as a hand-held blaster here, which the Quickmix toy can actually do!
*And yes, Optimus' toy can hold the toy version of Sparkdrinker.
* While the development of the Coby-Lori romance is ''extremely'' subtle throughout the series (to the point of invisibility), this episode brings it slightly out of the subtext, with Lori fondly cleaning Coby's face. The moment when Coby instantly interposes himself between her and ''Galvatron'' also indicates his affection for her (and is frankly one of his finest moments).

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2006 — ''Transformers: Galaxy Force'' — Vol. 11 ([[Victor Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2008 — ''Transformers: Cybertron'' — The Ultimate Collection ([[Paramount Pictures|Paramount]])

[[Category:Cybertron episodes]]

Insignia

2011-09-14T20:59:07Z

69.171.167.239: /* Beast Wars */

One of the universals across all Transformers continuities has been the use of '''insignia''' to differentiate members of respective armies, and sometimes sub-factions within armies or even individuals. This was sometimes used as a tactical advantage when Transformers would temporarily wear the symbol of the opposite faction to fool their opponents.

==Fiction==
===Generation 1===
====Marvel comics continuity====
{{noteukonly}}
When [[Slag (G1)|Slag]] was revived by [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] after being trapped in a tar pit for four million years, he went into a frenzy and attacked him, until he saw Ratchet's Autobrand and calmed down. {{storylink|Repeat Performance!}}

''[[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] was uncomfortable taking orders from [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]], who was still wearing a Decepticon insignia.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}} Jetfire officially became an Autobot after going through the [[Rite of the Autobrand]]. To better disguise themselves on Earth, [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] installed [[shielding circuitry]] into the Autobots which enabled a metal sheet to cover their Autobot symbols in [[alternate mode]]. {{storylink|Rock and Roll-Out!}}

The [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] fooled [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] into thinking they were Autobots by wearing fake Autobot symbols. {{storylink|Gone but Not Forgotten!}} The [[Sports Car Patrol]] tricked Ratchet into thinking they were Autobots by wearing counterfeit Autobot symbols—Decepticon and Autobot symbols on a rotating plate so they could switch back and forth. {{storylink|Back from the Dead}}

Megatron spent some time on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]'s [[Dead End (place)|Dead End]] district as an [[Empties|Empty]]. His mind was damaged and he just wandered about the place until the sight of an Autobot wearing an Autobot symbol snapped him out of it. {{storylink|The Resurrection Gambit!}}

===Beast Wars===
[[Rattrap]]'s Maximal insignia once morphed into a Predacon one (and later back again). No other Transformer showed they could do this, and he only used it for a con. {{storylink|Double Jeopardy}}

When the [[Transmuter (BW)|Transmuter]] turned [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] into a Predacon, it automatically changed his insignia as well as giving him a [[redeco]]. {{storylink|Dark Designs (episode)|Dark Designs}} Likewise, [[Waspinator]] gained Decepticon insignia while he was possessed by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]. {{storylink|Possession}} [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] sported both a Decepticon and Predacon insignia while working as a Predacon secret agent. {{storylink|The Agenda (Part 1)}}

[[Waspinator]] ''pulled his insignia off'' like it was a fabric patch when renouncing his Predacon membership. {{storylink|Nemesis Part 1}}

[[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]] has such an ego, he created [[:Image:OptimalSituation_Tarantulas_insignia.jpg|his ''own'' special insignia]] for his [[Arachnoid]]s.

===Unicron Trilogy===
[[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]] could change his insignia from Autobot to Decepticon—an ability he utilised for deceptive purposes. {{storylink|Credulous}} {{storylink|Ship}}

Using the power of [[Unicron]], [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] had the ability to brainwash Transformers to the Decepticon cause. In [[Inferno (Energon)|Inferno]]'s case, it changed his insignia from Autobot to Decepticon. {{storylink|Imprisoned Inferno}} When Inferno fought against Megatron's influence through his willpower, his insignia would toggle back and forth until he succeeded in purging the Decepticon in him. His Autobot insignia looked brand new after that. {{storylink|Jungle Planet (episode)|Jungle Planet}}

==Generation 1==
===Prehistory===
<gallery>
Image:Ancient Transformer Symbol.png|'''Ancient [[Transformer]]''' ''This ancient symbol was discovered by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. He claims that although Transformers have been split into two races, they are one species.'' {{storylink|Generation One (Dreamwave comic)|Generation One}}
Image:Ancient Autobot Symbol.png|'''Autobot''' ''This symbol appeared on the forehead of [[Ancient Robot]], who spoke to [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] within the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]].'' {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4|FFoD}}
Image:Fallen faction symbol.png|'''[[The Fallen]]''' ''This symbol was only used on the [[Titanium Series|''Titanium'' toyline]] representation of the Fallen. It was not used in [[The War Within]] or any other fiction.''
</gallery>

===Pre-War {{storylink|Megatron Origin|Megatron Origin}}===
<gallery>
Image:Megatron Origin Symbol.png|'''[[Clench (G1)|Clench]]''' ''This symbol was worn by Clench and his team in [[Kaon]]'s [[Gladiatorial combat|illegal pitfights]] prior to the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]]. After [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] replaced Clench as team captain he retained the symbol for a time before developing the Decepticon insignia as his team emblem.''
Image:Security_symbol_Megatron_Origin.png|'''Security Services''' ''This symbol is used by the Autobot Security Services crew operating under [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]] and was seen on the flags draped over the coffins at the state funeral of operatives [[Fastback (G1)|Fastback]] and [[Bumper (G1)|Bumper]].''
Image:Ratbat symbol Megatron Origins.png|'''[[Senate]]-related symbol''' ''This symbol was worn by the crew of Senator [[Decimus]]'s ship, as well as by [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] during his senatorial days.''
</gallery>

===The War Within===
<gallery>
Image:War Within Autobot Symbol.png|'''Autobot''' Used in {{storylink|The War Within}} but not {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages|The Dark Ages}}
Image:Decepticon warwithin symbol.png|'''Decepticon''' Used in {{storylink|The War Within}} but not {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages|The Dark Ages}}
Image:Emirate Xeon symbol.png|'''[[Emirate Xeon]]''' ''This symbol appeared on the helmet of the departed politician Emirate Xeon.''{{storylink|The War Within issue 2}}
Image:Ultracon symbol.png|'''[[Ultracon]]''' ''Used by [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]'s group.''{{storylink|War Within: The Age of Wrath|The Age of Wrath}}
</gallery>

===The Great War===
<gallery>
Image:Symbol autobot reg.png|'''[[Autobot]]''' ''It seems likely that in the real world, the Autobot symbol was derived from a stylized drawing of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]'s toy's head. In the Marvel Comics continuity, it was known as the "Autobrand" and was seemingly based on the face of the [[Last Autobot]]. In the original animated series, it was a mark of the [[Quintesson]] slave brand.''
Image:Symbol autobot dx edit.jpg|''The Autobot symbol as it appeared on Generation 1 toy packaging.''
Image:Symbol decept reg.png|'''[[Decepticon]]''' ''It seems likely that in the real world, the Decepticon symbol was derived from a stylized drawing of [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]'s toy's head. It has no given origin in either comic or cartoon, but in the latter, it presumably has the same origin as the Autobot symbol.''
Image:DConsym.gif|''The Decepticon symbol as it appeared on Generation 1 toy packaging. Note the bevelled detail in the center of the crest at the top - the model sheet of the symbol created for the [[Generation 1 (cartoon)|G1 cartoon]] based on this version misinterpreted it as a third spike, and it appeared in the show rendered in this manner almost universally.''
Image:Shocksymb.jpg|'''[[Cybertron Guard]]''' ''This symbol represents the Decepticons under [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s command charged with Cybertron's security. It was [[Retcon|retroactively]] named in 2007 by TakaraTomy's [[World of Transformers]] website, but unnamed in its original context.'' {{storylink|Divide and Conquer|Divide and Conquer}}
Image:Wreckers symbol.png|'''[[Wrecker|Wreckers]]''' ''This symbol was used by the Wreckers in the [[3H Productions|3H]] Wreckers/Universe comics, and debuted in 2001. It is uncertain if prior incarnations of the team used this insignia or if it came into use after the signing of the [[Pax Cybertronia]].'' {{storylink|Departure|Departure}}
Image:Rubsign inactive.png|'''[[Rubsign]]''' ''Unactivated rubsign.''
Image:Fastlane.png|'''[[Fastlane]]''' ''Rubsign used on Autobot Clone Fastlane.''
Image:Cloudraker.png|'''[[Cloudraker (G1)|Cloudraker]]''' ''Rubsign used on Autobot Clone Cloudraker.''
Image:Pounce.png|'''[[Pounce]]''' ''Rubsign used on Decepticon Clone Pounce.''
Image:Wingspan.png|'''[[Wingspan]]''' ''Rubsign used on Decepticon Clone Wingspan.
</gallery>

===Non-Cybertronian Insignia===
<gallery>
Image:EDC Symbol.png|'''[[Earth Defense Command|EDC]] (cartoon)'''
Image:DW EDC.png|'''[[Earth Defense Command|EDC]] (Dreamwave)'''
Image:Federation of western europe.jpg|'''[[Federation of Western Europe]]'''
Image:Machination logo.png|'''[[Machination]]'''
Image:Quintesson symbol.png|'''[[Quintesson]]/[[Terrorbot]]''' ''This symbol was featured as part of the decal set for the [[e-Hobby]] exclusive [[Overcharge (G1)|Overcharge]] [[Drone|drones]].''
Image:Unicron faction symbol.png|'''[[Herald of Unicron]]''' ''Used in the ''[[Transformers: The Ark]]'' book to denote Unicron
Image:Z Foundation.png|'''[[Z Foundation]]'''
Image:Zarak Consortium Logo.png|'''[[Zarak Consortium]]'''
Image:Robot-Master faction.png|'''[[Donny Finkleberg|Robot-Master]]'''
</gallery>

===Kiss Players===
''These symbols were used by the [[Sparkbot|Sparkbots]] in '''Kiss Play Position'''.''
<gallery>
Image:Sparkbot Angela symbol.gif|'''[[Angela]]'''
Image:Sparkbot Stardust symbol.gif|'''[[Star Dust]]'''
Image:Sparkbot Zangetsu symbol.gif|'''[[Zangetsu]]'''
</gallery>
===Brazilian G1===
''These faction symbols were used in the Brazilian [[Estrela]] releases of the [[Micro Change|Microchange]] "Mini Car Robo" subline molds.''
<gallery>
Image:Optimus symbol.png|'''[[Optimus (faction)|Optimus]]'''
Image:Malignus symbol.png|'''[[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]]'''
</gallery>
==G.I. Joe Crossovers==
<gallery>
Image:Cobralogo.png|'''[[Cobra]]'''
Image:Joelogo.png|'''[[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]]'''
Image:ActionForce_Logo.png|'''[[Action Force (team)|Action Force]] (European version of the brand)'''
</gallery>

==Generation 2==
<gallery>
Image:Auto-g2.png|'''Autobot''' ''The G2 Autobot symbol seems clearly based on [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]. In the Marvel Comics continuity this change may have occurred since the [[Last Autobot]] had come and gone.''
Image:Con-g2.png|'''Decepticon''' ''The G2 Decepticon symbol seems to be a stylized, updated G1 Decepticon symbol. Bludgeon's Decepticons adopted this symbol around 1991, apparently unaware it was also being used by the Cybertronian Empire that they would soon encounter.''
Image:Cybertronian.png|'''[[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian]]''' ''This symbol was used by [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus's]] Cybertronian Empire, who considered themselves neither Autobot nor Decepticon.''
Image:Cybertron-federation.png|'''[[Cybertron Alliance]]''' ''This was only used in Japanese continuity to bridge [[Return of Convoy (franchise)|Return of Convoy]] and [[Generation 2 (franchise)|Generation 2]].''
</gallery>

==Beast Era==
===Beast Wars===
<gallery>
Image:Maximal symbol.png|'''[[Maximal]]'''
Image:Predacon symbol.png|'''[[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]'''
Image:Mutants symbol.png|'''[[Mutant (BW)|Mutant]]'''
Image:Maximal Guard Insignia.png|'''Maximal Peacekeeper''' ''Worn by knight-like Maximal soldiers/peacekeepers in [[The Ascending|Beast Wars: The Ascending]].''
</gallery>
*'''[[Predacon (G1)]]'''
''These symbols appeared on the walls of a transwarp shunt room used by [[Magmatron]] in IDW's [[The Gathering|Beast Wars: The Gathering]]. Although never explicitly stated, they apparently denote the original Predacon combiner team.''
<gallery>
Image:Razorclaw Symbol.png|'''[[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]]'''
Image:Tantrum Symbol.png|'''[[Tantrum]]'''
Image:Divebomb symbol.png|'''[[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]]'''
Image:Headstrong symbol.png|'''[[Headstrong]]'''
Image:Rampage symbol.png|'''[[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]]'''
</gallery>

===Beast Wars II===
<gallery>
Image:Moon symbol clean.png|'''[[Moon (BWII)|Moon]]'''
Image:Space pirate seacon sign.png|'''Space Pirate [[Seacon (BWII)|Seacons]]'''
</gallery>

===Beast Wars Neo===
<gallery>
Image:Blendtron red.png|'''[[Blendtron]] / [[Herald of Unicron]]'''
</gallery>
===Beast Machines===
<gallery>
Image:Maximal symbol bm.png|'''Maximal'''
Image:Vehicon symbol.png|'''[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]'''
Image:Dinobots symbol.png|'''[[Dinobot (BM)|Dinobot]]''' ''This insignia replaced the [[Spark crystal|spark crystals]] of the [[Beast Wars Neo (franchise)|Beast Wars Neo]] toys that were introduced to the Beast Machines toyline.''
Image:Timelines Predacon Symbol.png|'''Predacon ([[Timelines (fiction)|Timelines]])''' ''Worn by [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] in ''[[Dawn of Future's Past]]''.''
</gallery>

==Car Robots==
<gallery>
Image:Car Robots Destron.png|''Takara used this symbol to represent the Combatron (Decepticon in ''Robots in Disguise'') sub-group in ''Car Robots''—it's an upside-down ''Generation 2'' Autobot symbol, which had been molded into the [[Scourge (RID)|Black Convoy]] toy, a redeco of ''Generation 2'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Laser Optimus Prime]]. The Hasbro version removed them and used the traditional Decepticon symbol. Though it can be briefly seen several times in the cartoon, this symbol does not "exist" in the English version.''
</gallery>
==Unicron Trilogy==
===Armada===
<gallery>
Image:Minicon symbol.png|'''[[Mini-Con]]''' ''This symbol hints at the origins of the Mini-Cons, in that the "M" is echoed in Unicron's face, with the border representing the planet-eater's orbital ring.''
Image:Unicronsymbol dwmtmte.png|'''[[Unicron]]''' ''Used in [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]]'s [[More Than Meets The Eye (G1)|Armada profile book]] to denote Unicron-allied Transformers.''
</gallery>
===Energon===
<gallery>
Image:Energon symbol.png|'''Energon''' ''Used to denote [[energon (fuel)|energon]]. It is a stylized representation of an Autobot [[Energon star]].''
Image:Energon Powerlinx symbol.png|'''[[Powerlinx]] - Black''' ''Used by [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Wing Saber (Energon)|his]] [[Omega Supreme (Energon)|combiner]] [[Omega Sentinel (Energon)|partners]].''
Image:Energon Powerlinx Gold symbol.png|'''Powerlinx - Gold''' ''Worn by Mega-sized Transformers who can combine with fellow Mega- and Deluxe-sized Transformers.''
Image:Energon Powerlinx Silver symbol.png|'''Powerlinx - Silver''' ''Worn by Deluxe-sized Transformers who can combine with fellow Deluxe- and Mega-sized Transformers.''
Image:Energon Powerlinx Red symbol.png|'''Powerlinx - Red''' ''Worn by Ultra-sized Transformers, who can combine with additional vehicle mode parts to form a "brute mode"''
Image:Energon Powerlinx Blue symbol.png|'''Powerlinx - Blue''' ''Used by the [[Air Team]], the [[Construction Team]], and the [[Destruction Team]].''
Image:Team Ironhide symbol.png|'''[[Team Ironhide]]''' ''An insignia worn by Ironhide and a group of Omni-Cons under his command in an episode of the [[Energon (cartoon)|Energon cartoon]].''
Image:Unicron energon symbol.png|'''[[Unicron]]''' ''Seen in the background of Unicron's transformation sequence in the [[Energon (cartoon)|Energon cartoon]].''
Image:E27 earthfederationlogo.png|'''[[Earth Federation]]''' ''The multi-national organization that governs [[Earth]] during the 2020s.''
</gallery>

===Cybertron===
<gallery>
Image:Cyber Key symbol Earth.png|'''[[Earth]]''' ''Seen on [[Cyber Key|Cyber Keys]] that belong to Transformers from Earth.''
Image:Cyber Key symbol Velocitron.png|'''[[Velocitron]]''' ''Seen on Cyber Keys that belong to Transformers from the planet Velocitron.''
Image:Cyber Key symbol Jungle Planet.png|'''[[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]]''' ''Seen on Cyber Keys that belong to Transformers from the Jungle Planet.''
Image:Cyber Key symbol Gigantion.png|'''[[Gigantion]]''' ''Seen on Cyber Keys that belong to Transformers from the planet Gigantion.''
Image:Cyber_Key_Combatron.png|'''[[Combatron (planet)|Combatron]]''' ''Seen on Cyber Keys that belong to Transformers from Combatron.''
Image:Cybertron Defence.png|'''[[Cybertron Defense Team]]''' ''Used by [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]], [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]], and [[Scattorshot (Cybertron)|Scattorshot]], after their collective reconstruction.''
</gallery>

==Live-action movie franchise==
===2007 movie===
''For the 2007 movie, the Autobot and Decepticon factions were rendered in steely gray. Additionally, the Autobot and Decepticons were strongly associated with the colors blue and red, which led to the Autobot symbol appearing in blue in multiple media. Nonetheless the 'official colors' of said symbols remains red and purple.''
<gallery>
Image:Live action Autobot insignia.png|'''Autobot''' ''The biggest change is that the tops of the eye sockets, horizontal in the G1 symbol, tip down towards the middle in the Movie symbol. There are other minor differences in proportions and angles.''
Image:Movie Autobot.JPG|''The movie Autobot symbol as it appeared in various promotional material. The beveled edges and metal appearance as opposed to the normal stencil-like insignia is reminiscent of the original insignias as they appeared on the G1 toy packaging.''
Image:Live action Decepticon insignia.png|'''Decepticon''' ''The G1 symbol has triangular eyes, as opposed to the skinny diamond eyes in the Movie symbol. Again, there are other minor differences. Perhaps most interesting in this continuity, is that the Decepticon symbol is based upon the face of [[The Fallen]].''
Image:Movie Decepticon.JPG|''The movie Decepticon insignia as it appeared in various promotional material, similarly stylized like the Autobot insignia.''
Image:Sector7logo.png|'''[[Sector Seven]]''' ''A Secret organization on earth that is trying to save humanity from the Autobots and Decepticons.''
Image:Elitemountaindewrobots.png|'''[[Mountain Dew Robot]]''' ''An elite group of infiltrators determined to steal the [[AllSpark]] for their own purposes.''
Image:Stopsector7.png|'''[[Stop Sector Seven]]''' ''Stop Sector Seven is an organization created to stop Sector Seven. It is headed by [[Agent X]].''
Image:Lunchables brigade symbol.png|'''[[Lunchables Brigade]]''' ''A [[Human|Terran]] radical group advocating the abolition of routine lunches by means of direct mealtime intervention.''
</gallery>

===Revenge of the Fallen===
<gallery>
Image:NEST insignia.png|'''[[NEST]]''' ''Depicted on vehicles and uniforms of NEST personnel. Variations include a version with Autobot insignia over top.''

Image:NEST Global Alliance.png|'''[[NEST]]''' ''Insignia used on Autobot toys from the [[N.E.S.T. Global Alliance]] [[subline imprint|refresh subline]].''
</gallery>

==[[Transtech]]==
<gallery>
Image:Transtech Autobot symbol.png|'''Autobot'''
Image:Transtech Decepticon symbol.png|'''Decepticon'''
Image:Axion Nexus Security Administration symbol.png|'''[[Axiom Nexus Security Administration]]'''
</gallery>

==Shattered Glass==
''The alternate reality of the [[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]] timeline posits an army of evil Cybertronians united under the leering visage of a purple insignia badge... though probably not the one you were expecting.''
<gallery>
Image:Autobot Shattered Glass.png|'''Autobot'''
Image:Autobotsecretpolice.png|'''Autobot [[Secret Police]]''' ''Worn by [[Nightbeat (SG)|Nightbeat]] and presumably his subordinates.''
Image:Cust Class Thunderclash Insignia.png|'''Elite Guard''' ''Worn by [[Thunderclash (SG)|Thunderclash]] and presumably his subordinates.''
Image:Decepticon Shattered Glass.png|'''Decepticon'''
Image:SG Elite Guard Ancient.png|'''Elite Guard''' ''Worn by [[Thunderwing (SG)|Thunderwing]] and presumably all pre-war officers of the Elite Guard.''
</gallery>

==Transformers Animated==
<gallery>
Image:Cyb Elite Guard Badge.png|'''[[Cybertron Elite Guard]]''' ''This insignia is used by the elite forces under the command of [[Ultra Magnus (Animated)|Ultra Magnus]].''
Image:Sumdac Systems.PNG|'''[[Sumdac Systems]]''' ''The corporate logo of [[Isaac Sumdac]]'s company, as seen in the foyer of [[Sumdac Tower]].''
Image:TFA Autotrooper Badge.png|'''[[Autotrooper]]''' ''Worn by the security and peacekeeping forces of Cybertron.''
</gallery>

==Alternity==
<gallery>
Image:Protector Insignia.png|'''[[Protector]]s''' ''This insignia was seen worn by the [[synthoid]] [[Elita Seven]], a member of the Protectors. Its basis is [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]]'s face, in accordance with his stated function as "Protector."''
</gallery>

==Star Wars Crossovers==
<gallery>
Image:Alliance Starbird.png|'''[[Rebel Alliance]]'''
Image:Republic Emblem.png|'''[[Galactic Republic]]'''
Image:Imperial_Emblem.png|'''[[Empire]]'''
Image:Sith Quad-Sun.png|'''[[Sith]]'''
</gallery>

==Disney Label==
<gallery>
Image:MickeyMouseTransformer.png|'''[[Mickey Mouse]]'''
Image:Donald Disney Label Insignia.png|'''[[Donald Duck]]'''
</gallery>

==Others==
<gallery>
Image:Autotots sigil.png|'''[[Autotot]]'''
Image:Gobots auto symbol.png|'''[[Go-Bots (toyline)|Go-bot]]'''
Image:Playschool Go-Bots G.png|'''[[Go-Bots (toyline)|Go-bot]]'''
Image:First.png|'''[[First Transformers]]'''
</gallery>

==Unused concepts==
<gallery>
Image:Cobra Decepticon symbol.png|'''Cobra/Decepticon''' ''Used for promotion of [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|the comic]], not in the actual story.''
</gallery>

==Files==
* [[:Image:Transformers Symbols.ttf| Transformers Insignias True Type Font]]

[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Transformer culture]]

Optimus Prime Super Modes

2011-09-14T20:51:01Z

69.171.167.239: /* Live-action film series */

Over the years, it has become a recurring theme for the various incarnations of the '''[[Optimus Prime (disambiguation)|Optimus Prime]]''' [[character]] across the numerous ''[[Transformers brand|Transformers]]'' [[franchise]]s not only to [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|die]], but also to assume some form of '''[[Super Mode|super mode]]'''. Typically, this is achieved either by Optimus's "standard" robot mode (which usually, but not exclusively, [[transformation|transforms]] into a [[alternate mode|truck cab]]) combining with his trailer, or with another Autobot.

==By continuity==
===Pre-Transformers and Generation 1===
[[Image:G1 UltraMagnusPreviewVersion toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Not actually Optimus Prime. But almost. Maybe.]]Powered Convoy, the ''[[Diaclone]]'' toy that later ended up as 1986's ''[[The Transformers (toyline)|Generation 1]]'' [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]], originally represented a "powered up" version of Battle Convoy, the ''Diaclone'' predecessor of 1985's ''Generation 1'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]], which combined the standard robot mode formed from the truck's cab with the new car carrier trailer into a "super robot" mode. Some fans speculate that Hasbro had originally intended for [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]] to survive the events of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' and be upgraded into an improved form, which would have been represented by the former "Powered Convoy" toy. Ultimately, however, Optimus [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|died]] in the movie, and the ''Transformers'' version of the "Powered Convoy" toy appeared as a different character, [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]. However, both the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|cartoon]] and the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|Marvel UK comics]] presented the "combined" mode as the character's "standard" robot mode and ignored the toy's smaller "cab" robot mode (which wouldn't be explicitly featured until [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]]'s ''[[War Within: The Dark Ages]]'' comic).

[[Image:PowermasterOptimusPrime_toy.jpg|left|thumb|200px|The Western world would originally only get this.]]
It is evident, however, that the basic concept of the Powered Convoy/Ultra Magnus toy inspired later Optimus Prime toys. The first one was the [[Powermaster]] Optimus Prime toy from 1988, a brand new [[mold]] that featured a transforming cab/Optimus Prime robot which could combine with the included trailer to form a larger Optimus Prime robot. An animatronic puppet version of Powermaster Optimus Prime's "super robot" mode appeared in the new opening and closing footage for [[The Transformers (cartoon)#Season 5|season 5]] of the ''Generation 1'' cartoon, together with [[Tommy Kennedy]]). Powermaster Prime also appeared in the Marvel comics, originally both in his "standard" robot mode and the "super robot" mode, which he eventually used permanently (while gradually [[scale|shrinking in size]]).

[[Image:GodGinrai_toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|The "bling" version, meanwhile, was exclusive to Japan for 15 years.]]
[[Takara]]'s Japanese version of the Powermaster Optimus Prime toy, meanwhile, though originally designed as a new version of Convoy (Optimus Prime's Japanese name), was released as a different character named [[Ginrai]]. Ginrai's "standard" cab-robot combined with the trailer into Super Ginrai, the counterpart of Powermaster Optimus Prime's "super robot" mode. Furthermore, an additional trailer named [[Godbomber]] could be combined with Super Ginrai into God Ginrai. Ginrai in his various modes appeared in the [[Super-God Masterforce (cartoon)|''Masterforce'' cartoon]]. 15 years later, in 2003, when Hasbro decided to release a [[reissue]] of Powermaster Optimus Prime as part of their ''[[Commemorative Series]]'' line of reissues, they decided to base it on the Japanese version of the toy, including the additional "Godbomber" trailer, now named "[[Apex Bomber]]". The combined mode was simply named "'''Powermaster Optimus Prime with [[Apex Armor]]'''".

===Robots in Disguise===
[[Image:Omega Prime toy.jpg|110px|thumb|left|Why does [[Takara]] keep calling these combinations a "god"?]]In 2000, Takara released a new character based on ''Generation 1'' Optimus Prime as part of their ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Car Robots]]'' line. Named "[[Optimus Prime (RID)|Fire Convoy]]", his [[alternate mode]] was a fire engine. The engine's cab would transform into Fire Convoy's "standard" robot mode, which in turn could combine with the rear part of the fire engine into a "super" robot mode similar to Powermaster Optimus Prime. Furthermore, Fire Convoy in his "super mode" could combine with his brother [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|God Magnus]] into [[Omega Prime|God Fire Convoy]]. The characters in all their modes also appeared in the [[Robots in Disguise (cartoon)|''Car Robots'' cartoon]]. One year later, Hasbro imported the ''Car Robots'' line to the rest of the world and renamed it ''Robots in Disguise''. The characters were also renamed, with Fire Convoy becoming Optimus Prime, God Magnus becoming Ultra Magnus, and God Fire Convoy becoming '''Omega Prime'''.
{{-}}

===Unicron Trilogy===
[[Image:Armada JetOptimusMegaweapon toy.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Okay, not a "god" this time. Just "Jet Convoy" and "Magna Convoy".]]''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]'' [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] had multiple recurring combinations. In [[Armada (toyline)|toy]] form, [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Super-Base Optimus Prime]] was very similar to Powermaster Optimus Prime, namely a semi truck with the cab transforming into a "standard" robot mode, which could then combine with the trailer into a "super" robot mode. Furthermore, instead of the trailer, the "standard" robot could also combine with [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] into "'''Jet Prime'''" (also named "'''Jet Optimus'''"). Lastly, Optimus, in both combinations with either his trailer or Jetfire, could ''further'' combine with [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]] into "'''Optimus Prime Megaweapon'''". Naturally, all combinations also appeared in the [[Armada (cartoon)|''Armada'' cartoon]]. In [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave's]] [[Armada (Dreamwave comic)|''Armada'' comic]], on the other hand, the only combination that was ever featured was the Optimus/Jetfire one, in the [[Worlds Collide, Part 4 of 4|penultimate issue]] before the title was renamed ''Energon''.

[[Image:Energon Prime toy.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Only one of many possibilities.]]
During ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'', Optimus once again had a "standard" robot mode that transformed into a truck cab which carried a trailer. However, this time he wouldn't combine with the trailer itself. Instead, the trailer contained four drone vehicles, the "[[Prime Force]]", which could form limbs for Optimus's "super" mode in various configurations. Furthermore, Optimus was later able to combine with [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] into either "'''Optimus Prime Fight Mode'''" or "'''Optimus Prime Flight Mode'''" (depending on the configuration), and with [[Omega Supreme (Energon)|Omega Supreme]] into "'''Optimus Supreme'''" (also known as "'''Powerlinx Omega Supreme'''"). All of these combinations were also featured in the [[Energon (cartoon)|''Energon'' cartoon]], whereas only the combination with the "Prime Force" drones was featured in Dreamwave's [[Energon (comic)|''Energon'' comic]]. Optimus and Wing Saber ''did'', however, combine in one of the ''Energon'' toy pack-in mini-comics.

[[Image:Cyb GalaxyForceOptimusPrime.jpg|right|200px|thumb|He believes he could fly.]]
The ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]'' version of UT Optimus Prime had some kind of futuristic fire truck as his alternate mode. The cab and truck bed would form the "standard" robot mode, with the rest of the truck mount serving as "super mode" add-ons (actually explicitly called "Galaxy Convoy Super Mode" in the Japanese ''Galaxy Force'' version of the [[Cybertron (cartoon)|cartoon]], and "'''Optimus Prime Super Mode''' in early episodes of the [[Voicebox Productions|English dub]]). Furthermore, ''Cybertron'' Prime could combine with [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Leobreaker]] into "'''Savage Claw Mode'''" (with Leobreaker serving as a claw arm), or with Wing Saber into "'''Sonic Wing Mode'''". (A combination with ''both'' Leobreaker ''and'' Wingsaber ''is'' possible with the toys, but somewhat unstable.) All combinations were also featured in the cartoon.

{{-}}

===Animated===
[[Image:Endgame2-OptimusPrimeInArmor.jpg|left|thumb|200px|"I hate the lack of creativity."]]

[[Optimus Prime (Animated)|Optimus Prime]] had [[Ratchet (Animated)|Ratchet]] fashion him a jetpack, giving him the power of [[flight]] and thus creating the power-up form, '''Wingblade Optimus Prime'''. {{storylink|Endgame, Part I}} His appearance resembles ''Cybertron'' Optimus Prime's Super Mode, but is actually based on [[God Ginrai]]. A toy version was planned by Hasbro, but only released by Takara.

{{-}}

===Live-action film series===
[[Image:ROTF movie Powered-Up Optimus Prime.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Combined with a corpse.]]
In the 2009 movie ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Transformers. Revenge of the Fallen]]'', after [[Jetfire (ROTF)|Jetfire]] was critically injured, he offers [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] to use his parts a battle armor for Optimus' battle with [[The Fallen]]. After Jetfire rips out his spark, [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]] and [[Jolt (ROTF)|Jolt]] then link up Jetfire's parts with Optimus, who proceeds to defeat the Fallen. Based on the movie, the ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' Leader Class Optimus Prime and Jetfire toys can be combined into "'''Power Up Optimus Prime'''". A much simpler combination (which is not documented in the instructions) can also be achieved with the [[Legends Class]] toys, which simply have Jetfire (in his SR-71 Blackbird mode) attach to Optimus as some sort of "backpack". Hasbro finally officially acknowledged this feature on the packaging of the [[Transformers (2010 toyline)|2010 ''Transformers'' toy line's]] [[Kmart]] exclusive "The Victory of The Fallen" Legends five-pack, which includes redecos of both toys.

A non-transforming Mega Power bots toy that represents the Optimus Prime/Jetfire combination was also released, named "'''Jetpower Optimus Prime'''". However, this toy cannot be split up into the individual characters.

{{-}}

[[Category: Autobot leaders]]
[[Category: Combiners]]
[[Category: Gimmicks]]

Leadfoot (DOTM)

2011-08-31T02:34:40Z

69.171.187.28: /* Deluxe */

{{factions|autobot|wreckers}}
{{disambig3|Leadfoot}}

:''Leadfoot is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Dark of the Moon (franchise)|Dark of the Moon]] portion of the [[live-action film series]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:LeadfootDOTM-poster.jpg|right|thumb|400px|[[BotCon]]'s most popular cosplay subject.]]

'''Leadfoot''' is one of the [[Wrecker]]s, a group of former engineers turned fighters who have turned their talents to kicking [[Decepticon]] tail across the galaxy. His specialty is building bigger and better weapons, WITH SCIENCE! Not terribly surprisingly this vocation has led him to strike up a friendship with the Autobots resident weapons-hound [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]]. The way the two egg each other on towards bigger and better "boom-sticks" the other Autobots fear one day waking up to find [[Wheeljack (G1)|a smoking crater where their workshop once stood.]]

{{quote|Wreckers, kill him!|Leadfoot|''[[Dark of the Moon (film)]]''}}

==Fiction==
===''Dark of the Moon'' (film)===
:''Voice actor:'' [[John DiMaggio]] (English), [[Hiroshi Iwasaki]] (Japanese), [[Raul Solo]] (Latin American Spanish)

[[Image:LeadfootDaytona500trailer.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Hello. I look like Juan Pablo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.]]

{{quote|We were hidden in the first booster rocket to separate. Splashed down in the Atlantic just as planned. (Spits) We ain't going nowhere.|Leadfoot after dismantling a Decepticon pilot|''[[Dark of the Moon (film)]]''}}

Leadfoot, Topspin and Roadbuster, collectively known as [[Wrecker|the Wreckers]], by [[Charlotte Mearing]], had arrived with the second wave of Autobots aboard the Autobot ship, the ''[[Xantium (DOTM)|Xantium]]'', and were rarely let off of the NASA base because of their attitude. They would spend most of their time working on repairing their ship along with some human engineers, including [[Robert Epps]].

When [[Sentinel Prime (ROTF)|Sentinel Prime]] announced that the current occupation force of Autobots was to be exiled or the Earth would face the wrath of hundreds of Decepticons, the three prepared the ship for launch and accompanied [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] and the others aboard, sending the ship into the atmosphere - where it was then targeted and blown to smithereens by [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]], seemingly killing all the Autobots aboard. Undaunted by this, the Autobot's human allies nonetheless tried to launch an incursion into Decepticon-held [[Chicago]].

Fortunately for them, the Autobots were not actually aboard the ship, and had only feigned their deaths in order to keep the Decepticons from following up on their global threat. Leadfoot and the other Wreckers swung into action immediately, rescuing Epps, [[Sam Witwicky]] and a group of soldiers from a [[Orbital Assault Carrier|Decepticon fighter]] and executing the pilot. Leadfoot revealed that they had hidden in the ''Xantium's'' booster rocket which had separated moments before the ship's destruction, stating that they weren't going anywhere.

While the Autobots were scouting a route to the building containing Sentinel's [[Space bridge]] pillars, [[Shockwave (Movie)|Shockwave]] and his pet [[Driller]] separated Optimus from his weapons trailer. Optimus ordered Leadfoot and the other Wreckers to create a distraction so that he could retrieve it, and in their armored race car forms fired at Shockwave with their machine guns until being forced to retreat, leaving behind [[Wheelie (ROTF)|Wheelie]] and [[Brains]], who had hitched a ride with them. After Optimus had become snared in a construction site's cables, the Wreckers set out to free him. After doing so they rejoined the battle, battling against a long-limbed Decepticon. After the battle Leadfoot stood with the other survivors, accepting that Cybertron was gone forever and that Earth was their new home. {{storylink|Dark of the Moon (film)}}

{{-}}

==Toys==
===Dark of the Moon===
====Cyberverse====
[[Image:DOTM_CyberverseLegion_Leadfoot.jpg|thumb|300px|I'm tubby and short and stubby!]]
* '''Leadfoot''' (Cyberverse Legion, 2011)
**''Series:'' '''1'''
**''Number:'' '''007'''
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''CV17'''

: Part of the second wave of [[Cyberverse]] Legion single-pack toys, Leadfoot is a [[Legends Class|Legends-scale]] figure that transforms into a [[NASCAR]] [[wikipedia:Chevrolet_Impala#NASCAR_Sprint_Cup|Sprint Cup Chevy Impala]] stock car, specifically [[wikipedia:Juan_Pablo_Montoya|Juan Pablo Montoya's]] [[Target]]-sponsored #42 car, albeit heavily modified with a ridiculous amount of exposed (non-firing) weaponry and all the various sponsor logos concealed by the modifications. Also, present on the both sides of the car doors is the Sprint Cup logo found on all the Wreckers.
{{-}}

[[Image:Leadfoot_Target_Cyberverse.jpg|thumb|300px|...and now a corporate whore!]]
{{anchor|TargetCyberverseVs}}
*'''Leadfoot and Ironhide''' (Target exclusive Cyberverse 2-pack, 2011)
**''Accessories:'' Cyberverse blaster

: Leadfoot comes as a [[Target]]-exclusive redeco of the legion figure. His entire hood is now painted red, with the Target Bulls-eye logo prominently displayed. The Sprint Cup logos are moved from his doors to the front fender, and his face and windshield lack the standard release's silver paint apps. He comes with ''[[Machine Wars]]'' [[Megaplex#Machine_Wars|Megaplex's]] two-piece rifle and a [[redeco]] of [[Ironhide (Movie)/toys#Cyberverse|Ironhide]].
{{-}}

====Deluxe====
*'''Twin Twist and Leadfoot''' (Target exclusive MechTech Deluxe 2-Pack, 2011)
**''Accessories:''

Coming September 4, 2011

====Human Alliance====
[[Image:HA_Leadfoot.jpg‎|thumb|300px|Was anyone surprised that this was a [[Target]] [[exclusive]]?]]
*'''Leadfoot / [[Sergeant Detour]] & [[Steeljaw (DOTM)|Steeljaw]]''' (Human Alliance, 2011)
**''Japanese ID Number:''
**''Accessories:''
:[[Human Alliance]] Leadfoot transforms into the same NASCAR Chevy Impala as the Cyberverse toy, although this one does not have any robotic bits showing in car mode, and the [[Target]] logos are perfectly visible, especially the one on his gut (see picture to the right). He comes with [[Sergeant Detour]] and [[Steeljaw (DOTM)|Steeljaw]], who turns into his arm cannon. There is some gimmickry; when Steeljaw is in mace mode, Leadfoot is unable to hold him, regardless of his hand position. There are also hundreds of ways that Leadfoot's beer-belly can be arranged.
{{-}}

==Notes==
* Leadfoot is the odd man out amongst the NASCAR trio in that his real-world counterpart is owned by Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, while [[Roadbuster (DOTM)|Roadbuster]] and [[Topspin (DOTM)|Topspin]] are based on Hendrick Motorsports racers.
* It sure is convenient that Leadfoot's Cyberverse toy conspicuously covers up those giant Target logos, isn't it? Much easier [[to sell toys]] at [[Walmart]] that way.
* Leadfoot appears to have a "beard" and a "beer gut," making him appear much like a stereotypical NASCAR fan.
* As part of the promotions for ''[[Dark of the Moon (film)|Dark of the Moon]]'', the film prop versions of Leadfoot, Roadbuster, and Topspin made appearances at the [[2011]] Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on [[February 20]]th. They appeared both off the track as display cars, and on the track, participating in the ceremonial first lap.
* Contrary to the image above, the headlights on real-world NASCAR racers don't work. They're actually just [[decal]]s.
* Despite already sporting Chevrolet Impala [[kibble]] in robot mode, Leadfoot's concept art featured sponsor decals that were based on the 2008 season's [[Wikipedia:File:Reed_Sorenson_2008_Target_Dodge_Charger.jpg|Target-sponsored #41 Dodge Charger]] driven by [[Wikipedia:Reed Sorenson|Reed Sorenson]], the concept art even featured him with the backlights of the Dodge Avenger.<ref name="nizzi">[http://www.joshnizzi.com/TF3.htm Josh Nizzi DOTM concepts.]</ref>
* Early working names for him included '''Flash'''.<ref name="nizzi"/> In the movie's end credits, he's listed under two names, '''Leadfoot/Target''', the latter referring to his NASCAR vehicle mode's [[Target|primary sponsor]].

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Leadfoot''' (レッドフット ''Reddofutto'')

==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category: Cyberverse]]
[[Category: Dark of the Moon Autobots]]
[[Category: Scientists]]
[[Category: Wreckers]]
[[Category: Target exclusives]]

Reproduction

2011-07-28T23:08:33Z

69.171.187.30: /* Sexual reproduction */

[[Image:MangaDinoforceBabies.jpg|right|250px|thumb|HOW IS BABBY FORMED?]]
Various reproduction methods for the Transformers species have been demonstrated across various continuities.

==Mechanical construction==
Sometimes, new Transformers are simply built from scratch, and that's all it takes. A suitable Transformer body is constructed, and when finished and turned on, it just springs to life.
===Generation 1===
====Cartoon continuity====
Two notable examples of this type of reproduction appear in the [[Generation 1 (cartoon)|''Generation 1'' cartoon]]: when [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] and company create the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]], {{storylink|S.O.S. Dinobots}} and later when the temporarily super-intelligent [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] creates the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]]. {{storylink|Grimlock's New Brain}}

[[Image:SOSDinobots buildingSludge.jpg|left|180px|thumb|"I've been workin' on the Dinobot, all the live long day..."]]
The Dinobots are initially very simple mentally and are ordered to be deactivated because they are too dangerous. Wheeljack then develops a set of crown-like devices to place on the Dinobots which greatly enhances their intellect, although they are still "dumb" and child-like compared to the other Autobots. The Technobots, on the other hand, are immediately fully functional, and some of them are even ''smarter'' than average Transformers. If one were to take these facts as canonically meaningful (rather than simply the whims of the writers of those episodes), it could be guessed that programming a functional Transformer brain from scratch is extremely difficult, such that even Wheeljack is not up to the job. Temporarily super-genius Grimlock may be the only one capable. However, one must also note that the Dinobots were built and programmed to be as similar to dinosaurs as possible, including the limited intelligence; the Technobots, however, were built by Grimlock with intelligence in mind, as it was the only way to counter [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]]' brute power.

At least on the surface, this "built from scratch" approach runs counter to claims in other episodes of the show that [[Vector Sigma]] is needed to create new Transformer life. (See below.) However, since Vector Sigma is presented as being a supercomputer and not a "magical" device like the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|comics']] [[Creation Matrix]], it could fall in with the speculative statements above regarding Grimlock and Wheeljack. Perhaps Vector Sigma is simply an advanced enough computer that it is capable of constructing a working mind.

====IDW comics continuity====
[[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]] [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]], [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]], and [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] are created by Decepticon scientists after many failed attempts. The failed attempts lived on and were collectively known as [[Insecticon swarm|"the swarm"]]. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron}}

== Infusion ==
[[Image:Creation Matrix 65.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Go on, rub it and make a wish...]]
In other stories, once a new Transformer body has been built, it must still be infused with life (what the fiction from the Beast era and after would gloss as a [[spark]]) from a "god-like" outside source. In the ''Generation 1'' cartoon, this source is Vector Sigma; in the Marvel comics, it is the Creation Matrix, which houses the essence of [[Primus]], the Transformers' creator-god. In the [[Beast Era|Beast era]] cartoons, sparks arrive from the [[Allspark]], perhaps through Vector Sigma. (In many continuities, each Transformer's life force is a fragment of Primus's own.) The [[Movie (franchise)|live-action movie]] continuities function with the [[AllSpark]] being the source of infusion as well, though in that case, "living" and "sentient" are not quite the same thing. (See: [[AllSpark Mutation]].)

[[Image:VectorSigmaG1.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Vector Sigma holds "Disco Night" every Friday at 11 pm.]]
In the [[Young Corgi]] book ''[[Desert of Danger]]'', Hot Rod refers to his creation after the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' left Cybertron as when he was "matrixed".<ref>[http://www.physics.ohio-state.edu/~sstoneb/tf/books/corgi-adv/desert/22.html Desert of Danger, Page 22.]</ref> How exactly this would have happened if Optimus Prime was aboard the ''Ark'' with the Matrix at the time is unknown, but one option might be the [[Matrix Flame]].

The Matrix Flame is an artifact which allows Transformers on Cybertron to access the power of the Matrix even when it is no longer on Cybertron. Literally a flame, it is used to breathe life in the super warrior [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] in the UK comics. The flame is somehow linked to the Matrix, and when the Matrix is transported to another dimension during "[[Target: 2006]]", the flame goes out, forcing the Autobots on Cybertron to investigate.

The [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] ''[[More Than Meets The Eye (G1)|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' guide provides yet another method of infusion. According to the guide, in Dreamwave continuity, Transformers generally begin life as a skeletal mass of partially formed circuits—a [[Protoform]]. These are kept in stasis pods filled with nurturing nutrient gel. They can be built to certain specifications or be fairly general, allowing the robot to form naturally upon introduction of a spark. Sparks, and hence life, usually come from the Matrix, ''BUT'', if the Matrix is absent, life can be granted by attuning the protoform to an energy wavelength similar to the Matrix and then applying a concentrated burst of energon. This alternative is rarely used, as it is extremely resource-consumptive, requiring restrictively high amounts of energon.<ref>[[More Than Meets The Eye (G1)|More Than Meets The Eye]] #8, "Cybertron: Protoforms" (2003)</ref>

[[Image:Allspark movie.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"RESISTANCE IS FUTILE."]]
The Movie continuity's [[AllSpark]] works by infusion as well, just on an even more impressive scale. It is capable of infusing any inanimate machine with life and simultaneously altering its structure so that it is capable of transforming into a Cybertronian-style robot. The AllSpark fragments spread across Detroit in the ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' continuity show the same ability to alter non-living machines into new Transformers (as well as unrelated powers like slowing time and remote controlling other Cybertronians.) Although, outside of the toy biographies for certain characters, the AllSpark in the movie merely creates non-sentient, animalistic life-forms out of ordinary machines, rather than fully developed Cybertronians. Suggesting that maybe, the Cybertronians 'evolved' over time. This is further hinted at by [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] when, whilst responding to [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]]'s comment about humans being primitive and violent, he responds; "Were we so different?"

'''''See also:''' [[Sacred implement]]''
{{-}}
== Resurrection ==
[[Image:Pmoptimusprimedeath.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Don't worry kids, he gets better. Again.]]
Though not quite the same as reproduction, a copy of the mind or essence of a previously living Transformer may be introduced into a new body and, through some vague process, return that Transformer to life. This occurs when [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] creates the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] in the ''Generation 1'' cartoon, and in the comic when Prime uses copies of the minds of existing Cybertronians to create the second-series Autobot cars on [[Earth]]. Another example from the comic occurs when Optimus Prime himself is returned to life merely by inputting a human's [[floppy disk]] copy of his mind into a new body.

A variation on this theme is [[Unicron]]'s ability to create new Robotic life. In the cartoon continuity, Unicron rebuilds [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] into [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], though it is unclear if these are the same being. Less ambiguous is the creation of [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]], [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] and the [[Sweeps]] from the apparently dead remains of [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]. In Marvel comic book continuity, Unicron exhibits a similar ability, fashioning three servants named [[Hook, Line, and Sinker]] from the remains of non-Cybertronian robots attempting to flee him. Some fans have speculated that the creation of the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] by super-genius [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] was aided in some fashion by Unicron's presence.

In his ending to the ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars Transmetals (N64)|Beast Wars Transmetals]]'' video game, [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] uses "a prototype cloning device, based on transreplication technology" to clone the deactivated Generation 1 Decepticons on the Ark into new protoform bodies, thus reviving them without altering the timeline (and erasing himself) by effectively doubling each robot.

This is included as a means of reproduction because it seems likely from the dialogue that the Autobot cars created via copied minds by Prime on Earth still existed on Cybertron when he left, meaning that if they survived the intermediate 4 million years, two of each of these individuals now exist.

In the [[Unicron Trilogy]] story "[[Linkage (comic)|Linkage]]", [[Redline]] and [[Falcia]] combine energy from their [[Spark frame|spark frames]] in order to create a new body for the mind/soul of [[Twirl]] to inhabit after her [[Mini-Con storage panel]] is destroyed in battle. This leads to an interesting relationship between Twirl and Falcia. (See "Familial relationships", below.)

== Budding ==
[[Image:G2issue5-PowerandtheGlory-BuddingSteps.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Budding doesn't look like much fun at ALL. It looks like Aliens versus Predator all over again.]]
The [[Generation 2 (Marvel Comics)|''Transformers: Generation 2'' comic]] introduced the concept of asexual "budding". Bubbles and lesions of apparently liquid metal form on a robot's chest, accompanied by energy discharge. The process grows more intense, until a large mass of liquid metal bursts free from the chest and slowly forms into a [[protoform]]-like blank figure, and then solidifies into a full Transformer. Illustrations suggest that this is something of a communal event, with others surrounding the budding robot in a circle.

[[Image:TNA.gif|left|150px|thumb|With the right early screening, even pegwarming might some day be preventable.]]
It was revealed that (in the Marvel continuity at least) early Transformers reproduced this way until they reached the population level Primus desired. At this turning point, the practice stopped and all memory of it was erased. When the [[Cybertronian Empire]] (possibly under influence of the [[Liege Maximo]]) rediscovered and revived the process sometime during the 4 million years after the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'''s loss, the successive generations of robots produced were increasingly less sentient and emotional (as Primus's lifeforce was apparently spread thinner and thinner between them), and the lifeform called the [[Swarm (G2)|Swarm]] was created as a byproduct.

It is established here that Transformers do have genetic material (the Transformer equivalent of DNA) within their cellular structures. (Yes, they also apparently have cellular structures—who knew?) This genetic material is passed down from "parent" to "child" through budding. Its make-up is seen in the picture at left. (Apparently, its design is not taught in the Transformer equivalent of high school Biology, as Megatron does not recognize what he's looking at until Perceptor explains.) This genetic material and basic Transformer cellular structure is also passed to the Swarm. Later, in [[IDW Generation 1 continuity|IDW continuity]], Transformer genetic material is given the designation [[CNA]], and it is what is altered by the malevolent Jhiaxus to create female Transformers.

The other notable fact is that Transformers who have undergone the budding process retain some sort of primal link to their offspring, thus even though they are galaxies apart, the ''Generation 1'' Decepticon [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] doubles over in pain when his descendant [[Mindset (G2)|Mindset]] is destroyed, and the Liege Maximo says he would know if his descendant, Megatron, were to die.

== Sexual reproduction ==
[[Image:Tfreprod marvel28.jpg|left|150px|thumb|" oh yes, harder, harder, harder!!! " ah, ah, yes, yes, yes, YES!!!"]]
Despite most continuities having male and female genders (gender being a mental and social classification, as opposed to "sexes", a physical distinction) and a definite, strong history of [[transformer romance]] existing between these genders, there is little canonical evidence for Transformers reproducing sexually. (Though admittedly, there isn't a lot of direct evidence for [[Human|humans]] reproducing sexually in most Transformers media, which is, after all, aimed towards kids.)

In the ''Generation 1'' cartoon, the male Transformer - [[female Transformer]] romance could perhaps be explained as an artifact of [[Quintesson]] mental programming very closely echoing the organic life forms the Transformers were built to serve.

On only two occasions in Generation 1 do we get a hint of male and female Transformer romance leading to the formation of family units and the creation of offspring. The first is subtle: [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]]'s backstory in some versions mentions his crashing on Quintessa with his parents. The second is more explicit: At the end of the Japanese [[Victory (manga)|''Victory'' manga]], we find out that [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] and his forces have been fighting all this time for the sake of their/the families living on top of the [[Planet-Destroying Fortress]], among which the [[Dinoforce]]'s [[Baby Dinoforce|children]]. Awww.

Apart from this, the best case for sexual reproduction in the species could probably be made from ''[[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'', where [[Rattrap]] makes numerous off-color remarks throughout the series, especially directed at [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]]. These comments strongly hint at something sex-like among Transformers, though it could, of course, be merely recreational rather than reproductive.

It is unknown what effect the ''[[Beast Machines (cartoon)|Beast Machines]]'' [[reformatting]] of Transformers into [[technorganic]] beings, which are equal parts organic life and mechanical structure down to a cellular level, has on their reproductive options. It is conceivable but unexplored whether this new form of Transformer life could reproduce sexually.

During a dream-like vision, Blackarachnia and Silverbolt meet in an ethereal state, and the two appear to "merge" their sparks, which may be as close to sexual intercourse as Transformers get, perhaps a more spiritual act than physical.

[[Image:Sariprime.jpg|right|120px|thumb|At that moment, Optimus realizes that there are some questions best left unanswered.]]

The [[Transformers (2007)|2007 motion picture]] once again brings up questions about the possibility of a less-than-mechanical form of reproduction. The first and most obvious of these implications comes from [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet's]] less-than-tactful observation of "the [[Sam Witwicky|boy]] want[ing] to mate with the [[Mikaela Banes|female]]." Although his grasp of the concept could stem merely from a familiarity with organic species in general, [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime's]] mention of [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] killing their father, in some related material, does suggest Transformers have some understanding of family units. In [[Revenge of the Fallen issue 4| the fourth issue of ''Revenge of the Fallen'']], [[Rampage (ROTF)|Rampage]] referrs to [[Sam Witwicky|Sam's]] parents as his "protoform batch initiators." Make that of what you will.

In the ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' continuity, it seems clear that Transformers do not reproduce sexually. [[Optimus Prime (Animated)|Optimus Prime]] appears stunned when [[Sari Sumdac|Sari]] tells him where human babies come from, and later brings up the inconsistency when Sari's own origins are revealed.

On the flip-side, in IDW continuity, female Transformers are specifically created by [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]]. By altering fundamental [[CNA]], Jhiaxus introduced gender to the species from a malevolent curiosity about what would happen. The depth of the change in this case is unknown; is it limited to appearance and mentality or does it go deeper? If he was truly trying to see how females would affect the evolution of the species it is possible Arcee was created with the capability for some analog of sexual reproduction in mind, but given his abandonment of the experiment and Arcee's resultant unbalanced mental state it seems unlikely the depth of the change will be explored.

In ''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Transformers: Prime]]'', [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] joked with [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]], asking him if he had heard that humans multiplied. Ratchet was expecting her and [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] to bring back two humans. When they brought back three, Arcee had implied that the teenagers had reproduced since then.<ref>[[Darkness Rising, Part 1]]</ref>
{{-}}

== Familial relationships ==
[[Image:PrimeDirective4 Cover SunstreakerSideswipe.jpg|left|150px|thumb|The Doublemint Twins they're not.]]
One confusing aspect of this apparent lack of sexual reproduction is the canonical use of genealogical terminology to describe certain relationships. The most common of these is when two Transformers regard each other as siblings: "brothers" (e.g. ''Generation 1's'' [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] or ''Robots in Disguise'''s [[Optimus Prime (RID)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]]) or "sisters" ([[Roulette (Universe)|Roulette]] and [[Shadow Striker (Universe)|Shadow Striker]]).

Again, the Dreamwave ''More than Meets the Eye'' guide provides a partial possible answer. According to the guide, when a spark naturally splits as it's being introduced to a protoform, it creates two robots who are "brothers", such as Sideswipe and Sunstreaker. When such a spark division is artificially induced, the pair created are referred to as "[[Cloning|clones]]". (This definition of "brother" may or may not apply to RID Prime and Magnus, whose brotherhood was said to result from the special circumstance of having been created simultaneously by Alpha Trion).

However, the "[[Beast Era|Beast era]]" widened the issue of reproduction with Rattrap referring to his "great-aunt" [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] and in general the practice of Maximals and Predacons referring to the Autobots and Decepticons as their respective "ancestors", as well as themselves as being their "descendants", implying a direct genetic (for want of a better term) lineage. Various sources of debatable canonicity suggest that [[Optimus Primal]] is specifically descended from [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], usually through the phrase "[his] ancestor Optimus Prime".

In the absence of sexual reproduction, the use and meaning of these genealogical references is difficult to explain. One possible explanation might be a situation such as when [[Airazor (BW)|Airazor]] is brought to life in ''Beast Wars''. Her [[spark]] and [[protoform]] are heavily damaged, and [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] allows some of his parts to be used as replacements while [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] guides the procedure. To compare to humans, this is something like assisting with childbirth and donating blood or organs. It is unlikely that this happened enough to cause "descendants" as they are described, however. The term may also be used in an ideological sense or even a technological sense, much as the CD or MP3 player is, in a way, a "descendant" of the gramophone.

[[Image:Linkage7_Twirl-Baby.jpg|250px|right|thumb|So, think Social Services handle cases like these often?]]
Other family designations exist as well. [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] has "parents" that were lost in his crash on [[Quintessa]], according to some background material. The aforementioned Mini-Con Twirl very specifically calls Falcia her "mother" (which Falcia ''hates'') and seems to treat Redline like a father, since the two's spark frame energies went into constructing her physical form. In the ''Armada'' cartoon, [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]] refers to [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] as his brother after Hot Shot saves his life, suggesting at least an understanding of the concept; on the other hand, the ''Armada'' cartoon is originally Japanese, and in Japan, 'brother' and 'sister' can be used as terms of affection or respect to an unrelated person. The [[Unicron Trilogy]] universe has also used the term "cousin" for certain Transformers on occasion. The Japanese Generation 1 ''Victory'' manga features Decepticon wives and children. Even the live-action movie features an Optimus and Megatron who are brothers, and it is mentioned in the related Nintendo DS game that Megatron "took the spark" of their father.

'''''See also:''' [[Relatives]]''
{{-}}

== Toys ==
[[Image:Classics cosmos concept.gif|right|250px|thumb|Echography of a sadly aborted Transformer.... Yes, those things happen.]]
In the real-life continuity, when two toy manufacturing companies love each other very much, [[Hasbro|one of them]] may start shooting Transformer design propositions to the [[TakaraTomy|other one]]. There, during several months of gestation, engineers will work on those designs, which will be developed into functional and manufacturable Transformers. Once the Transformer is ready to be produced, its design will be sent to marketing and ultimately to the chain manufacturer for the delivery. Voilà! A new Transformer is born!
{{-}}

==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category:Biology]]
[[Category:Transformer culture]]

Skids (ROTF)

2011-07-25T00:38:21Z

69.171.187.8: /* Revenge of the Fallen movie */

{{factions|autobotfilm|NEST}}
{{disambig3|Skids}}
:''Skids is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Revenge of the Fallen (franchise)|Revenge of the Fallen]] portion of the [[Live-action film series|live-action film]] [[continuity family]].

[[Image:ROTF_Skids_promo.jpg|thumb|300px|Look, it's that robot child actor that grew up and robbed a convenience store.]]

The dopey-looking '''Skids''' spends a lot of his time arguing with his [[The Twins|twin]] brother [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]] and trying to outdo him in crazy stunts, all while believing ''he's'' the responsible, level headed one. In his own mind, everything dangerous and dopey he does is simply making him a better warrior. And that means one day, one ''glorious'' day, [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] will ''notice'' him! Prime even looking in his direction makes him babble, fall over, and generally fail to make an impression, but that won't stop him trying! Underneath it all, he harbors a secret fear that Mudflap is actually the superior warrior of the pair... which is probably true.<ref>[http://www.hasbro.com/transformers/en_US/discover/Battle-Bios.cfm Hasbro Skids Battle Bio]</ref>

Skids' hyper-reactive optical imaging scanner allows him to process tactical information faster than ''anyone'' (except his twin). Add that to his supreme firepower and his unpredictable actions, and he's a pain in the aft for any [[Decepticon]] who wants to counter him! And that's only if they spot him. He changes alt-mode so much it's hard to keep track of him. On Earth, he's already been part of an ice-cream truck (combining with his brother), and more recently a Chevy Beat, but that's unlikely to last very long.

{{bigquote|Undercover y'all. Y'know, ya gotta blend into your surroundings, gotta be part of the landscape- OW!|A less-than-successful Skids tries to conceal himself,'' [[Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen]]''}}
==Fiction==
===IDW ''Transformers'' movie comics===
[[Image:Tales_of_the_Fallen_Issue_6_Twins.jpg|right|thumb|150px|]]
Some time after hearing Optimus Prime's rallying call but before making it to Earth, Skids and Mudflap were kidnapped by [[Thundercracker (Movie)|Thundercracker]] and taken to an unspecified Decepticon outpost. There, unscrupulous Decepticon medic [[Flatline|Flatline]] attempted to forcibly reprogram them into loyal Decepticon soldiers, but all he ended up doing was knocking out a good chunk of their intellect and reasoning skills. They probablly would've spent the rest of their days locked up and experimented on if a recently upgraded [[Arcee (Movie)|Arcee]] had not sprung them from their cell. Even though they didn't understand everything the silly biker ladies were saying, Skids and Mudflap let Arcee escort them both to their stolen ship, past hordes of drones, Flatline and Thundercracker himself before the outpost self-destructed. {{storylink|Tales of the Fallen issue 6}}

[[Image:Alliance04 icecreamtruck.jpg|left|thumb|150px|Skids is the one in front.]]
Skids and Mudflap arrived on [[Earth]] as part of Autobot reinforcements that [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] with [[Sideswipe (ROTF)|Sideswipe]] and [[Arcee (Movie)|Arcee]]. They both chose the [[combiner|combined]] form of an old, beat-up ice cream truck. The newly-arrived Autobots joined the human-Transformer military alliance [[NEST]] and began training in earnest on [[Diego Garcia]], but soon had to be deployed to [[Shanghai]], [[China]]. {{Storylink|Alliance issue 4|Alliance #4}}
{{-}}

===Titan Magazines ''Revenge of the Fallen'' comics===
Skids first met [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]] when they were about to be thrown into a [[smelting pool]]. {{Storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.2|Dogfight!}} He and his twin are well known for tall tales and messing about, enough so that people have stopped believing their claims. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.3|Learning Curve}}

[[Image:Titan2-1_Skids.jpg|right|thumb|350px|You know what? ''You'' tell him he looks dopey.]]

Skids and Mudflap happily stayed on Cybertron, going through intensive training (which ''totally'' wasn't goofing off) and having extreme-sports contests. Neither wanted to leave their homeworld, and they were the only Transformers on it until [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]] turned up with [[Purple generic drones|a Decepticon army]]. When they heard him mention a [[Star harvester|star harvester]], they realised they should tell someone...but Skids worked out the fastest way to do that would be in person, meaning they'd have to leave their homeworld.

The decision was made for them when the Decepticons attacked. Skids angrily blew away some of the jet-drones when they shot his brother, using an impressive missile barrage, and used transform-and-shoot moves to keep their pursuers away...but he realised this was delaying the inevitable. They fled the planet, with Skids remembering to head for Earth, the site of Optimus's message. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.1|Training Day}}

[[Image:Titan2_twinsbeats.jpg|left|thumb|200px|...actually, no, tell him to ''put some clothes on. JESUS!'']]

The twins made it to [[Earth]] soon, crash-landing in [[Toronto]], [[Canada]]. On the way in, Mudflap hit a [[Wikipedia: CN Tower|big tower]], but Skids felt it wasn't that big a deal. They swam their way to Ball's Falls, where they picked up Earth alternate modes and set out to try and find local Autobots and warn them about the star harvester.

Driving along the wrong side of the Interstate (Skids wanted a challenge!), the twins were attacked by the Seeker [[Ransack (ROTF)|Ransack]], trying to kill them on [[the Fallen]]'s orders. While Skids dissed Ransack's retro alt mode, he pursued them across [[Wikipedia: North by Northwest|open countryside]]. With their energon levels low, the airborne enemy kept up with the twins, and Skids soon collapsed, unable to run any further. He and his brother would've both died, if not for Bumblebee arriving and forcing the Seeker into retreat. {{Storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.2|Dogfight!}}

[[Image:Titan2-3_Mudflap_face.jpg|right|thumb|"I hear you're racist now, Father! How'd you get involved in that sorta thing?"]]

Now living at [[NEST]]'s [[California]]n base with Bumblebee as their minder, Skids and Mudflap repeatedly asked to deliver their info to [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]—and only Optimus, much to [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide's]] annoyance. He was more annoyed when they ambushed him (Skids tipping crates on him!) to get to Optimus...who, as it turns out, was away on a need-to-know mission anyway.

After this defeat, and with Ironhide having bluntly told them nobody believed them, they desperately asked to join in a NEST op in [[Las Vegas]]...getting turned down, because they were too crap to get involved. Annoyed with this, Skids went along with Mudflap's suggestion to go to Vegas and show Ironhide just what they could do! What they could do, it turned out, was screw up a successful mission by freeing [[Grindor (ROTF)|a captured Decepticon]] by trying to "shoot him down". Skids was left mortified. Ironhide, recognising what they were trying to do, told him that maybe they could work on training the twins not to jump in without looking, and that the trick was to learn from mistakes. The twins claimed they'd try. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.3|Learning Curve}}

They soon wished they hadn't, as they were condemned to NEST's [[United Kingdom|Orkney Islands]] base for days of sim-com (simulated combat) training under [[Sideswipe (ROTF)|Sideswipe]]. Skids had a nagging feeling this was just an excuse to keep them away from the main action, and both protested to Sideswipe that they could handle Decepticons. Him pointing out their failure with Grindor shut them up. However, the training was interrupted when [[Ravage (ROTF)|a huge metal cat monster]] broke into the base, KOed Sideswipe, and tried to eat the twins!

[[Image:Titan2-4_SkidsRavage.jpg|left|thumb|250px| That's a bad Mister Kitty!]]

They transformed and fled, drawing the creature into a trap where Skids used his weaponry to bring the roof down on it. When that failed, he deferred to and helped Mudflap carry out his plan of trapping the beast in a sim-com session on maximum setting. With that done, and with it revealed that the creature was sent after them by another Decepticon, they tried to fill in the revived Sideswipe... except the creature had gone, leaving their instructor with the view that ''they'd'' knocked him out in revenge for their training. Between that and Grindor, he thinks they're up to something... {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.4|New Tricks}}

[[Image:Titan2-5_twinsHEstartedit.jpg|right|thumb|Which one of you left the tap running!?]]

The twins were later taken to Diego Garcia, and ecstatic to learn Optimus was coming there! Sideswipe stated he didn't know about their info and wasn't here to talk to them, cutting off Skids as he attempted to mention the [[the Fallen|"dude they call the F-"]]. While their trainer told them how they weren't to see Prime, the twins cunningly drove off when he wasn't looking and headed for the base's runway. The mood soured when Skids noticed Mudflap was planning to pinch the credit for their intel, and soon the two of them were having a big fight and slagging match on the runway...

And so their first meeting with Optimus Prime was to be yelled at for conduct unbecoming of an Autobot warrior. (Mudflap started it!)

That was when [[Scorponok (Movie)|Scorponok]] made his attack, blasting at the distracted Prime. Skids made the situation worse by accidentally tripping over Optimus, preventing him from taking control, and so Scorponok liberated the prisoner [[Sideways (ROTF)|Sideways]]. Sideswipe, watching from a distance, believed Skids had done that ''deliberately'', and convinced Prime that the twins were traitors: they must have helped Scorponok get here and now assisted him in his mission, on top of freeing Grindor and attacking him at Orkney! Skids and Mudflap protested they were being set up because they knew too much, but it fell on deaf ears as they were taken into custody. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.5|Reversal of Fortune}}

[[Image:Titan6_Samabducted.jpg|left|thumb|250px|The car picks the driver.]]

Following this, the decision was made to exile the twins into orbit. A disgruntled Skids remarked they should've minded their own business and ignored the Fallen, but help was at hand... from the Decepticons? Freed by a Decepticon attack, an angry Skids realised they'd been framed ''again'' and now the Autobots would think they were massive traitors. The two went underground to clear their names, and hit on the foolproof plan of abducting [[Sam Witwicky]] from his house and pleading with him to tell their story to Optimus. All this did was cause Bumblebee to launch an attack to rescue Sam. Skids spat out the kid, remarking he'd need to clean his seats to get the organic off them, but that didn't stop Bumblebee holding him at gunpoint...

...until Soundwave arrived, gunning down the Autobot and offering the twins sanctuary in the Decepticons. Skids quickly agreed {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.6|Outlaw Blues}}, intending to get into a position where they could whallop a Decepticon and hand him over to the Autobots to clear their names. After some fun times of annoying the other Decepticons, the twins were despatched to bring in an AWOL member; Skids was annoyed to find Mudflap didn't know they were just pretending, and hoped Soundwave would be sending a minder (either Grindor or Sideways) they could ambush.

[[Image:Titan_deceptitwins.jpg|thumb|right|250px|''Two of these things are not like the other...'']]

The AWOL member turned out to be Ransack. Skids quickly lied to him, saying they'd ''totally'' been sent by [[the Fallen]] to bring him in from the cold. This deception worked, until the Decepticon minders attacked... both of them! Skids ordered Mudflap after Sideways while he launched suppressive fire on Grindor and dodged each shot. Unfortunately, the chopper bugged out with Ransack held captive. While the twins had captured Sideways, Skids wasn't satisfied: he was tired of taking the fall and being pushed around. He decided they were going to go gunning for Soundwave and bring down his whole conspiracy! {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.7|Turnabout}}

[[Image:Titan2-8_twinsanywaytowelcome.jpg|left|thumb|350px|]]
Upon returning to the Phobos base, it suddenly occured to Skids that they had no plan... but, as Mudflap wisely pointed out to him, that never stopped them before! The twins stormed the base, but initial success was undone when Starscream and Soundwave fought back. Luckily, the two Decepticons were forced to run off after Ransack, who'd fled talking about reporting to the Fallen. Skids was left feeling that they'd just seen part of a really big, confusing picture. Unfortunately, this was just a short respite, as the twins discovered just what that army massing on Cybertron had been planning: to arrive at the Phobos base en route to Earth...

The twins stood ready to make their last stand, and Skids told his brother it had been an honour to work with him... when Optimus arrived with the other Autobots! The twins had been tracked to Phobos and to their shock, the other Autobots had realised they weren't traitors and were even apologising! And with all the street cred of uncovering the Phobos base, the twins were welcomed to the Autobots' Earth division. Skids briefly wondered if they should mention "the ''Fa-''" again, but was convinced not to by Mudflap. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.8|Back-to-Back}}
{{-}}

===''Revenge of the Fallen'' movie===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Tom Kenny]] (English), [[Tomokazu Seki]] (Japan), [[Michael Pan]] (German), [[Vladimiro Conti]] (Italian), [[Alan Prieto]] (Latin American-Spanish)

[[Image:ROTF-icecreamtruck.jpg|thumb|left|250px|When the kiddies hear my bell, they all know to run like hell!!!!]]

Skids and his brother were part of a taskforce deployed in Shanghai to root out Decepticon activity. In their combined ice cream truck [[alternate mode]], they rolled through the evacuated zone, taunting and trying to lure out the Decepticons in the area. When the Decepticons did show themselves, they gave chase to the escaping [[Sideways (ROTF)|Sideways]]. However, their slow and ungainly choice of vehicle could not keep up with the fugitive, and they rounded a corner too sharply, tearing their combined form in half. Even though Mudflap took the blame for the separation, Skids still berated (and smacked) his brother for his failure. Skids reminded his brother that they were in a combat situation and wondered what was wrong with him.

[[Image:ROTF Twins truck robot modes.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Yipee! It's Mister Whippy!]]
Upon arrival at [[Diego Garcia]] and NEST headquarters, the twins received new, separate alternate modes. A fight broke out between the two of them over which vehicle they wanted, and Skids "called" the [[Wikipedia: Chevy Beat|Beat]], resigning Mudflap to the form of a [[Wikipedia: Chevy Trax|Trax]].

Later, the twins, along with the other NEST-allied Autobots, were dispatched to look for [[Sam Witwicky]] when Decepticons were detected heading towards his college. After [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] was killed by [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]], the twins helped the Autobot force fight off the Decepticon leader and [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]], allowing Sam, [[Leo Spitz]], [[Mikaela Banes]] and [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]] to make good their escape. Skids and Mudflap met up with Bumblebee and the humans, and together they fled to a remote location. After teasing Leo for a while for his panic attack, Sam inquired whether one of them could interpret the Cybertronic symbols he had become obsessed with, but the twins claimed that they couldn't read the ancient Language of the Primes, and weren't much into reading, anyway.

[[Image:ROTF_movie_SkidsMudflap_bigmother.jpg|thumb|left|250px|"Yousome people gonna die??" "Yep. Wesa screwed."]]

With the help of the Decepticon [[Wheelie (ROTF)|Wheelie]] and former [[Sector Seven]] agent [[Seymour Simmons]], the group made their way to the Smithsonian, where the humans reactivated the venerable ex-Decepticon [[Jetfire (ROTF)|Jetfire]]. He teleported them all to [[Egypt]] before telling them the tale of the original [[Dynasty of Primes|Primes]], the [[star harvester]], which had the potential to destroy all life on Earth, and finally, the [[Matrix of Leadership]], the key to activating the harvester, and possibly the only thing that could bring Optimus Prime back to life. When the Matrix could not be found at the ruins of [[Petra]], the twins began arguing with each other over why they were following Sam, which soon escalated into physical violence. As their brawl nearly crushed the humans, Bumblebee picked up the twins in each hand, slammed them together, and threw them outside the ruins, which Skids considered to be just rude. Fortunately, their bickering created a hole in the wall where the [[Tomb of the Primes]] lay, and with it, the Matrix.

[[Image:ROTF Skids toothless.jpg|thumb|right|250px|More or less an improvement.]]
Making their way back to the Pyramids where NEST waited with Optimus Prime's body, the group came under attack by Starscream. Mudflap, Skids, Leo and Simmons acted as a decoy to lure the Decepticons away from Sam and Mikaela. Unfortunately, they attracted the attention of the [[Constructicon (ROTF)|Constructicons]], who [[combiner|combined]] into [[Devastator (ROTF)|Devastator]] and attacked by vacuuming up loose objects such as sand, cars, and Mudflap. As Skids mourned the loss of his twin, Simmons realized that the safest place to be was directly under the giant. But Mudflap had survived being vacuumed up by Devastator, and to escape he had blasted a hole through its head. To buy the humans time to escape, Skids clambered up Devastator's [[Hightower (ROTF)|right forepaw]] to assist Mudflap. Skids threw a cable to Mudflap, who grabbed it and swung off Devastator's head onto his arm. However, once they landed, Mudflap accidentally shot Skids in the face, knocking them off the arm and knocking out Skids' gold tooth in the process. At [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]]'s command, Devastator continued onto the [[Great Pyramid of Giza]]. {{storylink|Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen}}
{{-}}

===Toy bios===
Skids and his brother idolise Optimus Prime and the other great Autobot heroes, and joined the battle on Earth solely to be part of their crew. {{storylink|Mudflap (ROTF)#Deluxe Class Toys|Deluxe Mudflap}} In an early mission, however, they found themselves used as guinea pigs for experimental combination technology; trying to ''stay'' combined in their gestalt vehicle mode took up more of their focus than fighting Decepticons! {{storylink|#Deluxe Class Toys|Autobot Skids and Mudflap}}

Believing himself to be the "smart one" of the twins, Skids constantly tries to impress Autobot High Command with his <strike>inane, random babbling about everything</strike> insightful comments about things. {{storylink|Mudflap (ROTF)#Deluxe Class Toys|Deluxe Mudflap}} This chatter blows any stealth mission he's part of, so Ironhide has cunningly assigned Skids and his brother to create diversions (far, ''far'' away from him). {{storylink|#Robot Replicas|Robot Replica Skids}}

===IDW ''Revenge of the Fallen'' comics===

Skids and Mudflap were in [[Seattle]] with NEST tracking the Decepticon straggler, [[Alice]]. They helped guide her stolen RV right into Sideswipe's sights, and he then impaled the "girl" in her seat. {{storylink|Nefarious issue 1|Nefarious #1}}

Later, when [[Theodore Galloway]] and his unit were attacked by [[Ransack (ROTF)|Ransack]] en route to investigate the mysterious activities of the enigmatic [[Initiative]] at [[Hoover Dam]], the Autobots dispatched Skids and Mudflap to Galloway's aid. Together, they held Ransack off until a NEST strike team could arrive and finish him off. The Twins then accompanied Galloway and the soldiers to Hoover Dam, and while the Initiative forces had already cleared out, Skids and Mudflap realized what they had been after: residal energy from the [[AllSpark]] that had been kept there. {{storylink|Nefarious issue 4|Nefarious #4}} To uncover the Initiative's secret goals, the Autobot soon allied themselves with [[Soundwave (ROTF)|Soundwave]], and followed his lead to the Initiative's base of operations in [[Crater Lake]], [[Oregon]]. Skids and Mudflap were deployed to attack the base from the east; when they were met with resistance in the form of the Initiative's troops, they took them out of the equation by disabling the advanced weaponry they were wielding with precision blasts. {{storylink|Nefarious issue 5|Nefarious #5}} He and Mudflap then worked as back-up for Bumblebee's team of cadets in the final battle at Crater Lake. {{storylink|Nefarious issue 6|Nefarious #6}}

When NEST discovered that Starscream was selling Transformer weaponry to humans, a sting operation was staged in which [[Theodore Galloway]] would pose as a buyer to lure the Decepticons in. When [[Skystalker (ROTF)|Skystalker]], [[Divebomb (Movie)|Divebomb]] and [[Fearswoop (ROTF)|Fearswoop]] took the bait, The Twins joined Arcee and her sisters and the human forces of NEST in tackling them, the Decepticons we´re killed and [[Fearswoop (ROTF)|Fearswoop]] taken as a prisioner. {{storylink|Rising Storm issue 1|Rising Storm #1}} after [[Sam Witwicky]] contacted NEST as [[Philadelphia]] was beign attacked by Decepticons, the Twins joined Prime and the Others. {{storylink|Rising Storm issue 2|Rising Storm #2}} the Twins along the others arrived to Philadelphia. {{storylink|Rising Storm issue 3|Rising Storm #3}} Skids and Mudflap survived the battle and witness when the [[Driller]] took [[Shockwave (Movie)|Shockwave]] away. {{storylink|Rising Storm issue 4|Rising Storm #4}}

===''Dark of the Moon'' film===
{{spoiler|Dark of the Moon (film)|July 29, 2011}}
[[Image:DOTM Skids, Mudflap, Que and Sideswipe.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Skids: Bay fired us from DOTM, what a pussy! Mudflap: at least he forgot to remove us from this scene HA!]]
Skids and Mudflap could be spotted in vehicle mode at the end of an Autobot convoy as the team rolled into the hangar of NEST's [[Washington, D.C.]] base. {{storylink|Dark of the Moon (film)|Dark of the Moon}}

{{note|Skids and Mudflap were originally scripted to feature in ''Dark of the Moon'', but their appearances were cut from the finished film, save for this ''very'' brief shot. See "adaptations" below for what they would have done if they'd made it through to the final cut.}}

===''Dark of the Moon'' adaptations===
[[Image:DOTM3 skids dies.jpg|right|thumb|250px|This scan is for all you film critics out there!]]
Skids and Mudflap were present at NEST's Washington base during Optimus Prime's conversation with [[Charlotte Mearing]] about the moon landings.

Later, the Twins were on hand when [[Sentinel Prime (ROTF)|Sentinel Prime]] revealed that he was in league with the Decepticons and killed Ironhide. As Sentinel turned his weapon toward Bumblebee, Skids charged forward to stop the ancient Autobot, but wound up taking the full force of the blast himself and perished. But before he died, he forgave Mudflap for being a bad brother and for claiming he was the "smart one", Skids's death sent Mudflap into a rage, but even his righteous anger could not make him a match for Sentinel, and he too met his ends moments later. {{storylink|Dark of the Moon (novel)}}{{storylink|Dark of the Moon (comic series)}}
{{-}}

==Commercial appearances==
* in a tie-in advertisement for [[Burger King]], Skids and Mudflap appear in a commercial where some kids are waiting for a [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Chevy Camaro]] to transform, the Twins appear and transform behind them but the kids don't notice the Twins. The kids and the Twins are later dissapointed that the camaro was just some dude's car and not Bumblebee himself.

==Toys==
===''Revenge of the Fallen''===

====Legends Class Toys====
[[Image:ROTF-toy_Legends_Skids.jpg|250px|thumb|For some reason, [[Scrapper (ROTF)|Scrapper]] has no interest in [[Triple Takeover|making him into a chair]] anytime soon.]]
*'''Autobot Skids''' (Legends, 2009/2010)

: Legends Class Skids is a simple, affordable small-scale toy. Amusingly, just like his brother Mudflap, the [[kibble]] on his arm actually works as his big deformed hand, only grossly oversized.
{{-}}

[[Image:TargetLegendsOffroadSkids.jpg|thumb|250px|Because what you want when you're offroading is a front-drive hatchback city car.]]
*'''Rally Mudflap and Offroad Skids''' (Legends multi-pack, 2010)

:This redeco of Legends Skids features white stripes, yellow headlights and various other changed details. He was packaged with a redecoed Mudflap as a [[Target]] exclusive two-pack, and was part of the [[N.E.S.T. Global Alliance]] [[subline imprint]].

{{-}}

====Deluxe Class toys====
[[Image:ROTFtoy-SkidsDeluxe.jpg|250px|thumb|Kids, never try to deflect a fusion cannon blast with your face.]]
*'''Autobot Skids''' (Deluxe, 2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RA-10'''

:Skids was released as part of the second wave of deluxe class ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' action figures. He transforms into a green Chevy Beat Concept car with black stripe designs on either side and a black hood. His vehicle form features transparent blue windows. In robot mode, Skids features a "[[Mech Alive]]" [[gimmick]] that makes the fenders on the sides of his chest push out and his head move forward when the front grill is pushed inwards. Moving the head up and down through this gimmick may suggest it's meant to make him appear as though he is talking, but the packaging only says "Moving Armor Panels".

:Skids's right arm is larger than his left, just like his movie counterpart's. It features a small cannon that, when pressed, both makes the cannon stick out in a position more suitable for firing and activates Skids's "Punching Robot Fist" action. Despite this, his right hand is surprisingly poseable.

:Skids originally came with unpainted teeth cast in green plastic. A [[variant|running change variant]] adds gold paint for one tooth and white paint for the other one.<ref name="deluxeteeth">[http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/toys/revenge-of-the-fallen/skids/1818/1/41/ Both variants of Deluxe Class Autobot Skids with painted and unpainted teeth at Seibertron.com]</ref>

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2009/Autobot/Skids/skids.htm More information on Skids at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

{{anchor|Icecreamtruck}}
[[Image:ROTF_Deluxe_Skids&Mudflap_toy.jpg|thumb|250px|Hey look, it's the robot child actor who grew up and ''became'' a convenience store.]]
*'''Autobot Skids And Mudflap''' (Deluxe, 2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RA-20'''

:This two-pack of the twin Autobot brothers can combine into a single, old-fashioned ice cream truck. The vehicle splits in half right down the middle of its chassis (similar to how it does in the film) to create the two small robot forms. Other than the transformation, the toy features no [[gimmick]]s.

:Mudflap's heels are too thick for his feet to fold up properly in vehicle mode, though this can be fixed by trimming them. Also, this toy may be the first Transformer to feature the typeface Comic Sans, which is used to write "MADE FRESH FOR YOU" across both front wheel hubs. But that's on Skids's half, so Mudflap is partly absolved here.

:Both Skids and Mudflap have sculpted rust detailing all over the Ice cream tuck, but for some reason, they are not painted.

:Amusingly, the ice cream truck accommodates [[Human Alliance]] human figures ''really'' well.
{{-}}

[[Image:ROTFDesertVersionSkidsAndMudflap.jpg|thumb|250px|Muddy Skids. Wait, ew.]]
*'''Desert Version Skids''' (Deluxe, 2009)
:This version of Skids has a sandblasted deco to closer match his onscreen appearance during the scenes in Egypt. It is only available in Japan with purchase of the Revenge of the Fallen DVD.
{{-}}

[[Image:TRUShanghaiShowdownSkidsAndMudflap.jpg|thumb|250px|The good, the bad, the rusty.]]
*'''Shanghai Showdown''' (Multi-pack, 2010)
:The twins in this set have additional decals for you to put on (save for the "suck my popsicle" slogan) and painted rust and "Caution Children" for the ice cream truck mode. They come with a redecoed version of [[Demolishor (ROTF)|Demolishor]].

{{-}}

====Fast Action Battlers====
[[Image:ROTF_FAB_Missile_Blast_Skids.jpg|thumb|250px|That's not going to pick up any [[Charlene (cowgirl)|cowgirls]] any time soon.]]
*'''Missile Blast Skids''' (Fast Action Battler, 2009)
**''Accessories:'' Missile

:[[Fast Action Battlers]] Missile Blast Skids is quite similar in transformation engineering to [[Bumblebee (Movie)/toys#Fast Action Battlers|Plasma Punch/Plasma Blast Bumblebee]], and even has a similar [[gimmick]] in having one arm being a spring-loaded projectile launcher.

{{charstubtoys}}

[[Image:ROTF-toy_FAB_OffroadSkids.jpg|thumb|right|250px|]]
*'''Offroad Skids''' (Fast Action Battler)
**''Accessories:'' Missile

:A [[redeco]] of Missile Blast Skids with different details, such as silver on the back of his car mode, Autobot insignias on his doors and his name on his windshield.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}

====Human Alliance====
{{anchor|haskids2009}}[[Image:ROTFtoy-SkidsHumanAlliance.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Then again...]]
*'''Autobot Skids / Arcee / Mikaela Banes''' (Human Alliance, 2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RA-25'''
**''Accessories:'' Missile
:Human Alliance Skids comes with a posable figure of [[Mikaela Banes]] that can fit inside in Skids's vehicle mode, plugging into either of his seats via a small hole in her back. In robot mode, Skids's seats end up on his arms, and Mikaela can still sit in either of them; Skids's right arm also features a spring-loaded missile launcher that can rotate into place in front of the seat, with flip-up firing conrols for Mikaela to take charge of. There is a small flaw in the design of the robot mode, being that the door wings are not exposed in the CGI model, but there is a small mod that can be done to hide the door wings. Mikaela can also stand on a platform in the small of Skids's back (via peg-holes on her feet), manning a small non-firing minigun that flips out over the top of Skids's head. Finally, Skids's left palm also contains a peg, meaning Mikaela can securely stand or sit in her big buddy's hand. Also, the primary weapons of HA Skids and HA Mudflap are switched, that being the grappling hook belongs to Skids and the gun belongs to Mudflap.

:Additionally, pressing down on the gray piece above his squinting left eye opens and closes his mouth, to simulate a talking motion.

:Skids also comes packaged with a transforming figure of [[Arcee (Movie)#Human Alliance|Arcee]], who can also be ridden by Mikaela. Unfortunately, the colors of the HA Chromia and the HA Arcee are switched, even though the robot modes resemble the CGI models of the opposite.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2009/Autobot/HASkids/skids.htm More information on Human Alliance Skids at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

====Gravity Bots====
[[Image:ROTF_GravityBots_Skids.jpg|thumb|250px|From car to novelty trash can in the blink of an eye!]]
*'''Autobot Skids''' (Gravity Bot, 2009)
:An extremely simplified version of Skids with a small tab on the bottom of his feet that when he placed on his feet will automatically transform him to robot mode. There is also one on his back side that when placed upon will transform him to his vehicle mode.
{{-}}

====Robot Replicas====
[[Image:ROTF-toy_RobotReplicas_Skids.jpg|thumb|200px|]]
*'''Autobot Skids''' (Robot Replicas, 2009)

{{charstubtoys}}

{{-}}

===Transformers (2010)===
====Legends Class toys====
[[Image:TF2010toyline_LegendsTunerSkids.JPG|right|thumb|300px|The white...]]
*'''Tuner Skids''' (Legends, 2010)

:Tuner Skids is a [[redeco]] of ROTF [[Legends Class]] Autobot Skids, colored similarly to Fast Action Battlers Offroad Skids.

{{-}}
[[Image:EZDeliverySkids.jpg|thumb|300px|Skid-Zette.]]
*'''Delivery Skids''' (EZ Collection, 2010)

:Delivery Skids is a redeco of Legends Class Skids in pink and white, referencing his and Mudflap's ice cream truck form. This toy was only available in Japan.

{{-}}

====Deluxe Class toys====
[[Image:TF2010-toy_DeluxeTunerSkids.jpg|thumb|right|300px|... and the black.]]
*'''Tuner Skids''' (Deluxe, 2010)

: Tuner Skids is a [[redeco]] of ROTF Deluxe Class Autobot Skids (Chevrolet Beat version) in black and a darker shade of green. His license plate says "1H8CONS," and on the back is a bumper sticker that reads "I helped make the Fallen falled!" While stock photography shows the figure has one gold painted tooth and one silver one, the figure actually has both teeth painted silver.

{{-}}

{{anchor|SpyBattle}}
*'''High-Speed Spy Battle''' (Multi-pack, 2010)
[[Image:TargetHighSpeedSpyBattle.jpg|thumb|300px|]]
:This [[Target]]-exclusive two pack (or three pack, depending on [[Rack'n'Ruin|how you count]]) features a redecoed Sideways and the ice-cream truck mode of Mudflap and Skids, which replaces most of the robot mode white plastic on the originals with a rusty brown, adds even more rusty paint applications than the earlier "Shanghai Showdown" version and omits the comic-sans "Made fresh for you" on the front wheel wells of the truck.

{{-}}

===Dark of the Moon===
====Cyberverse====
[[Image:DOTM_Cyberverse_Skids_toy.jpg|thumb|300px|Mustard stripes.]]
*'''Autobot Skids''' (Cyberverse Legion, 2011)
**''Series:'' '''1'''
**''Number:'' '''005'''
**''Japanese ID Number:''

:''[[Dark of the Moon (toyline)|Dark of the Moon]]'' [[Cyberverse]] Legion Skids is a retool of ''Revenge of the Fallen'' Legends Class Autobot Skids, retaining his Chevrolet Beat concept car mode from the previous movie compared to his brother Mudflap's updated Chevrolet Spark vehicle mode. However, Skids' packaging refers to his vehicle mode as a "Chevrolet Spark Concept Mode". The smaller hand on this figure has been remolded to accommodate weapons from other Cyberverse figures.

{{-}}

====Deluxe Class toys====
[[Image:DOTM_Deluxe_Skids_toy.jpg|thumb|300px|''Screw'' being in disguise, he's getting rush hour traffic out of his way ''by any means''.]]
*'''Autobot Skids''' (MechTech Deluxe, 2011)
**''Japanese ID Number:'' '''DA07'''
**''Accessories:'' MechTech Hand Blaster/Double-Barreled Cannon

{{charstubtoys}}

{{-}}

====Human Alliance====
[[Image:DOTM_Human_Alliance_Skids_Epps.jpg|thumb|right|300px|]]
*'''Autobot Skids / Elita-1 / Tech Sergeant Epps''' (Human Alliance, 2011)
**''Japanese ID Number:''
**''Accessories:'' Missile

:''Dark of the Moon'' Human Alliance Skids is a redeco of the ''Revenge of the Fallen'' toy in his new colors, and now comes with a figure of [[Robert Epps]] to drive him instead of Mikaela. The included Arcee toy was redecoed into [[Elita-One (Movie)|Elita-1]].

{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Revenge of the Fallen===
====RPMs - Robot Powered Machines====
[[Image:ROTFtoy-SkidsRPM.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I ran myself over!]]
*'''Mudflap vs Autobot Skids''' (R.P.M. Mini-Vehicle, 2009)
**''Series:'' '''Battle Series'''
**''Number:'' '''04 of 08'''

: Number four in a series of eight [[Robot Powered Machines]] Mini-Vehicle versus packs, Skids is packaged against his twin, Mudflap. He's an untransformable Hot Wheels-like car, unless you count his robot mode being sculpted and painted onto the underside of him.

: This toy is also available with the Devastator Showdown track set.

*'''Devastator Showdown''' (R.P.M. Mini-Vehicle Track Set, 2009)

: A Mini-Vehicle of Skids also comes with this [[Devastator (ROTF)|Devastator]]-themed race track set.

*'''Autobot Skids''' (R.P.M. Mini-Vehicle, 2010)
**''Series:'' '''Combat Series 2'''
**''Number:'' '''04 of 04'''

: An individual release of Battle Series Skids.

{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:RobotHeroes_SkidsMegatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px|My head is bigger than your cannon!.]]
*'''Autobot Skids and Megatron''' (2009)

:''[[Robot Heroes (toyline)|Robot Heroes]]'' Skids is a [[super deformed]] figure with limited articulation in his neck and shoulders. He came in a two-pack with [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]].

{{-}}
[[Image:rotf_desertdevastation_rh.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Give me your fac—oh wait, wrong article.]]
*'''Desert Devastation''' (Multi-pack, 2010)

:Both Skids and Mudflap are sculpted in their vehicle modes for this box-set that also includes [[Devastator (ROTF)|Devastator]] and [[William Lennox]].

{{-}}
[[Image:Robotheroestwinswidewaysprimedemolishorsideswipe.jpg|right|thumb|300px|[[B.O.T. (episode)|Pink smoke?]] Should probably get that looked at.]]
*'''Shanghai Shootout''' (Multi-pack, 2010)
:Shanghai Shootout replicates the opening action scene from ''Revenge of the Fallen'', featuring figurines of [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]] and Skids in their combined ice cream truck mode, [[Sideways (ROTF)|Sideways]] (vehicle mode), [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]], [[Demolishor (ROTF)|Demolishor]], and [[Sideswipe (ROTF)|Sideswipe]] (vehicle mode). Demolishor is a slightly-oversized figure and the centerpiece of the box set.

{{-}}
===Speed Stars===
[[Image:SpeedStars_LightsSounds_Skids.jpg|thumb|right|300px|You shouldn't be able to moon someone in car mode, but Skids has ''found'' a way.]]
*'''Autobot Skids''' (2010)
**''Series:'' '''Lights & Sounds'''

:''[[Speed Stars]]'' Lights & Sounds Skids is a cute and round Chevy Beat with various playing sounds and flashing lights. Like the toys in the Robot Powered Machines line, it doesn't transform, but features a sculpted robot mode on its underside.

{{-}}

==Notes==
*The ice cream truck is apparently based on a heavily customized 1930s Chevrolet truck.{{fact|confirmation needed}} [[Ben Procter]] apparently lifted the color scheme and deco for his early concept design for the ice cream truck<ref name="procterrotf">[http://conceptartworld.com/?p=2772 Ben Procter's ROTF concept art at Concept Art World.]</ref> ''directly'' off a photo of an [[Australia]]n ice cream truck that had been added to the Wikipedia article for "ice cream van" in February 2006<ref name="wikipediaice">[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ice_Cream_Truck_Sydney_Australia_-_crop.png Photo of an Australian ice cream truck at Wikipedia, added in February 2006.]</ref>, down to identical placement and design of the fonts and graphics. The details were later slightly tweaked for the final design that can be seen in the movie... but only very slightly so.
*One of the decals on the ice cream truck's side that was created specifically for the movie reads "[[Image:Symbol decept reg.png|15px]] suck my popsicle." Classy. Too bad the toy does not. (Because, you know, for kids...)
**A "censored" version of the movie is rumored to exist with the aforementioned text edited out, with the somewhat nonsensical result of "[[Image:Symbol decept reg.png|15px]]           popsicle". This version was supposedly shown in some theaters even though other theaters in the same market apparently got the uncensored version. The more likely explanation for this would be that different theaters simply used different lightings settings, which effectively rendered the words "suck my" (which were written in dark red on a black backdrop to begin with) invisible, with no actual intention of "censorship" behind it.
[[Image:ROTFSmartCarTwinConcept.jpg|thumb|250px|Skids and Mudflap would never get their Larry.]]
*The Twins' final alternate modes in the film, the Chevrolet Beat (Skids) and Chevrolet Trax (Mudflap), were designed by General Motors as small car concept vehicles. At one point in the film's pre-production, another small car, the [[wikipedia:Mercedes-Benz|Mercedes-Benz]] [[wikipedia:Smart (automobile)|Smart]], was evidently considered as an option for a film character; concept art of a "third twin" based on it appears in various sections of the ''Revenge'' DVD special features, always in close proximity to concept art of Skids and Mudflap. Whether it was meant to be a third character related to Skids and Mudflap or if it was supposed to be used in place of one of them is unknown. What '''is''' known is that [[Hasbro]] has had great difficultly in the past trying to get likeness licenses from German automakers, which is probably why the vehicle/character was dropped.
*In their combined ice cream truck mode, the Twins sport the [[license plate]] "KDM 814". A minor variant of this, "KDM 0814" with an extra "0", was later used for the life-sized Bumblebee prop on various displays from 2009 up until at least 2011. For the individual cars, two different sets of license plates were apparently used, either "Beat" and "Trax" referencing their car models or "Skids" and "Mudflap", with the latter two being featured more prominently in the movie (the "BEAT" plate can be seen briefly during the New York City scene, and it's ''possible'' the "TRAX" plate was used for the same scene, although the car's plate is offscreen during that scene). All four plates were auctioned off in October 2009.<ref name="licenseauct">[http://www.icollector.com/Autobots-Skids-and-Mudfap-s-license-plates-from-Transformers-Revenge-of-the-Fallen_i8633012 Mudflap and Skids license plates for auction] at icollector.com</ref> The auction claims that the plates referring to their car models were used in vehicle mode, while those identifying the two Autobots by name were used in robot mode... which is ''directly'' refuted by screencaps from the movie included with the auction, which show the robot name plates on the cars in vehicle mode. Also, the two ''real'' Chevrolet Beat and Trax cars the Twins scan already feature individualized license plates sporting their robot names. Huh.
*The Chevrolet Beat, Skids's upgraded [[alternate mode]], goes into production in 2011 as the Chevrolet Spark.

*The Twins have been accused of being derogatory racial stereotypes of inner-city African-Americans. Writers [[Roberto Orci]] and [[Alex Kurtzman]] claim to have followed [[Michael Bay]]'s lead with the characters, while Bay says voice actors [[Tom Kenny]] (Skids) and [[Reno Wilson]] (Mudflap) came up with their schtick on their own. Reportedly, Wilson (who is African-American himself) was sad to learn his way of speaking was apparently offensive to himself.<ref name="jive">[http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/06/24/transformers-jivetalking-_n_220005.html The Huffington Post's coverage of the furor over the Twins]</ref> Orci and Kurtzman said the twins' portrayal was not in their script, that they were disappointed in the characters and admitted that they could understand if others were offended by the characters.<ref>[http://www.filmschoolrejects.com/news/orci-and-kurtzman-respond-to-claims-of-racism-in-transformers-2.php Robert Orci and Alex Kurtzman respond to claims of racism on ''Revenge of the Fallen'', Film School Rejects, June 24, 2009]</ref>

*The twins are less slangy in the [[Revenge of the Fallen (comic series)|comic adaptation]] and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)|Titan comics]], which could either indicate it was a last-minute voice actor decision or [[Simon Furman]] just didn't want to try writing "street".

*In [[Tales of the Fallen issue 6|''Tales of the Fallen'' #6]], it's revealed that the Twins' processors were messed up by the Decepticon medic [[Flatline]]. So... now they act the way they do in the film because they're ''brain-damaged''? This is not exactly ''helping''.






*Amusingly, [http://www.hasbro.com/transformers/en_US/discover/Battle-Bios.cfm Hasbro's Battle Bio] for Skids lists his arch-enemy as... [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]].

*Skids's name is only mentioned once on-screen (by Mudflap right before he loses his grip on Skids when Devastator is trying to suck them up).

* The Twins were originally supposed to return for ''[[Dark of the Moon (film)|Dark of the Moon]]''. Even though [[General Motors]] provided two Chevrolet Sparks to serve as their alternate modes<ref name="chevyspark">[http://www.leftlanenews.com/chevrolet-spark-transformers-3.html Left Lane News article on two Chevrolet Sparks spotted on the DOTM set], May 2010.</ref> which were still spotted on the set as late as October 2010<ref name="dcparking">[http://transformerslive.blogspot.com/2010/10/transformers-3-dc-parking-lot-gallery.html "Transformers 3 DC Parking Lot Gallery"], Transformers Live Action Movie Blog, October 2010.</ref>, the two were mostly edited out of the final movie (their vehicle modes can barely be glimpsed in a brief shot). Michael Bay even went so far as to offer a $25,000 reward for anyone who would see the Twins "perform" in the movie.<ref name="reward">[http://collider.com/transformers-3-twins-skids-mudflap-michael-bay/91104/ Collider.com article on Michael Bay's "reward" for spotting Skids and Mudflap "perform" in DOTM], May 2011.</ref> In the novelization and the comic adaptation, Skids and Mudflap still appear.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Skids''' (スキッズ ''Skizzu'')

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Dark of the Moon Autobots]]
[[Category:Human Alliance]]
[[Category:NEST]]
[[Category:Revenge of the Fallen Autobots]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Cyberverse]]
[[Category:Target exclusives]]
[[Category:Transformers (2010) Autobots]]

Optimus Prime (Armada)

2011-07-15T13:48:00Z

69.171.167.183: /* Cybertron */

{{factions|autobot|{{factions/icons|custom=Energon Powerlinx symbol.png|cLink=Powerlinx}}|hofsilver}}
{{disambig3|Optimus Prime}}{{suite}}
:''Optimus Prime is the [[Autobot]] leader from the [[Unicron Trilogy]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:ArmadaOptimusPrime dvd.jpg|right|350px|thumb|Prime, Prime, and [[Sparkplug (Armada)|Prime]].]]
'''Optimus Prime''' fights for truth, justice, and the Autobot way. He has led the search for the [[Mini-Con]]s, faced the resurrection of a [[Unicron|dark god]], and now aims to stop [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] from obtaining the [[Cyber Planet Key]]s. He's also died a couple times, and tends to find a second-in-commandy-type to combine with to form a super robot.

He learns martial arts from [[Scavenger (Armada)|whoever]] turns into a [[Landmine (Energon)|bulldozer]], thinks [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] has leadership potential and tends to recruit teenage children.

Also, he wants to make sure you don't sit too close to the TV screen.<ref>It's true! In a pre-show warning screen before every episode of ''Super Link'' (the Japanese version of ''Energon''), Optimus Prime would appear in still frame, telling kids to make sure they watch the show in a well-lit room, and not to sit too close to the screen. This isn't particularly uncommon in anime...not after, well. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denn%C5%8D_Senshi_Porygon You know.]</ref>

==Fiction==
===Dreamwave comics continuity===
====Dreamwave ''Armada'' comic====
[[Image:DWArmadaPreview OptimusPrime ouch.jpg|left|200px|thumb| Oh slag. There goes my bonus.]]
One million years ago, Optimus Prime was in the satellite room of the [[Loop]] in [[Cyber City]] when [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] unexpectedly arrived, carrying unsettling news of an attack on the [[Mini-Con]] Village D-10 by Transformers calling themselves "[[Decepticon]]s". {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 1}} While the Autobots investigated the remains of Mini-Con Village D-52, Optimus Prime demanded that they find clues as to what had occurred, as he did not know why the Mini-Cons had been taken and feared that these Decepticons had started a civil war. Soon afterwards, [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] and his Decepticons invaded Cyber City and declared that the inhabitants now belonged to him. The Autobots arrived to defend the city, but were soundly beaten by the Mini-Con augmented Decepticons. Realizing that they were no match for the Decepticons, Optimus Prime ordered a retreat, for if they stayed and fought, they would die. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 2}}

Over the next million years, the Mini-Con empowered Decepticons steadily conquered the planet. Concerned that the conflict could escalate and put other worlds at risk, the [[Universal Peacekeeping Committee]] sent the famed mediator [[Fflaxl]] to the relatively unknown [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] in an attempt to settle the dispute between the Autobot and Decepticon "tribes" peacefully. However, just as he arrived, Megatron and Optimus Prime were in the midst of a battle, and Optimus Prime was sent flying, eventually landing on [[Bix]], Fflaxl's bodyguard. The diplomat, seeing the scale of the war and its participants, decided that some conflicts were best left untouched and that everything would work out in the end. {{storylink|Armada Preview}} Meanwhile, the [[Exodus (Armada)|Mini-Con escape ship]] crash landed on a distant world known as [[Earth]], dispersing the occupants all over the planet. A member of the indigenous [[human]] species, [[Rad White]], stumbled upon the crash site and inadvertently activated the Mini-Con homing device, where it was detected by both Autobot and Decepticon forces. Optimus Prime resolved to go to this planet Earth, believing that this might be their second chance to being back justice to their home. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 3}}

[[Image:DWArmada4 OptimusPrime bruteforcelecture.jpg|right|200px|thumb| Oh no they DIDN'T!]]
The Autobots led by Optimus Prime used the [[space bridge]] to travel to Earth, unfortunately appearing right in front of a [[Ruby|group of human children]] on a field trip to the [[Allspark Power Generator Station]]. Optimus Prime quickly decided that stealth was of the utmost importance and that they should minimize contact with the local inhabitants, a policy that was questioned by [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Smokescreen]] and [[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]], who just wished to tear through the planet to find the Mini-Cons, as their own troubles were of greater concern. This brought on them an angry rebuke from Optimus who declared that they weren't about to endanger Earth or its inhabitants to serve Autobot interests, but he also understood their frustration, telling them to save their anger for the Decepticons. Meanwhile, the Decepticons had also arrived on Earth and were giving chase to Rad, [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]], [[Carlos Lopez|Carlos]] and their Mini-Con friends, [[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]] and the [[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Team]]. As [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] and [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]] caught up to the fugitives, Optimus Prime and Scavenger appeared and knocking them out of the sky. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 4}}

When Megatron arrived on the scene, Optimus Prime bided his time while Smokescreen got into position and distracted his enemy by trash talking, mocking that for all of Megatron's Mini-Con-enhanced power, he had continually failed to defeat the Autobots. Alexis thought that he was a "big red blabbermouth" while Carlos opined that it was like watching a wrestling match due to all the talking they were doing before fighting. Suddenly, Smokescreen pulverised the cliff Megatron was perched upon, burying the Decepticon leader in rubble. At first, Prime was able to beat on Megatron, but the Decepticon's Mini-Con advantage proved too much, and Megatron [[Powerlinx]]ed with all of his Mini-Cons, intending to obliterate all of Prime's circuits for his disrespect. Fortunately, [[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]]'s team of Mini-Cons arrived, saving Rad and the others, then Powerlinking with the Autobots to force the Decepticons into retreat. The Mini-Cons requested an alliance with the Autobots, on the condition that they were equals in partnership. Optimus Prime agreed, stating the Autobots desperately needed the Mini-Cons' powers, but it was ultimately the choice of the diminutive robots to make. With the alliance formed, Optimus Prime ordered the Autobots to find suitable Earth vehicle modes and the construction of a local headquarters, for he had a feeling they were going to stay on this alien world for a long time. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 5}}

[[Image:DWArmada7 OptimusPrime StarSaber.jpg|left|350px|thumb| Shut up dude, I'm TRYING to get it out of the stone!]]
Later, Optimus Prime sought out the kids at the [[Black Hills]] to tell them goodbye, as he felt they had been dragged into their war too deeply already. He wanted Sparkplug's support in the decision, but before the Mini-Con could fully voice his opinion, he received an emergency transmission from [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]] of the [[Air Defense Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Air Defense Mini-Con Team]], who were under attack by the Decepticons in [[Rapid City]], [[South Dakota]]. Sparkplug proposed a covert rescue operation, but Optimus Prime flatly refused, fearing the Autobot Mini-Cons could be captured by the Decepticons. Fed up with Prime telling them what they could and couldn't do, the Mini-Cons and the kids went on their own. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 6}} Meanwhile, Megatron had modified and forced the Air Defense Team to powerlink together to form the mighty [[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]], and used it to attack the [[Autobase]] in [[Nebraska|Lincoln]]. During the ensuing battle, Optimus Prime implored for the Air Defense Team to resist Megatron's manipulations and free themselves, as the power came from the three of them, not the one weapon, a concept that Megatron found unfathomable, as all he cared about was controlling the power. Sparkplug and the others returned to make amends, powerlinking with the Autobots to give them the edge they needed. Now on equal footing, Optimus fought back, telling Megatron and the Air Defense Team that it was about ''respect'': respect for the power and for the individual. The Air Defense Team broke free of their bonds and attacked the Decepticon leader. After the Decepticons retreated, so too did the [[Land Military Mini-Con Team|Land Military Team]] and the Air Defense Team. Prime felt that because there was now a balance to the war, the non-aligned Mini-Cons were right to leave and not tip the balance for either side. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 7}}

[[Image:DWArmada10 OptimusPrime Illbeback.jpg|right|200px|thumb| Optimus Schwarzenegger.]]
Soon afterwards, a monolith crashed in [[Tranquility, Kansas|Tranquility]], [[Kansas]] and sent out a signal which summoned all Mini-Cons on Earth to converge at the monolith's location. [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] was not especially concerned considering the Autobot Mini-Cons could come and go as they pleased and that they might have just needed some time to cool off, but Optimus Prime was worried: after the situation with the Air Defense Team, he was unsure of what they might do next. While the Mini-Cons were in their trance-like state, the Decepticons arrived, intent on claiming all of Earth's Mini-Cons for themselves. Rad used Sparkplug's communications systems to call Optimus Prime for help, which soon arrived. Unfortunately, while the Autobots and Decepticons fought amongst themselves, the Mini-Cons (and Rad) entered the monolith and blasted off into space. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 8}} As the Autobots left for home, Optimus Prime explained to the kids the significance of the giant Mini-Con symbol that had been burned into the ground and that Rad had been taken to the [[Moon (moon)|Moon]]. He also told them the story about how the Mini-Cons had escaped Cybertron and eventually crashed their ship on the Moon, breaking it in half and sending the bow to Earth. Optimus' only plan was to wait for Megatron to make his move, and try to stop them, for they had no options for reaching the Moon that would not require specialised equipment or actions that would compromise their security on Cybertron. However, an opportunity provided itself when the majority of the Decepticon left for the Moon {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 9}}, allowing Hot Shot and Red Alert to erase any Decepticon sensor logs while Optimus Prime used the space bridge to travel to the Autobase on Cybertron. Unfortunately, [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] had his hands full and resented Optimus Prime not leading the Autobots on Cybertron. However, Optimus did manage to get his hands on an [[Autobot shuttle|Autobot Transport Gunship]] {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 10}}, which he used to travel to the Moon. Unbeknownst to Optimus, however, the selfish and cruel [[Destruction Mini-Con Team|Destruction Team]] leader [[Dualor]] had strapped Rad into one of the space mines protecting to Moon, and now Optimus was preparing to destroy the minefield, but he hesitated. While Sparkplug's Mini-Con friends and the [[Space Mini-Con Team|Space Team]] were working on rescuing Rad, Optimus Prime realised an itchy trigger finger would be disastrous. Optimus correctly deduced that [[Sky Blast]] meant no harm and allowed him to dock with the gunship whilst towing the dummy mine containing Rad. After blasting Cyclonus into pieces for attacking their ship, Optimus thanked Sky Blast for his help, and gave those back on the [[Mini-Con Fortress Base]] transportation to Earth promising them that he and his compatriots were in for a lot of changes in how the Autobots treated them. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 11}}

[[Image:DWArmada13_Autobots_Mini-Cons.jpg|thumb|left|350px|]]

Prime's word was soon tested when two crises occurred at the same time: Scavenger and Smokescreen had detected the Decepticons building some sort of rocket launch facility in Death Valley, [[California]], and a Mini-Con escape pod from the Moon had been detected in northern [[Alaska]]. At first, the Autobot leader preferred to deal with the Decepticon situation, until Sparkplug convinced him that if he didn't assist the Mini-Cons, the ones in the Autobase would be walking out. With political concerns in mind, Optimus Prime offered the full resources of the Autobots in mounting a rescue mission, which seemed to satisfy the fractious Mini-Cons. {{storylink|Fire & Ice}} Unfortunately, additional problems presented themselves when [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]], overjuiced on the full power of the Destruction Team, began attacking any and all targets while Megatron was blasting them with his [[Solar Scalpel]], a superweapon deployed from the rocket in Death Valley. With little choice, Optimus asked Sparkplug to powerlink with him at maximum power, enabling the Autobot to defeat Cyclonus. With the crisis averted and the Mini-Cons rescued, a disappointed Optimus asked Sparkplug why he had been holding back on him, as he thought they trusted one another. As Sparkplug told him the legend of the Mini-Cons having the power to save the universe or destroy it, Optimus was suddenly taken to Cybertron, where he witnessed its destruction...{{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 13}}

[[Image:WorldsCollide4_JetOptimus.jpg|thumb|250px|—a [[Furmanism|FURMANISM]]!]]

While the Autobots tried to figure out what had happened to him, Optimus wandered across the blasted ruins of Cybertron, he discovered [[Spinister (G1)|a lone survivor]], who had been reduced to a gibbering wreck. {{Storylink|Worlds Collide, Part 1 of 4}} Optimus Prime refused to believe the confused, fragmented story the survivor told: Prince of Nothingness came, the heavens opened up, and their final judgment was pronounced. All those who fought perished and everything was destroyed. {{Storylink|Worlds Collide, Part 2 of 4}} As [[Unicron]], the devourer of worlds closed in on Cybertron, Optimus begged the survivor to tell him of any way to fight back against the monster. {{Storylink|Worlds Collide, Part 3 of 4}} Sadly, the survivor was beyond help, allowing himself to be sucked into the oblivion of Unicron's maw, despite Optimus' pleas for him to resist. Unicron noticed the lone Cybertronian and took the form of the survivor, proclaiming that like this reality's [[Optimus Prime (Worlds Collide)|Optimus Prime]], the Autobot would fall and his universe would be consumed - the gateway was being prepared by his heralds. Suddenly, Jetfire appeared, having jumped through a space bridge portal after destroying the Decepticon space bridge nexus that Unicron's heralds were using to open up space for their master to enter that reality. As this fallen Cybertron crumbled, Sparkplug, [[Comettor (Armada)|Comettor]] and the mysterious Mini-Con [[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] appeared, having crossed realities to find the Autobot leader. Over-Run handed Optimus the [[Mini-Con Matrix]], the essence of this doomed Cybertron's Mini-Cons, giving the two Autobots the power to transform and combine into Jet Optimus. With one mighty blast, Jet Optimus delivered a broadside to Unicron, giving them enough time to escape back to their reality. {{Storylink|Worlds Collide, Part 4 of 4}}

With the fate of their universe at stake, Optimus called on the Mini-Cons scattered on Earth to join the Autobots and Decepticons in fighting Unicron. As Cybertron's general, Optimus stood as the bulwark against the Chaos Bringer's onslaught, leading their combined forces until the Mini-Cons united their power to deliver an almighty blast at Unicron, sending him back into the unknown. Though victorious, Optimus Prime considered that with such pure evil, [[Furmanism|it may never be over]], and they must be eternally vigilant. {{Storylink|The End}}
{{-}}

====''Energon'' comic====
[[Image:Optimusprime ut armada px.jpg|left|150px|thumb|Optimus Prime (Powerlinx) during the years between the Unicron Battles and Energon. He thinks if he's not red and blue, nobody will recognize him.]]
Ten years after the defeat of Unicron, Over-Run showed Prime how to commune with Cybertron itself. Doing so reformatted the Autobot leader into a body capable of [[Powerlinx|Powerlinking]] with a team of [[Prime Force|'drone' vehicles]], and granted him (and the other Autobots) the ability to combine with each other.

Upon returning to Earth, he decided that the Autobots would no longer hide from the inhabitants, but work with them openly. This decision led, among other things, to the Autobots' induction into the [[United Nations]].

When last seen ''(before the bankruptcy of [[Dreamwave Productions]])'', he was attempting to escape from within the remains of [[Unicron]], after Megatron's trapped spark used him to regain his freedom.

{{charstubfiction}}
{{-}}

===Cartoon continuity===
====''Armada'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[Garry Chalk]] (English), [[Tōru Ōkawa]] (Japanese), [[Luis Miguel Perez]] (Latin America), [[Guilherme Briggs]] (Portuguese), [[Pierre-Peters Arnold]] (German), [[Niclas Ekholm]] (Swedish) [[Dariusz Odija]] (Polish)

{{charstubfiction}}

[[Image:Pre-arm-scavenger.JPG|left|180px|thumb|"Maybe we shouldn't have fired lasers at the mirrors."]]
[[MYA|Millions of years ago]], a young Optimus Prime fought with a great Decepticon warrior known as [[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]]. So frequent were their clashes, and so familiar were they to each other, the pair eventually became friends, and Scavenger signed up with the Autobots. Seeing great potential in the young Autobot leader, Scavenger taught Optimus Prime how to fight in hand-to-hand combat. Later, veteran Autobot [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] trained Optimus in [[metallikato]] shortly before leaving [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] with [[Rodimus (Energon)|Rodimus]]. Optimus later notes that their training made him the warrior and soldier he is today. {{storylink|Trust (Armada)|Trust}}

Many years later, it was a more mature Optimus Prime that led a small Autobot unit to [[Earth]] after the activation of the [[Mini-Con]] homing beacon. This beacon signaled to all the Transformers on Cybertron that the much-coveted Mini-Cons had survived their million years-long disappearance. After leaving his second-in-command [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] in charge of the Autobot forces on Cybertron and warping to Earth {{storylink|Prehistory}}, Optimus saved [[Rad White|three]] [[Carlos Lopez|human]] [[Alexis Thi Dang|children]] from the [[Decepticon leader]], [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]], who arrived on the alien world first.

[[Image:FirstEncounter_Prime.jpg|right|180px|thumb|He's part Optimus Prime, part [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], part [[Optimus Prime (RID)|Optimus Prime]] and all Optimus Prime.]]
Clashing with his arch enemy, Optimus Prime bought the children and their Mini-Con [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] time to escape while around them, other Transformers warped into the battlefield. {{storylink|First Encounter}}{{storylink|Metamorphosis}} Realizing that he was defeated, Megatron ordered a retreat, allowing Optimus and his subordinates, [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] and [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]], time to reformat themselves into suitable new Earth bodies, while the Decepticons likewise did so on their moon base. Later, after the Decepticons returned to Earth in an attempt to capture the [[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Team]] Mini-Cons that had been awakened by the children, Optimus Prime and the Autobots saved the children again. This time, Prime unveiled his Earth body's [[Optimus Prime Super Modes|super mode]] and put it to good use.

Befriending the children, Optimus brought them back to the Autobots' hidden base and introduced his crew to them. He told them of the sad history of the conflict on Cybertron and how the Mini-Cons had fled from their home planet to maintain their freedom, but also that there existed a legend that the Mini-Cons, despite their use as weapons of war, held the key to peace in the universe. {{storylink|Base}} The children would aid Prime as he led his crew around the world, searching for the long-lost Mini-Cons, before the Decepticon forces could take them and use them for their own evil deeds.

[[Image:Arm ep 4 supermode prime max burst.jpg|left|180px|thumb|You feel lucky, punk?]]
Soon afterward, both the Autobots and Decepticons detected a Mini-Con signal located in the [[Grand Canyon]]. With the help of the kids, Optimus Prime managed to pinpoint the location of the Mini-Con panel before he was confronted by [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]], powerlinked to [[Leader-1 (Armada)|Leader-1]]. Outgunned, Optimus Prime was saved when Starscream arrogantly underestimated the [[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Team's]] combined form of [[Perceptor (Armada)|Perceptor]]. This distraction gave Optimus the opportunity to activate the Mini-Con panel, revealing that its occupant was [[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]], Optimus Prime's old Mini-Con partner and friend. Together they Powerlinked, activating Optimus' powerful Maximum Blast which sent the Decepticons into retreat. {{storylink|Comrade}}

Through the treachery of [[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]] and [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]], the Decepticons managed to secure all three of the [[Star Saber (Armada)|legendary]] [[Skyboom (Armada)|Mini-Con]] [[Requiem Blaster|weapons]] that form the [[Hydra Cannon]], the most powerful weapon in the universe. Mounting their new doomsday device aboard a starship, Megatron decided to wipe out the Autobot base on Earth, regardless of the massive collateral damage to the planet itself. Optimus Prime and Jetfire launched a pre-emptive strike against the warship in the hopes of disabling the weapon and rescuing the Mini-Cons. However, they were outnumbered, forcing a desperate Optimus to throw himself into the path of the cannon and use the [[Matrix of Leadership]] to save Earth, but at the cost of his life. {{storylink|Crisis}}

Under the leadership of Hot Shot, the other Autobots gave chase to the Decepticons aboard the [[Axalon (Armada)|Axalon]]. During a confrontation with their enemies, the Mini-Cons reached out to each other and resurrected Optimus from within the Matrix. There was little time to rejoice, as the Autobots pursued the Decepticons on their way back to Cybertron. {{storylink|Miracle}}

After returning to Cybertron, Optimus learned of the existence of [[Unicron]] from the Mini-Cons. He would plead with Megatron, now Galvatron, to unite their armies to face this new threat. Galvatron was only convinced after both Thrust stole the [[Requiem Blaster]] and the [[Skyboom (Armada)|Skyboom Shield]], and [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] sacrificed himself to let Galvatron see that uniting the armadas was the only hope for the Transformers to survive. {{storylink|Cramp}}

After uniting the armadas, Optimus and Galvatron continued to co-lead the strikes against Unicron. {{storylink|Alliance (episode)|Alliance}} After many losses, the duo decided that they would venture into Unicron to weaken him from within, but were both captured by Unicron. {{storylink|United (episode)|United}} Unicron would continue to try to persuade Prime into merging with him or face destruction. Thankfully, however, the kids were able to free the Mini-Cons under Unicron's control, who in turn attacked Unicron, critically damaging him. {{storylink|Origin}}

[[Image:Armada 52 - Prime with tread piece.jpg|left|250px|thumb|My God, it's full of stars...]]
After Unicron's apparent defeat, both Optimus Prime and Galvatron succumbed to their base natures and had one last battle within the Chaos Bringer. Fighting each other to a standstill, both were surprised when Unicron suddenly came back to life, feeding off their hate for each other. Galvatron was drawn toward Unicron's maw, with Prime holding onto his tank treads, telling him to hold on. His nemesis then made the decision to sacrifice his life, giving Prime a final victory, so that Unicron might be destroyed and their race would survive.

In the aftermath, Optimus Prime reflected that he didn't deserve the [[Matrix of Leadership]] and left both the Autobots and Cybertron for places unknown. {{storylink|Mortal Combat}}

{{-}}

====''Energon'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[Garry Chalk]] (English), [[Katsuyuki Konishi]] (Japanese), [[Luis Miguel Perez]] (Latin America), [[Niclas Ekholm]] (Swedish) [[Dariusz Odija]] (Polish)

[[Image:EnergonOptimusForms.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Me, myself, and I... and ''me'']]
8,000 eons ago, Optimus Prime stayed on Cybertron to continue its defense, even as Rodimus led a group of Transformers away from the planet, into space, in search of a new home. {{storylink|The Legend of Rodimus}}

A few years after the defeat of Unicron, Optimus Prime returned from exile to a newly-unified Cybertron where Autobots and Decepticons lived side-by-side in peace. Reassuming leadership of the Autobots, Optimus Prime established a dialogue with the Earth governments with the help of his human friends. Earth sent a delegation to Cybertron, consisting of the three kids and [[Brian Jones (Energon)|Dr. Brian Jones]], the foremost expert in the newly discovered ore [[Energon (Energon)|energon]] that both worlds coveted.

Jones brought along his young son, [[Kicker Jones|Chad]] (also known as 'Kicker'), who was frightened by the tall, menacing robots. When the boy ran away to a ruined and abandoned part of Cybertron, Optimus Prime gave chase, warning Kicker that the area was strictly off limits. The boy accidentally fell and found his way into a massive darkened chamber where an energy being known as [[Primus]] saved him. Optimus Prime found his way into the chamber just as Primus evolved the human child. Sometime after this, Primus (now known as the creator-god of the Transformers), gave Optimus the [[Spark of Combination]], allowing Optimus to grant combining powers to other Autobots. Prime could also now combine with a [[Prime Force|squad of four drone vehicles]], which rode around with him in his trailer when not in use.

Almost a decade later, the energon mining facilities in Sol's asteroid belt, as well as their base on [[Mars (planet)|Mars]], were attacked by a mysterious force of beast-like Transformers. Primus warned Optimus that the enemy was after the energon, causing Optimus to assemble a unit so he could personally assess the situation. Finding no life on Mars, his unit then moved to Earth, where he saved Kicker and Ocean City from an attack by the same creatures. {{storylink|Cybertron City (episode)|Cybertron City}}

Prime agreed to the evacuation of Ocean City, then led a counterattack against the Terrorcons at [[Lunar City]]. He assigned the headstrong Kicker to be partners with the rookie Ironhide, suspecting that the experience would be difficult but beneficial for both of them. {{storylink|Energon Stars}} Prime prepared his troops to defend Earth's Cybertron Cities from further attack. {{storylink|Scorpinok}} Eventually the Terrorcons' attacks forced him to make a difficult call, abandoning the survivors at [[Mars City]] in favor of remaining to defend Ocean City. In the battle that followed, the sight of Megatron's sword caused Prime to wonder if his old nemesis might still be alive. At the same time, the Decepticon troops under his command began abandoning the cause one by one. {{storylink|Megatron's Sword}}

Optimus continued to lead his team against Terrorcon attacks, but soon found himself face-to-face with his oldest and greatest foe. {{storylink|Megatron Resurrected}} In a subsequent battle at Ocean City, the two threw down with all their power. Armed with a copy of Megatron's sword, Optimus was able to defeat him and force the Decepticons to retreat. {{storylink|Megatron Raid}}

Optimus soon found himself stalked by the ghostly Starscream, who secretly followed him around Ocean City, hoping for a chance to assassinate him. Prime lured Starscream to the Moon, where they could battle without interference or collateral damage. Starscream revealed his plans to revive Unicron, causing Prime no small measure of consternation. Though the teleporting Starscream maintained the advantage, Optimus was able to generate "[[Energon Blaster|Hot Shot's blaster]]" during a subsequent Decepticon attack, using it to drive off the attackers. {{storylink|Starscream the Mysterious Mercenary}}

Prime then led a team into the asteroid belt, where they destroyed an asteroid that looked nothing like Unicron, because it looked like Unicron. {{storylink|Battle of the Asteroid Belt}}

Prime continued to lead Earth's defense until Dr. Jones's [[energon tower]] could be completed, ensuring the planet's safety. {{storylink|Energon Tower}} This role forced him into a difficult decision, detonating the energon stores of [[Jungle City]] in the midst of an overwhelming attack. Although the explosion repulsed the attacking Decepticons, it also obliterated some of Earth's most ancient ruins and an entire Cybertron city. {{storylink|Crisis in Jungle City}}

Prime next clashed with Megatron at [[Lunar City]], but once again a newly-arrived energon tower cut the battle short.
{{storylink|Kicker Beware!}} He then led a space-based defense against several giant "comets" that Megatron had created to destroy Earth, which was ultimately saved by the final completion of the energon grid. {{storylink|Energon Grid}}

With Earth secure, Optimus decided to lead his team into space, to pursue and destroy Unicron before Megatron could revive the planet-eater. {{storylink|Rodimus Friend or Foe?}} As the Autobots prepared to leave Earth's [[solar system]] aboard the ''[[Miranda II]]'', the Decepticons attacked once more; struggling with Megatron, Optimus narrowly avoided getting caught by the ship's energon grid. Demolishor wasn't so lucky. {{storylink|Go for Unicron!}}

Optimus had his team follow Kicker's energon-finding instincts, leading them to a misadventure on a frozen planet. {{storylink|The Return of Demolishor}} Soon after, Optimus was confronted by Rodimus—who shocked him with the proposal that Unicron must not be destroyed, but rather restored! Optimus wasn't convinced, and Rodimus went his own way. {{storylink|A Tale of Two Heros}} Optimus soon was forced to carry out his plan to lure Unicron into the space bridge and to Cybertron, where Rad assaulted Unicron with the planet's energon grid, massively damaging him. {{storylink|Battle Stations}}

With Unicron repulsed, Optimus led a team to Cybertron's surface, where the Decepticons were in rebellion. {{storylink|Alpha Q: Identity}} They soon learned that the Decepticon criminal [[Shockblast]] had escaped, and pursued him to the very chamber of Primus. Shockblast escaped, however, and Optimus soon had other concerns: Kicker was returning to Cybertron, with the head of Unicron! {{storylink|Shockblast: Rampage}}

At Kicker's insistence, Optimus met with the alien Alpha Q and heard his story. Moved, he agreed to help Alpha Q revive his planets, but the defense of Cybertron remained his top priority. When Unicron began lashing out at his captors, it was Optimus who recognized the actions as blind survival instinct. {{storylink|Survival Instincts}}

Prime returned to Cybertron's surface to lead the planet's defense as Megatron attacked again. He was present to witness Wing Dagger's death at the hands of Shockblast. {{storylink|Each One Fights...}} He subsequently led his team in a direct counter-attack against Unicron, seeking to infiltrate it and defeat Megatron inside. {{storylink|Unicron Unleashed}} Prime was fully prepared to face down his enemy in a one-on-one showdown, but instead was ambushed by a vengeful Shockblast and left damaged. Alone and facing two Decepticons, he was revived and saved by the arrival of an energon infusion from Earth. {{storylink|Open Fire!}}

Wing Dagger, now rebuilt as [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]], arrived and revealed that he and Optimus could combine, greatly enhancing their power. Prime rallied his troops to complete their mission of destroying Megatron. Before it could happen, however, Megatron triggered a catastrophic energon reaction, ripping [[Rift (Energon)|a hole in the fabric of space]] and fleeing into it. Optimus gamely led a team in pursuit of him. {{storylink|Ripped Up Space}}

{{charstubfiction}}

{{storylink|Team Optimus Prime}}
{{storylink|Protection}}
{{storylink|Imprisoned Inferno}}
{{storylink|Jungle Planet (episode)|Jungle Planet}}
{{storylink|Bulkhead (episode)|Bulkhead}}
{{storylink|Farewell Inferno}}
{{storylink|Crash Course}}
{{storylink|Omega Supreme (episode)|Omega Supreme}}
{{storylink|A Heroic Battle}}
{{storylink|The Power}}
{{storylink|Optimus Supreme}}
{{storylink|Unicron Perishes}}
{{storylink|Ambition}}
{{storylink|Wishes}}
{{storylink|Galvatron!}}
{{storylink|Break Through}}
{{storylink|Distribution}}
{{storylink|The Omega Train}}
{{storylink|Decepticon Army}}
{{storylink|Ironhide Team}}
{{storylink|Formidable}}
{{storylink|Galvatron Terror}}
{{storylink|Destructive Power}}
{{storylink|Spark (episode)|Spark}}
{{storylink|The Sun}}

====''Cybertron'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[Garry Chalk]] (English), [[Taitem Kusunoki]] (Japanese), [[Luis Miguel Perez]] (Latin America), [[Eberhardt Haar]] (German) [[Dariusz Odija]] (Polish)

[[Image:CybertronPrime finalbattlepose.jpg|left|180px|thumb|"Weapons Primed..."]]
Primus' plan to trap Unicron inside an energon sun failed, and this star collapsed into a [[Unicron Singularity|massive black hole]]. Optimus Prime faced the greatest test in his existence when his home planet was threatened with destruction, but realised there was no choice but to evacuate the population to Earth. As they made plans to leave, a mysterious time-travelling Transformer named [[Vector Prime]] appeared, advising Optimus to search for the [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, the only means of restoring Primus' spark, and the only way they can save Cybertron and the rest of the universe from oblivion. {{storylink|Fallen (episode)|Fallen}}

Arriving on Earth, Optimus Prime was forced to break his own strict orders to hide from the human population when he rescued the injured [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] and three human children from [[Thundercracker (Armada)|Thundercracker]]. Befriending the children, named [[Coby Hansen|Coby]], [[Bud Hansen|Bud]] and [[Lori]], he relied on them to educate the Autobots about their new home and how to blend into the environment as Robots in Disguise. {{storylink|Inferno (episode)|Inferno}} {{storylink|Hidden}}

Soon afterward, the children's hometown of Boulder, Colorado was threatened. The newest tunnels in a recently-dug gold mine had destabilized a mountain, making its collapse imminent. This alone would only have damaged the mountain's immediate area, but matters were complicated when Autobot scans revealed the presence of an underground reservoir that would be forced out by the collapse, causing flooding. Coby had the idea of using Optimus Prime's pumping equipment to drain the reservoir, allowing [[Scattorshot (Cybertron)|Scattorshot]] to shatter the mountain with his largest missiles and collapse it safely, averting disaster. {{storylink|Collapse}} He would later travel to the [[Sahara]] To uncover what they believed to be the Omega Lock, but was in fact a fake. {{storylink|Time}} He would later allow the civilian Autobots to help in the search for the Omega Lock. He would later battle under water in the Bermuda Triangle to keep Megatron from obtaining the Omega Lock. {{storylink|Deep}} He would also battle Megatron aboard the [[Atlantis|Starship Atlantis]] for possession of the [[Omega Lock]], and emerged victorious. {{storylink|Ship}} He later traveled to [[Velocitron]] to acquire the Cyber Planet Key said to be the Planet cup racing trophy, but learned he would only be able to get it if [[Override (Cybertron)|Override]] was beaten in a race. {{storylink|Race}}

{{charstubfiction}}

====''Cybertron'' comic====

===Panini ''Armada'' comic===
In the early stages of the war, Optimus Prime was shocked to learn of a full-scale Decepticon assault on the [[Autobot Command HQ]]. As he organized the defenses, he was contacted by the [[Mini-Con]] [[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]], who warned him that [[Dualor]] had planted explosives around the base in order to lure [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] in and destroy him. Prime subsequently ordered for the evacuation of the base before Dualor blew it up. {{storylink|Panini Armada issue 9|Counter-Strike!}} He and his troops were still fighting the Decepticons a few million years later, but it was a losing battle. Even if most of the Mini-Cons had left Cybertron, the Decepticons still had a few of them, and the Autobots were outclassed. Despite this, Optimus Prime knew the Mini-Cons leaving had been a good thing, and hoped that he would never find out where they went. However, his hope did him no good, as the Mini-Cons were soon found on [[Earth]], and he had to travel there to save them from Megatron. {{storylink|First Encounter!}}

Having gone to Earth alone to scout ahead without any backup, Optimus Prime was quickly defeated by the Mini-Con augmented Megatron. Thankfully, a few of the free Mini-Cons and the [[human]] [[Rad White]] distracted Megatron from finishing Prime off, giving him time to recover and summon [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] and [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] through a [[space bridge]]. As the free Mini-Cons decided to aid the Autobots, Sparkplug power-linked with Optimus Prime and granted him the power needed to punch Megatron in the face. After the Decepticons retreated, Prime thanked the Mini-Cons and Rad for their help. {{storylink|Panini Armada issue 2|Friends and Foes!}} He soon realized that Rad and his [[Carlos Lopez|two]] [[Alexis Thi Dang|friends]] weren't very large contributors to their war effort, as they spent most of the time playing around. Reminding them that Megatron was a deadly threat, he sent them to recover the [[locator log]] from the Mini-Cons' crashed ship whilst he and the Autobots stood guard. They log ended up being destroyed due to interference from [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]], but Optimus Prime figured that maybe it was for the best. {{storylink|Panini Armada issue 3|Deep Trouble!}}

[[Image:DevicesandDesires-yourownsize.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Suffer my cliches, Decepticreep!]]
Prime decided that the best way to keep their Mini-Con allies out of the Decepticons' hands was to send them back to Cybertron, despite complaints from Sparkplug and the humans. When the process was interrupted by a Decepticon attack, the Mini-Cons refused to leave the Autobots bhind and and power-linked with them again. While the Decepticons were driven off, they still blew up the Autobots' space bridge, stranding them on Earth. {{storylink|Panini Armada issue 4|No Way Back!}} Some time later, Optimus Prime and his troops saved the [[Air Defense Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Air Defense Team]] from geting captured by [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]]. In the aftermath, the Mini-Cons shot down Prime's offer to join the Autobots, but he still assured them he would help them whenever they needed him. {{storylink|Panini Armada issue 5|Devices and Desires!}} Next, Optimus Prime learned from [[Laserbeak (Armada)|Laserbeak]] that the Decepticons had gone to search for Mini-Cons on the [[Moon (moon)|Moon]]. With his own space bridge still in pieces, he had no choice but to contact [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] on Cybertron for aid. While Jetfire sent troops to deal with the Decepticons, Prime watched as Sparkplug sent a probe to the Moon to activate any Mini-Cons there. After the probe was successful, Optimus Prime manifested as a hologram on the Moon's surface and taunted Megatron that he was too late. {{storylink|Panini Armada issue 6|Between Two Worlds!}}

When Starscream got his hands on the [[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]] and failed to keep its power in check, Optimus Prime appeared out of nowhere to stop the sword from going wild and ripping the world apart. He grabbed the weapon from Starscream's hands and urged the Air Defense Team to separate, which they did. {{storylink|Panini Armada issue 7|The Two-Edged Blade}} The threat of the Moon soon came up again, as the Decepticons prepared to fire missiles at the Autobots' base from their new lunar base. While the Autobot space bridge was still down, Optimus Prime had a plan and ordered Hot Shot to hurry and repair it. While the Mini-Cons bought them some time by pretending to surrender, the Autobots fixed their space bridge and linked it to the Decepticons' one on the moon. And so, when the Decepticons eventually did fire their missiles, the Autobots simply used the space bridge to warp them straight back into the enemy base. {{storylink|Panini Armada issue 8|Earthshaker!}}

===''Transformers Legends''===
Early in the war, Optimus confronted Megatron in [[Yellowstone National Park]], warning the Decepticon leader that the area they were in was geologically unstable and warfare could aggravate things catastrophically. Megatron ignored him and almost defeated Prime, until the intervention of [[Riptide]], [[QuickFire]] and [[Jake Williams]]. The unlikely team managed to see Megatron off, albeit with the loss of Williams's [[Starheart|beloved '57 Ford pickup]] into a mud pit. Optimus promised to retrieve and restore the truck, and suggested that Riptide and QuickFire return to hiding, to prevent the Decepticons from capturing them. {{storylink|Lonesome Diesel}}

Following his destruction by the Hydra Cannon, Optimus Prime found himself in [[Maccadam's Old Oil House]] on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], where he encountered an [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] from [[Generation 1 continuity family|another universe]], and two versions of [[Optimus Primal]] from that same universe. After establishing the possibility that alternate universe existed, the other three were able to help Optimus Prime overcome some of his doubts over his leadership abilities. That done, Optimus returned to life in time to save [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] from [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]]. {{storylink|Prime Spark}}

===''Galaxy Force'' comic===
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Touchdown! Optimus Prime}} {{storylink|The Devil's Dogfight! Coby's Courage}} {{storylink|Deep Sea Discovery! Vector Prime}} {{storylink|The Temple of Hell! Overhaul}}

===Bendon ''Armada'' books===
The kids successfully talked Optimus into letting them explore some nearby caves for mini-con crystals. While they were away, Optimus found himself having to fend off a Decepticon sneak attack via ramming Demolishor while in truck mode and later pushing Megatron back. {{storylink|Cave Catastrophe}}

After the kids and their Mini-Cons leave themselves exposed to danger, Optimus saves them from being killed by Megatron... by ramming him while in truck mode. There seems to be a trend here. {{storylink|Race to Disaster}}

==Games==
===''Transformers Armada: The Energon Within''===
As Optimus and Hot Shot prepare to escort a truckload of energon away from a mine, the Decepticons launch a full scale assault. Their objective is to steal 100 energon cubes. Though they eventually succeed, the cost is high and the mine remains in Autobot hands.

As Optimus and Hot Shot prepare to escort a truckload of energon away from a mine, the Decepticons launch a full scale assault. Their objective is to steal 100 energon cubes. Before they can succeed, Hot Shot inadvertently blows up the mine. {{storylink|Transformers Armada: The Energon Within}}

===''Transformers'' (PS2)===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Garry Chalk]] (English)

Optimus Prime was dueling with Megatron atop a very high building just before Megatron received the Mini-Con beacon. Following his nemesis to prevent him from using the Mini-Cons for evil, Prime arrived on a new planet: Earth.

Arriving in the Amazon, he familiarized himself with the territory before going and recovering the first Mini-Con Panel. (Which Mini-Con it is varies with the game difficulty, with [[Lock-On]] being released on the first two difficulty levels). He then traversed a [[Scale|disproportionate]] bridge, had a brawl inside a temple, and scaled a pathway up a cliff face before arriving at a run-down temple and encountering Cyclonus. Cyclonus (sporting a fanciful, comic British accent) ordered a [[Heavy Unit]] to attack him, declaring Earth as "Decepticon property". Prime took care of the Heavy Unit, and Hot Shot and Red Alert joined him. Soon they discovered their old Mini-Con partners. (Sparkplug remains with Optimus for the remainder of the game, activating a rather pointless "Powerlinx" Max Payne-esque bullet time mode which drains Prime's health.)

{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Transformers (PS2)}}

===''Transformers Quest''===
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Transformers Quest}}

===''Roll Out''===
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Roll Out (online game)|Roll Out}}

==Toys==
{{main|Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys}}

==Notes==
===''Armada''===
[[Image:MonsterConvoy.jpg|right|100px|thumb|Arise, Bigfootimus Prime.]]
* According to the [[Transformers (PS2)|''Armada'' Playstation 2 game]] instruction booklet, Optimus Prime's ''Armada'' body has the following statistics:

:Mass: 18,960 lbs
:Robot height: 22' 11"
:Robot top speed: 31 mph
:Vehicle height: 8' 3"
:Vehicle top speed: 125 mph
:Vehicle power: 700 hp @ 2500 rpm

* One of the earliest ''Armada'' Optimus Prime concepts depicts him as being an ENORMOUSLY HUGE MONSTER TRUCK. Makes one wonder about the origins of the "Monster Convoy" inscription on Super Base Optimus Prime's tires.
* Super-Con Optimus Prime and Over-Run, who never appeared specifically in the western Armada cartoon, do appear briefly in a stock footage montage in the first Japanese opening.

===''Energon''===
* For at least part of the ''Energon'' animated series, the CGI model for Optimus Prime's handgun resembled an oversized six-shooter rather than the actual toy's chamber-less handgun.

* Energon Prime's non-super mode CGI model is always animated with his knees being ''much'' higher up on the leg than they are on the toy. Interestingly, Prime's toy ''does'' have a joint in that very same spot, but it is totally blocked off for unknown reasons. Beyond ''that'', the CGI model also has the antennae on Prime's super mode helmet as perpendicular to the helmet's folded "cheek guard" sections when stored on his back. Again, the toy's antennae show signs of being able to be configured the same way at one point, but the final toy has blocked off curves and a pointless slot on the bottom of each antenna as well as unnecessary ball joints.

===''Cybertron''===
* ''Cybertron'' Optimus Prime has some design similarities to GaoGaiGar from ''[[wikipedia:The_King_of_Braves_GaoGaiGar|The King of Braves GaoGaiGar]]'', such as the chin protrusion and cheekguards. In addition, his [[Super Mode]] resembles ChoRyuJin from the same series (having the same chest and cannons), and his combination with [[Leobreaker]] recalls GaoGaiGar's combination with Goldymarg. His combination with Wing Saber also invokes the image of Galeon's head on GaoGaiGar's chest. This would not be the [[Optimus Prime (RID)|first such GaoGaiGar reference]] Transformers would see... [[Safeguard_(Animated)|or the last]].
** Said Super Mode also evokes [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Powermaster Optimus Prime]].
* This is the first instance in any cartoon in which Optimus has no mouthplate obscuring most of his face. However, a mouthplate flips up to cover Prime's mouth when he's in his Super Mode. Oddly enough, the mouthplate comes out of Prime's neck in the cartoon, whereas it slides upward in the toy version.
* The toy instructions for Super Mode position Prime's massive cannons over his shoulders. However, in the cartoon, Super Mode instead has the cannons slung ''under'' his arms. The toy can go either way (or, indeed, have one up and one down).
*''Cybertron'' Prime sported some different colors in his preliminary design, which accidentally found its way into a few shots in the [[Fallen_(episode)|first episode]].
* Vector Prime has stated in [[Ask Vector Prime]] that Optimus could not combine with Wing Saber and Leobreaker at the same time: The power is too much for him!

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''[[Convoy (rank)|Convoy]]''' (コンボイ ''Konboi''), '''Grand Convoy''' (''Super Link'', グランドコンボイ ''Gurando Konboi''), '''Galaxy Convoy''' (''Galaxy Force'', ギャラクシーコンボイ ''Gyarakushī Konboi'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Optimusz Prájm''', '''Első Optimusz''' (''Energon'', ''Cybertron'', "[[Optimus Prime vs Megatron: The Ultimate Battle]]", "Optimus, the First")
*''Polish:'' '''Optimus Pierwszy''' ("Optimus First")

==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category:Armada Autobots]]
[[Category:Autobot leaders]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Cybertron Autobots]]
[[Category:Dimension hoppers]]
[[Category:Energon Autobots]]
[[Category:Hall of Fame]]
[[Category:Matrix bearers]]
[[Category:Rulers of Cybertron]]
[[Category:Transformers with multiple modes]]
[[Category:Transformers with three modes]]

Sixwing

2011-06-05T15:06:18Z

69.171.167.101: /* Notes */

{{factions|autobot|decepticon}}
{{picsneeded|Toy image.}}
:''Sixwing is a [[Micromaster]] [[combiner]] from the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[Image:Sixwing.jpg|right|300px|thumb|He should be called ''Fourteenwing''.]]

'''Sixwing''' (シックスウイング ''Shikkusuuingu'') is the combined form of the Micromaster [[Wing Team]]. His incredible agility and skill in the air makes him a very dangerous opponent for ground-based forces.

Sixwing is composed of...

* [[Chain Gun]] the AH-64 Apache helicopter and team leader.
* [[Falcon (OC)|Falcon]] the F-16 Falcon jet.
* [[Flanker]] the Sukhoi Su-27 "Flanker" jet.
* [[Missile Run]] the B-1B Lancer bomber plane.
* [[Raker]] the Space Shuttle.
* [[Supersonic]] the Super-Sonic Transport plane.

==Fiction==
===''Micromaster''===
[[Image:Berserker_sixwing.jpg|right|thumb|200px|It's a nice day for a white Sixwing. A nice day to start again.]]
Sixwing first appeared when the Wing Team, six former [[Autobot]] [[Cyberdroid]]s who had been mysteriously "evolved" into [[Decepticon]]s due to a dimensional shockwave, made an attempt to steal several hibernating Cyberdroids from the Autobots' base on [[Earth]]. Their theft interrupted, the team combined into Sixwing and battled against [[Sixturbo]], who was at a distinct disadvantage against the flying foe. [[Sixliner]] arrived quickly with a new weapon, the [[Vaccine Program Gun]], designed to restore the Decepticon Micromasters' original Autobot programming. Though Sixliner scored a direct hit, the weapon did not work as intended, instead giving the Decepticon a powerful shining-white "evil Autobot" Berserker mode. {{storylink|Enter the Decepticon Sixwing!!}}

With this new power, Sixwing and the other Decepticons continued to harass the Autobots, and even succeeded in stealing several Cyberdroid capsules, increasing their ranks. {{storylink|Sixbuilder the Ill-Fated Warrior!?}} However, the appearance of [[Sixtrain]], who could assume the ultra-powerful "Red Mode" that was a match even for Sixwing's Berserker Mode, once again turned the tide. This power forced Sixwing and his allies to abandon an excavation site near [[Mount St. Hilary|a dormant volcano]], but the Wing Team simply waited for the Autobots to begin their own dig, swooping in and forming Sixwing once again in order to claim the spoils. {{storylink|Sixtrain! Activate Red Mode!!}}

Sixwing took part in a raid on the Autobots' newly-constructed [[Metrobase]] at the foot of the volcano, but picked a bad time... as the [[Multiforce]] had just arrived via a dimensional tear. Their combined robot mode [[Landcross (Victory)|Landcross]] proved more powerful than even Sixwing's Berserker mode, forcing him to retreat. {{storylink|The Menace of Landcross's Combining Formation!}}

{{note|The ''Micromaster'' story was never actually concluded. However, as it has been established that its events take place as part of the normal Japanese Transformers timeline, it is clear that the Wing Team eventually had their original Autobot programming restored somehow.}}

===''Operation Combination''===
Years later, the now-Autobot Sixwing banded together with [[Sixtrain]] and [[Guard City]] in a battle against the [[Decepticon]] [[Battle Gaia]] amidst a [[human]]-sized city. He and Sixtrain were quickly bested, leaving only Guard City to fend off the villain. {{storylink|Operation Combination (story page)|Big Pinch, Autobots!}}

Later, Sixwing and all other [[Micromaster Combiner]]s scattered across the globe were summoned to Earth's orbit to join Guard City in a last line of defense against Battle Gaia and the [[Jet Corps]], who had fought their way past the [[Road Corps]]. Sixwing went up against [[Flare Jet]]. {{storylink|Operation Combination (story page)|The Decepticons' Attack on Earth!}}

Sixwing, Sixtrain, [[Sixbuilder]], [[Sixturbo]] and Guard City eventually combined to form the "[[Autobot Scrum Combination]]". Combining the power of all twenty-nine individual Autobots, their unleashed energy destroyed Battle Gaia on the spot. As the Jet Corps fled with the remains of Battle Gaia, Sixwing joined the other Autobots in gleefully waving goodbye. {{storylink|Operation Combination (story page)|Conclusion}}

==Toys==
===Operation Combination===
*'''Sixwing''' (Micromaster Sixteam, 1992)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''TF-02'''

:Released during ''[[Operation Combination (toyline)|Operation Combination]]'', Sixwing was one of the last Generation 1 Transformers toys in Japan. He was available only as a gift set, containing all six members of the Sixwing team. He's made up of Six Micromasters and a large amount of [[kibble]] which can be recombined to create the "[[Sky Sweeper]]" jet in which one Micromaster can ride.

:His limbs have limited interchangeability with each other and with other Sixteams. That is, his arms can swap with like arms from any other Six-teams (though there is some post-size difficulty with some later redecos), and his bottom can become the bottom of any Six-team. He can also freely swap his legs, head or chest with any non-train team. (Because the non-train teams all use the same basic torso and thighs these two can be changed around as one pleases.

: This mold set is also used by the ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Aerialbot (Universe)|Aerialbot]] [[Superion (Universe)|Superion]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1992/Cybertron/Sixwing/sixwing.htm Sixwing at TFU.info]''
::*''[http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/content.php?/transformers-toys/toy-gallery/1987/Generation+1/Six+Wing.html Sixwing toy gallery at Transformertoys.co.uk]''
{{-}}

===Micromaster===
[[Image:Sixwing-2002toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Gothwing.]]
*'''Chain Gun''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Missile Run''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Raker''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Supersonic''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Flanker''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Falcon''' (Micromaster, 2003)

: In 2003, the entire Sixwing team was extensively [[redeco]]ed as part of the third assortment of ''[[The Transformers: Micromaster]]'' toys, in individual boxes with a number visible to show which mold was inside each box.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Destron/Sixwing/sixwing.htm Destron Sixwing at TFU.info]''
::*''[http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/content.php?/transformers-toys/toy-gallery/1230/Collectors+Edition+Japanese/Six+Wing.html Destron Sixwing toy gallery at Transformertoys.co.uk]''

{{-}}{{Anchor|Berserker}}
*'''Berserker Chain Gun''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Berserker Missile Run''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Berserker Raker''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Berserker Supersonic''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Berserker Flanker''' (Micromaster, 2003)
*'''Berserker Falcon''' (Micromaster, 2003)

: In every case of twelve Wing Team [[Micromaster]]s, two of them were solid-white-plastic "Berserker" variations with purple Autobot sigils. All six Micromasters were available in this manner.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Cybertron/BSixwing/sixwing.htm Berserker Sixwing at TFU.info]''
::*''[http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/content.php?/transformers-toys/toy-gallery/1231/Collectors+Edition+Japanese/Berserker+Six+Wing.html Berserker Sixwing toy gallery at Transformertoys.co.uk]''

{{--}}

==Notes==
* Sixwing actually has a total of twelve wings—one on either side of his chest, and two on each of his Micromaster members except his bottom. He has fourteen if you include his feet which become the wings of his kibble's jet mode.
* When separated into his component robots, the leftover combiner kibble can combine to form the same (Albeit recolored) single-pilot jet that's formed when the kibble for the Constructicon Devastor is put together.
* Berserker Sixwing has [[Shattered Glass (franchise)|purple Autobot symbols]].

[[Category:Combined forms]]
[[Category:Micromaster Autobots]]
[[Category:Micromaster Decepticons]]
[[Category:Operation Combination Autobots]]

Farewell Inferno

2011-05-10T00:37:01Z

69.171.166.79: /* Quotes */

{{episode|
|series=Energon
|series2=Transformers: Super Link
|ep=32
|prev=Bulkhead (episode)
|next=Crash Course
|next2=Return! Our Scorponok
|title="Farewell Inferno"
|japanese=さらば　インフェルノ
|romaji=Saraba Inferno
|image=E32_titlecard.jpg
|caption=And now, the end is near. And so I face the final curtain.
|production code=
|production company=[[TV Tokyo]], [[Nihon Ad Systems|NAS]]
|writer=[[Akira Okeya]]
|director=[[Naoki Ōhira]]
|animation studio=[[Actas Inc.|Actas]], [[Studio A-CAT]] (3D)
|airdate=[[August 13|13 August]] [[2004]] (Japanese) [[November 5]], 2004 (English)
|continuity=[[Unicron Trilogy]]
}}

'''As the Autobots lower energon towers to defend three of the planets, Inferno must finally decide whether he is an Autobot or a Decepticon.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] receives report of readiness from his troops on [[Rock Planet]], [[Blizzard Planet]], and [[Ocean Planet]]. They prepare to lower the first [[energon tower (building)|energon tower]] from the warp gate. [[Alpha Quintesson|Alpha Q]] eagerly awaits his planets being safe from attack.

The tower lowers onto Rock Planet... and immediately [[Scorponok (Energon)|Scorponok]] arrives with [[Terrorcon (Energon)|Terrorcon]]s. The Blizzard Planet team finds themselves under attack as well. [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] urges [[Inferno (Energon)|Inferno]] to join his side; Inferno refuses. Battle rages on Ocean Planet as well.

[[Image:Energon-Inferno-Megatrons-Eyes.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Isn't foreshadowing supposed to come after the event?]]

The grid goes online and chases the [[Decepticon]]s off Rock Planet and Blizzard Planet. Megatron's troops converge onto Ocean Planet.

[[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Mirage]] goes below the water to attack the energon tower from below, bringing it down. In the wake of its loss, the [[Autobot]]s prepare to up their defenses. Inferno offers to distract Megatron while they prepare.

Soon, Inferno is sitting Buddha-style in space amid some floating rocks, as Optimus and [[Rodimus (Energon)|Rodimus]] debate whether he needs any backup. Inferno flashes back once again to his torment at Megatron's hands... and his Autobot [[insignia]] begins changing color, and he groans in agony. [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] and [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]] watch and worry.

[[Image:Energon-Meditating-Inferno.jpg|170px|thumb|right|Ommmm.... Ommmm]]

Inferno continues glowing and shouting, calling out to Megatron. Within [[Unicron]], Megatron hears the call. Inferno's badge morphs to a Decepticon one, and he begins firing madly. The backup team begins to suspect something's wrong and pull back, but Inferno pursues and attacks. [[Kicker Jones|Kicker]] remains convinced it's an act.

Megatron and company fly to greet their new comrade. Inferno responds with more grunts, groans, shouts, and a wild barrage of firepower. Ironhide signals Optimus, but the Decepticons notice.

[[Image:Energon-Shifting-Insignia.jpg|170px|thumb|left|No, this isn't some ancient symbol from before the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]].]]

Optimus's team prepares to bring down the new tower, while Megatron realizes he's been played. Megatron heads off to Ocean Planet, leaving [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]], [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]], and Scorponok to deal with Inferno. Kicker has [[Signal Flare (Energon)|Signal Flare]] fire an [[energon star]] into Inferno to return him to normal, but Inferno's agonized reaction makes Kicker suspect that Inferno really has become a Decepticon.

Megatron and his goons arrive on Ocean Planet. Mirage goes to make a repeat of his earlier attack. [[Bulkhead (Energon)|Bulkhead]] beats up [[Shockblast]] while Megatron taunts Optimus. Optimus whips out the [[Energon Saber]], and the two have at it. Terrorcons swarm onto the tower; [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] and <s>[[Cliffjumper (Energon)|Cliffjumper]]</s> [[Downshift (Energon)|Downshift]] move to defend it.

[[Image:Energon-Ironhide-Cockeyed.jpg|170px|thumb|right|Surprisingly, this isn't hand-drawn.]]

Below the water, Mirage and [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Snow Cat]] prepare to attack, but Rodimus's troops are waiting for them. The tower activates, and Megatron orders his troops away.

Kicker receives word that the tower is online, but Inferno is still struggling. Starscream gloats that the change is complete, but Inferno stops Starscream from attacking Jetfire, and declares that he'll never be a Decepticon. He drags Starscream away and heads toward the [[Energon Orb]]. They fly into it together. Scorponok blasts Inferno, and Starscream gets free, saying that Inferno saved him.

Alpha Q senses Scorponok's presence, wondering if he's returned at last. Scorponok hears the voice, and recognizes it...but flees as the energon starts to damage him.

[[Image:Energon-Star-Hits-Inferno.jpg‎|170px|thumb|left|But this is.]]

Inferno vows that he is an Autobot as the sun begins to consume him. He promises Kicker that he'll be back, better than ever, an Autobot once again. His Decepticon symbol disappears, burned away by the energon. The sun consumes him.

On Ocean Planet, Jetfire reports that he was able to retrieve Inferno's [[spark]]. Kicker reflects that Inferno has faced the biggest challenge imaginable and won, and he's proud of him.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]] (1)
* [[Cliffjumper (Energon)|Cliffjumper]] (2)
* [[Prowl (Energon)|Prowl]] (3)
* [[Strongarm (Energon)|Strongarm]] (4)
* [[Signal Flare (Energon)|Signal Flare]] (5)
* [[Rodimus (Energon)|Rodimus]] (7)
* [[Inferno (Energon)|Inferno]] (8)
* [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] (9)
* [[Bulkhead (Energon)|Bulkhead]] (10)
* [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] (11)
* [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] (21)
* [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] (22)
* [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] (25)
* [[Skyblast (Energon)|Skyblast]] (26)
* [[Downshift (Energon)|Downshift]] (27)

|c2=
* [[Scorponok (Energon)|Scorponok]] (14)
* [[Insecticon (Energon)|Insecticon drones]] (15)
* [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] (16)
* [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] (17)
* [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Snow Cat]] (18)
* [[Divebomb (Energon)|Divebomb]] (19)
* [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Mirage]] (20)
* [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]] (23)
* [[Shockblast]] (24)

|c3=
* [[Kicker Jones]] (6)
* [[Misha Miramond]] (28)

|c4=
* [[Unicron]] (12)
* [[Alpha Quintesson]] (13)
}}

==Quotes==
"You're all mine, Old man!"
"Oh! you think so eh whipper snapper? *chuckles*
'''Shockblast''' and '''Bulkhead''' teasing each other.

"Hey, Jetfire! Where in the dickens did Mirage get to?" 
"Are you ''serious''?"
:—'''Bulkhead''' and '''Jetfire''' make us suspect that the script was written by Babelfish.

"Yod—*glub*—le—*glub*—hoo~!" 
:—'''Snow Cat''' wasn't built for underwater operations, but it doesn't stop him from having a good time.

"Mirage loves his job." 
:—'''Mirage''' has high job satisfaction.

==Notes==
===Lost in translation===
Nothing too major until the end:

* The dub strangely removes Signal Flare's comment about how Ocean Planet has the best energon sun exposure, which was timed to coincide with his generation of an energon star, and replaces it with a nonsense comment about how Ocean Planet had the best early warning detection system.
* In ''Super Link'', Kicker and Jetfire are quite sure from the start that Inferno is putting on an act. In the dub, Kicker immediately says that he's trying with everything he's got not to become a Decepticon, only to later change his mind and declare it an act...just about the time Inferno starts shooting at him.
* The dub fails to mention that the floating space rubble is the remains of [[Iron Planet]].
* As the Decepticons arrive in space, Kicker's supposed to order Ironhide to send the signal. The dub has Kicker saying that ''he'' will send the signal, which makes it pretty weird when Ironhide transforms and flies off.
* Sadly, the dub omits a hilarious bit with Bulkhead taunting Shockblast, beating him on the head and asking where his mouth is.
* In ''Super Link'', Inferno says that Signal Flare's energon wasn't enough; the dub skews this into him ordering Signal Flare to send more energon, which of course doesn't happen.
* The dub mangles Inferno and Starscream's dialog as Inferno drives them both into the sun, making it sound like they've been caught by gravity and can't stop. The dub then has Starscream and Scorponok both saying that Inferno saved Starscream—when it's quite clear from the animation that ''Scorponok'' saved Starscream, by blasting Inferno and forcing him to let go.
* As the sun drags him in, Inferno keeps promising to come back. In ''Super Link'', it's subtly but significantly different; he says he'll be back as soon as the Decepticon evil is burned away. After his symbol returns to normal, he says that he has returned at last, and then vaporizes. It's easy to rag on ''Energon'' for ruining the drama of the moment...but ''Super Link'' likewise obliterates the whole point of the scene by having Inferno pop up alive and well again in a new body, just a few episodes later. (Jetfire's comment about salvaging his Spark is ''not'' a dub insert.)
* Kicker's entire closing monologue is a dub creation; in ''Super Link'', he's commenting with amazement and frustration about how (with the new tower and city in place) it's like they're back on [[Ocean City]] on Earth.

===Pain count===
* "Uh?": 6
* Stock footage: 2
* We've gotta: 1
* Let's just hope: 1
* "You can't be serious": 2

''Super Link:''

* Eat this: 1

===Continuity errors===
* Downshift is referred to as Cliffjumper, but really, aren't you used to that by now?
* Couldn't the Autobots have used a radio signal? Or had Ironhide fly away a little further? Or ''something'' that wouldn't make the whole plan useless?

===Trivia===
* Shockblast is super-powerful and has killed troops with a single shot before, but Bulkhead totally takes him to school, smacking him around with his sword and trash-talking him the whole time. Bulkhead is awesome.
* Early in this episode, Alpha Q's angry face winks. At the end, its sinister face's eyes widen slightly. This is the first time any of the faces have showed any emotion.
* Similarly, while Inferno is firing insanely, Ironhide gives a rather cock-eyed look—and for once, it's ''not'' hand-drawn.
* Unfortunately, Inferno's scream of pain when he receives the energon star ''is'' drawn by hand.
* The animators really take advantage of the CGI in this episode, with numerous shots panning around groups of characters to show the battles in all their glory. In addition, the fight between Bulkhead and Shockblast is absolutely gorgeously rendered.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 008 ([[Interchannel]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2008 — ''Transformers: Energon'' — The Ultimate Collection ([[Paramount Pictures|Paramount]])

[[Category:Energon episodes]]

Farewell Inferno

2011-05-10T00:33:57Z

69.171.166.79: /* Quotes */

{{episode|
|series=Energon
|series2=Transformers: Super Link
|ep=32
|prev=Bulkhead (episode)
|next=Crash Course
|next2=Return! Our Scorponok
|title="Farewell Inferno"
|japanese=さらば　インフェルノ
|romaji=Saraba Inferno
|image=E32_titlecard.jpg
|caption=And now, the end is near. And so I face the final curtain.
|production code=
|production company=[[TV Tokyo]], [[Nihon Ad Systems|NAS]]
|writer=[[Akira Okeya]]
|director=[[Naoki Ōhira]]
|animation studio=[[Actas Inc.|Actas]], [[Studio A-CAT]] (3D)
|airdate=[[August 13|13 August]] [[2004]] (Japanese) [[November 5]], 2004 (English)
|continuity=[[Unicron Trilogy]]
}}

'''As the Autobots lower energon towers to defend three of the planets, Inferno must finally decide whether he is an Autobot or a Decepticon.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] receives report of readiness from his troops on [[Rock Planet]], [[Blizzard Planet]], and [[Ocean Planet]]. They prepare to lower the first [[energon tower (building)|energon tower]] from the warp gate. [[Alpha Quintesson|Alpha Q]] eagerly awaits his planets being safe from attack.

The tower lowers onto Rock Planet... and immediately [[Scorponok (Energon)|Scorponok]] arrives with [[Terrorcon (Energon)|Terrorcon]]s. The Blizzard Planet team finds themselves under attack as well. [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] urges [[Inferno (Energon)|Inferno]] to join his side; Inferno refuses. Battle rages on Ocean Planet as well.

[[Image:Energon-Inferno-Megatrons-Eyes.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Isn't foreshadowing supposed to come after the event?]]

The grid goes online and chases the [[Decepticon]]s off Rock Planet and Blizzard Planet. Megatron's troops converge onto Ocean Planet.

[[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Mirage]] goes below the water to attack the energon tower from below, bringing it down. In the wake of its loss, the [[Autobot]]s prepare to up their defenses. Inferno offers to distract Megatron while they prepare.

Soon, Inferno is sitting Buddha-style in space amid some floating rocks, as Optimus and [[Rodimus (Energon)|Rodimus]] debate whether he needs any backup. Inferno flashes back once again to his torment at Megatron's hands... and his Autobot [[insignia]] begins changing color, and he groans in agony. [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] and [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]] watch and worry.

[[Image:Energon-Meditating-Inferno.jpg|170px|thumb|right|Ommmm.... Ommmm]]

Inferno continues glowing and shouting, calling out to Megatron. Within [[Unicron]], Megatron hears the call. Inferno's badge morphs to a Decepticon one, and he begins firing madly. The backup team begins to suspect something's wrong and pull back, but Inferno pursues and attacks. [[Kicker Jones|Kicker]] remains convinced it's an act.

Megatron and company fly to greet their new comrade. Inferno responds with more grunts, groans, shouts, and a wild barrage of firepower. Ironhide signals Optimus, but the Decepticons notice.

[[Image:Energon-Shifting-Insignia.jpg|170px|thumb|left|No, this isn't some ancient symbol from before the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]].]]

Optimus's team prepares to bring down the new tower, while Megatron realizes he's been played. Megatron heads off to Ocean Planet, leaving [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]], [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]], and Scorponok to deal with Inferno. Kicker has [[Signal Flare (Energon)|Signal Flare]] fire an [[energon star]] into Inferno to return him to normal, but Inferno's agonized reaction makes Kicker suspect that Inferno really has become a Decepticon.

Megatron and his goons arrive on Ocean Planet. Mirage goes to make a repeat of his earlier attack. [[Bulkhead (Energon)|Bulkhead]] beats up [[Shockblast]] while Megatron taunts Optimus. Optimus whips out the [[Energon Saber]], and the two have at it. Terrorcons swarm onto the tower; [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] and <s>[[Cliffjumper (Energon)|Cliffjumper]]</s> [[Downshift (Energon)|Downshift]] move to defend it.

[[Image:Energon-Ironhide-Cockeyed.jpg|170px|thumb|right|Surprisingly, this isn't hand-drawn.]]

Below the water, Mirage and [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Snow Cat]] prepare to attack, but Rodimus's troops are waiting for them. The tower activates, and Megatron orders his troops away.

Kicker receives word that the tower is online, but Inferno is still struggling. Starscream gloats that the change is complete, but Inferno stops Starscream from attacking Jetfire, and declares that he'll never be a Decepticon. He drags Starscream away and heads toward the [[Energon Orb]]. They fly into it together. Scorponok blasts Inferno, and Starscream gets free, saying that Inferno saved him.

Alpha Q senses Scorponok's presence, wondering if he's returned at last. Scorponok hears the voice, and recognizes it...but flees as the energon starts to damage him.

[[Image:Energon-Star-Hits-Inferno.jpg‎|170px|thumb|left|But this is.]]

Inferno vows that he is an Autobot as the sun begins to consume him. He promises Kicker that he'll be back, better than ever, an Autobot once again. His Decepticon symbol disappears, burned away by the energon. The sun consumes him.

On Ocean Planet, Jetfire reports that he was able to retrieve Inferno's [[spark]]. Kicker reflects that Inferno has faced the biggest challenge imaginable and won, and he's proud of him.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]] (1)
* [[Cliffjumper (Energon)|Cliffjumper]] (2)
* [[Prowl (Energon)|Prowl]] (3)
* [[Strongarm (Energon)|Strongarm]] (4)
* [[Signal Flare (Energon)|Signal Flare]] (5)
* [[Rodimus (Energon)|Rodimus]] (7)
* [[Inferno (Energon)|Inferno]] (8)
* [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]] (9)
* [[Bulkhead (Energon)|Bulkhead]] (10)
* [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] (11)
* [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] (21)
* [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] (22)
* [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] (25)
* [[Skyblast (Energon)|Skyblast]] (26)
* [[Downshift (Energon)|Downshift]] (27)

|c2=
* [[Scorponok (Energon)|Scorponok]] (14)
* [[Insecticon (Energon)|Insecticon drones]] (15)
* [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] (16)
* [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] (17)
* [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Snow Cat]] (18)
* [[Divebomb (Energon)|Divebomb]] (19)
* [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Mirage]] (20)
* [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]] (23)
* [[Shockblast]] (24)

|c3=
* [[Kicker Jones]] (6)
* [[Misha Miramond]] (28)

|c4=
* [[Unicron]] (12)
* [[Alpha Quintesson]] (13)
}}

==Quotes==
"You're all mine, Old man!"
"Oh! you think so eh whipper snapper? *chuckles*
'''Shockblast''' and '''Bulkhead''' teasing each other.
"Hey, Jetfire! Where in the dickens did Mirage get to?" 
"Are you ''serious''?"
:—'''Bulkhead''' and '''Jetfire''' make us suspect that the script was written by Babelfish.

"Yod—*glub*—le—*glub*—hoo~!" 
:—'''Snow Cat''' wasn't built for underwater operations, but it doesn't stop him from having a good time.

"Mirage loves his job." 
:—'''Mirage''' has high job satisfaction.

==Notes==
===Lost in translation===
Nothing too major until the end:

* The dub strangely removes Signal Flare's comment about how Ocean Planet has the best energon sun exposure, which was timed to coincide with his generation of an energon star, and replaces it with a nonsense comment about how Ocean Planet had the best early warning detection system.
* In ''Super Link'', Kicker and Jetfire are quite sure from the start that Inferno is putting on an act. In the dub, Kicker immediately says that he's trying with everything he's got not to become a Decepticon, only to later change his mind and declare it an act...just about the time Inferno starts shooting at him.
* The dub fails to mention that the floating space rubble is the remains of [[Iron Planet]].
* As the Decepticons arrive in space, Kicker's supposed to order Ironhide to send the signal. The dub has Kicker saying that ''he'' will send the signal, which makes it pretty weird when Ironhide transforms and flies off.
* Sadly, the dub omits a hilarious bit with Bulkhead taunting Shockblast, beating him on the head and asking where his mouth is.
* In ''Super Link'', Inferno says that Signal Flare's energon wasn't enough; the dub skews this into him ordering Signal Flare to send more energon, which of course doesn't happen.
* The dub mangles Inferno and Starscream's dialog as Inferno drives them both into the sun, making it sound like they've been caught by gravity and can't stop. The dub then has Starscream and Scorponok both saying that Inferno saved Starscream—when it's quite clear from the animation that ''Scorponok'' saved Starscream, by blasting Inferno and forcing him to let go.
* As the sun drags him in, Inferno keeps promising to come back. In ''Super Link'', it's subtly but significantly different; he says he'll be back as soon as the Decepticon evil is burned away. After his symbol returns to normal, he says that he has returned at last, and then vaporizes. It's easy to rag on ''Energon'' for ruining the drama of the moment...but ''Super Link'' likewise obliterates the whole point of the scene by having Inferno pop up alive and well again in a new body, just a few episodes later. (Jetfire's comment about salvaging his Spark is ''not'' a dub insert.)
* Kicker's entire closing monologue is a dub creation; in ''Super Link'', he's commenting with amazement and frustration about how (with the new tower and city in place) it's like they're back on [[Ocean City]] on Earth.

===Pain count===
* "Uh?": 6
* Stock footage: 2
* We've gotta: 1
* Let's just hope: 1
* "You can't be serious": 2

''Super Link:''

* Eat this: 1

===Continuity errors===
* Downshift is referred to as Cliffjumper, but really, aren't you used to that by now?
* Couldn't the Autobots have used a radio signal? Or had Ironhide fly away a little further? Or ''something'' that wouldn't make the whole plan useless?

===Trivia===
* Shockblast is super-powerful and has killed troops with a single shot before, but Bulkhead totally takes him to school, smacking him around with his sword and trash-talking him the whole time. Bulkhead is awesome.
* Early in this episode, Alpha Q's angry face winks. At the end, its sinister face's eyes widen slightly. This is the first time any of the faces have showed any emotion.
* Similarly, while Inferno is firing insanely, Ironhide gives a rather cock-eyed look—and for once, it's ''not'' hand-drawn.
* Unfortunately, Inferno's scream of pain when he receives the energon star ''is'' drawn by hand.
* The animators really take advantage of the CGI in this episode, with numerous shots panning around groups of characters to show the battles in all their glory. In addition, the fight between Bulkhead and Shockblast is absolutely gorgeously rendered.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Transformer: Super Link'' — Volume 008 ([[Interchannel]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2008 — ''Transformers: Energon'' — The Ultimate Collection ([[Paramount Pictures|Paramount]])

[[Category:Energon episodes]]

Sideways (Armada)

2011-05-04T23:47:41Z

69.171.166.14: /* Cybertron cartoon */

{{picsneeded|Sideways's Autobot/Decepticon faction symbol from Armada or Cybertron package.}}
{{disambig2|the Unicron-serving backstabber|the live-action Decepticon|Sideways (ROTF)}}
{{factions|autobot|decepticon|unicron}}

:''Sideways is a cross-universal agent of [[Unicron]] hailing from [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]], first seen in the [[Robots in Disguise (franchise)|Robots in Disguise]] [[continuity]].''

[[Image:Sidewaysarmadafleer.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Goofy ominous nutball hardass.]]

'''Sideways''' is the consummate con-artist. He is misleading and deceitful in everything he does, portraying himself as the ninja-like warrior or the aloof drifter, and he lives for the look of shock and betrayal on his victims' faces when they realize he's played them for fools. Though Sideways appears to be a robot of average size and strength, he is nigh-invincible when he calls upon the powers of Unicron. Using the mysterious [[trans-phase mode]], he can take any form he chooses, and "heal" even the most grievous damage at will. Often, he'll eschew a body entirely, choosing to speak through monitors or as a vision in the sky. When he does choose to manifest in physical form, there is one constant: Sideways prefers to shroud his face behind a mask or visor or [[Mini-Con]] so as to keep himself mysterious and anonymous.

{{note|Sideways enjoys an extremely convoluted backstory in which he has been retroactively inserted into multiple different continuity families, and may be portrayed very differently in each. See individual series notes for details.}}

==Fiction==
===''Robots in Disguise'' toy bio===
Sideways was recruited into the Autobot army on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] around the time that [[Fortress Maximus (RID)|Fortress Maximus]] was uncovered on [[Earth]]. He modified his body to resemble a Terran sports motorcycle, facilitating the speed with which he performed many of his duties. Conscientious and ninja-like, Sideways maintained a mysterious silence about himself, expressing only a desire to quickly engage the enemy and then return to Cybertron (presumably from Earth, given his [[Alternate mode|alt-mode]]).<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-images/tech-specs/Robots-In-Disguise-Tech-Specs/2002-Transformers-Tech-Specs/Sideways__RID_.jpg.html ''Robots in Disguise'' Sideways's on-package bio]</ref>

{{note|In this, Sideways's first portrayal, we see no hint of anything beyond a run-of-the-mill Autobot warrior. However, much of the text of the ''Robots in Disguise'' Sideways profile (as well as the name and altmode, of course) was copied to become the basis for the ''Armada'' toy—thus making them the same character and "reversing" Sideways's exploits into the ''Robots in Disguise'' continuity.}}

===Unicron Trilogy cartoon continuity===
====''Armada'' cartoon====
:''Voice actors:'' [[Paul Dobson]], [[Mark Acheson]] (as Unicron) (English); [[Takahiro Sakurai]] (Japanese), [[Ekkehardt Belle]] (German)

[[Image:Gale Needalift.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Hey kids, want some candy?]]
Sideways first appeared as a beam of light from the sky striking a large [[Earth]] city near the Autobot base. An enigmatic warrior, he appeared to side with the Autobots, helping Hot Shot by watching his back during a confrontation with Scavenger. When asked to reveal himself, he transformed, his rider quickly splitting and becoming a helmet that covered his entire head. He claimed to be Sideways, a drifter who just wandered into the conflict. While he gave the human kids [[Billy (Armada)|Billy]] and [[Fred (Armada)|Fred]] rides in cycle mode to keep them entertained, [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] and [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] as well as [[Rad White|Rad]] and [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]] were suspicious of the motorcycle's motives, especially his close attention to the Mini-Cons. {{storylink|Gale}}

[[Image:Credulous Sidewaysknocksswordaway.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Surprise, the mysterious ninja is evil!]]

In the following battle, [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] faced Sideways and Hot Shot alone, and managed to force the [[Mini-Con storage panel|Mini-Con panel]] Sideways had (apparently) found out of his grasp. As the Decepticon leader began to warp away, both Autobots grabbed onto Megatron and all three were teleported to the [[Moon (moon)|Moon]]. To Hot Shot and Megatron's surprise, the Mini-Con panel was a fake,
made to convince Megatron to retreat so that Hot Shot, spurred on by Sideways's encouragement, could defeat the Decepticons once and for all. Though both robots fought well alongside each other, with Sideways expressing concern over Hot Shot's well-being, he eventually betrayed
the young Autobot, by striking a deal with Megatron. He would pretend to be Megatron's hostage and in exchange, no matter what, Hot Shot
would turn over the [[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]]. At first, Hot Shot did follow through, but reneged at the last moment by calling the Mini-Cons back to him. Sideways suddenly attacked Hot Shot, knocking the Star Saber out of his hands and kicking it to [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]]. He switched Mini-Con heads, revealing his allegiance to the Decepticons. Hot Shot was savagely beaten by the Decepticons, who stopped short of destroying him on the advice of [[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]], who teleported the young 'bot back to the Autobot base. Once Sideways's loyalty to the Decepticons seemed to be confirmed, he began manipulating them and playing them against each other to suit his mysterious goals. {{storylink|Credulous}}

[[Image:Sidewaysheads.jpg|left|150px|thumb|My Autobot counterpart is nearby...]]

One of these goals was the replacement of Megatron as Decepticon leader after a series of significant losses. Sideways sowed the seeds of rebellion within the Decepticon ranks, subtly turning Starscream against Megatron and convincing Megatron of Starscream's imminent treachery. The situation came to a head when the two Decepticons fought outside their base, but Sideways then realized Megatron would never execute Starscream for his insubordination, exposing an ever-constant weakness within the Decepticon command structure. After the battle, Sideways mused that this weakness would come back to haunt Megatron one day, and would be his ruin. Fortunately though, this incident somehow served to solidify the Decepticons as a unit, giving them much greater morale and cohesiveness, and achieving Sideways's aims of giving neither faction in the conflict a clear advantage. {{storylink|Rebellion}}

[[Image:Chase RainbowSideways.jpg|right|200px|thumb|You don't want to taste Sideways's rainbow.]]

Shortly thereafter, Sideways tried to hack the Autobot base computer, only to encounter the children attempting to destroy the equipment to stop Sideways. He transported them to a digital universe, where they saw the coming of two [[Jetfire (Armada)|new]] [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|combatants]]. He tried to threaten them into handing over the [[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]], before the kids realized that as this wasn't real, he could not harm them. Sideways then apologized to an unseen master, shortly before the children escaped the digital universe, chased by an unknown [[Unicron|entity]]. {{storylink|Chase (episode)|Chase}}

The Decepticons began to distrust Sideways, suspecting he was not what he seemed, and realized he was manipulating everybody in the unit. Caught out by [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]] and the other Decepticons while communicating with his unseen master, Sideways panicked and attempted to escape, but not before he was confronted by [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] and sliced in half with the Star Saber. Sideways simply reformed each time, reconnecting his parts and absorbing laser blasts from the other Decepticons. Megatron, in fury and disgust, hacked Sideways to pieces and he was seemingly destroyed... or so they thought. Sideways had entered [[trans-phase mode]] and his [[Mirror|rider]] rose in the form of a twisted [[nanite]] creature before the Decepticons' eyes, declaring that the Star Saber and Skyboom shield were merely toys to him, as he was near-invincible. His rider said there were millions of Mini-Cons left to be found, and challenged Megatron to see who would find them first, before flying off to parts unknown. {{storylink|Detection}}

[[Image:Awakening-Sidewaysonscreen.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Sideways may be dead, but he lives on in reruns.]]

While most of the Autobots were on Earth fighting the monstrous new Decepticon recruit, [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]], Sideways made an appearance inside the Autobots' base... on a monitor! He told [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] and Alexis about the [[Requiem Blaster]], and how the Autobots must find the three Mini-Cons that form it before the Decepticons do. Neither of them trusted Sideways, but they knew Sideways was right. If the Decepticons did find the Requiem Blaster first, it could spell doom for the Autobots and the galaxy. {{storylink|Awakening}} Once the Autobots had acquired the Requiem Blaster, Sideways appeared once again on the Autobots' monitors, laughing. He showed them that he'd disabled their defenses. Sure enough, the Decepticons infiltrated the Autobot base, took the Requiem Blaster, and nearly killed [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Smokescreen]] in the process. {{storylink|Sacrifice}}

Later, Sideways appeared to the Decepticon tactician, [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]], and told him that the Requiem Blaster would be even more powerful if used in conjunction with the other two Mini-Con weapons, the sword and the shield. {{storylink|Mars (episode)|Mars}} Thrust talked with Sideways again in a secret, ominous meeting. They planned to get the Mini-Con weapons away from the Autobots. {{storylink|Crack}} Thanks to Starscream's confusion on where his loyalties lay, he was able to steal the other two weapons from the Autobots, giving the Decepticons all three weapons. Thrust was hard at work on a secret project for Megatron, one that would harness the energy of all three weapons, and Sideways congratulated the tactician on his growing duplicity. When the three weapons were combined to power the starship [[Hydra Cannon]], Megatron used it to blow up a nearby comet while Sideways laughed from afar, on Earth's moon. {{storylink|Threaten}}

Both the Autobots and Decepticons were en route to Cybertron when a few of each faction were warped to a strange planet where they fought a dark copy of Optimus Prime called [[Nemesis Prime (Armada)|Nemesis Prime]]. When Optimus Prime and Megatron combined their firepower against it, Nemesis Prime was destroyed, and as the copy dissipated, Sideways appeared momentarily. Nemesis Prime had merely been Sideways's puppet. {{storylink|Puppet}}

[[Image:Uprising-SidewaysSpookyGhost.jpg|right|200px|thumb|He controls the horizontal, but not the vertical. The vertical is for saps.]]

When both sides had arrived on Cybertron, a black hole opened up over the planet. It started becoming apparent to some that Unicron was arriving. An apparition of Sideways appeared over the Autobots, and the Mini-Cons attacked it. After telling the Mini-Cons to get lost, Sideways again disappeared. Sideways returned to swear vengeance against the Mini-Cons when they tried to stop the black hole's effects. {{storylink|Uprising}} Eventually, Thrust became suspicious that his partnership with Sideways and Unicron might be found out, so he panicked and stole the Requiem Blaster and Skyboom Shield. Thrust ran deep underground where he met up with Sideways, but he was tailed by Starscream. Starscream declined Sideways's obligatory offer to join Unicron, and the two fought.

[[Image:Portent-Sideways vs Starscream.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Armada basically lines up the cast one by one so Sideways can call them an idiot.]]

Sideways assaulted Starscream with strange tendrils and amoeba-like organisms, and he and Thrust were able to leave with the two weapons. Now inside the moon in Cybertron's orbit, Sideways placed the Mini-Con weapons into its core, revealing that the moon was Unicron lying dormant all along. {{storylink|Portent}} The last of the three Mini-Con weapons was dropped by Starscream when he sacrificed himself to Unicron to prove to Galvatron (a transformed Megatron) that Autobot and Decepticon must join forces to destroy Unicron. Sideways formed over what was left of Starscream and grabbed the sword, making an easy getaway. {{storylink|Cramp}}

With all three weapons in place within Unicron's core, Sideways's master was able to shed the rest of his moon disguise and show his real form. Sideways and his patsy Thrust celebrated their inevitable victory over time and space. {{storylink|Alliance (episode)|Alliance}} Thrust was told by Sideways to leave, as his work for now Unicron was now done. Thrust was confused, thinking he would be Unicron's right-hand man, but Sideways got angry, and ordered him to leave immediately. Thrust, dejected, left for the surface, where he later was crushed to death within Unicron's
creases during the battle. {{storylink|Union}}

[[Image:Origin-SidewaysUnicroncore.jpg|right|250px|thumb|"I'm going to start elongating all my 's' sounds, Optimusssss."]]

Optimus and Megatron managed to reach the glowing core deep within Unicron's body. Before their eyes, the core budded, recreating the body of Sideways. Unicron spoke through this Sideways body, announcing that Sideways had always been an extension of Unicron himself, and that Sideways had intentionally stoked the flames of the Autobot/Decepticon war so that Unicron could be fueled by their mutual hatred. He took special delight in mocking Optimus Prime for claiming to fight a war for peace, a seeming contradiction. The truth, according to Unicron/Sideways, was that Optimus Prime loved to battle; Prime refused to admit this. Unicron/Sideways wrapped Prime and Megatron in tendrils, drained Megatron of his energy, and offered Prime the opportunity to merge with him.

[[Image:Sideways dead.jpg|left|150px|thumb|Ouchies.]]

Then the children and their Mini-Cons arrived, and they pleaded with him to stop, but Unicron/Sideways was able to claim them as their own; the Mini-Cons were Unicron's creation, after all. But inside a dreamworld created by Unicron, the children were able to call out to the Mini-Cons. They reactivated and told Unicron/Sideways that they believed in peace, and would fight for it if necessary. Their combined might was able to help Prime break free of his tendrils, and he fired a shot right through Sideways using the Requiem Blaster. As what was left of Sideways faded, he claimed he'd have his revenge... {{storylink|Origin}}

{{note|Internal to the ''Armada'' series, it is slightly unclear whether Unicron was somehow possessing his body for that period of time, or if Sideways had been an extension of Unicron all along instead of a separate individual. The additional backstory provided for Sideways in ''Cybertron'', however, would seem to establish that it's the former. Additionally, in "[[Credulous]]", before Sideways's Mini-Con head connects with his body after colliding with Megatron, an odd voice spoke, sounding like it came from a being of lesser intelligence emanated from the motorcycle body's own head, before the Mini-Con head took over. The mysterious line not being in the Japanese version of the episode and the shaky nature of the ''Armada'' dub in general only further obscures the issue.}}

====Linkage====
After informing the Autobots of the Requiem Blaster, Sideways journeyed to the [[Antarctica|Antarctic]] to deliver [[Ravenus]] and the [[Doomstone]] to a group of [[Speed Chaser Team|evil Mini-Cons]] who were hunting down [[Super Stunt Team|a group of refugee Mini-Cons]] for their master. {{storylink|Linkage Part 8}} When they failed to eliminate or claim [[Redline]] and his friends, the evil Mini-Cons used [[trans-phase mode]] to connect with Sideways via a dimensional portal, and fled from Earth. {{storylink|Linkage Part 12}}

====''Cybertron'' cartoon====
:''Voice actors:'' [[Ted Cole]] (English), [[Susumu Chiba]] (Japanese)

[[Image:Deep-Sideways.jpg|left|200px|thumb|He's been up there waiting the whole time!]]

Sideways and his brother, [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]] were the last two survivors of the tyrannical [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]], which was destroyed as the result of a battle between it and Gigantion long ago. Even though X started the war and was destroyed by its ''own'' weapon of mass destruction, the survivors were still determined to destroy Gigantion as revenge! {{storylink|Challenge}} Sideways and Soundwave agreed to serve Unicron in exchange for the assured death of Gigantion. {{storylink|Revelations Part 3|Soundwave's bio}} Thanks to this deal, Sideways was preserved by Unicron's dark power after his defeat by the Requiem Blaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime}}

Once the Chaos-Bringer was defeated, Sideways and Soundwave were free from the deal and went after Gigantion with their own plan. Outside of Unicron's influence, Sideways started to show a laidback, jokey and sarcastic personality, doing things like singing to himself when flying away from fights, dancing to tunes when bored, and dissing other robots. He even showed he was capable of genuine friendship, having strong camraderie with Soundwave... but the thought of the lost Planet X, and the need to avenge it, would be something that would make this jokester turn grim and serious. {{storylink|City}}

Twenty years later, the [[Unicron Singularity|black hole caused by Unicron's demise]] had warped reality and caused everyone to forget Sideways existed! {{storylink|Balancing Act, Part 2}} Perfect opportunity! Sideways entered the Transformers war again, during their desperate search for the [[Cyber Planet Key|Cyber Planet Keys]]. After the disappearance of ''[[Atlantis]],'' he observed from the top of a rocky cliff and wondered how he could best manipulate both factions to his own advantage. It wouldn't be long until they were all his puppets! {{storylink|Deep}} He offered his services to the Autobots, but as soon as he'd helped them corner Starscream, Sideways switched to a Decepticon symbol, fired on the Autobots, and promptly left. Starscream and the others were left wondering exactly what that was all about. {{storylink|Ship}}

[[Image:Sand-Sideways explains.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Honestly guys, I'm an Autobot! You don't remember me at all!]]

Later, Sideways spoke to Megatron through a portal window, telling him that Optimus Prime could be found on [[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]]. He later appeared with the other Decepticons as they confronted the Autobots, chuckling evilly as they argued over who sent the messages leading to their meeting. {{storylink|Savage (episode)|Savage}} Sideways stood back and observed as Megatron fumed after his defeat at the hands of Optimus Prime on Jungle planet. Noting that the locals were itching for another fight with Prime, Sideways sought out [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Leobreaker]] in the woods, pleading for help to save a friend who was buried under a rockslide. Leobreaker rallied the other Autobots on Jungle Planet and marched them into a canyon to save this imaginary friend, while Sideways laughed from above. He had also sent a fake message from Optimus Prime to [[Scourge (Cybertron)|Scourge]], and so the Decepticons were also converging on that point. Megatron suspected the message was fake, but kept quiet. The two factions met in battle as Sideways planned, while he mused from above that no matter who loses, he wins! But he was spotted, and Leobreaker angrily threw him to the ground for lying to him. Sideways desperately explained that he was a "secret agent" for the Autobots, digging for "inside information". Optimus Prime wasn't convinced, but when their interrogation was interrupted by a communication from [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]], Sideways transformed and escaped. {{storylink|Sand}}

Sideways traveled with Megatron and the other Decepticons to [[Velocitron]] to apprehend the Speed Planet Cyber Planet Key. Here, Leobreaker and Sideways clashed again. When Megatron lost the Cyber Planet Key to [[Override (Cybertron)|Override]], he, Sideways, and the other Decepticons fled. {{storylink|Champion}} Meanwhile, as Optimus Prime prepared to battle Scourge for the Jungle Planet Cyber Planet Key, Sideways and Starscream plotted. {{storylink|Honor}} As Scourge trained for the coming battle, Sideways and Starscream bet on the winner. At Sideways's suggestion, Starscream interfered with the Autobots's ability to get to the battle, thus causing Scourge's faith in Prime as an honorable opponent to waver. {{storylink|Primal}}

When the Autobots finally defeated Scourge and acquired the Cyber Planet Key, Sideways was deployed with the rest of Megatron's troops to track down the Key after the Autobots split up with several decoy boxes. He personally pursued Vector Prime, revealing the ability to warp as he battled the ancient warrior for the box he held. When Vector Prime sent out [[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]] to attack, Sideways used his faction-swapping shield to trick the Mini-Con into leaving before snatching the box from Vector Prime. When he found nothing but a rock inside, Sideways beat a hasty retreat. He was later seen goofing off as Megatron and Starscream went after the real holders of the Cyber Planet Key, and returned to Megatron's personal dimension when the rest of the Autobots arrived to secure the Key. {{storylink|Trust (Cybertron)|Trust}}

[[Image:Retreat-SidewaysStarscreamarmy.jpg|left|200px|thumb|That's right, the undercarriage of Sideways's altmode shows you the inside of his split-open ass.]]

Starscream was growing tired of Megatron's attitude towards him, and Sideways wondered if Starscream was going to doublecross his leader. When Megatron and his troops headed out from his dimension to find another Cyber Planet Key, Starscream instead chose to head to Earth. Intrigued, Sideways followed Starscream there, where they witnessed a burst of Cyber Key-related energy. He joined Starscream on his trip to the Arctic, where the wayward Decepticon demanded the Autobot [[Crosswise (Cybertron)|Crosswise]] give him Earth's Cyber Planet Key. When Sideways realized that Starscream had sent Megatron the wrong direction and intended to take Earth's Key for himself, he decided to stay back and watch Starscream's fight with Crosswise, out of harm's way. ...at least, until Crosswise looked like he was going to lose, when Sideways happily leapt into action to kick him while he was down. Crosswise drove away, and Sideways shadowed him while Starscream investigated the cave he was guarding. {{storylink|Trap}} Sideways followed Crosswise all the way to his hidden hideout, where his leader, [[Evac (Cybertron)|Evac]], was waiting. When Sideways was discovered, he once again fled. {{storylink|Invasion}}

Starscream, meanwhile, had recruited countless imprisoned Decepticons he had freed in the Arctic, and so Sideways stood at his side while Starscream marched his army across the face of the Earth. They converged on the location of the Autobot base, where they found the Autobots retreating via a [[space bridge]]. Starscream and Sideways engaged them in battle, but Sideways was quickly knocked away by the Autobots' firepower. {{storylink|Retreat}} Starscream succeeded in grabbing the Autobots' collected Cyber Planet Keys and the [[Omega Lock]], and returned to his underground volcanic lair, where Sideways and [[Thunderblast (Decepticon)|Thunderblast]] were waiting. {{storylink|Critical}} The Autobots weren't far behind, and a clash between them and Starscream's army was inevitable. Sideways called them forth, ordering them to rise up and destroy their enemies, while he and Starscream watched the battlefield through a portal;
Starscream was slowly absorbing the power of his stolen goods, and wasn't quite ready yet. The Autobots and Megatron managed to break into the volcano base, but Sideways had prepared a series of explosive boobytraps. {{storylink|Assault}}

[[Image:Starscreamepisode-Sidewaysposes.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Hey, Sideways, your shield has huge gaps in it.]]

Despite this, the Autobots were able to get through them, where they came face to face with Sideways. Asked as to what side he was on today, Sideways replied that he was on his own, but today he was betting on Starscream. The Autobots fought him, but he was able to warp around them at will, and none were able to land a punch. Ultimately, [[Vector Prime]] placed his Mini-Con, [[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]] on Sideways's back, and Optimus Prime was able to use that to detect where Sideways would appear next. After several blasts, Sideways was once again able to flee, this time because of the arrival of Scourge. He returned to Starscream's side, where the wayward Decepticon was nearly finished absorbing the Omega Lock's power. When Starscream said he wouldn't run to face Megatron, but wait for Megatron to come and be picked off at his leisure, Sideways realized there was nothing more he could do there and left, teleporting away. {{storylink|Starscream (episode)|Starscream}} Once the tremendous battle was over, and Starscream (despite having grown to a large size) had fallen over defeated, Sideways reappeared. Noting that Starscream could still be useful to him, he warped Starscream's humongous body away. {{storylink|United (episode)|United}} Starscream woke up inside the ''Atlantis'', with Sideways standing over him. Sideways explained that during the time Starscream had been out, Megatron had been defeated and Primus had awoken. The two traveled to Cybertron and found it transformed into Primus, but lying dormant; Sideways snarked that some clever guy had stolen all his power. He and Starscream tried to fight their way through the Autobots to the Omega Lock, but failed. Later, Sideways warped behind the Autobots' human friends, nabbed their three [[Mini-Con]] pals, and warped away. Angry, the children jumped into the portal window he left behind. {{storylink|Balance}}

[[Image:Memory-Sidewaysandchildren.jpg|left|200px|thumb|WOULD YOU LIKE TO? WOULD YOU LIKE TO?]]

Sideways attached Jolt to some equipment in order to search his memories for data pertaining to location of [[Gigantion]], where the last Cyber Planet Key would be found. But all Sideways could extract was useless data that would take forever to examine, so he tried to watch some television to pass the time. No luck—they were jamming their own communications, so he couldn't watch ''[[Galactic Guardians]]'' or anything, so he turned on his [[Soundwave (G1)|stereo]] and began moving to the music. Starscream yelled at him for goofing off. Embarrassed, Sideways ran off to do repairs. Indeed, the memory download was taking too long, so Sideways decided it would be much quicker if they just hacked open Jolt's head, took what they wanted, and deleted the rest. The operation was interrupted by the children, and so Sideways left to deal with them. After a few slapstick adventures, including a faked hologram of Megatron telling Sideways to jump on one foot and call himself a "pretty lady", the children were able to escape with Sideways's key to the cell he was keeping the other two Mini-Cons in. Though those two were rescued, Sideways finally caught up with them, laughing maniacally and with evil intent. {{storylink|Memory}} Jolt, whose rotors were now untied, was able to open a warpgate for himself and the others to escape through. Angered, Sideways warped away himself, and appeared again in front of the children and the Mini-Cons, telling him that he had put an energy field around the ship to prevent Jolt from pulling that trick again. The children and the Mini-Cons ran, but he threw one of his wing blades into the path ahead of them, blocking their escape. As Sideways mocked their attempts to distract him so they could make their getaway, [[Coby Hansen|Coby]] was able to communicate with the ship and spray [[fire-retardant foam]] over Sideways's head. They fled.

[[Image:Escape-Sidewaysmeandrawing.jpg|right|thumb|250px|"A ''mouth?!'' This is libel!"]]

Later, when the children and the Mini-Cons had located the chamber in which Sideways was guarding, the one that was blocking communications from being sent out of ''Atlantis'', they remotely caused a malfunction in one of the engine rooms. Sideways ran out of the chamber and into the engine room, where he found a crude drawing of him on the wall. "Now that's just mean!" Next they dumped him down one of the garbage chutes, which Sideways laughed at. He'd just warp out of there! But he forgot that he'd disabled warping, so he was cast out of the ship into space. A piece of trash that followed him conked him on his head, knocking him out. ''Atlantis'' was soon found by the Autobots and Decepticons, and so Starscream set the ship to warp away. Just in time, the children and the Mini-Cons shot themselves out of the ship in two escape pods, but Sideways's floating body blocked the second pod from leaving the warp perimeter of the ship. Sideways and the second pod disappeared along with ''Atlantis''. {{storylink|Escape (episode)|Escape}}

Sideways returned to the helm of ''Atlantis'' with Starscream, as the distance between them and the planet [[Gigantion]], home to the final [[Cyber Planet Key]], quickly narrowed. But due to the work of [[Bud Hansen|Bud]], Jolt, and [[Reverb (Cybertron)|Reverb]], [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]], [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]], and the Decepticons were able to follow a trail to the ship, and so Sideways activated the ship's defenses while he navigated a warp jump away. But after they had jumped, Starscream felt the power of Primus, and so the ''Atlantis'' returned to Cybertron. After a battle between Starscream and Primus, Starscream was brutally defeated, so Sideways warped the ship away again with Starscream's body in tow. {{storylink|Titans}} Starscream was no worse for wear by the time Sideways had begun piloting ''Atlantis'' through a warp gate to another dimension where Gigantion was located, but the Autobots' ship, the ''[[Ogygia]]'', wasn't far behind. ''Atlantis'' started lagging behind the Autobots when Bud and the Mini-Cons aboard began sabotaging its engines, much to the fury of Sideways and Starscream. {{storylink|Warp}}

Sideways managed to get ''Atlantis'' to Gigantion, but only after a crash-landing. Before too long, the ship was under attack from the Autobots. Starscream was still too drained from his fight with Primus, so Sideways was told to fight them himself, an order he grumbled loudly about once he was out of Starscream's range. He confronted Optimus Prime, merged with Wing Saber, and bemoaned their sneaky tactics. He was the one supposed to be pulling the strings! As Sideways was targeted by a volley of missiles, Optimus Prime told Sideways that he'd had enough of his tricks. After a prolonged fight, Sideways could do nothing better than to utter a pathetic "mother!" as Prime's final, most powerful attack was bearing in on him. Thankfully for Sideways, he was saved by Soundwave, who pushed him out of the way at the last second. Once they were safe, Sideways thanked Soundwave for the rescue. Soundwave reminded Sideways that "that's how we roll," and not to forget their ultimate purpose. {{storylink|City}}

[[Image:Showdown-SoundwaveSidewaysstare.jpg|left|300px|thumb|Don't go towards the light, Sideways!]]

While the both of them were searching for the last Cyber Planet Key, they were discovered by the [[Cybertron Defense Team]]. Soundwave explained their backstory as survivors of Planet X and their vendetta against Gigantion. When the Autobots noted it was their own fault their planet was destroyed, Soundwave shrouded them in a thick black cloud while Sideways created virtual duplicates of himself. He managed to mess with Red Alert's head, but was tricked into revealing himself by Scattorshot after the clever technician dealt with the smog. In the end, the two Planet X natives were crushed under a falling tower. {{storylink|Challenge}}

Sideways and Soundwave didn't resurface until the Autobots were ready to leave Gigantion to their home dimension to repair the black hole. They challenged the Autobots, blocking their path out of the planet, for they wanted to ensure the black hole destroyed the galaxy. After fighting Optimus Prime to a standstill, they were interrupted by Starscream and Megatron, who were fighting several layers above them, glowing and pulsating with energy levels no one present had ever seen. Soundwave and Sideways wanted to escape, fearing their own destruction, but they lamented that if they didn't grab the Omega Lock then, they'd have failed at their mission. Both warped closer to the battle between Megatron and Starscream, and, reaching towards the tremendous energy that had built up during the Decepticons' battle, Sideways begged Soundwave to leave and save himself. Soundwave rejected this, because they were in this together. As Megatron and Starscream punched each other simultaneously, a wave of energy seemed to destroy both Planet X natives.

[[Image:Beginning-SoundwaveSideways.jpg|right|thumb|250px|We're not dead! Neither is our planet! Weird.]]

Vector Prime noted that neither were likely destroyed in the conventional sense, but were blasted into another dimension. {{storylink|Showdown (episode)|Showdown}} His analysis seemed to be correct; a little later, when Megatron witnessed a vision of Starscream—apparently reaching out through the [[fire dimension]] to mock him one final time—Sideways and Soundwave were both standing by the traitor's side. {{storylink|Unfinished}}

The next (and last) time Sideways was seen, he, Soundwave, and [[Laserbeak (Cybertron)|Laserbeak]] were cheering as they stood before an undestroyed Planet X, apparently having found an intact, parallel version of their homeworld in the dimension they had been transported to. {{storylink|Beginning}}
{{-}}

===Dreamwave ''Armada'' comic===
[[Image:SkywarpSidewaysWheeljack.jpg|left|300px|thumb|I'm such a secret shill for Unicron that you only ever see me once! Well, twice.]]

Always evasive about where his true loyalties lie, Sideways has been seen on battlefields the galaxy over, but not always on the same side. He has manipulated both factions like a game of cosmic chess, and chooses his words carefully. Neither Autobot nor Decepticon, he has always served just one master: [[Unicron]]. To these purposes, he assigned his Mini-Con companion, [[Crosswise (Armada)|Crosswise]] to infiltrate the Mini-Cons' Moonbase operations and send things awry. Crosswise was more of a wildcard than a full-on partner, unlike Sideways's other Mini-Con, [[Rook (Armada)|Rook]]. Rook was assigned to sow the real seeds of discontent amongst the Mini-Cons on the moon. {{storylink|More Than Meets The Eye (Armada)}}

Sideways himself was first seen working on a secret desert rocket site, guarded by [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]] and [[Wheeljack (Armada)|Wheeljack]], which was designed to launch Megatron's [[Solar Scalpel]] laser system in orbit. {{storylink|Fire & Ice}} After the rocket was launched, he returned to Cybertron, and was present for the battle against Unicron... though what exact role he played in it is unknown. {{storylink|The End}}
{{-}}

===''Robot Masters'' online comic===
[[Image:RMComic-SidewaysBWMegs.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Master manipulator teamed up with master manipulator? That's WAY more interesting than [[Lio Convoy]] teaming up with [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]... so of course it only happens ONCE.]]

Sideways participated in the confusing war over [[Solitarium]], where he employed a special communications system called "[[Crosswise (Armada)|Shadow]] and [[Rook (Armada)|Bright]]". When [[Road Rocket (G2)|Road Rocket]], [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], and [[Optimus Primal]] explored a crevasse filled with [[Solitarium]] crystals, they were ambushed from above by [[Megatron (BW)|Beast Megatron]] and Sideways, who detonated the crystals around the Autobots.

Fortunately, Primal managed to shield the three from the explosion with a huge slab of rock, but they were unable to prevent the Decepticons from making off with a huge load of Solitarium.{{storylink|Robot Masters (online comic)|Must Defend the Solitarium!}}

{{note|Sideways is said to have used special dimension-jumping powers to participate in this storyline, and he now shares the paintscheme of Armada Sideways. Remember that part—you'll see why soon!}}

{{-}}
===''Robot Masters TV Magazine'' comic===
[[Image:Roadrocketsidewaysphotocomic.jpg|left|thumb|150px|Okay, thumb war!]]

Road Rocket and Sideways found a piece of Solitarium at the same time, though each claimed they saw it first. The Solitarium was located across a gorge, so the two revved up their engines to see who could cross it in their motorcycle modes. Unfortunately, Sideways miscalculated, falling down the gorge, while Road Rocket was victorious. {{storylink|Robot Masters Vol. 4}}
{{-}}

===''Animated''===
[[Image:Sidewaysanimated.jpg|right|thumb|100px|He might change his mind about Shanghai once he gets there.]]
Shortly before the [[AllSpark]] was hidden in space by [[Ultra Magnus (Animated)|Ultra Magnus]], Sideways arrived from another dimension and joined the Decepticons. Land General Sideways was responsible for overseeing the [[Silvart War]], where he was captured by [[Primal Major]] and prepared for transportation back to Cybertron on board the ''[[Alpha Supreme|Axalon]]''. [[Shockwave (Animated)|Longarm Prime]] speculated that thanks to the General's [[Trans-phase mode|Trans-Phase Generator]], Sideways broke free of his restraints and sabotaged the engine, causing the ''Axalon'' and its crew to succumb to a black hole.

Since Sideways was never seen again, Longarm Prime suspects Sideways was trying to get to some place called "[[Shanghai]]", which he frequently mentioned. {{storylink|Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac II|The AllSpark Almanac II}}

{{note|''Animated'' Sideways is described as having the signature powers of the familiar pre-existing character. His body, while mainly based on ''Armada'' Sideways, also features minor visual cues from [[Sideways (ROTF)|''Revenge of the Fallen'' Sideways]]. These visual continuity points are very similar to those used to establish that Sideways had "jumped" from the Unicron Trilogy into Generation 1. However, there is no absolute proof that after his arrival in ''Animated'', Sideways ever followed through on his desire to visit Shanghai, nor which universe's Shanghai he might have visited. If one makes the conclusion that he did make that jump, he and the movie-continuity Sideways must be the same person; if not, not.}}
{{--}}

==Toys==
===Robots in Disguise===
[[Image:RIDtoy-Sideways.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Hello, my treacherous friend.]]

* '''Sideways vs. Axer''' (Mega multi-pack, 2002)

: The first Sideways toy is a yellow and black [[redeco]] (and minor [[Retool|retooling]], from changes made to the mold for a Japanese ''[[Microman]]'' version) of [[Road Rocket (G2)|Road Rocket]], transforming into a Yamaha GTS1000A racing motorcycle with a light-up rear wheel suspension/buzzsaw weapon. He came packaged with [[Axer]] in a [[Walmart|Wal-Mart]] [[exclusive]] two-pack.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Autobot/Sideways/sideways.htm More information on RiD Sideways at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Armada===
[[Image:Armadatoy-Sideways-wrongways.jpg|right|300px|thumb|My hats are the grandest of all... except that they're putting me on the wrong sides!]]

* '''Sideways w/ Rook and Crosswise''' (Super-Con, 2002)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MX-01'''
**''Accessories'': 2 tailpipe-missiles

: The second toy of Sideways was released in 2002 in ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'', transforming into a Cybertronic motorcycle, and was the first larger ''Armada'' toy to come with two [[Mini-Con|Mini-Cons]]; [[Rook (Armada)|Rook]] and [[Crosswise (Armada)|Crosswise]]. Each Mini-Con could form a new head for Sideways, as well as reveal a faction sigil behind his clear-plastic chestplate in that mode. Their individual and combined robot modes were designed to act as riders when Sideways is in vehicle mode. His tailpipes become arm-mounted [[Powerlinx]]-activated pressure-launch missile launchers.

: Two variations of the [[Hasbro]] version of the toy exist. The first variation features the opposite Mini-Con heads revealing their intended faction logo. This was due to an error in the television series' animation which depicted Crosswise as the Decepticon head and Rook as the Autobot head. Hasbro made a [[variant|running change]] so the toy reflected the series' faction alignments. The second variation changed the salmon on Crosswise to a more Decepticon-like purple. This toy was also released in the Japanese ''Micron Legend'' toyline as "Doubleface" shortly afterwards, featuring a color scheme on the cockpit of the bike that was closer to the anime appearance.

: The Takara version reverses the purple and yellow on the chest, making it more show accurate (as always). The arms cannot connect when in vehicle mode.

: In November of 2003, US [[Toys"R"Us]] stores had special bonus pack Max-Con (Deluxe) toys, which came with a single bonus Mini-Con attached to the card over their sticker, for ''less'' than the price as a normal Max-Con during Toys"R"Us's post-Thanksgiving-day sale. Like [[Blurr (Armada)|Blurr]], Sideways could come with one of the [[Destruction Mini-Con Team]] members: [[Buzzsaw (Armada)|Buzzsaw]], [[Drill Bit (Armada)|Drill Bit]], or [[Dualor]].

: This mold was also used for ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' [[Rapid Run (Energon)|Rapid Run]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Autobot/ArmSideways/sideways.htm More information on Armada Sideways at TFU.info]''

===Robot Masters===
[[Image:RMtoy-Doubleface.jpg|right|300px|thumb|We've come full circle or something.]]
* '''Doubleface''' (Robot Master, 2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RM-19'''

: Doubleface, a purple, gray, and yellow [[redeco]] (and minor [[Retool|retooling]], from changes made to the mold for a Japanese ''[[Microman]]'' version) of [[Road Pig (G2)|Road Pig]], was released in Japan in 2005, transforming into a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide touring motorcycle with electronic light-up tailpipe/"blaster" weapon. It featured a fixed Decepticon logo, and was the second and last appearance of this character in Japan as of 2006.

: There is a minor variation to this toy; though both versions feature an "electronics warning" on the robot mode's butt, some versions use a clear-plastic sticker, while others have the text tampographed there.

: This mold was also used for ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Axer]]. It was planned for use in ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'' as [[Soundwave (G1)/toys#LaserCycle|Soundwave]], but that toy never saw release.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Destron/DoubleFace/doubleface.htm More information on Robot Masters Doubleface at TFU.info]''

===Cybertron===
[[Image:SidewaysCybertron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|On second thought, screw the whole motorcycle thing.]]
* '''Sideways''' (Deluxe-Class, 2005)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''GX-01'''
**''Accessories'': Left & right wing-blades, Planet X Cyber Key

: The third toy of Sideways released in the US was in the [[Cybertron (toyline)|''Cybertron'' toyline]]. Sideways in this line is a black and orange alien spacefighter with [[Cyber Planet Key]]-activated faction-switching ability and pop-out blades built into his battle shield. The toy features a translucent face with his signature horns. He comes with a [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]] style Cyber Planet Key; the US version has the [[Cyber Key Codes|Cyber Key Code]] "'''dj51'''" [[Tampograph|tampographed]] on the back.

: This toy was released in Japan as ''Galaxy Force'' Noisemaze, and no mention was made of a relationship to Doubleface / Sideways. He features chromed details on the wings instead of the standard gray, along with more intricate paint applications.

: This mold was also used for the Japanese DVD-[[exclusive]] [[Noisemaze Mass Production Type Version]], ''[[Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]], and was [[Retool|retooled]] into [[BotCon 2009]] ''[[Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] and the [[Sweep]]s.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2005/Decepticon/Sideways/sideways.htm More information on Cybertron Sideways at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|VsRedAlert}}
[[Image:Cyb-toy CriticalPath.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Look, Grandma's is down this path! It's ''critical'' I take it!]]
*'''Critical Path Pack!''' (Multi-pack, 2005)
**''Accessories'': Left & right wing-blades, Planet X Cyber Key

: This two-pack of the [[Red Alert (Armada)#Cybertron|Deluxe-size ''Cybertron'' Red Alert]] and Sideways toys was made available only at [[Target]] stores, retailing for $16.99. The toys are identical to their individual releases.
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Super Collection Figure===
[[Image:ACT10-Doubleface.jpg|right|thumb|300px|STRIKE POSE!]]
*'''Doubleface''' (2003)

:Available in "Act 10" of Takara's ''[[Heroes of Cybertron|Super Collection Figure]]'' PVC line, Doubleface was available in both color and pewter. He came with an extra head so that his appearance could be switched between Doubleface's "normal" head and the "Decepticon" head. His appearance could ''not'' be switched out of its sort of weird-looking pose, however.
{{--}}

==Notes==
* The case for the Sidewayses of the five different continuity families (''Robots in Disguise,'' Unicron Trilogy, Generation 1, ''Animated'', and the live-action film) being the same individual hopping universes is... not airtight. Until 2010, no fiction had actually portrayed him migrating from one universe to another, but even before then, circumstantial evidence abounded:
** The first Sideways, a ''Robots in Disguise'' toy, was packaged with [[Axer]], whose on-package [[bio]] strongly insinuates that he had come from the ''Generation 1'' universe through a black hole. The bios make no particular connection between the two characters, so there is no reason to think Sideways must have come from another universe as well. Nevertheless, the real-world pairing of the characters makes it easy to accept that he did, based on later evidence.
** The next Sideways, from ''Armada'', was given an on-package bio of almost identical wording to that of the ''Robots in Disguise'' character. The ''Armada'' bio suggests that his duplicity is a new development upon coming to Earth, the result of being pulled in two mental directions by his Mini-Cons.<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-images/tech-specs/Armada-Tech-Specs/2002-Transformers-Tech-Specs/Sideways__A_.jpg.html ''Armada'' Sideways's on-package bio]</ref> However, the cartoons and comics would both develop him as a pure agent of Unicron, which of course opens all sorts of cross-universal possibilities.
** The ''Robot Masters'' toy is what seals the deal. It's named and colored after the ''Armada'' toy, and some ''Robot Masters'' publicity material has declared that the character's first toy was indeed the ''Robots in Disguise'' Sideways figure. Since the entire premise of ''Robot Masters'' is that Transformers are arriving on present-day Earth through wormholes from across time and space, the idea that Sideways universe-hopped into the ''Robot Masters'' continuity is too strong to ignore.
** And finally, in 2010 the ''[[Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac II|The AllSpark Almanac II]]'' presented ''Animated'' Sideways as pretty clearly the same individual as all the other previous Sidewayses, and arguably the [[Sideways (ROTF)|Sideways of the live-action film]]. We are so, so shocked. On the other hand, this means getting cut in half was no huge deal for him. It'd happened [[Star Saber (Armada)|before]].

[[Image:Detection-SidewaysNoHat.jpg|right|180px|thumb|He's back. From outer space.]]
* In ''Armada'', outside of the stock footage sequences showing Sideways putting his Mini-Con helmets on, his "bare" head was often colored in shades of gray similar to the Crosswise head, rather than the appropriate purple and yellow.
* While the positioning of ''Armada'' Sideways's head-handlebars in toy form is up to the owner, the cartoon consistently portrayed them as angled downwards.
* In "[[Memory]]", Sideways seemed to be a fan of the [[Galactic Guardians]], a superhero team who star in their own cartoon show. He also seemed to be a fan of Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive", as he sang the first few lyrics to himself before being interrupted by Starscream.
* A 2001 Armada IP bible includes a bio of Sideways that notes he is comic relief after his Mini-Con is damaged and split in two, now acting as his "angel" and "devil" consciences who also bicker between themselves. Before the accident, Sideways was an aloof and mysterious ninja who turns into a police cycle. Obviously, this characterization didn't exactly pan out.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Doubleface''' (''Armada'', ''Robot Masters'', ダブルフェイス ''Daburufeisu''), '''Noisemaze''' (''Cybertron'', ノイズメイズ ''Noizumeizu'')
*''Polish:'' '''Krętacz''' (''Armada'')
*''Russian:'' '''Otshel'nik''' (Отшельник, "Hermit")

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Armada Autobots]]
[[Category:Armada Decepticons]]
[[Category:Animated Decepticons]]
[[Category:Cybertron Autobots]]
[[Category:Cybertron Decepticons]]
[[Category:Wal-Mart exclusives]]
[[Category:Target exclusives]]
[[Category:Dimension hoppers]]
[[Category:Double agents]]
[[Category:Headmasters]]
[[Category:Ninjas]]
[[Category:Planet X]]
[[Category:Revenge of the Fallen Decepticons]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Robots in Disguise Autobots]]
[[Category: Robot Masters Decepticons]]
[[Category:Scouts]]
[[Category:Spies]]
[[Category:Unicron-related characters]]

Predatory

2011-04-18T05:10:20Z

69.171.160.93:

{{episode|
|otherseries=''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Transformers: Prime]]'' ep 12
|prev=Speed Metal
|next=Sick Mind
|image=Airachnid.jpg
|caption=
|title="Predatory"
|airdate=[[April 16]], [[2011]]
|written by=[[Marsha Griffin]]
|directed by=[[Todd Waterman]], [[Kirk Van Wormer]] (co-director)
|animation studio=[[Polygon Pictures]]
|production company=[[Hasbro Studios]]
}}

'''When Arcee takes Jack on a routine mission, Airachnid turns up, putting him in danger.'''

==Synopsis==
A mysterious object streaks through the [[Solar System]] and crashes in a remote part of the northern [[United States of America|United States]]. Trudging through the forest nearby are [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] and [[Jack Darby]], out searching for an underground [[energon (fuel)|energon]] deposit that [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] has detected. Jack complains about the mosquitoes, but Arcee picks up some strange readings and they quickly come upon the crashed spaceship. Telling an increasingly unnerved Jack to stay where he is, Arcee moves in closer to examine it, and suffers a flashback containing a [[Airachnid|menacing figure]] as she realizes whose ship it is. She attempts in vain to contact [[Autobot Outpost Omega One|base]] to request a [[GroundBridge]]. Leaving Jack by the ship, Arcee walks out into the trees to find a trail left by her mystery assailant, and again flashes back to a past time when she had been captured. Jack interrupts her, and she transforms before driving them both at high speed through the trees for a distance. When she still can't contact base, she drops Jack off on the other side of a deep crevasse and heads back. Jack starts climbing down the side of the crevasse. Arcee, scouting among the trees, finds a tree stump covered in an acidic compound, and has another flashback.

[[Image:Predatory-Airachnidscratch.jpg|thumb|250px|left|]]

''On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], Arcee runs through ruined buildings while radioing [[Delta Team]] for backup. She trades banter with her partner [[Tailgate (Prime)|Tailgate]] before asking directions, but before she can complete her next sentence, she's stuck to a nearby wall by a glob of webbing. She finds herself chained up, a prisoner of [[Airachnid]], who scratches her face with an acid-emitting talon.''

Elsewhere, Airachnid moves in on an unsuspecting camper in a tent. As she jumps to strike, she's tackled by Arcee, and the pair roll downhill to a clearing. Amused to be reunited with the Autobot after all this time, Airachnid reveals her new hobby: collecting the heads of endangered species, though most of them weren't endangered until she got to them. Now she has her sights set on a human for her next trophy. Enraged, Arcee begins fighting her, but Jack arrives, distracting Arcee long enough for Airachnid to web her to a nearby rock. Arcee cuts her arm free and zaps Airachnid before informing Jack that he's more a liability than a partner. Jack responds that he doesn't believe her and he can tell she's afraid, and Arcee flashes back again.

''Finding Arcee a tough nut to crack, Airachnid has a couple of [[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]] drag in a severly battered Tailgate, and demands the information she wants, or Tailgate dies. Arcee, however much she wants to save her partner, doesn't know the attack coordinates, and Airachnid calmly kills him.''

Airachnid recovers from the battle and closes in and says she'd heard about [[Cliffjumper (Prime)|Cliffjumper]]'s fate, then twists the knife by asking Arcee if she has a problem with losing partners. As Jack flees, Airachnid promises to finish Arcee later, after she's added her human companion's head to her trophy collection. As Airachnid leaves, Arcee flashes back once more...

[[Image:Predatory-ArceeBeeCliff.jpg|thumb|250px|Color coded for your sake.]]

''As Airachnid moves in on her living prisoner, [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] and [[Cliffjumper (Prime)|Cliffjumper]] burst in to execute a dramatic rescue. Though they gun down the Vehicon guards, Airachnid makes her escape. The Autobots free Arcee and carry her out as she laments that she couldn't save her partner.''

Arcee is overcome with grief at having put Jack's life in peril, realizing that she should have just... kept... driving! Her lament gives her the insight she needs to free herself, pulling at the webbing enough to transform to cycle mode and peel out at full throttle, eventually breaking her bonds.

Meanwhile, Jack ducks behind a fallen tree in an attempt to evade Airachnid, but she easily finds him. He continues running, and though he's scared, keeps looking for ways to fight back (though he quickly dismisses his Swiss Army knife as a viable weapon). Eventually, he reaches Airachnid's ship and hides against it as she enters, believing him to have snuck inside. While clambering through the trench left by the ship's landing, he finds a puddle of [[energon (fuel)|energon]] leaking from a port on its underside. Grabbing a nearby stick, he uses his pocket knife and flint to set fire to it, then throws it into the leaking port. Airachnid, now standing on top of the ship, yells his name as the ship explodes.

Jack is thrown clear, but just as he's beginning to relax, a still-burning Airachnid pins him to a nearby tree with webbing. She moves in, ready for the kill, but Arcee comes barreling through the trees and beats her with feet and fists, finally sending the Decepticon flying through the forest, creating her own trail of debris. Arcee cuts down Jack, but then they hear the sound of drilling, and find Airachnid has burrowed into the ground and escaped.

Arcee says she admires Jack's bravery, and as she radios base for a GroundBridge, saying she needs to get her ''partner'' back to safety. As Jack notices the choice of words, Arcee quips that he's still the ''junior'' partner in this team.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] (1)
*[[Tailgate (Prime)|Tailgate]] (4, flashback)
*[[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]] (8, flashback)
*[[Cliffjumper (Prime)|Cliffjumper]] (9, flashback)
|c2=
*[[Airachnid]] (3)
*[[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]] (7, flashback)
|c3=
*[[Jack Darby]] (2)
*Camper (5)
|c4=
*[[Airachnid's specimens]] (6)
}}

==Quotes==
"I may not have stinger-proof metal skin, Arcee, but in a pinch, I can use my multi-function pocket knife and magnesium fire-starter to cook up some freeze-dried mac and cheese."
:—'''Jack''' subtly plants a [[wikipedia:Chekhov's gun|Chekhov's gun]].

"So much for closure."
:—'''Arcee''' is annoyed as Airachnid gets away.

==Notes==
===Animation or technical errors===

===Continuity errors===

===Transformers references===

===Foreign dubbing===

===Real-world references===
*This episode contains four or five possible references to the ''[[Predator (alien)|Predator]]'' franchise: Airachnid's ship entering Earth's atmosphere resembles the movie's opening scene, Airachnid coming to Earth with the sole purpose of hunting humans echoes the Predator's motive, Airachnid's trophy case of heads is similar to one seen in ''Predator 2'', and the scene in which Jack uses a personally made flaming "arrow" to ignite energon resembles a tactic used by Arnold Schwarzenegger's character Dutch in the first film. The title "Predatory" may also be just as much a reference to ''Predator'' as it is to [[Predacon (disambiguation)|Predacon]]s.
* The sound effects used for when Airachnid spews her webbing are the same used for [[Spider-Man]] in the 2008 ''[[Wikipedia:Spectacular Spider-Man (TV series)|Spectacular Spider-Man]]'' TV series, in which Josh Keaton (Jack) voiced the title character.

===Trivia===
[[Image:Predatory-Airachnidship.jpg|thumb|250px| The itsy bitsy spider went up the water spout.
Down came the Jack, and ''blew'' the spider up.]]
*This is the first episode not to feature Optimus, Bulkhead, Raf or Miko.
*Arcee, Cliffjumper, and Bumblebee didn't have different robot bodies on Cybertron, retaining all of their Earth vehicle-specific [[kibble]] long before reaching Earth. This seems to be [[Skyquake (Prime)|intentional]].
*With its scratches and angled spikes positioned against burnt trees, [[Airachnid's ship]] resembles a hairy spider in one shot.
{{-}}

==Home video releases==

==External links==

[[Category:Prime episodes]]

Enter the Nightbird

2011-03-12T19:51:51Z

69.171.168.52: /* Continuity notes */

{{disambig2|the Generation 1 episode|the fictional film|Enter the Nightbird (film)}}
{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=26
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=17
|prev2=Atlantis, Arise!
|next2=Dinobot Island, Part 1
|series3=''[[Generation 2 (cartoon)|The Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=30
|prev3=Day of the Machines
|next3=A Prime Problem
|image=EnterTheNightbird Nightbird starscream.jpg
|caption="All right, now hit Starscream in the groin-plate."
|title="Enter the Nightbird"
|production code=#700-25
|airdate=[[September 30]], 1985
|written by=[[Sylvia Wilson]] [[Richard Milton]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''The Decepticons capture Nightbird, a deadly ninja-bot, and turn her loose on the Autobots.'''

:''Japanese title:'' ナイトバードの影 (''Nightbird no Kage'', "The Shadow of Nightbird")
:''Brazilian title:'' '''A Ninja''' ("Ninja")
:''Russian title:'' '''Poyavlenie Goloobki''' (''Появление Голубки'', "The Appearance of Darling")
:''Italian title:'' '''Progetto Nightbird''' ("Project Nightbird")
==Synopsis==
[[Image:Nightbirdandfujiyama.jpg|left|175px|thumb|"No threat... not a threat at all."]]
The [[Autobot]]s are busily constructing [[detection plate]]s, a new invention of [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]]'s which will make the [[Ark (G1)|base]] more secure by detecting intruders. They're interrupted in their work by a call from [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist]], requesting their help in guarding his latest invention during its unveiling to the world. His curiosity aroused, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus]] agrees when the doctor informs him that the invention is a sophisticated new robot. The Autobots attend the event, though Wheeljack and [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] are more interested in mocking the invention. Finally Dr. Fujiyama unveils [[Nightbird (G1)|Nightbird]], a "female ninja robot". Predictably, the [[Decepticon]]s attack and immediately have the upper hand because the Autobots won’t fight in a hall crowded with humans. As soon as the humans are cleared out, Optimus orders a counter-attack, personally grappling with [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]]. The Autobots are soon fully occupied, allowing [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] to tear the roof off the building, so that [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] can lasso Nightbird and carry the robot away. Their prize obtained, the rest of the Decepticons retreat.

They retire to Megatron's temporary base, a [[Giant Decepticon insignia|masterfully disguised fortress]], where [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] sets to work reprogramming Nightbird and tripling her power. Her first action on being reactivated is to immediately attack Starscream, which gains Megatron's approval. [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] gives her her new orders — infiltrate Autobot headquarters and steal the [[World Energy Chip]] from [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]].

Meanwhile, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus]] is apologetic for their abject failure to protect the robot, and promises to return it back to Dr. Fujiyama quickly and unharmed. The Autobots return to base, Ratchet carrying the injured [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]. Nightbird soon arrives at Autobot HQ as well, avoiding a security camera by accessing the base through the top of the [[Mount St. Hilary|volcano]], eavesdropping on [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]'s puzzled conversation over the Decepticons' latest plan. She neatly avoids Wheeljack's detection plates by magnetizing her feet and walking along the roof. Reaching Teletraan I, she removes the World Energy Chip, plunging the base into darkness and alerting the Autobots to the intruder.

[[Image:Nightbirdspotlight.jpg|right|175px|thumb|Nightbird wants her own [[Spotlight (comics)|spotlight comic]].]]
In her attempt to escape, she first encounters [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] and bashes her way past the startled Autobot. A group of Autobots corners her, but are hampered by the promise they made not to harm her, and she is able to use her ninja abilities to blind them and effect a proper escape. The Autobots pursue her outside, where Optimus spots her on a clifftop and drops her with a stun ray. As [[Bluestreak]] approaches her, she suddenly jumps up and decks him before throwing more spinning blades at his comrades. Optimus stops [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] from firing on her, reminding him again of their promise to Dr. Fujiyama, then attempts to reason with Nightbird. The robot responds by attacking him with her energy sword and stealing his rifle, though she leaves her sword behind.

Watching remotely, Megatron and Bombshell are impressed with Nightbird's work. Starscream less so when Megatron suggests she would make a good replacement for the air commander.

Ratchet and [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] discover the absence of the World Energy Chip and notify Prime. Using [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]'s sensors, the Autobots quickly relocate Nightbird, and Optimus attempts to lure her closer with her sword. She merely takes the weapon and knocks him down. The Autobots continue their attempts, unsuccessfully, to try to bring the ninja 'bot down.

[[Image:Nightbirdprime.jpg|left|175px|thumb|Prime, taking advantage of the fact [[Elita One|Elita]]'s on [[Cybertron (planet)|another planet]].]]
Meanwhile, Starscream has had enough of Megatron's insinuations about replacing him, and decks his leader. He's swiftly restrained by the other Decepticons and trapped in a cage. Megatron turns back to his spying and, seeing that Nightbird has finally been caught by the Autobots in an energy web, orders the Decepticons out on a mission to rescue her and the World Energy Chip. Optimus is able to retrieve the Chip from Nightbird, but it's dropped in the subsequent Decepticon ambush. After a brief spell in Bombshell's possession, Optimus regains the chip, but Megatron responds by freeing Nightbird from her cage and unleashing her on the Autobots.

[[Image:Nightbirdangry.jpg|right|175px|thumb|Hell hath no fury like a Nightbird scorned.]]
Starscream uses a small missile to free himself from the cage in the Decepticon base, and swiftly reaches the battle in time to watch Nightbird overwhelming Optimus with her combat skills. Seeking revenge, the Decepticon uses his [[null-ray]] on Nightbird, disabling her. Megatron is enraged and calls off the attack so everyone can pursue Starscream.

The Autobots make good on their promise by returning Nightbird unharmed to Fujiyama, who decides to put her in storage. Despite being neutralized, Nightbird casts a final, angered glare out at the cold, cold, world.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (1)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (2)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (3)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (4)
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (5)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (6)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (7)
* [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (10)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (11)
* [[Bluestreak]] (15)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (16)
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] (21)

|c2=
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (8)
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] (9)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (12)
* [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (13)
* [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (14)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (17)
* [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (18)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (19)
* [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] (20)

|c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]]
* [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist]]

|c4=
*[[Nightbird (G1)|Nightbird]]
}}

==Quotes==
"Imagine, Autobots playing nursemaid to an Earth robot. It's probably just a glorified wind-up toy."
:—Look who's talking, '''Wheeljack'''.

'''Ratchet''': Dr. Fujiyama's doohickey's under that drape! 
'''Wheeljack''': If it walks, it probably needs a long extension cord. 
'''Ratchet''': Heh heh heh. I wonder if batteries are included? Heh heh heh. 
'''Wheeljack''': When they turn it on, it'll probably blow the lights! 
'''Optimus''': We're here to guard the robot, not make jokes at its expense.
:—Wheeljack and Ratchet, masters of diplomacy

"Ah, why build a robot ninja, doctor? Isn't that rather dangerous?"
:—The '''guy with the white mustache''' asks what we're all thinking.

"I bring you greetings, Optimus Prime...lethal greetings!"
:—'''Megatron'''. His writers don't get paid enough.

"I love warping minds for you, Megatron...love it!"
:—'''Bombshell''', the spokesman for ''Grand Theft Auto''.

"I'm open to suggestions...and you don't need to raise your hands before you speak."
:—Shouldn't '''Optimus Prime''' have said something like "raise your finger components" instead?

"She's not so hot!" 
"She's hot enough to replace you whenever I choose!"
:—'''Starscream''' and '''Megatron''' utter the words that launch a thousand [[fanfic]]s.

"Yes, you're definitely on my replacement list, Starscream.... Hahaha, she's everything I've always wanted!"
:—'''Megatron'''. Aw, all he wanted was some love.

==Notes==
===Animation or technical glitches===
* Throughout the entire episode, the volume of the background music is a notch or two lower than normal, making it sound rather unemphatic.
* The top of Ironhide's torso is colored red instead of gray as Wheeljack says his "nursemaid" line. In the same scene, the bottom of Wheeljack's "ears" aren't flashing along with the rest of them.
* The ''round'' auditorium building somehow contains a ''rectangular'' auditorium. Later shots show the auditorium as having a domed ceiling, which is consistent with the exterior shot but doesn't make a lick of sense spatially. As Optimus apologizes to Dr. Fujiyama later in the episode, the ruined auditorium is suddenly round. Also, the opening pan across the auditorium also shows it to be of ''incredibly '' huge scale.
* As he and Ratchet crack jokes about the robot, the top segment of the side of Wheeljack's chest is colored windshield blue instead of metal armor white.
* For the most part, the episode is ''amazingly'' consistent about where the Autobots are during the unveiling of Nightbird, but as the robot is revealed, Prowl and Mirage are shown right next to each other, when they were a hundred feet apart a second before.
* When Rumble and Frenzy break into the show room, Rumble's pile drivers are rectangular prisms instead of the usual cylinders.
* One gun, many lasers:
** Frenzy's lasers pass right through the fleeing humans without affecting them. He's also somehow firing like 5 or 6 lasers at once from his two guns.
* When Optimus Prime gets shot in the back by Megatron, he grunts and oophs in Mirage's voice.
* The "triple power booster" that Bombshell places in Nightbird's torso couldn't possible fit in the space that's shown.
* Ratchet has no red detailing in ambulance mode as he offers a lift to Brawn.
* Ratchet has a side hatch instead of his usual rear hatch as Mirage loads Brawn into him. Brawn is loaded in sideways, meaning Ratchet is wider than Brawn is tall.
* Mirage shines a light on Nightbird from an area of his chest that clearly is not a light of any kind.
* The first commercial break totally cuts off the background music in mid-phrase.
* Cliffjumper's brow is missing its details and color as he aims at Nightbird.
* When Nightbird's lightsaber is shot and deactivated, the sound effects continue for about two more seconds before they stop.
* Jazz's mouth disappears for a second as he goes to help Prime to his feet.
* Missing Seeker emblems:
** Skywarp has no wing insignia as he watches the video screen in the [[Giant Decepticon insignia|Decepticon base]].
** Starscream has only one insignia as he punches Megatron. Skywarp has none a second later as he holds Starscream, and again as he backs away from the energy cage.
** Starscream has no insignia as he lands at the battle site.
** Thundercracker and Skywarp have no insignia as the Decepticons fly off after Starscream. In fact, Skywarp doesn't seem to have his insignia at any point during the episode. Seriously, is there a single episode where they didn't screw this up?
* Miscolored Seeker nosecones:
** Starscream's top and bottom cockpit segments are yellow instead of gray as Bombshell challenges him.
** Skywarp and Thundercracker both have all-yellow nosecones as they transform to leave the base.
** Skywarp's nosecone is gray as he and everybody else transforms and launches during the start of the battle.
** Starscream's nosecone goes from all-yellow to all-gray as he leaves the base and transforms.
** Starscream's bottom nosecone segment is yellow instead of gray as he laughs at Megatron. As he transforms and flies off, his nosecone is entirely yellow. Seriously, is there a single episode where they didn't screw ''this'' up?
* Why does Hound's infrared ''beep''? Is it a radar?
* As usual, Mirage only leaves footprints when he's invisible.
* "She jammed it!" Cliffjumper says, when Nightbird throws Bluestreak's missile into his glass gas nozzle. Couldn't he just... pull the missile out?
* The animators missed a note about what Starscream was supposed to do inside the energy cage. He's all like "You can't keep me in here, Megatron! AHHHHHHH!", as if he rushed the cage and got zapped by it or something, but the animation shows him just standing there, which makes it seem like he expects to shout the system down. Sure enough, the original script contains the following direction:
:ANGLE ON MEGATRON as he moves closer to the cage.
:MEGATRON: Well, I don't see why not...!
:Starscream tries to punch at Megatron, but when his fist hits the power grid, it creates ELECTRICAL SPARKS. Starscream draws his hand back, holding it in pain.
:STARSCREAM: (SCREAMS!)<ref name="serpentslair">[http://www.theplumedserpent.com/SerpentsEye/ETN.html "Enter The Nightbird" episode review at The Serpent's Lair]</ref>
* Hound is missing all his chest details as Optimus reacts to Megatron's arrival. It suddenly appears as the Autobots attack.
* What on earth is that weird energy ripple sound effect as Starscream drops out of the sky? As Starscream lands, his eyes are blue instead of red.
* As Starscream knocks out Nightbird, the [[null ray]] gets a truncated Autobot laser sound effect instead of the Decepticon sound.
* A dialog or script editing flub results in Starscream bizarrely gloating "Say good night to your ''Megatron''!" after blasting Nightbird. Per the original script, the line was meant to go "Say good night to your <something>, Megatron!", but whatever the original noun was, it was crossed out in black and the word "Robotessa" was hand-written in its place. <ref name="serpentslair" /> The baffling question of what the heck a "Robotessa" is aside, this hand-written re-write was apparently overlooked when the dialogue script for the recording of the episode was written up, as the spoken line shows no signs of being edited or cut-and-pasted back together, indicating that Chris Latta genuinely spoke it aloud in recording as it appears in the show. It ''would'' make sense if Starscream was addressing it towards Nightbird, but he's not.
* The glow of Nightbird's eyes starts a second before the accompanying sound effect.

===Continuity errors===
* Wheeljack's detection panels don't make any sense. They're just glorified metal detectors, that react to metal, the very thing that the Autobots and Autobot Headquarters are made of. The Autobots put them all over the ''floor'', to detect their flight-capable enemies. So does that mean the Autobots can no longer use that particular corridor?
* The scientists' reactions to Nightbird seem a bit overwrought considering that the robot has yet to do anything besides stand there.
* Dr. Fujiyama assures us that Nightbird is "not meant for battles or assassinations" as we pan over the robot. So... just what ''are'' those short knives and nunchucks and throwing stars meant for? Is Nightbird supposed to ''stab'' her way into "the horizons of robotic research"?
* The Autobots didn't think to post anybody ''outside'' the building? Since that's, y'know, where the Decepticons would come from?
* Why do the Decepticons need a whole new base just for the Nightbird project? What possible advantage does it serve?
* When Prime apologizes for losing Nightbird to the Decepticons, Doctor Fujiyama's response is that no one could have predicted it happening. Except... that's why he called the Autobots in the first place! Being a rather stereotypical Japanese guy, maybe he's just too polite to tell Prime that he botched it.
* This is the only time that Autobot Headquarters is shown to have an elevator going up into the volcano's cone. [[The Ultimate Doom, Part 2|Earlier]] and [[Dinobot Island, Part 2|later]] episodes contradict this notion. And just what are Prowl and Spike doing up there, anyway?
* How come the detection panels don't go off when Nightbird waves her hand next to them?
* Why is Prime helping repair Brawn? Repairs aren't usually his gig.
* Improbable viewpoints:
** Why/how does Ratchet get a third-person view of Optimus and the others when he calls them up via Teletraan I?
** How is Megatron watching the whole battle from his base? Is Laserbeak there keeping tabs or something? Or is this another instance of him putting [[The Master Builders|cameras inside every random rock]]?
* At the end of the second act, Nightbird gets the drop on Prime and raises her sword as if to slice him in half. At the opening of the third act, however, she's just standing there in front of him, idly spinning the sword around, then turns and runs away for no real reason.
* Nightbird's "magnetic feet" reappear later in the episode, when she's climbing... a rock face.
* "Watch how my anti-matter blaster eats up energy!" Megatron says. We feel this amazing breach of science needs no further elaboration. (The intended idea ''may'' have been that the blaster is highly energy-consumptive and could absorb the energy net as a power supply or something; however, what's shown instead is that ''firing'' the gun ''at'' the energy net somehow dissipates it.)
* "I'm so glad you have returned Nightbird... and not a scratch on her chassis!" What about that big hole in her back from just the previous scene?
* "Safely locked up... ''forever''!" Why not just take her to pieces, then?

===Continuity notes===
* Gadgets and powers:
** Nightbird's gadgets: [[Wikipedia:Nunchaku|nunchaku]] (unused), a pair of [[Wikipedia:Sai (weapon)|''sai'' daggers]] (also unused), a wrist-mounted grappling hook, magnetic feet (they also work on rocks!), fist-replacing sawblades, [[Wikipedia:Metsubushi|some kind of spin/make bright light/disappear gimmick]], an endless supply of hip-stored energized [[Wikipedia:Shuriken|shuriken]], a lightsaber, another unused weapon which hilt is visible on her "backpack", a glowing magnetic tractor beam, and stereo speaker-nullifying metal donuts. Additionally, she vanishes after jumping over a cliff edge, leading Mirage to wonder if she has the power of invisibility.
** Cliffjumper's [[glass gas]] is a fiery glue-like substance in this episode, which he fires from a retractable wrist nozzle.
** Starscream can fire a tiny little missile from an elevating launcher on his wrist.
* In [[3H Productions|3H]]'s [[Universe (2003 comic)|''Universe'' comics]], Nightbird returned as a savage horde, which forced [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] to kill himself and [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] to destroy them...which goes to show that they ''are'' good for something.
* [[Attack of the Autobots|<<]] '''Brawn vs. Soundwave''' Round 4 goes to Soundwave. Score: Brawn 3, Soundwave 1 [[Child's Play (episode)|>>]]
* Megatron is in love with Nightbird! He is just using the energy chip as a diversion to his fellow Decepticons.

===Real-world references===
* The title could be a reference to the film ''[[wikipedia:Enter_the_Dragon|Enter the Dragon]]''. This would not be the last time the film is referenced in a Transformers series.
* ''Star Wars'' sound effects:
** Nightbird's lightsaber ignites with the standard Star Wars lightsaber effect, and gets the usual lightsaber-waving sound effects repeatedly when it's used.
** The seeker ball that Luke trains with aboard the ''Millennium Falcon'' can be heard darting about as Nightbird waves her sword at the approaching Optimus Prime.

===Trivia===
* The first ''female'' ninja robot? So are there already a lot of ''male'' ninja robots running around out there?

* Dr. Fujiyama's assertion that "the technical components are irreplaceable, and are needed for research" is... curious. If he built the thing himself, why would it be so impossible to manufacture new parts?

* When the Autobots are chasing Nightbird up a cliff, Cliffjumper can't jump the cliff. This has been the source of much fandom snickering over the years. Congratulations, fandom; you get the joke. Good job.

* Back in the late 1990s, this episode was at the center of a huge and long-running [[fandom]] flap on [[alt.toys.transformers]], initiated by [[Raksha|certain Decepticon fans]] who interpreted Nightbird's scowl as a clear sign that she was a sapient life form, rather than a mindless automaton. In conjunction with certain lines of dialog from Megatron, some fans further concluded that Nightbird could be seen as a romantic foil for Megatron. These arguments and the opposing viewpoints led to much agony for everyone involved.

* The [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave comic]] "[[Infestation (Dreamwave)|Infestation]]" featured Nightbird in her own movie, aptly named ''[[Aztec Theatres|Enter the Nightbird]]''.

* Doctor Fujiyama the ''Famous'' Scientist!

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1994 — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Convoy Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1998 — ''The Transformers'' — Autobot Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 1 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1: Vol. 2 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2003 — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Bumper Collection Special (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 2: Series 2.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] 2008 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 03: Stagione Due Parte Prima ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part One (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory)

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/synopses/enter_the_nightbird.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicle]

[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

Windburn

2010-11-11T04:03:09Z

69.171.161.137: /* Power Core Combiners */

{{faction|decepticon}}
:''Windburn is a [[Decepticon]] [[Commander (PCC)|Commander]] from [[Power Core Combiners]].''

[[Image:PCC_Windburn_&_Darkray.jpg|thumb|300px|Wonder if he yells "Zerg Rush!" everytime he orders the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticon]] hordes into battle?]]

'''Windburn''' is the kind of robot that wins wars. He's a master of modern warfare and has the uncanny ability to hold whole battlefields in his mind, in active real time, no matter how large. Together with [[Darkray]] he masterminds Decepticon troop movements across the battlefield, steering them towards victory.

==Toys==
===''Power Core Combiners''===
*'''Windburn with Darkray''' (Commander Class, 2010)

: Part of a future wave of ''Power Core Combiners'' Commander Class figures, Windburn is a [[redeco]] of [[Searchlight (PCC)|Searchlight]], transforming into a twin-rotor helicopter. He also has a third super-robot torso mode compatible with all ''Power Core Combiner'' drone-limbs. His chestplate has a flip-up Mini-Con [[Powerlinx]] peg that allows him to use any Mini-Con as chest armor, though the nominal choice is his pack-in partner [[Darkray]].
{{comingsoontoy}}

[[Category: Decepticons]]
[[Category: Power Core Combiners characters]]
[[Category: Strategists]]
[[Category: Toy-only characters]]

Interesting sidenote from a Wal-Mart employee: at least one Wal-Mart store has been stocked with copies of Windburn packaged with a green version of Darkray. Although all images on the packaging art and on this site show Darkray in an orange coloration, the figure is indeed a teal-green. All other aspects, however, appear to be accurate.

Darkstream

2010-11-10T22:32:27Z

69.171.161.27: /* Power Core Combiners */

{{faction|decepticon}}
:''Darkstream is a [[Decepticon]] [[Commander (PCC)|Commander]] from [[Power Core Combiners]].''

[[Image:PCC_Darkstream_&_Razorbeam.jpg|thumb|300px|Tomorrow we do it all again, because my job is not day shift or night shift. It's always shift.]]

'''Darkstream''' excels where many of the Decepticons top aces struggle: extreme low altitude combat. He likes nothing more than to trick his opponents into deadly crashes. His [[Mini-Con]] partner [[Razorbeam]] just makes him all the better at it.

==Toys==
===''Power Core Combiners''===
*'''Darkstream with Razorbeam''' (Commander Class, 2010)

: Part of a future wave of ''Power Core Combiners'' Commander Class figures, Darkstream is a [[redeco]] of [[Skyburst]] (without the drone-limbs), transforming into a Firefox MIG-31 fighter jet. He also has a third super-robot torso mode compatible with all ''Power Core Combiner'' drone-limbs. As his mold was originally created for a Power Core 5-pack, he lacks the chestplate [[Powerlinx]] port that would allow him to use a [[Mini-Con]] as chest armor. Despite this, he comes with the Mini-Con [[Razorbeam]], who can instead plug onto the Powerlinx port on the jet fuselage, which ends up on Darkstream's back in robot mode. His hands are [[retool]]ed so that he can hold his partner.
{{comingsoontoy}}

[[Category: Decepticons]]
[[Category: Power Core Combiners characters]]
[[Category: Toy-only characters]]

Edit, 11-10-2010: Purchased at a Wal-Mart, the hands on the copy aquired did NOT have retooled hands for holding the Mini-con in Robot Weapon Mode. Possibly an error on part of Hasbro, seeing as the store was recently stocked with the new line of PCC figures.

Landshark (G1)

2010-03-30T12:54:05Z

69.171.161.43: /* Trivia */

Rampage (BW)

2009-08-28T23:50:55Z

69.171.161.24: /* Notes */

{{factions|predacon|maximal}}

{{disambig3|Rampage}}
:''Rampage is a [[Transmetal]] [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] from the [[Beast Wars (franchise)|Beast Wars]] portion of the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:BWRampage Badspark.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I ate his spark... with a side of fava beans and a nice Chianti.]]
'''Rampage''' (also known as '''Protoform X''') is the awful result of scientific experimentation gone awry. He is a serial killer and cannibal, with an immortal [[spark]] that ensures his twisted brand of horror and misery will live on as long as he does (forever, presumably). Rampage detects and draws strength from the emotions of others, literally feeding on the pain and suffering he causes. As an unwilling conscript of the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]], he is contemptuous (at best) of the rest of his team, typically bored and uncooperative on missions, and he frequently sneaks off for his own purposes to try to relieve his boredom in the most cruel and horrible ways possible.

{{bigquote|Is that fear you are feeling, Maximal? Yes... my spark feeds on terror. Let it grow! Let it consume your circuitry! Feel it, yes, feel it! Feel the fear!|Rampage, "[[Bad Spark]]"}}

:''French-Canadian name:'' '''Furibo'''
:''Italian name:'' '''Granchior'''
:''Polish name'': '''Pieniacz'''
:''Spanish name:'' '''Rampante'''
:''Brazilian name:'' '''Violência''' or '''Destruição''' (both names were used in a rather inconsistent way)

==Fiction==
===Dawn of Future's Past===
[[Image:Protoformxcargo.jpg|left|200px|thumb|The Maximals should consider making their scandalous super-secret projects a little smaller.]]
While preparing for a deep-space exploration mission, the Maximal crew of the ''[[Axalon (BW)|Axalon]]'' stopped for a few weeks at a space station. Here, [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] helped acquire a mysterious complement to their cargo, a very large [[protoform]] branded with an X. The ''Axalon'' was ordered to dispose of "Protoform X" on a barren moon somewhere in the [[Alpha Quadrant]]. However, before its captain, [[Optimus Primal]], was able to explain the circumstances fully to his crew, they were suddenly under even newer orders to pursue a stolen [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] ship, the ''[[Darksyde]]''. Subsequently, the ''Axalon'' followed the ''Darksyde'' through a [[transwarp]] portal and crash-landed on a mysterious planet. {{storylink|Dawn of Future's Past|Dawn of Future's Past}}
{{-}}

===''Beast Wars'' cartoon===
:''Voice Actor:'' [[Campbell Lane]] (English), [[Nobuyuki Hiyama]] (Japanese)

[[Image:BWRampage Badspark thepast.jpg|right|200px|thumb|This is a great way to work out.]]
Protoform X was a [[Maximal]] experiment to recreate [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream's]] mutant, immortal [[Spark]]. Though arguably successful in this regard, the creation was unstable. In point of fact, he was criminally insane. He destroyed [[Colony Omicron]], killing all of its inhabitants save a lone security officer, [[Depth Charge]], who eventually tracked him down and captured him - but not before Protoform X destroyed [[Starbase Rugby]] and ''devoured'' an unknown number of the inhabitants. The [[Maximal Elder|Maximal Elders]] had Protoform X placed into a [[stasis pod]] aboard an exploration vessel, the ''Axalon''. They instructed its commander, Optimus Primal, to dump him on some barren world in deep space.

Protoform X was among the stasis pods jettisoned by Optimus when the ''Axalon'' was damaged by [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron's]] Predacons, and only fell out of orbit far into the Beast Wars. Battle near his stasis pod shocked him into activation, and he promptly set out to terrorize all nearby Transformers, rending Tarantulas limb from limb and stalking Blackarachnia and Silverbolt. (All right, whose bright idea was it to allow the homicidal maniac to keep his weapons!?) X seemed unstoppable at first, but when one of Silverbolt's missiles jammed his tank treads as he climbed up a mountainside, he lost his grip and tumbled down the rock face in pieces.

As Protoform X lay immobilized, Megatron arrived and, using a blade of pure [[Energon (fuel)|energon]], removed a portion of his indestructible spark. Megatron then had him brought back to the Predacon base and repaired. When X attempted to turn his weapons on his "savior", Megatron revealed that he held half of X's spark in a special cage lined with energon crystals, allowing him to torture the beast at will. Megatron thus welcomed him into the Predacon fold, dubbing him "Rampage". {{storylink|Bad Spark|Bad Spark}}

{{quote|None shall hurt you now. Come with me, come. I will protect you... I am your friend. Your only friend.|Rampage convinces Transmutate to follow him, "[[Transmutate (episode)|Transmutate]]"}}

[[Image:BWTransmutate Rampage mourning.jpg|left|200px|thumb|"Alas, poor Transmutate..."]]

Rampage made no secret of his hatred for his new "master". Megatron kept the spark cage with him at all times, fending off at least one attempt by Rampage to take it back. Though a violent sociopath, Rampage was not without compassion. He found a kindred spirit in the badly damaged [[Transmutate]] and sought to protect it from the other Predacons, and became possessive enough to viciously fight with [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] over it. When Transmutate was killed by this fight, Rampage bellowed in grief. {{storylink|Transmutate (episode)|Transmutate}}

Rampage finally met his match in battle when the newly-reformatted Optimus Primal attacked him while he was attempting to push the ''[[Axalon (BW)|Axalon]]'' over the cliff from which it perched. The huge Maximal leader simply shoved him aside, but Rampage had the last laugh as his deflected missile sent the Maximal base plunging into the lake. {{storylink|Optimal Situation|Optimal Situation}}

Later, Depth Charge arrived on prehistoric Earth with the single-minded goal of destroying Rampage. Rampage was beside himself with joy, eager for revenge on his old "playmate". Depth Charge's loss at Colony Omicron had embittered him, and Rampage used this emotional wound to torment the Maximal. {{storylink|Deep Metal|Deep Metal}} Rampage soon met his old enemy again when [[Rattrap]] descended to the bottom of the lake to retrieve the [[Sentinel (BW)|Sentinel]] module from the wreckage of the ''Axalon''. Depth Charge had the upper hand in the battle, but Rampage escaped death when [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] argued with Depth Charge over his commitment to the Maximals. {{storylink|Changing of the Guard|Changing of the Guard}}

[[Image:BWNemesisPt1 DepthCharge Rampage.jpg|right|200px|thumb|THERE CAN BE ONLY...NONE!]]

When Megatron created [[Dinobot 2]], he used Rampage's spark fragment to form the core of the new Predacon, who likewise retained the ability torture Rampage into continued loyalty with it. Naturally, Rampage was filled with fury and disgust at sharing his spark with a 'brother'. {{storylink|Feral Scream Part 1|Feral Scream Part 1}}

Rampage would go on to have a second clash with Silverbolt, targeting him when he was filled with grief and rage over Blackarachnia's death; he'd have killed him easily if Blackarachnia hadn't suddenly become alive again and beaten him up. {{storylink|Crossing the Rubicon}} He almost got his revenge when Megatron ''deliberately gave Blackarachnia to him'' (JESUS CHRIST, MEGS), and was clearly having fun torturing her before she was able to overpower him. {{storylink|Master Blaster}}

While Megatron was retrieving the submerged [[Decepticon]] craft ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', Depth Charge met Rampage in battle one last time. At the battle's climax, Rampage allowed Depth Charge to kill him with a shard of raw Energon, resulting in a fantastic explosion which destroyed both. Rampage won even in death, laughing maniacally in triumph as Depth Charge made the final, stabbing blow. {{storylink|Nemesis Part 1|Nemesis Part 1}}

===''Beast Wars Metals'' comic===
He's a Frankenstein's monster-like thing.
He ate Primal's head. It's okay, Primal had a spare.
One more thing. The head Rampage ate had a bomb in its mouth. Idiot.

===''Beast Wars Transmetals''===

{{charstubfiction}}

==Toys==
===Beast Wars===
[[Image:BW Rampage toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|A [[Seafood Louis]] eater's worst nightmare.]]
*'''Rampage''' (Ultra Transmetal, 1998)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-41'''
**''Accessories:'' Spring-loaded triple barrel missile launcher, 3 missiles and 1 rifle

:Rampage transforms into a Transmetal king crab with a tank mode that includes rubber treads. In beast mode, he features fully articulated crab legs and pincers that can open, close and be posed in a variety of angles through the use of ratcheting joints. His triple-barreled Gatling missile launcher is stored on the underside of the beast mode, with its barrels flipping to the front during vehicle mode. In this tank mode, the crab legs fit together to form a road wheel network for Rampage's rubber treads to fit over so he can roll upon them. Rolling the tank activates the wheel in the missile launcher, firing any or all of the three missiles that can store in it.

:In robot mode, Rampage is an imposingly large figure with a decent level of articulation due to his ball joints, but because he wears most of his beast mode as a sort of backpack, he is quite back-heavy. His (very) small laser rifle and his triple-barreled launcher can be held in both of his hands. There were two releases of the toy, one with face colors accurate with the show and another with an orange colored face (seen to the right).

:The location of four of the crab legs in the show is not accurate to the toy; the show has the legs on the shoulder pads, whereas the toy situates the legs on Rampage's arms (which mean they are rather cumbersome).

:The Japanese version features noticeably different colors, including a more extensive use of silver deco on the robot chest and head, a deeper and more intense red "X" on the crab carapace, and most impressively, the robot head and limbs are now made from translucent blood-red plastic instead of opaque orange.

: This toy was later [[Redeco|redecoed]] into the [[BotCon 2000]]-[[exclusive]] [[Shokaract]].

::''*[http://www.tfu.info/1998/Predacon/Rampage/rampage.htm More information on Rampage at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

==Notes==
[[Image:Rampage-backofthebox.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Despite the terror claws, not a gangsta.]]

* According to the series background materials published in the ''[[Beast Wars Universe]]'' guidebook, Rampage's body was supposed to have been constructed out of leftover G1-era [[Reproduction|technology]] seen in the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] due to the lack of know-how for protoform technology. How this jibes with his status as "Protoform X" is anyone's guess.
* In some episodes, Rampage's robot-mode mouth is animated as an actual hole in his face; in others the external mouthplates are shown to be in front of a greenish solid construct that looks like an extension of his eyes.
* Some fans are split on how to interpret Rampage's death; he is clearly shown to let go of the energon shard that killed him prior to being stabbed with it, to which Depth Charge reacted in surprise. Because of this, some fans feel this means Rampage, knowing he couldn't win the struggle, allowed himself to be impaled in order to end his torturous existence (and laughing in the giddy euphoria of oblivion), while others believe he deliberately let go to test whether or not Depth Charge would go through with his threat of ending his life, his laughter instead being taken as solace in the knowledge that Depth Charge's obsession with him had successfully corrupted him into the same kind of monster he wanted to kill. Or, Rampage is totally Insane...Like That guy from the "Shinning" Insane!
* No explanation is ever given for why energon suddenly kills Rampage, even though Megatron's been poking his spark with it ever since he appeared. Although the fact the energon was unstable may have had something to do with it.
* Also, the difference between the splitting (and subsequent torturing) of Rampage's spark, and Depth Charge's fateful blow may be seen to be the same as the difference between surgery and hacking at someone with a sword, with the same difference in results.
* Back-of-the-box art for Rampage gives technical designations to some of his robot mode parts; they include "terror claws", armor plating, and the ever-dreaded [[Galva-conductor|galva-conductors]].

[[Category:Maximals]]
[[Category:Predacons]]
[[Category:Transmetals]]
[[Category:Triple Changers]]