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Flight

2009-12-16T11:41:04Z

70.212.137.201: /* Trivia */

'''Flight''' is a capability many mechanoids and no few [[Transformer|Transformers]] have, whether through rocket boosters, propellers, or even flapping wings. It has proven quite useful strategically in many continuities.

==Jet-powered flight==
The most common means by which Transformers fly is some variation on jet-propulsion engines, rocket engines, or similar. Transformers such as the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] have such thrusters built into their legs, while other individuals such as [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] possess removable jet-packs which strap to their backs.

===Transformers with jet-powered flight===
*[[Grimlock (G1)|Dinomode Grimlock]]<ref>[[Call of the Primitives]]</ref>
*[[Inferno (BW)]]
*[[Megatron (BW)|Transmetal Megatron]]
*[[Optimus Primal]]
*[[Starscream (Movie)]]
*[[Autobot X]]
*[[Megatron (Animated)]]

==Propeller-powered flight==
Sometimes, by virtue of a Transformer's [[alternate mode]], they can fly by means more primitive than they might be accustomed to on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. Using airplane propellers, helicoptor rotors, or other similar technologies they can fly at speeds comparable to native aircraft on the worlds they are residing upon.

===Transformers with propeller-powered flight===
*[[Divebomb (Classics)|''Classics'' Divebomb]]
*[[Obsidian (BM)]]
*[[Blackout (Movie)]]
*[[Cyclonus (Armada)]]
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]]
*[[Powerdive]]
*[[Ransack (G2)]]
*[[Octane|Tankor (Universe ''Classic series'')]]
*[[Megatron (Animated)]]

==Biological flight==
Many transformers have a physical pair of beast-mode wings, whether natural-looking or mechanical. In these cases, the transformer's flight derives from flapping these wings or gliding much like an animal would.

===Transformers with biological flight===
*[[Airazor (BW)]] / [[Airazor (Armada)]]
*[[Divebomb (G1)]]
*[[Megatron (BW)|Transmetal 2 Megatron]]
*[[Nightscream (BM)]]
*[[Silverbolt (BW)]]
*[[Swoop (G1)]]
*[[Terrorsaur (BW)|Terrorsaur]]
*[[Waspinator (BW)]]

==Levitation==
Some Transformers just float, often by no apparent means. It isn't always that well explained in the fiction, though certainly there exist transformers with anti-gravity generators and other technologies which allow them to maneuver effortlessly even within a gravitational field.

===Transformers with levitation===
[[Image:Soundwave fly.jpg|right|180px|thumb|I'm flyin' without wings!]]
*[[Shockwave (G1)]]
*[[Sky-Byte (RID)]]
*[[Transmutate (character)|Transmutate]]
*[[Soundwave (G1)]]

==Robot-mode flight==
[[Image:G1 cartoon Autobots fly.JPG|right|200px|thumb|A rare instance of flying.]]
Robot-mode flight powers are an innovative power that allows [[Transformer|Transformers]] without a flight-based [[alternate mode]] to fly while in robot mode. The [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] make good use of this power.

Sometimes the [[Autobot|Autobots]] have them....sometimes they don't. Most often they display them early in Season 1 of the US cartoon, particularly the pilot. It is uncertain if they require external equipment to fly; several times the Autobots use strap-on jet packs or rocket packs, but sometimes they don't.

Robot-mode flight was prevalent in the post-movie episodes, in which the focus was shifted to space (perhaps, taking a hint from the Gundam franchise.) Although some characters could not fly under the influence of a planet's gravity, ''everyone'' seemed to possess the power of flight in deep space.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
Transformers did not demonstrate robot-mode levitation-type flight.

===Generation 1 cartoon===
Robot-mode flight powers were a technological innovation that allowed the Decepticons, who had just mastered the art of [[Transformation]], to start a [[Great War (G1)|new war]] and battle the Autobots for supremacy of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. Their initial attacks were not a matter of public knowledge, and some Autobots, such as [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Orion Pax]] and [[Dion]], admired them for their innovations. This admiration was ended when [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] blasted Orion, Dion, and [[Elita One|Ariel]]. It was to Megatron's detriment, however, for [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]] rebuilt Orion and Ariel into [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Elita One]]. {{storylink|War Dawn}}

Eventually, the Autobots also mastered robot-mode flight powers, and they used them to reach an oil rig which the Decepticons were plundering. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}} Ironhide and Bluestreak pursued the fleeing Decepticons into the air, though Skywarp had little difficulty shooting down Ironhide. Optimus required the use of [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]'s rocket pack to catch up to the space-bound [[Victory (ship)|Decepticon ship]] shortly afterwards, implying a limit on the speed or range of his flight capabilities. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 3}} Sideswipe and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] also used robot-mode flight powers in their use of [[jet judo]] against [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] attacking the [[Ark (G1)|Autobot base]]. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

The Decepticons' own flight capabilities have known to fail them at times too. In one instance, under a barrage of firepower, Optimus and the Autobots drove the Decepticons back until they fell down a canyon into lava, instead of simply flying out. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}}

The Autobots' ability to fly in robot mode effectively vanished after that. To reach Dinobot Island, Optimus Prime and a crew of Autobots used strap-on jetpacks. Even Autobots with flying alternate modes did not seem able to fly in robot mode, though [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] seemed able to maneuver in space while in robot mode.

The newly created Dinobots could fly in robot mode, an ability they consistently demonstrated throughout their history. Their creator, [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], was also shown flying in robot mode apparently unassisted, an ability his on-package [[bio]] claims for him. {{storylink|S.O.S. Dinobots}}

In the years following the defeat of Unicron, a number of Autobots were seen to fly through space without any visible aid or means of propulsion. Notable among them was Perceptor, who had never before demonstrated such an ability. Before one such instance, Sky Lynx advised the Autobots in question to "don your rocket packs, gentlemen!" The Technobots all flew in robot mode from Earth to Saturn's moon Titan.

Despite the Autobots' rare display of this ability, some claim they do not have it at all. [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] once said outright that "Autobots cannot fly," himself flying easily over a booby trap, while his apparently earthbound Autobot companions remained helpless. Then again, Galvatron is beyond psychotic. {{storylink|The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2}}

===Beast Wars cartoon===
Early in this series, the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]] had a tactical advantage due to the imbalance of flight-capable individuals in their faction. Initially, only [[Optimus Primal]] could provide air support for the [[Maximal|Maximals]], and then only in robot-mode, which was risky in the [[Energon (fuel)|energon]]-rich environment. However as more [[Protoform|Protoforms]] were formatted and pressed into service, particularly [[Airazor (BW)|Airazor]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]], the balance of forces became more even.

Sufficient volumes of energon itself, of a certain level of instability, are said to have the ability to cause large objects to float {{storylink|Power Surge}}.

[[Transmutate (character)|Transmutate]] had an apparently unique flight mechanism: it extended a crystalline object from within its body, and when the crystal was exposed to air, it gave off an intense energy field and then caused its user to levitate. Since Transmutate was a malformed, incomplete design, this might have been a display of widespread Transformer flight technology that otherwise would always be internal and unseen.

===IDW comics===
Back before the war, information on scientific breakthroughs in levitation/"repulsors" that could lead to robot-mode flight abilities caught the greedy optics of Senator [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]], who manipulated the stock to take control. Given that he offered a variety of war-tech to the fledgling Decepticons under Megatron, this may be intended as a reference to or origin for their robot-form flight abilities; however, the Decepticons have demonstrated no such abilities in the IDW continuity. This may be an artifact of this storyline's planning and even possible scripting during the latter days before the [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] bankruptcy.

===Cybertron cartoon===
Robot mode flight powers were tied to the ability to fly in vehicle mode, indicating that all Transformers with flight-capable alternate modes possessed internal repulsors or vertical thrusters. Faction did not come into it. A Transformer who went from vehicle mode to robot mode while in flight would lose considerable momentum doing so, a factor often used to land in confined areas. Most flight was typically carried out in vehicle mode, as it was faster and typically more agile. Interestingly, all Transformers were capable of robot mode flight in zero gravity ([[Six-Speed|and]] [[Reverb (Cybertron)|some]] were capable of it in ''car'' modes). Given the way things work in zero gravity, the robot mode flight in such conditions is actually quite natural, albeit slow.

===Transformers Animated===
Autobots did not possess flight, save for limited jumps using booster jets. However, the capture of the Decepticon Starscream allowed the Autobot [[Ministry of Science]] to reverse-engineer flight protocols and implant them in a pair of energon refinery maintenance bots. The result was [[Jetfire (Animated)|Jetfire]] and [[Jetstorm (Animated)|Jetstorm]], whose origins as a split protoform granted them other new abilities as a result of the process, including becoming a [[combiner]]. {{storylink|First (and Second) in Flight}}

===TransTech continuity===
[[Tonka GoBots|GoBots]] all have robot-mode flight systems. {{storylink|Withered Hope}}

===Live-action film series===

Some Transformers have robot-mode flight with the aid of "jetpacks" and other flight systems.

====''Ghosts of Yesterday''' prequel novel====
Autobots and Decepticons alike can fly under gravity in robot mode by using "propulsion." {{storylink|Ghosts of Yesterday}}

==Trivia==
*Despite all these advanced flight abilities, Cybertronians seem incapable of actually ''landing'' successfully after [[The Story of Wheelie, the Wild Boy of Quintesson|achieving]] [[Cosmos (G1)|flight]]. [[Ark (G1)|There]] [[Nemesis (G1)|are]] [[Axalon (BW)|many]], [[Darksyde|many]] [[Jetfire (G1)|instances]] [[Megatron (Movie)|of]] [[Exodus (Armada)|infamous]] [[Miranda II|crashes]] [[Ark II|within]] [[Orion|the]] [[Transition form|fictions]]. In fact, [[Jetfire]] makes somewhat of a reference to this in [[ROTF]], when he botches his own landing, commenting on it sarcastically as he does.

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Transformer anatomy]]

Combiner

2009-12-16T11:12:09Z

70.212.137.201: /* Unused concepts */

[[Image:GestaltTrioTVMagazine.jpg|right|300px|thumb|The most devastating case of tea-bagging ever.]]
A '''combiner''' is a group of Transformers that assemble and combine their bodies into a single machine, or that composite machine itself. Most combiners form a larger Super Robot with its own unique personality (a character in its own right), but other varieties of combiner exist, forming vehicles, weapons, or other items. Combiners tend to be considerably larger and more powerful than the average Transformer, equivalent to strategic-grade weapons.

There are a number of combiner-related terms that can be easy to mix up, partially because some of them are used interchangeably. Additionally, most of them have no formal definition and thus may be used differently by different fans. Consequently, most of the discussion which follows should not be taken as the word of [[Primus]], but as a rough description of common usage.

==Terms for combiners==
[[Image:Combiner logo.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Worst...logo...ever.]]
'''Combiner''': As above, a member of a group of Transformers who assemble into a composite form. Also refers to that composite form itself. This is the most general term for all combining Transformers. "Combiner" is the most common term for combining Transformers that has been used by Hasbro in an official capacity, starting with the ''[[Micromaster]] Combiners'' from 1990 (with the exception of the more limited "special teams" and a recent official use of the term "gestalt"), having even appeared with its own logo on ''[[Robots in Disguise (franchise)|Robots in Disguise]]'' toy packaging.

[[Image:DevastatorDissectionDreamwave.jpg|right|250px|thumb|What, no Terror Claws? No Cranium Regulation Unit? What kind of lame dissection is this?!]]
'''Gestalt''': Fan-terminology for a certain class of combiners—generally used only for "big robot" combiners with emergent personalities. The term is nebulously defined, such that some fans would consider a two-member combiner such as [[Squawkbox]] a gestalt, but other fans would not. This is probably the fandom's second most frequently-used term for combining Transformers. Its use in Transfandom is derived from the principle of [[wikipedia:gestalt_psychology|gestalt psychology]], which is sometimes simplified to mean "greater/different than the sum of its parts," though a few fans consider this term pretentious and obtuse. The term remained firmly in realm of [[fanon]] for years, although it did appear in some ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' design sketches implying that Hasbro designers used the term occasionally, until in 2007 "gestalt" [[Canonizing|made its first official appearance]], in the bio of the ''[[Titanium Series]]'' [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] toy, once more in 2007's "[[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]]" referring to [[Monstructor]], and again in 2009 in the "[[First (and Second) in Flight]]" comic where [[Perceptor (Animated)|Perceptor]] describes [[Jetfire (Animated)|Jetfire's]] & [[Jetstorm (Animated)|Jetstorm's]] combination into [[Safeguard (Animated)|Safeguard]] as a sort of "gestalt powerlink".

'''Scramble City combiner''': A specific type of [[The Transformers (toyline)|Generation 1]] giant gestalt that follows the five-member design featured in the Japanese "[[Scramble City]]" OVA. The team leader is larger than the other members and forms the main body of the combiner, while the others are smaller and form the limbs. The limbs are interchangeable, although there is always a generally-accepted “normal” formation. Further, the limbs are interchangeable from one Scramble City combiner to another, making for a large number of bizarre combinations. (See [[Abomenaticus]], [[Autobot Super Scramble]], [[Comperian]], [[Decepticon Super Scramble]], and [[Scramble 7]].) Limbs are also able to attach to and augment Metroplex & Metrotitan (see “Trivia” below). Note that this term is purely descriptive rather than being a proper name.

'''Special Team''': A synonym for Scramble City combiner. When the Scramble City toys were marketed in Europe they were referred to as Special Teams, and the term even appeared in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|UK comic book]] series. The term was used in some marketing materials in the US, such as packing lists for the toy [[Case assortment|case assortments]], but never appeared in US fiction until the [[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide|''Ultimate Guide'']] was published in 2004. It was also used as the name for a [[Target]] [[exclusive]] five-pack of [[redeco]]s of ''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' [[Legends Class|Legends]] toys released under the ''[[Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]]'' banner, "Special Team Leaders". Ironically, none of these toys were actually ''combiners''—the term simply referred to the ''characters'', since the redecos were [[homage]]s to the leaders of ''Generation 1'' combiner times, four of which were "Scramble City" combiners.

'''Super Robot''': A robot which is formed through the combination of two or more Transformers. Powered-up robot modes composed of only one Transformer who combines with some of their own accessories are often also referred to as Super Robots, such as [[Powermaster]] [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] or the incarnations of Prime from ''Robots in Disguise'' and all three ''[[Unicron Trilogy]]'' series. It is probably safe to informally refer to any such mode as a Super Robot (thus including, say, G1 [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and ''Energon'' [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]]). Note that this means Super Robots are not always combiners and do not have to have their own personality. Rather, Super Robot and combiner are two different categories of Transformer which ''sometimes'' overlap. A one-robot Super Robot may also be referred to as that robot's [[Super Mode]].

'''Fusilateral quintrocombiner''': Coined by [[Simon Furman]] in [[Swarm (issue)|issue 9]] of the [[Generation 2 (Marvel Comics)|''Generation 2'' comic]] to refer to the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]. It presumably is meant to refer to all the Scramble City teams except possibly the Seacons, as their combined forms consist of six robots (not five, so they could possibly be fusilateral hexocombiners I guess...). It may also apply to the Predacons, but it doesn't matter because nobody uses this term anyway.

'''Amalgam model''': Yet another obscure term for combiners first used by Simon Furman via [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] in the "[[Devastation Derby!]]" story in the UK comic books.

==Types of combiner==
As mentioned above, most combiners form a super robot. However, there are many other types of combining in the Transformers multiverse.

In the ''Energon'' franchise, most of the Autobot characters were able to combine with each other in pairs much like ''[[Victory (franchise)|Victory]]'''s [[Multiforce]]. These combined forms can probably be considered Super Robots. The combined form was simply controlled by whichever Autobot was "on top". Make whatever jokes you will.

''Generation 1'' contains many examples of combined [[Alternate mode|alternate modes]], including [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]], [[Dreadwing (G1)|Dreadwing]], [[Big Powered]], the [[Triple Combination Battlestar Attack|Battlestar]], and the [[Targetmaster|Double Targetmasters]].

The [[Micromaster Combiner|Micromaster Combiners]] are made up of Transformers whose altmodes combine into vehicles, with one partner being the front and another the rear. The combined forms do not have specific names. Thanks to the generic peg-and-socket connection method used, any two Micromaster combiners can be linked (though some such as the dump truck/space shuttle combo may attract comment). These altmode combiners should not be confused with the Micromaster "Sixcombiners", six-robot teams who combine to form a Super Robot.

The [[Unicron Trilogy]]'s [[Mini-Con|Mini-Cons]] brought to the fiction combined weapon modes, like the [[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]] & [[Dark Saber]] swords, [[Requiem Blaster]] cannon, and [[Skyboom Shield]].

==Not combiners==
Not all cases of multiple things attaching to each other are combiners. As mentioned above, many Super Robots—which are formed through a conglomeration of parts—are not combiners. [[Landmine (Energon)|''Energon'' Landmine]], for example.

A similar case can be found in [[multi-component Transformer|Transformers who have two or more "components" which combine into a single entity]]. [[Sky Lynx (G1)|G1 Sky Lynx]] has lynx and dino-bird components, [[Omega Supreme (G1)|G1 Omega Supreme]] has tank, base, and rocket components, and [[Magmatron]] has three dinosaur components. However, all of these components are considered to be "part of" the overall Transformer, even through they can act independently. The [[Duocon]]s are another case of this sort. All of these examples are ''not'' combiners because there is only ''one'' Transformer involved in each of them, regardless of how many bodies that Transformer may simultaneously operate. Such robots are occasionally referred to as "Reverse Combiners" within the fandom.

(Confusing things further are the comics which treated Sky Lynx and the Duocons as triple changers, able to transform between the combined mode and the ones for individual components without any parts separating off.)

Sometimes a smaller Transformer will attach to and enhance a larger Transformer in some way. This is the case when Mini-Cons powerlink with bulks, as well as with [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] partners like [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], [[Powermaster]]s/[[Godmaster]]s, [[Kiss Player]]s and [[Breastforce]] members. Although these examples do include more than one Transformer (or a Transformer and a fleshling), they are not considered "combiners". The simplest justification for this is that, in these cases, the "combined" form is almost exactly the same in appearance as the non-combined form.

And sometimes [[Beast (G1)|things just combine for no real reason at all. Just deal with it. We hate it, oh God yes, but there it is. We're sorry.]]

==Fiction==
===Generation 1===
====Marvel comics continuity====
=====Combiner teams=====
{{noteukonly}}
The [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s were designed and built by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] as the first combiner team. They were given life through [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]] energy stored in [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'s head. The Constructicons had considerable difficulty coordinating together as Devastator in their first mission. {{storylink|The Next Best Thing to Being There!}}

''The [[Special Teams]] were first conceived within [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]]'s mind shortly after the human had relinquished control of the Creation Matrix to Optimus Prime. Shockwave was able to view this data remotely and prepare for their development.'' {{storylink|Second Generation!}}

Seeing the potential in combiner technology, the Autobots decided to learn how to utilize it themselves. They staged an attack on a Decepticon coal mining base which drew out the Constructions. When they combined, [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] was there recording their transformation pattern. {{storylink|Command Performances!}} They used this information to construct the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s. Unfortunately, they were forced to go on their first mission with only [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt's]] personality programming completed, leaving the rest of the team, and [[Superion (G1)|Superion]], rather indifferent towards [[human]] casualties. {{storylink|Aerialbots over America!}} After their first mission proved a failure, Optimus Prime had [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] wipe their memory, and started reprogramming them with the Creation Matrix. However, [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]], who had gotten a lift to the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] on Silverbolt's plane mode, had injected Optimus Prime with a [[cerebro-shell]] with which [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] was able to steal energy from the Creation Matrix and bring his newly-built combiner team, the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] to life. {{storylink|Heavy Traffic!}} The [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s and [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s next combiner teams to become part of their faction's Earth-bound crew. {{storylink|Afterdeath!}}

{{note|The exact origin of the Protectobots and Combaticons is not revealed.}}

''The combining [[Predacon (G1)|Predacon]]s were summoned to Earth from Cybertron by Megatron.'' {{storylink|Prey!}} The Predacons were ''again'' summoned to Earth by Shockwave. {{storylink|Gone but Not Forgotten!}} The [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s were part of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]'s crew and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcon]]s were part of [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s crew on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. They had the ability to combine. {{storylink|Headmasters (comic)|Headmasters}} ''The [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]]s were combiners that were summoned from Cybertron to Earth by Shockwave.'' {{storylink|Enemy Action!}} They later came under the command of [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]. {{storylink|Club Con!}}

{{note|It is not revealed how the Combiner technology that was developed on Earth was found among these Cybertron based crews. Some of the Decepticons on Cybertron were in contact with Earth Decepticons, so perhaps the technology was passed along and the Cybertron Autobots stole it from the Cybertron Decepticons. Or the Cybertron Transformers just developed the technology independently.}}

=====Other combiners=====
[[Darkwing]] and [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] combine to form [[Dreadwing (G1)|Dreadwing]]. {{storylink|People Power!}} They appear to keep their individual personalities in their combined mode instead of merging their minds.

====Cartoon continuity====
On Cybertron, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]] were existing Transformers who were brainwashed by [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] to become Decepticons. Megatron also adapted them with the ability to combine into [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] to challenge [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. Omega Supreme pursued the Constructicons for millions of years. {{storylink|The Secret of Omega Supreme}} In 1894, the Constructicons were (re?)created on [[Earth]] with the ability to combine to bolster the Decepticons' strength. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

{{note|For more on the conflicting origin of the Constructicons, see [[Constructicon (G1)#Origin inconsistency|here]].}}

The [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]]s and [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s were built from scratch and given personality by [[Vector Sigma]]. They were designed with the ability to combine. {{storylink|The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2}}

[[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] installed the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s [[personality component]]s into junked military vehicles. This brought the vehicles to life with the ability to combine. {{storylink|Starscream's Brigade}}

The [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s became part of the Autobot forces on Earth and were able to combine. {{storylink|The Revenge of Bruticus}}

Years later, the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacon]]s originated as combiners under the command of the [[Quintesson]]s. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5}} The combinable [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcon]]s were part of [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]'s troops. An intellectually enhanced [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] created the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s with the ability to combine. {{storylink|Grimlock's New Brain}}

====Dreamwave comics continuity====
Experiments in combining were conducted both before and during the early phase of the civil war, in a process known as [[mass intellect]]. However, the combined forms suffered in that the stronger minds tended to drown out the weaker ones. Following the failure of the planetary engine turbines, the Constructicons turned their attention to the mass intellect process. They eventually developed a hyper vortex processor that managed to preserve the individuals minds in the combined whole. Testing the process on themselves, the Constructicons combined into Devastator. While the Constructicons were able to preserve their minds, Devastator was hampered by the need of all six Constructicons to agree on a course of action, which was usually destroy the Autobots. As a result, the combined intellects of the Constructicons did not translate to Devastator, who instead suffered serious mental disabilities. Despite this, Devastator's destructive capabilities greatly pleased Megatron, and he ordered the Constructicons to continue their experiments.<ref>[[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide]]</ref>
{{stub}}

====IDW comics continuity====
[[Monstructor]] was the first combiner and was designed through experimentation by [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]]. Unfortunately, in this first prototype, the merging process led to insanity. The team was captured by the Autobots {{storylink|Spotlight: Optimus Prime}} and placed into the custody of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] while [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] and the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]] studied them with the goal of rehabilitating them. The technology stymied Jetfire, who estimated it would take a lot more study before progress could be made. He didn't get the chance, however, since the [[Pretender Monster|Monstructor Six]] were soon captured by the [[Decepticon Secret Service]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Arcee}} Monstructor was then captured by unidentified minions of [[Nova Prime|Nemesis Prime]] {{storylink|Spotlight: Hardhead}} and used to guard the [[Nega-Core]] on Rotan. He was engaged in combat by the Decepticon Secret Service and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] while the Autobots sneaked around him. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sideswipe}}

One year later, the Decepticons have the combiner [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] as part of their army. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 2}}

===Robots in Disguise===

The combined form of the [[Commandos]] is a being named [[Ruination (RID)| Ruination]]. This combiner is controlled almost entirely by [[Mega-Octane]], in order to be a more effective, coordinated being than most other combiners.

[[Optimus Prime (RID)| Optimus Prime]] was capable of combining with his [[Relatives| brother]] [[Ultra Magnus (RID)| Ultra Magnus]] to form [[Omega Prime]].

{{stub}}

===Armada===
Optimus Prime could combine with his trailer to form a Super Mode robot. With this ability at his disposal, he beat the tar out of every Decepticon at least once. Then a new magic mushroom appeared: Jetfire. During a battle with the Decepticons, the Autobots were totally getting slagged by Megatron's new tactician, Thrust. Right when it seemed hopeless, a space shuttle fell from the sky and combined with Optimus to form Jet Optimus. Needless to say, Megatron was rather surprised. The Decepticons kept trying to beat the Autobots and miserably failed each time, frequently due to this new team-up, which also helped the Autobots survive and win the Unicron Battles.

===Energon===
During this period, one couldn't swing a dead cybercat without hitting a combiner, as every Autobot, save for the Omnicons, was capable of merging with another, or with an augmenting portion of his vehicle mode. Then the [[Bruticus Maximus| three]] [[Constructicon Maximus| Maximus]] [[Superion Maximus| teams]] arrived, giving the Decepticons two five-part combiners and the Autobots one.
{{see|Spark of Combination}}

===Live-action film series===
Experimental combiner technology was developed by the Decepticons for combat advantage and then used on the [[Constructicon (ROTF)|Constructicon]]s who are able to form [[Devastator (ROTF)|Devastator]]. Comfort was not on the top of the list of priorities and, as a result, the process is brutally painful to the Transformers involved. The mental and physical torture involved leaves Devastator only interested in causing destruction.<ref>Devastator's [http://www.hasbro.com/transformers/en_US/discover/Battle-Bios.cfm Battle Bio] at Hasbro.com</ref>

[[Knock Out (ROTF)|Knock Out]] hopes to undergo the "combination retrofit" process.<ref>Knock Out's toy bio.</ref>

{{note|No details are given regarding this "combination retrofit" technology, but it is a possible factor in [[Skids (ROTF)|Skids]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]]'s ice cream truck mode and the combined mode of [toy continuity] [[Arcee (Movie)|Arcee]], [[Chromia (ROTF)|Chromia]], and [[Elita-1 (ROTF)|Elita-1]].}}

Combiners are not limited to one combination scheme. Their final form may also vary.<ref>[http://unicron-events-interviews.blogspot.com/2009/10/hasbro-q-10212009.html Hasbro's answer to Unicron.com] as part of the [[Hasbro Q&A/October 2009#Unicron.com|October 2009 Q&A]].</ref>

==Combiner list==
{{note|Due to the many uses of redecoes as new characters and convenience for reading, each mold is listed on its own line, with all different-character decoes/retools on the same line.}}
'''Combiners with two members'''
*[[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Jet Optimus]]
*[[Mega-Dinobot]]
*[[Decibel]]
*[[Legout]]
*[[Slamdance]]
*[[Squawkbox]]
*[[Dreadwing (G1)]] / [[Darkwings]]
*[[Multiforce]] members
**[[Wingwaver]]
**[[Dashtacker]]
**[[Machtackle]] 
*[[Dreadwing (G2)]] / [[Formation Scream]] / [[Dreadwing (RID)]] / [[Gigant Sniper]]
*[[Powered Master|Powered Masters]]
**[[Sky Powered]]
**[[Land Powered]]
**[[Big Powered]] ''(actually consists of three members)''
*[[Safeguard (Animated)]]
*[[Skids (ROTF)]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)]] in ice cream truck mode

'''Combiners formed by main bodies with power-up partners'''
*[[Ginrai|God Ginrai]]
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Victory Saber]]
*[[Omega Prime]]
*The combined form of [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Wing Saber]]
*[[Optimus Supreme (Energon)]]
*[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Live-action film series|Power Up Optimus Prime]] (''aka'' [[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Live-action film series|Jetpower Optimus Prime]])

{{note|Optimus Prime and Jetfire are not combiner in the fiction {{m-}} Optimus simply uses Jetfire's corpse as parts to enhance his strength and firepower.}}

'''Combiners with three or more members (non-Scramble City type)'''
*[[Devastator (G1)]]
*[[Devastator (ROTF)]]
*[[Predaking]]
*[[Raiden]]
*[[Monstructor]] / [[Dinoking]]
*[[Road Caesar]]
*[[Liokaiser]]
*[[Landcross (Victory)|Landcross]]
*[[Magnaboss]] / [[Magnaboss II]]
*[[MegaWing Galvatron]]
*[[Dark MegaWing Galvatron]]
*[[Prime Processing Unit]] {{storylink|Collect and Save}}
*[[Tripredacus]] / [[Tripledacus]]
*[[Rail Racer (RID)]]
*[[Landfill (RID)]] / [[Constructicon Devastator (Ultra)]]
*Unnamed [[Minibot combiner]] {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 8|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 8}}
*[[Beast (G1)|Beast]] {{storylink|The Beast Within|The Beast Within}}
*[[Insectrain]] {{storylink|Hearts of Steel issue 2}}
*[[Reedman]]
*The combined form of [[Arcee (Movie)]], [[Chromia (ROTF)]], and [[Elita-1 (ROTF)]] <small>(toy-only)</small>

'''Scramble City-type combiners'''
*[[Bruticus (G1)]] / [[Battle Gaia]] / [[Ruination (RID)|Ruination]]
*[[Defensor (G1)]] / [[Guard City]]
*[[Menasor (G1)]]
*[[Superion (G1)]]
*[[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]]
*[[Computron (G1)|Computron]]
*[[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]]<ref name="seacon">With extra "limb" robot used as weapon.</ref> / [[King Poseidon]]<ref name="seacon" /> / [[God Neptune]]

'''Official mix-n-match Scramble City combiners'''
* [[Abomenaticus]]
* [[Autobot Super Scramble]]
* [[Comperian]]
* [[Decepticon Super Scramble]]
* [[Scramble 7]]

'''Micromaster-type combiners'''
*[[Micromaster Combiner]] Squads
**[[Barrage (Micromaster)|Barrage]] and [[Heave]]
**[[Blackout (G1)|Blackout]] and [[Spaceshot]]
**[[Blast Master]] and [[Phaser]]
**[[Direct-Hit (G1)|Direct-Hit]] and [[Power Punch (G1)|Power Punch]]
**[[Excavator (G1)|Excavator]] and [[Stonecruncher (G1)|Stonecruncher]] / [[Retro]] and [[Surge]]
**[[Fireshot (G1)|Fireshot]] and [[Vanquish (G1)|Vanquish]]
**[[Full-Barrel]] and [[Overflow]]
**[[Grit (G1)|Grit]] and [[Knockout (G1)|Knockout]]
**[[Half-Track (G1)|Half-Track]] and [[Meltdown (G1)|Meltdown]]
**[[Hammer (G1)|Hammer]] and [[Sledge (G1)|Sledge]] / [[Cement-Head]] and [[Terror-Tread]]
**[[Missile Master]] and [[Moonrock]]
**[[Oiler]] and [[Slide]]
**[[Power Run]] and [[Strikedown]]
**[[Roadburner]] and [[Wheel Blaze]]
*[[Sixliner]] / [[Sixtrain]]<ref>Sixtrain was redecoed and retooled from Sixliner.</ref> / [[Rail Racer (Universe)]]<ref>Universe Rail Racer uses the same deco as Takara's 2003 redecoed "reissue" of Sixtrain.</ref>
*[[Sixbuilder]] / [[Decepticon Sixbuilder]] / [[Constructicon Devastator (Micromaster)]]
*[[Sixturbo]] / [[Defensor (Universe)]]
*[[Sixwing|Sixwing / Berserker Sixwing / Destron Sixwing]] / [[Superion (Universe)]]

'''Mini-Con combiners'''
*[[Perceptor (Armada)#Armada_3|Perceptor (Armada)]] / [[Perceptor (Universe)]]
*[[Perceptor (Armada)#Energon_3|Perceptor (Energon)]] / [[Heavy Metal (Energon)|Heavy Metal]] / [[Windcharger (Energon)]] / [[Perceptor (Armada)#Cybertron|Perceptor (Cybertron)]]
*[[Mirror]] / [[Nightcreeper]]
*[[Requiem Blaster]]
*[[Skyboom (Armada)]]
*[[Star Saber (Armada)]] / [[Vorpal Saber]] / [[Energon Saber]] / [[Blizzard Saber]]

'''Maximus-type combiners'''
*[[Bruticus Maximus (Energon)|Bruticus Maximus]] / [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus Maximus (G1)]] (Universe) / [[Bruticus Maximus (ROTF)]]
*[[Constructicon Maximus]] / [[Devastator (G1)|Constructicon Devastator (Classics)]]
*[[Superion Maximus]] / [[Superion (G1)]] (Universe) / [[Superion (ROTF)]]
*[[Nexus Prime]]

==Unused concepts==
Combiners were a very popular idea during the Generation 1 toyline and as such there are loads of scrapped combiner designs that never got past the drawing board. Among them were:
*A Scramble City style dinosaur combiner. The body is a T-Rex, while the limbs are a Pterodactyl (right arm), Ankylosaurus (left leg), Dimetrodon (left arm), and Styracosaurus (right leg)<ref>[[Transformers Generations Deluxe]], p22</ref>

*A decidedly goofy organic insect combiner composed of a stag beetle (right leg), another beetle (left leg), grasshopper (left arm), fly (right arm), and a cockroach body.<ref name="p99">[[Transformers Generations Deluxe]], p99</ref>

*A cybernetic beast combiner that did not form a robot, but rather a large cybernetic monster. It is formed from a cyber bat, mole, stag beetle, and a couple of fish things.<ref name="p99" />

*A fifteen (!) vehicle Micromaster combiner where the only attached parts not contained by the component robots were the large robot fists. This combiner consists of three uniformly colored teams (in a similar fashion to the vehicular Voltron of the same time period):
**Air team (blue)- two jets, two helicopters, a space shuttle.
**Construction team (green)- a hauler, a bulldozer, a steam shovel, a tank (don't ask), a missile carrier (don't ask).
**Street team (red)- two cars, a motorcycle, a formula racer, a jeep.<ref name="p108">[[Transformers Generations Deluxe]], p108</ref>
[[Image:ClassicVehicombiner.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Either the smallest steamboat ever, or the largest car in existence.]]
*Another, simpler dinosaur combiner composed of a Pterodactyl, a not-really-a-Stegosaurus, and a T-Rex with a very large head. The three combine into a dinosaur thing similar to [[Magmatron]]'s combined dino mode. It shares many visual characteristics with Tomy's relatively simple robot designs.<ref name="p108" />
*A five vehicle combiner (evidently not Scramble City in nature) composed of a steam engine (right arm), steam boat (torso), car (right leg), truck (left leg), and plane (left arm).
*A base consisting mostly of ramps and a hollow tower in the center that combined with 14 non-transforming cars and vans. Two vehicles make up each limb, with three crammed in the chest, two for feet, and one that slides into the tower's gun platform to form the head. The ramps would then act as an exoskeleton to contain all of the components.<ref name="p79">[[Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p79</ref>
*A robot formed from a truck cab and four cars with no robot modes that each have flip out weapon arrays. This may qualify more as a conventional "super robot" than a standard combiner, but we may never know.<ref name="p80">[[Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p80</ref>
*A "Duocon" (or rather, "Triocon", in this case) style robot formed by three cars. One car splits in half to form the arms, another splits for the legs, and a third folds in half to reveal the robot head and connect it all together.<ref name="p80">[[Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p80</ref>
*A Concorde jet that split into two robots, where the front portion's robot can pop out three wheels and a spare cockpit to give it a land mode. Presumably the larger rear robot could do the same.<ref name="p81">[[Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p81</ref>
*Two military convoy "trains", one good, one evil, of six vehicles each hooked together that combine along the lines of Devastator but with loads more guns. The robot core is formed by a tractor trailer that leads either convoy, the good one being long nosed, the evil one being flat, each with trailers that open up into small cannon platforms usable by the five smaller robots. Said trailers also become their respective combined form's handgun. The other five members each have a specific large weapon such as a missile rack or chaingun that they can also use in robot mode.<ref name="p83">[[Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p83</ref>

==Trivia==
*[[Devastator (G1)|G1 Devastator]] and [[Raiden]] are the only combiners from [[Diaclone]] toylines.
*[[Scramble City]]-type combiners were initially designed to be a sub-line of [[Diaclone]] called... what else... Scramble City. This goes along with their ability to interact with and attach to [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] & [[Metrotitan (G1)|Metrotitan]], the designs of which were also originally intended for the Diaclone line.
*Six of the seven released G1 Scramble City-type combiners were apparently released in themed pairs, themes usually further reinforced by their team members' tech spec bios to some extent.
**Aerialbots (air vehicles) and Stunticons (ground vehicles)
**Protectobots (rescue vehicles) and Combaticons (offensive vehicles... and a space shuttle)
**Technobots (futuristic vehicles) and Terrorcons (fantastical beasts)
**The Seacons are the odd men out, but the above mentioned unreleased dinosaur Scramble City combiner may have been an intended adversary.
*In [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] comic continuity [[Squawkbox]] exists before Combiner technology has become available to either faction. This means that either Squawkbox is the core being and he's later split into [[Squawktalk]] and [[Beastbox]] or um... someone at IDW screwed up.

==Footnotes==
<references/>

[[Category:Combiners| ]]
[[Category:Fandom]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]

Dauros

2009-12-16T08:13:40Z

70.212.137.201: /* Super-God Masterforce cartoon */

{{Factions|decepticon}}
:''Dauros is a [[Decepticon]] [[Pretender]] from the [[Super-God Masterforce (franchise)|Super-God Masterforce]] portion of the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:G1 Skullgrin boxart.jpg|right|300px|thumb|It's all greek to me.]]
'''Dauros''' (ダウロス ''Daurosu'') and his fellow [[Decepticon]] [[Pretender]]s crash-landed on [[Earth]] during the Stone Age, while attempting to escape a pursuing crew of Autobots led by [[Metalhawk]]. Seeking to conquer the planet through fear, the Decepticons used their Pretender powers to take on the shapes of unearthly creatures and terrorized burgeoning humanity with their monstrous forms. While battling the Autobots down through the ages, the Decepticons gave rise to many myths and legends; specifically, in Dauros's case, his rampages in Ancient [[Greece]] resulted in the tale of the Minotaur. Eventually, the Decepticon Pretenders were defeated by the Autobots and sealed away, with Dauros being entombed underground, beneath the Nazca Lines of Peru. In the present day, however, the evil alien entity [[Devil Z]] has liberated Dauros and his fellow Pretenders to play a role in his evil plans for humans and Transformers alike.

Dauros's love of the smell of gunpowder led him to become the explosions expert of the Decepticon forces. If there's an unexplained explosion anywhere in human history, odds are Dauros had a hand in it. But he's not just good for blowing things up: he's also physically the strongest of the three Decepticon Pretenders, and always up for a fight. Naturally, he thinks that means he ought to be in charge, and as such, he doesn't get along very well with self-appointed leader [[Blood]]. He is constantly attempting to undermine Blood's authority, even though he never has very much luck, since Blood rarely takes him seriously. Dauros transforms into an assault tank which can burrow beneath the ground, and is also capable of flight.

:''English/Malay dub name:'' '''Skullgrin'''
:''Latin American dub name:'' '''Bull'''

==Fiction==
===''Super-God Masterforce'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Daisuke Gōri]] (Japanese)

[[Image:Dauros pretendershell.jpg|left|300px|thumb|Wile E. Coyote has taught us he's about to be surrounded by a cloud of dust.]]
Dauros's first public action after being freed from imprisonment by Devil Z was to lead a group of [[Tentakil (Masterforce)|Tentakil]] [[Seacon (Masterforce)|Seacons]] in attacking a Japanese city in an attempt to draw out the Autobot Pretenders. Blood soon arrived to berate him for "playing leader", but [[Gilmer]] stopped the pair from fighting before they could start. As it happened, Dauros's approach actually proved successful, as Metalhawk soon arrived and all three Decepticons ganged up on him. Unfortunately for the villains, Metalhawk's fellow Autobot Pretenders also soon arrived, and Dauros grappled with [[Lander]] as the others battled around them. When Metalhawk destroyed the Seacons Dauros had brought with him, the evil trio elected to retreat. {{storylink|Rise Up!! Pretenders}}

Seeking to find a way to infuse human beings with Decepticon power, Blood had Dauros and Gilmer steal corpses from a university medical lab, and channelled energy from Devil Z to transform them into [[zombie]]-like "[[Destroid]]s". These creatures soon proved unstable and short-lived, so Blood decided to use live subjects instead, sending Dauros and Gilmer to round up some test subjects in the [[Karin Islands]]. In the island jungles, Dauros battled Metalhawk, only to flee when the [[Lobclaw]] Seacons accompanying him were destroyed. Dauros and Gilmer withdrew with what human captives they had been able to acquire to the nearby Isle of the Gods, but the Autobots pursued them, liberated the captives, and forced the two Pretenders to retreat. {{storylink|Terror! The Decepticons' Manhunt|Terror! The Decepticons' Manhunt}} Blood later acquired live test subjects from a jet airliner, and Dauros observed as these new Destroids were unleashed on Rome. When the Autobots arrived to subdue the Destroids, Dauros and his fellow Pretenders escaped into the catacombs under the city. {{storylink|Kidnapping!? The Targeted Jumbo Jet}}

[[Image:Dauros puretendaaa.jpg|right|275px|thumb|It's bigger on the inside.]]
After holding back from the front lines for a while to allow the Decepticons' new [[Headmaster Junior]] warriors to take centre stage, Dauros was then dispatched to Africa with Gilmer to cause wild animals to stampede, as part of a plan to destabilize the natural balance of Earth. Despite successfully putting his explosive skills to use to scare the animals into stampeding, Dauros was not best pleased to be on the receiving end of orders from Blood, but the head Pretender simply shut off the communication channel before he could protest. Blood then joined Dauros and Gilmer in Africa and caused an elephant stampede, but the Autobots pacified the panicked pachyderms and the Decepticons fled once more. {{storylink|Panic! Protect the Wild Animals!!}}

When Dauros and his fellow Decepticons were united with the second Decepticon unit operating under Devil Z's command and fell into service under their new leaders, [[Mega]] and [[Giga]], the three Pretenders took an instant dislike towards their two new teammates, [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] and [[Buster (Masterforce)|Buster]]. As a new breed of Transformer-human fusion known as "[[Godmaster|Godmasters]]", Hydra and Buster were introduced as being more powerful than them, which did not get things off to a good start. As such, when Mega commented that in the grand scheme of things, even the ''Headmaster Juniors'' were more important than the Pretenders, Dauros and his two companions furiously stormed off to join in the Decepticons' attack on [[Karin Islands|Viscas Island]]. The ensuing battle was not the Pretenders' finest hour, and they were defeated by Metalhawk and the Autobot Headmaster Juniors. {{storylink|A Fierce Battle!! The Autobots Are in Trouble}}

[[Image:Dauros robotmode.jpg|left|250px|thumb|]]
Dauros and the Pretenders took a back seat in the battles that ensued, during which time the Autobots recruited their own Godmaster, [[Ginrai]]. Always out to improve their standing in Mega and Giga's eyes, the Pretenders attempted to lure Ginrai to his destruction at the hands of the Seacon combiner [[King Poseidon]] by kidnapping children and holding them on an island off the coast of America. When Autobot Pretender [[Diver (Masterforce)|Diver]] arrived to investigate, Dauros was able to capture him as well, locking him into a device that prevented him from transforming to robot mode. Unfortunately for the Decepticons, Diver and the captive kids worked together to summon the other Autobots to the island, and King Poseidon was defeated by the new-born "Super Ginrai". {{storylink|Heroism!! The Birth of Super Ginrai}}

[[Image:Dauros choke.jpg|right|215px|thumb|]]
Dauros and the Pretenders were later recruited by Hydra and Buster to help them track Ginrai down as he searched for more Godmasters around the world. Blood found Ginrai as he was meeting up with the first new Autobot Godmaster, [[Lightfoot]], but kept the discovery a secret from the Godmaster brothers, calling in Dauros and Gilmer so that the Pretenders could take the credit. Blood grappled with Lightfoot while Dauros and Gilmer summoned King Poseidon to the battlefield, but when Ginrai defeated the combiner again, the villains made themselves scarce. {{storylink|Lightfoot: A Dramatic Encounter}} Later, after nearly choking on a turkey leg during a feast at the Decepticon base when Giga unexpectedly called on him, {{storylink|The Autobot Warrior, Sixknight?!}} Dauros worked with the other Pretenders to carry out a complex plan formulated by Hydra and Buster, capturing doctors from all over the world and holding them captive on [[Atlan Island]] in the South Pacific. Unfortunately, Dauros bungled the plan when he allowed [[Doctor Dado]] to escape and alert the Autobot Godmasters, who arrived to save the day. Dauros battled [[Ranger]] during the fight, which concluded when the Godmasters unleashed their special powers and sent the Decepticon Pretenders back to their base in disgrace. {{storylink|Save the Little Girl! The Chōjin Warriors, the Godmasters}}

[[Image:Dauros armless.jpg|left|225px|thumb|My me-time hand!]]
When Mega was posing as a fortune teller and horrifying the world with predictions of disaster, Dauros and the Pretenders later helped to make these "predictions" come true by trying to blow up [[Watson Dam]], although they lacked the firepower to accomplish the task, forcing Giga to step up. {{storylink|Expose the Decepticons' Dark Deception!}} A little later, Dauros, Blood and Gilmer all participated in an attack on the Autobots' "Bomber Project" facility, but the fight was definitely a low point for the evil Pretenders, who were beaten so badly by Lightfoot and Ranger that they lost several limbs between them. {{storylink|Will the Bomber Project Be Destroyed!?}}

After dropping off the radar for a lengthy period of time, Dauros and the Decepticon Pretenders were later seen battling the Autobot Pretenders in Latin America {{storylink|God Ginrai - Save Cancer!?}} and were at the Decepticon headquarters when Ginrai was lured there to rescue his captive comrade [[Shūta Gō]], {{storylink|God Ginrai: Showdown at the Decepticon Base}} and when the Autobots initiated an all-out attack on the base. {{storylink|The Ultimate Combination!! BlackZarak, the New Lifeform}} During this battle, Devil Z and [[Scorponok (G1)|BlackZarak]] fused together and the Decepticon base was destroyed, following which Dauros relocated with the rest of the villains to the [[Grand Canyon]] for an attack on North America. When Autobots pursued them, the Decepticon Pretenders battled Road King and Lightfoot, although Hydra and Buster soon butted in and took over the fight. [[Image:Masterforce decepticon pretenders.jpg|right|180px|thumb|]] {{storylink|Autobots! Desperate Attack!!}}
With the attack on North America complete, the Decepticons moved to the Alps to attack Europe. Again, the Autobots gave chase, and Dauros, Blood and Gilmer observed the heroes' approach, reporting on it to [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]] and BlackZarak. When Hydra and Buster were defeated once again in battle by Ginrai, BlackZarak unleashed his full fury upon them, and the terrified Pretenders fled the scene, fearing what would happen if BlackZarak turned his anger on them. {{storylink|Malevolent and Inhuman! The True Form of Devil Z}}

Although BlackZarak and Devil Z were subsequently destroyed by Ginrai, Dauros and the Pretenders did not reappear. There was no indication that they departed Earth with the other Decepticons; presumably, they remained in hiding on the planet.
{{-}}

===''Super-God Masterforce'' comic===
[[Image:Dauros manga.jpg|left|175px|thumb|]]
After being freed by Devil Z, Dauros, Blood and Gilmer reintroduced themselves to the modern world by attacking the Karin Islands. The islands' prince, [[Cab]], made a vain attempt at battling the Decepticons, but the tide turned when the Autobot hero Metalhawk arrived and sent the Decepticons packing with his "Shining Arrow" attack. {{storylink|Gods? Devils? The Pretenders}}

After unleashing a [[Lobclaw]] on Ginza, Tokyo {{storylink|Headmaster Jrs Are Born|Headmaster Jrs Are Born}} Dauros and Gilmer directed the Decepticons' new Headmaster Junior warriors in attacking the city while Blood was busy occupying Metalhawk. The Decepticon Juniors were defeated by the Autobots' own Headmaster Juniors {{storylink|Destined Confrontation: The Children of Good and Evil}} and Dauros joined them in withdrawing to meet up with their leaders, Mega and Giga. {{storylink|Enter on the Stage! The Name of the Savior Is Ginrai!}} Later, when the Seacon combiner King Poseidon was defeated by Super Ginrai, the battered [[Turtler]] escaped to report his failure to the Pretenders. {{storylink|Burn, Super Soul! The New Commander Super Ginrai!}}

When Mega and Giga rolled their Transtectors into battle for the first time, Dauros and the Pretenders came along for the ride, clinging to the top of the Megajet. {{storylink|God Ginrai's Amazing Super-God Combination!}} Dauros later observed the torture of the Autobot Headmaster Juniors [[Shūta Gō]] and [[Cab]] at Blood's hands, as the Decepticons tried to force the boys to join their evil family, {{storylink|The Earth Family of Good and Evil}} and later still, helped to make decorations for the Decepticon base to celebrate the New Year. {{storylink|Great Turn-Around! Autobots}}

Dauros, Blood and Gilmer were the only Transformers that did not participate in the final battle against Devil Z when he turned on the other Decepticons and attempted to absorb their Jinchōkon. After all the other Transformers joined their energies in the "Perfect Transform Attack" and destroyed Devil Z once and for all, the Autobots' and Decepticons' Transtectors were brought to life by the alien's death and departed Earth to rejoin their respective factions in space. Watching as their once-comrades left the planet, Dauros, Blood and Gilmer were last seen running off into the distance, deciding that they should learn to transform into humans too. {{storylink|The Birth of the Super Lifeforms}}

==Toys==
===''Super-God Masterforce''===
[[Image:G1Skullgrin toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|]]
*'''Dowlos''' {{sic}} (Pretender, 1988)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''D-202'''
**''Accessories'': Pretender shell, belt, "Oval Cutter", 2 "Gigaton Magnum" rifles

:"Dowlos"'s Pretender Shell takes the form of a bipedal monster decked out in grey and purple armor, distinctively topped by a ungulate skull of indeterminate type (it appears to be that of a ram, although Dauros's [[bio]] described it as a bull's). The shell is armed with Dauros's white "Oval Cutter" sword, and his double-barreled "Gigaton Magnum" rifle. Like most Pretenders, Dauros wears a belt, but his is unusual in that it functions like an ''actual'' belt, looping around his waist and fastening together (making its removal considerably more fiddly). The shell splits to reveal Dauros's robot mode, which transforms into a purple and grey Cybertronic tank. The Gigaton Magnum splits into two smaller rifles which can be wielded in the robot's hands, or plugged into the side of the tank.

:This toy was released concurrently in [[Hasbro]] markets as [[Skullgrin]], with no notable differences between the two.
{{--}}

==Notes==
*"Dauros" is a pun on ''tauros'', Greek for "bull".

==External links==
* [http://www.tfu.info/1988/Decepticon/Skullgrin/skullgrin.htm Dauros/Skullgrin at TFU.info]

[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Japanese-original characters]]
[[Category:Masterforce characters]]
[[Category:Pretenders]]