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Primus

2010-06-07T01:03:32Z

72.229.124.145: /* Retconning the retcon? */

{{factions|autobot}}
[[Image:PrimusG1.jpg|right|300px|thumb|''They call him Gee-Oh-Dee<br>And he the [[Big Daddy (G1)|big daddy]]<br>He look like [[Hot Rod (G1)|me]]<br>But he more [[Facial hair|beardie]]'']]
'''Primus''' is the creator-god of the [[Transformer]]s. An ancient and ethereal being whose origins date back to the beginnings of the universe itself, Primus is a multiversal force for good, his life force existing across multiple realities and infinite alternate universes. In each one, he is the final defense against his fallen sibling, [[Unicron]] the Chaos-Bringer.

Primus has adapted his body as the metallic planet [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]; from its surface, his creations have risen to defend and patrol the galaxy. Within the depths of Cybertron, the mega-computer [[Vector Sigma]] serves as his internal mainframe, and a gateway for select Transformers to access his power. A portion of his lifeforce resides within the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]], which often determines the [[Prime (rank)|leader]] of the [[Autobot]]s. Prophecies of a war to come were written down in his [[Covenant of Primus|holy covenant]] as well. The [[spark]] of each Transformer is a small piece of Primus's essence, and together they form his lifeforce, the [[Allspark]].

Though wise and powerful beyond measure, Primus is neither infallible nor without weakness. At times he has [[Out of Time!|been deceived by mere mortals]], and has made [[The Sun|miscalculations]] which [[Balancing Act|jeopardized all of existence]], and has been betrayed by one of his [[The Fallen|earliest creations]]. Indeed, even the intended agents of his grand plan, the Transformers, have all too frequently become mired in endless civil war. Still, in [[Withered Hope|most realities]] he has [[Wreckers: Finale Part II|managed to hold the line]] against Unicron and other threats, either directly or through his innumerable children, the Transformers.

{{quote|Until all are one!|Primus to his children|"[[Trap]]"}}

==In the beginning==
[[Image:Primus original.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Hold the sword and say, "I am the Protector of the Universe!"]]
Before the dawn of time, Order and Chaos existed within an extradimensional entity known as [[The One]]. To explore the fledgling universe, he created the astral being known as [[Unicron]], and then subdivided him, creating his twin, Primus. Both brothers were [[Multiversal singularity|multiversal singularities]], unique in all realities, but whereas Unicron could only exist in one dimension at a time, moving between them at will, Primus existed simultaneously in all realities at once. It is suggested, in fact, that the two brothers embody the basic concepts of reality—good and evil, order and chaos—and that their continued existence is necessary for the stability of the multiverse.

[[Image:Primusoriginal.jpg|right|180px|thumb|"No, Rumble is blue!"]]
As Unicron and Primus went about their appointed task, venturing through the cosmos, it became apparent to Primus that Unicron was a corrupt being, and he took it upon himself to stop the threat posed to all of existence by his sibling. In combat, Primus was no match for Unicron. In cunning, however, he proved himself to his brother's superior when he shifted their battle to the astral plane, and then back to the physical world once more, only to have both their essences manifest within metallic planetoids, leaving them both trapped. It was with this act of sacrifice that Primus hoped to contain Unicron's evil forever. Unfortunately for him, over time, Unicron learned to psionically shape his prison into a giant metallic planet, and Primus followed suit, becoming the mechanical world of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. When Unicron then learned to transform his planetary form even further, into a gigantic robot form, Primus adapted the idea to suit his own ends—rather than transforming his own body, he would create small beings that would be able to change their shape, like Unicron. After performing a "test run" on the moon of [[Protos]], where he successfully created [[Covenant|twelve transforming robotic beings]], {{storylink|Herald, Covenant, Schism, Paradox|Covenant}} he birthed from his own body a group of thirteen robots that possessed the ability to change shape, like Unicron. These were the [[thirteen original Transformers]], each one infused with a fragment of Primus's life essence known as a [[spark]].

The Thirteen were Primus's soldiers in his war with Unicron, which came to its seeming end during a climactic battle in which one of the Thirteen, who would forever afterwards be known as the [[The Fallen|Fallen]], betrayed Primus and became an acolyte of Unicron. The battle ended when the Fallen and Unicron were sucked into a black hole and disappeared from reality. With Unicron gone for now, Primus entered an eons-long slumber, his self-imposed sleep preventing Unicron from detecting him through the mental link the brothers shared. The Transformer race grew, and Primus fell into the realm of legend, with a portion of his power, the [[Matrix of Leadership]], handed down through the generations, serving as the Transformers' ever-present link to their creator.

===Evolution of the Primus/Unicron myth===
''The Primus/Unicron backstory has evolved and been rewritten a good number of times since it first originated in the [[Marvel Comics]] series. The version recounted above is the current iteration, which has slowly solidified across a wide swath of media (beginning around the time of [[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]). Before the Primus/Unicron mythos reached its present form it went through several distinct versions in the Marvel G1 comics and elsewhere.''

====Unicron's story====
''The first time we ever heard the Primus/Unicron backstory was in the UK comic continuity, from Unicron himself, in the story "[[The Legacy of Unicron!]]", when he recounted it to [[Death's Head (G1)|Death's Head]]. Per Unicron's telling of events, he was a primal force of evil at the dawn of the universe, who led a legion of [[Dark Armies]] against his mortal foe, Primus, Lord of the [[Light Gods]] (note the plural). Events proceeded to play out basically as described above, though the role of the Light Gods and Dark Armies would diminish with each subsequent retelling of the story, until the current version, in which Primus and Unicron are alone, and have a unique origin. (Only one of the other gods was ever named—the [[Chronarchitect]]. How exactly he factors into the current iteration of the myth is unknown.)''

====The Keeper's story====
''The second time the story was told was in the US book by the [[Keeper (Transformer)|Keeper]], an ancient mechanoid who guarded Primus's head at the center of Cybertron. This telling is effectively the same as the previous UK story, but mentions that their battle was towards the end of the era of gods, that Primus and Unicron were the last of their respective pantheons, and Primus had to defeat Unicron before he could take his place with the other gods in the "[[Omniversal Matrix]]".''

====Primus's story====
''The third time the story was told was also in the US Marvel series, this time by Primus, when he gathered all his children together to prepare for Unicron's coming. It was with this telling that we learned that Unicron predated the [[universe (universe)|current universe]], and had destroyed the [[old realms|previous universe]] which existed before the current one. He had slept peacefully, alone in the [[void]] of uncreation that remained, until fragments of the old universe that he had overlooked reacted, causing the Big Bang and birthing the current universe. The "sentient core" of this new universe recognized the threat that Unicron posed, and so created Primus to counter his evil and be guardian of the new creation.''

====Fleer and DK====
[[Image:WarWithinPrimus.jpg|left|150px|thumb|I feel prickly...]]
''The first modern retelling of the origins of Primus and Unicron did not come from G1-oriented media, but from a set of ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]'' trading cards released by Fleer. It was the backstory printed on Unicron's card which introduced the concept of the two being brothers created to explore the new universe by an extradimensional entity, here named the "[[Allspark]]."''

''This was subsequently expanded on and combined with aspects of the various Marvel Comics stories in [[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide]], published by Dorling Kindersley and written by [[Simon Furman]], who had written all three prior tellings in the first place. Here, the entity Fleer had called the "Allspark" was redubbed "[[The One]]," and the modern iteration of the myth detailed above was firmly established, and went on to form the backbone of subsequent fiction such as ''[[Universe (2003 franchise)|Universe]]'' and [[Fun Publications]]' ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]'' comics.''

''It was also at this point that it was established that Primus could transform from Cybertron into a robot mode like Unicron, but preferred not to, choosing to remain connected to the universe on a planetary level.''
{{-}}

==Generation 1==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
[[Image:Primalscream.jpg|right|250px|thumb|KHHHHHAAAAANNNNN!]]
Eventually, millions of years later, in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|one universe]] located in the [[Generation 1 continuity family|Primax cluster]], [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]], [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] found themselves transported to the center of Cybertron, where they discovered the sleeping form of Primus {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}} and were told the tale of his and the Transformers' origins by the [[Keeper]]. Subsequently, [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s [[Pretender]]s attacked, and during the battle, a laser blast ricocheted off Grimlock and struck the essence of the sleeping Primus, causing a universe-shaking "Primal Scream" that alerted Unicron (who was located "outside the fringes of known space") to Primus's location. {{storylink|Primal Scream (issue)|Primal Scream}} Primus himself immediately slipped back into his sleep, but it was too late. Unicron was coming. {{storylink|Bird of Prey!}}

{{note|Later, in "[[Vector Prime: In the Beginning]]," this event would be presented in a greater context, with the Primal Scream being heard multiversally, and awakening Unicron from his own slumber as well.}}

[[Image:OutofTime-wakePrimus.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Have you tried crashing cymbals together?]]

After [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] sent teams of Autobots to retrieve the lost [[Creation Matrix]], the container of Primus' essence that could destroy Unicron, he communed with the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'s [[:Image:Arkaltar.jpg|Altar to Primus]]. Reaching out his mind to the Creation Matrix, the altar gave him a vision of a Matrix that had been tainted by evil. {{storylink|Kings of the Wild Frontier}}

Unicron dispatched a group of [[Hook, Line, and Sinker|heralds]] to attack Cybertron and pave the way for his coming, including a [[Galvatron II|Galvatron]] plucked from an [[Rhythms of Darkness!|alternate future]]. Galvatron, however, was not content to serve under Unicron, and instead captured Autobot leader [[Emirate Xaaron]], forcing him to fully awaken Primus, who possessed Xaaron's body and summoned Transformers from all across the universe back to Cybertron. {{storylink|Out of Time!}} Here, Primus spoke through Xaaron, telling the Transformers of his history with Unicron. Additionally, Primus chose Optimus Prime to lead both factions, united, against the Chaos Bringer. Primus knew this would draw out the [[Unicron cultist]]s among them, and Autobot and Decepticon were able to put aside their differences to defeat them. When Optimus Prime learned of Primus' ruse, his suspicions regarding his Creator's motives began to grow. Optimus wondered if the Transformers meant anything to Primus beyond being a means to an end. {{storylink|The Void! (US)|The Void!}}

[[Image:OntheEdgeofExtinction-Primus.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Now you're like me.]]

Though their battle against the Unicron cultists did temporarily unite both factions, this facade shattered once the Planet-Eater arrived. Sheer terror prevented them from carrying out his desire, and the Transformers fled despite Primus' pleas. Primus instead made a stand himself, attempting to dupe Unicron into believing he still retained his full power, but Unicron saw through the deception, and destroyed Xaaron's body. Optimus Prime came to a realization, following Primus' destruction and his retrieval of the lost and contaminated Creation Matrix, that Primus did not mean only for the Transformers to fight his battles for him, but to carry on after he was gone. Flying into space with the Matrix, Prime unleashed the full measure of Primus's power, destroying Unicron. {{storylink|On the Edge of Extinction!}}

Though the Transformers were technically victorious, this victory came with a price. With Primus dead, and with the grievous wounds inflicted on Cybertron itself, the planet threatened to come apart. The Transformers made plans to flee it. {{storylink|Exodus!}} Ultimately, this was averted by the [[Last Autobot]], who put into motion the planet's recovery, allowing the Autobots, who had finally won the civil war, to return to their home. {{storylink|End of the Road! (US)|End of the Road!}}

{{note|As originally written, it is quite clear that the story intends for Primus to have died after his battle with Unicron. As the current retcon makes it clear that this cannot possibly be, one must assume that Prime was wrong in his analysis that Primus had died. Notably, even in the original comics themselves, the Matrix—the life-force of Primus—is shown to still exist and is functioning fine in the G2 Marvel Comics series that follows his supposed death.}}
{{-}}
====''Classics''====
The Last Autobot created a race of tiny beings, [[Mini-Con]]s, to rebuild and restore Cybertron so that it would be ready for the Autobots' return. Part of the Mini-Cons' job was to excise certain evolutionary throwbacks, remnants of Primus' earlier experiments, such as the [[Mutant (G1)|Mutant]]s, and this alarmed one Mini-Con. He suspected that one day that Primus would consider the Mini-Cons surplus to requirements as well, and he instigated an insurgency against their Creator and his followers. {{storylink|The New World}}

===Japanese cartoon continuity===
{{note|Primus did not exist in the American [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] as it was originally written, since it was produced long before the [[retcon]] which established him to be a multiversal singularity. Precisely how Primus should then fit into the framework of the cartoon has not been explicitly established, although the [[Universe (2003 comic)|''Universe'' comic'']]'' offered one attempt for its continuity (see "Beast Era", below). Primus was, however, explicitly and thoroughly retconned into being part of the expanded universe of the ''Japanese'' cartoon continuity by the [[Kiss Players (franchise)|Kiss Players]] fiction of 2007, as part of a complicated process that folded various animated concepts—[[Oracle (G1)|Primacron's assistant]], [[Vector Sigma]] and the [[Oracle (G1)|Oracle]]—into the Primus myth.}}
[[Image:TGGPrimus.jpg|left|220px|thumb|Now you need to get this toy.]]

Formerly the assistant to the Primacron, the ancient genius who created the giant mechanoid Unicron, the robotic being known as the Oracle was badly damaged when Unicron rebelled against his creator. His essence fled to a dead world at the centre of the galaxy, which he used his powers to transform into a verdant, green planet. However, the Oracle could sense that in the future, Primacron would go on to create another universal danger in the form of Tornedron, and so summoned a group of [[Primitive]] Transformers back through time from the year 2010 to his planet, where he instructed them in how to destroy the threat. {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}/{{storylink|Generation 1 cartoon timeline (Japan)|Kiss Players timeline}}

[[Image:TGGPrimus2.jpg|right|100px|thumb|Primus = Oracle = Vector Sigma = Primacron's Assistant = aaaargh.]]

Later in his life, the Oracle also reached through time when he discovered that the evil [[Sparkbot]]s were attempted to recreate Unicron following the planet-eater's destruction in the year 2005. By this stage calling himself "Primus", the Oracle attempted to stop the villains and their unwitting pawns, the human [[Kiss Players (singing group)|Kiss Players]], appearing as a giant golden hand to snatch away the fragments of Unicron's lifeforce each time the Kiss Players recovered them. {{storylink|Kiss Players (radio drama)|Kiss Players radio drama #45-46}} Unfortunately, this merely led the Kiss Players to pursue him through the timestream and resulted in them crashing into the "[[Wall of Time]]" and becoming scattered throughout the multiverse. {{storylink|Kiss Players (radio drama)|Kiss Players radio drama #47}} Knowing that the Kiss Players were innocent in this whole affair, having been duped by the Sparkbots, the benevolent Primus rescued them from the different regions of time and space they had wound up in, and properly introduced himself, explaining the Sparkbots' treachery. He then took them back in time to prehistoric Earth, arriving just in time to witness the Sparkbots' successful restoration of Unicron to life. Primus transformed once more and unleashed the power of his mobile cannon platform, destroying Unicron's energy and sealing it and the Sparkbots deep within the planet. To ensure that Unicron would never be freed again, he created a mighty guardian, [[Fortress Maximus (RID)|Fortress Maximus]], who would watch over it and the Earth. With the battle over, Shaoshao asked about the Kiss Players' future, but Primus did not reply. After sending the Kiss Players back to their home time, Primus transformed into the golden sphere of Vector Sigma and returned to his world to sleep. {{storylink|Kiss Players (radio drama)|Kiss Players radio drama #48-51}}

Unfortunately for Primus, as he slumbered, his world was eventually discovered by the alien Quintessons, who shackled his powers and used them to both transform the planet into the metallic Cybertron, and to create the races of robots that would eventually become the Transformers. Additionally, the aliens acquired the shell that had held his essence, which became, through unknown means, the talisman that would be known to the Transformers as the Matrix of Leadership. {{storylink|Generation 1 cartoon timeline (Japan)|Kiss Players timeline}}
{{note|For further information, see [[Vector Sigma]] and [[Oracle (G1)|Oracle]].}}

===Beast Era===
====''Beast Wars'' cartoon====
In addition to its occasional invocation in prayer or in righteous anger by the Beast Warriors, Primus's name was also lent to a set of prophetical datatrax, known as the [[Covenant of Primus]]. From this document, the [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] of this era took his name (as did, presumably, the original [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]), and the scriptures foretold the events which completed the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]]. {{storylink|Nemesis Part 2}}

====''Universe''====

{{Note|The [[3H Productions]] ''Wreckers'' comic was the first attempt by official fiction to detail how the Quintesson-born origin of the Generation 1 cartoon could be reconciled with the Primus creation myth from the comic books. Set concurrently with the ''[[Beast Machines (cartoon)|Beast Machines]]'' cartoon, it only ''strictly'' applies to the continuity of the Beast Era, which is not explicitly the same universe as the Generation 1 cartoon itself.}}

Dispatched to an ice world in the far reaches of the galaxy by the orders of the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]], [[Primal Prime]]'s [[Wrecker]]s encountered the exiled [[Quintesson]] known as [[Al-Badur]], who revealed to them the full extent of his race's connection to Cybertron and Primus. Al-Badur explained that, millions of years ago, the Quintessons sought to exploit the power of Primus for profit, and to that end, invaded Cybertron and set up numerous barriers to separate Primus from the Transformers. Their first attempt, the [[Plasma energy|Plasma Energy Chamber]], met with failure; next, the Quintessons targeted Vector Sigma itself, surrounding it with a shell program that acted as a barrier between the Transformers and the power and guidance of Primus. {{storylink|Disclosure}} Realizing that the Oracle itself was the Quintessons' shell program, Primal Prime began to fear that all that had come about as a result of its guidance—including [[Optimus Primal]]'s mission to restore a techno-organic balance to Cybertron—was all part of a Quintesson plot, but [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]] assured him that Primus worked in mysterious ways.

The Wreckers soon returned to Cybertron, discovering that in their absence, Optimus Primal had achieved his goal of recreating the planet as a technorganic world. In the wake of this overwhelming transformation, the Quintessons had invaded the planet, but they were not the only threat to Cybertron's safety: The Wreckers were also faced with [[Cryotek (RID)|Cryotek]], who had used the legendary [[Divine Light]] to tap into the power of Primus and transform himself into a living god. During the course of the battle that ensued, Primal Prime and [[Apelinq]] were struck by a blast of Primus's power by Cryotek, which wound up merging them into [[Sentinel Maximus]]. At Al-Badur's direction, Sentinel Maximus steered the battle to an interdimensional portal chamber far below the planet's surface, where [[Matrix Templar]]s [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]] and [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] began draining Primus's power out of Cryotek. To stop them, Cryotek shattered the Divine Light and absorbed Primus's energies directly into himself, where they could not drain it, but as he grappled with Sentinel Maximus, the fused Autobot forced them both through the portal, into a [[transwarp|shapeless interdimensional void]]. Although unable to drain Primus's power any further, Cryotek was sustained in the void by the power he had absorbed, and he was ready to carry on the battle until Primus himself—now unshackled thanks to the destruction of the Oracle in the final stages of Optimus Primal's quest—took an active hand, spiriting Sentinel Maximus away to partake in [[Balancing Act|another battle]] elsewhere in the multiverse.

While all of this was happening on Cybertron, elsewhere in the universe, on [[New Quintessa]], Primus briefly possessed the body of [[Icebird]] so that he could address the Quintesson leader [[Judge Heirodyus]]. Primus shocked the Quintesson by revealing that he had allowed all that had transpired to occur, and he "thanked" Heirodyus for his race's role in the scheme, promising to call upon them again if he ever needed an "evolutionary crisis" to drive his children forward. {{storylink|Wreckers: Finale Part II}}

[[Image:TFUPrimus.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Alpha, Rita's escaped! Recruit a team of teenagers with attitude!]]
In the wake of the repulsion of the Quintesson invasion, [[Unicron]] began gathering Transformers from across the multiverse, forcing them to fight and harvesting the [[spark]]s of the losers to restore his power. With each spark devoured, Primus was weakened, and so, communing with Alpha Trion, he chose to summon Optimus Primal back from the Allspark, restoring the Maximal commander to life. {{storylink|Abduction}} Primal was charged with re-securing the battling captives from the Pit of Unicron and leading a team of multiversal warriors to put a stop to this soul-stealing scheme before it could cause the Allspark to collapse. {{storylink|Escape (issue)|Escape}}

Primus allowed Optimus Primal to choose any Transformer who ever existed—living or dead—for his army. This required considerable amounts of Primus's power, so Primal was told to choose sparingly. Primal chose his departed former troops [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] and [[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge]]. {{storylink|Homecoming (issue)|Homecoming}} Ultimately, however, Unicron's defeat came not as a result of their efforts, but as a consequence of another battle, happening in another corner of the Transformers multiverse. {{storylink|Revelations Part 2}}
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===''Universe'' CD-ROM comic===
[[Image:UniverseCDROM-Primus.jpg|left|thumb|200px|In the future, Primals will travel on beams of light!]]

In a strange variant universe where [[Optimus Primal]] leads the [[Autobot]]s and [[Reptilion]] leads the [[Decepticon]]s, a ship arrives once a year, single year when the Transformers' civil war reaches a fever pitch. The ship abducts every Decepticon it can find and promptly leaves.

These Decepticons are brought to Unicron, who is preparing them for an eventual, ultimate battle for the universe. But unknown to even Unicron, Primus, the sentient core of Cybertron, is amassing an army of Autobots that rivals Unicron's army of Decepticons. Can Primus meet Unicron's challenge, or is the universe doomed? {{storylink|Universe CD-ROM}}
{{-}}

==Unicron Trilogy==
{{cleanup|April 2009|Needs storylinks and general expansion.}}

===''Armada'' cartoon===
A [[unique digital entity]] came to exist eons ago. To search for other life in the universe, it sent out the Transformers as explorers. One of the first places the Tansformers settled was on a planet that would eventually become known as Cybertron. {{storylink|First Encounter}}

===''Energon'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Ron Halder]] (English), [[Tesshō Genda]] (Japanese), [[Johan Hedenberg]] (Swedish)

[[Image:Primus eng.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Primus mistakes Kicker for a Japanese schoolgirl.]]
In the Unicron Trilogy universe, Primus was introduced as the living energy core of Cybertron, as well as the originator of the precious and ancient fuel, [[Energon (Energon)|energon]]. Transformers of this universe believed the stories of Unicron, Primus, and [[Omega Supreme (Energon)|Omega Supreme]] to be only myth and legend until the existence of Unicron was revealed in "[[the Unicron Battles]]" of 2010. With Cybertron left in a disastrous state after the chaos-bringer's attack, large amounts of energon were required to repair the planet, and to search for and acquire the mineral, the united Autobot-Decepticon forces entered into an alliance with the [[Earth Federation]] government.

Primus entered into the equation when the project's head scientist, [[Brian Jones (Energon)|Dr. Brian Jones]], brought his son, [[Kicker Jones|Kicker]], to Cybertron. Terrified of the giant robots surrounding him, Kicker fled, only to find himself tumbling through tunnels into a hidden chamber deep beneath Cybertron's surface. Primus awoke and saved Kicker from what would have been a fatal fall, and for his own reasons, imbued the child with a special gift—the ability to detect energon throughout the [[universe (universe)|universe]]. [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] subsequently discovered Kicker in Primus's chamber, and the god chose to work with the Transformers quite directly, imbuing them with the [[Spark of Combination]], which would allow the Autobots to [[Powerlinx]] and increase their powers. Primus went on to advise Optimus Prime on his actions in order to prepare for the future, including the [[Terrorcon (Energon)|Terrorcon]] invasion, the return of [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]], and the next battle with Unicron; although vague at times, he would offer just enough information to allow his children to survive the threats they faced. Primus was often very weak due to the damage done to the planet's surface, and spent most of his time in a mode of stasis to preserve his energy and keep Cybertron's energy grid online.

When Megatron succeeded in reanimating Unicron, most of the Autobot army was critically wounded in the ensuing battle. This prompted the sleeping Primus to awaken and infuse their armor with his power, upgrading them into new forms, and allowing Optimus Prime and Omega Supreme to combine into a gigantic form and defeat Unicron. {{storylink|Unicron Perishes}} Unicron's spark survived, however, and Primus sought to contain it by trapping it at the heart of a new sun that he created from a reservoir of "super energon" hidden within Cybertron. {{storylink|The Sun}}

===''Cybertron'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Michael Donovan]] (English), [[Tesshō Genda]] (Japanese)

[[Image:Cyb ep31 cybertron breakup.jpg|right|thumb|200px|On Cybertron, continental drift is Serious Business.]]

{{bigquote|He who charted the universe when it was new! He who battled Unicron at the dawn of time! He whose spark formed the basis of all life on Cybertron, and Velocitron, and all the other Transformer colonized homeworlds! It can be no other! This... is... Primus!|[[Vector Prime]], religiously intoning Primus' achievements throughout the Multiverse|[[Cybertron (episode)|Cybertron]]}}

[[Image:Cyb ep32 balance.jpg|left|200px|thumb|This looks [[Emirate Xaaron|familiar]].]]

Primus's plan to contain Unicron's essence in the center of the sun failed when the star collapsed into a massive [[Unicron Singularity|black hole]] which threatened not only Cybertron and the universe, but the entire multiverse itself. His energy drained to the point that he had once again been rendered dormant, Primus could now only be awakened and restored to full power by the four ancient [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, lost to the far reaches of the galaxy in a failed [[space bridge]] experiment eons ago. The magnitude of the threat posed to the multiverse was enough to summon [[Vector Prime]]—one of the original thirteen Transformers, who had been following Unicron through the multiverse and repairing the damage he had done—back to Cybertron to aid the Autobots in the quest for the keys.

After a while, the the Autobots were able to find the focusing device, the [[Omega Lock]], and the keys from [[Velocitron]] and [[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]]. Bringing all three together caused the group to be drawn into the consciousness of Primus, who spoke through the three Mini-Cons and told his children to "maintain the balance". {{storylink|Trap}}

[[Image:Cyb ep48 starships.jpg|right|thumb|200px|I can see my house from here!]]

Eventually, despite continued attempts by both Megatron and [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] to steal the power of the Cyber Planet Keys, the Autobots were able to gather the keys from [[Velocitron]], the [[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]] and [[Earth]], and brought them and their focusing device, the [[Omega Lock]], back to Cybertron. Coupling these three keys with the power of the Matrix, Optimus Prime was able to initiate Primus's transformation from planet mode to robot mode. Communicating with the Autobots through the [[Mini-Con]], [[Jolt (Cybertron)|Jolt]], Primus explained that the destruction of Unicron, the embodiment of the force of evil, had unbalanced the universe, and that only he could seal the black hole and restore order—but to do that, the fourth Cyber Planet Key, from [[Gigantion]], the Giant Planet, was required to reconnect Primus's spark with his body and restore his full power. {{storylink|Cybertron (episode)|Cybertron}}

[[Image:Cybertron Ark Homecoming.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Eat this, in remembrance of Me.]]

Attempting to retrieve the Omega Lock, [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] made a rather pointless attack on Primus, only to be smacked down hard. {{storylink|Balance}} Shortly thereafter, when Primus was in the process of channelling some of his power into holding back the ever-growing black hole, Starscream tried again, plunging into the energy beam and absorbing some of Primus's power into himself. Starscream expanded in size until he was as large as Primus himself, but Primus did not take this slight lightly, as he converted Cybertron's moons into a pair of mace weapons and relentlessly pounded Starscream into submission. {{storylink|Titans}}

[[Image:Cyb ep49 primus smiles.jpg|right|thumb|200px|He's pretty happy so long as you don't wake him up while he's napping.]]

Eventually, the Autobots were able to acquire the final key, as well as to reactivate the four ancient ships which had carried the keys to the respective worlds ages ago—the [[Atlantis]], the [[Lemuria (Cybertron)|Lemuria]], the [[Hyperborea]] and the [[Ogygia]]. Primus fused the four ships together to form the [[Ark (Cybertron)|Ark]], and with his powers subsequently restored by all four keys, he channelled all of his power through the Ark as a beam, straight into the heart of the black hole. With a massive blast, the black hole was finally sealed, and Primus transformed back into Cybertron—not Cybertron as it had been, but a new Cybertron, infused with the differing aspects of Velocitron, Jungle Planet, Earth and Gigantion, a true paradise for Transformers and humans alike. {{storylink|End}}
{{-}}

===''Cybertron'' comic===
[[Image:Revelations6-Primus.jpg|left|thumb|200px|pudding]]
While the Autobots were occupied with the quest for the Cyber Planet Keys, Unicron's heralds [[Ramjet (Universe)|Ramjet]] and [[Nemesis Prime (Universe 2003)|Nemesis Prime]] arrived on Cybertron, intent on unleashing the [[Dead Matrix]]—as the Matrix was the antithesis of Unicron, so too would the Dead Matrix ensure the destruction of Primus, thereby totally destabilizing the multiverse and reducing it to a sea of entropic chaos. For the first time, it would be possible for Unicron to strike at Primus in all realities simultaneously, ending their cosmic feud once and for all. Ramjet and Nemesis Prime were ultimately stopped by Vector Prime and allies [[Sentinel Maximus]] and [[Omega Prime]], plucked from the midst of the ''Universe'' conflict by the multiverse-warping energies of the black hole.

The Dead Matrix, however, was cast into the heart of the black hole by Unicron's servant [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]], freeing Unicron's spark and allowing it to adopt a new, diminutive physical form. Unicron participated in the escalating Mini-Con civil war on Cybertron's moons, but when the planet transformed into Primus's robot mode, Unicron fled. His whereabouts are unknown. {{storylink|Balancing Act}}

{{note|The events in the second paragraph happen concurrently with Primus' transformation in the ''Cybertron'' cartoon, detailed in the section prior.}}

{{-}}

==Shattered Glass==
The idea of Primus, the benevolent Creator, was unknown to the heroic Decepticons until [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], a visitor from the Positive Polarity universes, told them about Him. {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} Before long, Cliffjumper's "beliefs" were a subject of derision, especially among the evil Autobots. {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}}

Cliffjumper was eventually vindicated, however, when the [[Nexus Prime]] gestalt members attempted to resurrect a recently-assassinated [[Megatron (SG)|Megatron]]. As they applied their powers to the body, they were transported to Primus' presence. {{storylink|Reunification: Part 5}} There they chose for Primus to rebirth them as their original self, with Nexus returning to the battlefield and declaring himself to his enemies as being the "mighty fist of the Lord of Light". {{storylink|Reunification: Part 6}}

Megatron, meanwhile, received a vision from the other side of the Allspark of a healed Cybertron, before being reborn himself as Galvatron, with Nexus investing him with some of Primus's power by proxy. {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 30|Galvatron's TFCC bio}}

==Robot Heroes==

Primus, considered to be the very first Transformer, created the Matrix of Leadership and personally gave it to Optimus! Wait WHAT?{{storylink|I Am Optimus Prime (Robot Heroes)|I Am Optimus Prime}}

==Live-action film series==

===Titan Magazines ''Revenge of the Fallen'' comics===

Legend has it that the original seven Transformers are creations of Primus, though they themselves don't think this. It is not said who started the legend. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.3|The Fallen Profile}}

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

The Primes ''do'' think they're "children of Primus". {{storylink|Tales of the Fallen issue 4}}

== Retconning the retcon? ==

It's no secret that, after the Unicron Trilogy, ''Universe'' and the Unicron-heavy [[Dreamwave Productions]] comic books, the [[fandom]] at large was generally quite sick of stories revolving around Unicron and Primus. It is likely no coincidence, then, that the major new universes which have been created in western media since then—those of the [[IDW Publishing]] comic books, the [[live-action film series|live-action movie]] and the ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Transformers Animated]]'' cartoon—have all eschewed use of the Primus creation myth. But what does this mean for the status of the retcon that states Primus exists in all universes?

The world of the live-action movie is a fairly cut-and-dried case. At first, the movie itself, and the comic books set in its continuity published by IDW, present the Transformers as creations of the enigmatic [[AllSpark (Movie)|All Spark]], with no explicit connection drawn between it and Primus. However, Takara's [[World of Transformers]] website even lists the All Spark as a [[sacred implement]] alongside other Primus-related talismans such as the Matrix and Vector Sigma. The UK's Furman-scripted ''[[Transformers (Titan Magazine)|Transformers]]'' magazine had introduced Unicron in [[Transformers Comic issue 18|its eighteenth issue]] and later [[Transformers Comic issue 20|had the Transformers voyage into Cybertron's depths]]. While Primus was never mentioned in the course of the story, it was shown Cybertron's bowels had what seemed like huge versions of their own interior workings—a clear reference to Cybertron being the transforming body of Primus. Where Furman was going with that is unknown, as it was never followed up. Titan then confused everyone by saying ''legend'' has it that Primus created the first Seven Transformers; and then finally Primus was referred to by name by [[The Fallen]] in IDW's ''Tales of the Fallen'', confirming he exists in at least the comic back-story variations of the movie continuity.

The IDW and ''Animated'' universes are not so clear on the matter. Writer [[Simon Furman]] has outright said that the IDW universe will have "no Primus. No Unicron". In accordance with this, the Furman-penned ''[[Stormbringer (comics)|Stormbringer]]'', rather than have Transformers swear by Primus, instead had them swear by [[Primacron]], but a monkeywrench was thrown into the works when Primus's name was heard being taken in vain in [[Eric Holmes]]'s [[Megatron Origin issue 4|''Megatron Origin'' #4]]. Furman attempted to justify this on his blog by claiming that this was not ''the'' Primus, but simply "something or someone" called Primus that had existed some point. [http://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2008/01/14/all-this-and-devastation-4/]

Much like the movieverse, the world of ''Transformers Animated'' also depicts the source of Transformer life as a mysterious talisman known as the [[AllSpark (Animated)|AllSpark]]. The show's creative team have stated that they do not plan to give an in-story explanation for the origins of the AllSpark, for [[AllSpark (Animated)#Notes|various reasons]]. Series art director [[Derrick J. Wyatt]], meanwhile, has stated more than once his opinion that Primus does not exist in the ''Animated'' universe [http://twitter.com/DerrickJWyatt/status/1759990650] but then we're into the realm of [[authorial intent]].

Ultimately, there is ''very'' little to say that Primus does not exist in the IDW or ''Animated'' universe, besides the fact that creators involved with those universes do not want to include the character in their stories. After all, just because Primus doesn't ''appear'', or characters are unaware of him, it doesn't mean he doesn't ''exist''. It wouldn't be the only time this has happened: the occupants of the parallel ''[[Shattered Glass]]'' universe were largely ignorant of Primus until a [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper from another universe]] mentioned him. It seems quite safe to conclude that, as of this moment, the retcon has not yet itself been retconned... and we kinda hope it isn't, because then some poor sod is going to have rewrite this article from the ground up.

==Toys==
[[Image:GodPrimus2.jpg|250px|thumb|The rod god.]]
===Collectors Edition Japanese===
*'''God Primus''' (2004)
**''Accessories:'' Photon Eliminator, spoiler, 2 gun shields
[[Image:GodPrimus1.jpg|150px|left|thumb|Popemobile, meet Godebago.]]
:Unbeknownst to many Western fans, the first Primus figure was a "[[Lucky Draw figure]]" in Japan, a [[Vacuum metallizing|vacuum-metallized]] gold chrome recolored [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Rodimus Prime]] that was given away as a contest prize from the collector book, ''[[Transformers Generations|Transformers Generations Deluxe]]''. Supposedly, only 100 pieces of these lucky draw figures were manufactured.

:As a [[redeco]] of a Rodimus (no doubt inspired by the resemblance of his astral form to Rodimus in the UK comics), Primus transforms into a futuristic truck resembling nothing so much as a Winnebago. Following the trend started by [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|the original Optimus Prime toy]], his trailer splits down the middle to transform into a battle station with an extending double-barrelled cannon. The figure comes with a large, hand-held blaster, and two blast-shield accessories that plug into the sides of his battle station cannon.

{{-}}{{anchor|CybG1}}
===Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers===
*'''Primus''' (Supreme, 2006)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''00'''
**''Accessories:'' Omega Lock, special silver Cybertron planet-type Cyber Planet Key
[[Image:Cybertron Primus toy.jpg|350px|thumb|Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven imag— You know what, just forget it. It's not like we have rules for a reason.]]
:Primus was developed by Hasbro and Takara as a toy for their joint ''Cybertron/Galaxy Force'' toylines, but was released in Japan in the ''Generation 1'' line a few months after ''Galaxy Force'' had ended its run. This release can be considered a pre-release of the ''Cybertron'' toy because it features Hasbro's [[Cyber Key Codes]] that the ''Galaxy Force'' line lacked.

:Primus is the first toy representation of the Transformers' creator as their home planet of Cybertron. In planet mode, he is considerably more detailed than [[Unicron]] from the [[Armada (toyline)|''Armada'' line]], with visible cities, including [[Iacon (city-state)|Iacon]], based upon its appearance in the [[DK Publishing]] book, ''[[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide]]'', and [[Kaon]] as seen in ''[[The War Within]]''. On the 'bottom' of the planet mode there are four hard rubber legs, molded to be shaped like towers, allowing Primus to be displayed in planet mode, yet not require a flat base as Unicron did.

:Primus's transformation is unusual, in many ways similar to a [[Powermaster]], in that he requires the owner to insert his accompanying Omega Lock accessory into several special ports around the planet, then manipulate it to unlock his parts and transform him. When the Omega Lock is inserted into his back and pushed, a transforming sound is heard. When it is inserted into his chest and pushed up to reveal his head, his eyes glow red and a laser-type sound effect is heard. The Lock itself lights up red when it is inserted into any of the ports.

:In robot mode, Primus resembles both the ''[[Beast Wars Neo (franchise)|Beast Wars Neo]]'' Unicron prototype as well as [[Don Figueroa]]'s Primus concept, created for ''The War Within'' and used in ''The Ultimate Guide''. He is bristling with weaponry, including two shoulder-mounted cannons that can fire missiles, two forearm blasters that raise and extend when a Cyber Power Key is inserted, and several banks of Gatling guns, lasers and missile launchers in his shins and legs revealed by the Omega Lock.

:Primus also has what might charitably be called a third mode—an intergalactic world-ship, which is basically formed by transforming the figure halfway and leaving the head down and the legs backward. It features no dedicated parts or transformation steps, making it very obvious that it was created after the fact. It looks kinda like The Starship Enterprise...backwards.

:Primus comes with two accessories, the aforementioned battery-operated Omega Lock that lights up red when inserted into any of the four Omega Lock ports, and a special silver Cybertron-Planet Cyber Power Key with the key code '''sp8u''' [[tampograph]]ed onto the back. Any four Cyber Planet Keys can be inserted into the four key slots at the base of the Omega Lock, though doing this does not activate any feature. There are also nine inactive Mini-Con [[powerlinx]] ports on the Primus figure, including two on the claws on his legs.

===Cybertron===
*'''Cybertron Primus''' (Supreme, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Omega Lock, special silver Cybertron planet-type Cyber Planet Key

:Cybertron Primus is the North American version of Primus, released a few months after the Japanese release. The toys are identical.

:In North America, limited early-run versions of Cybertron Primus came packaged with a very creepy "battle damaged" Unicron head based upon his Armada appearance.

:A later version, [[exclusive]] to [[Walmart]] as a [[Black Friday (event)|Black Friday]] 2006 special, included four Mini-Cons; [[Strongarm (Cybertron)|Strongarm]], [[Knockdown (Cybertron)|Knockdown]], [[Nightscream (Cybertron)|Nightscream]], and [[Offshoot (Cybertron)|Offshoot]].

{{-}}

==Trivia==
* The original form of Primus in Marvel Comic continuity is similar to [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime]]. Rather creepily, this is suggested to be down to ''deliberate action'' on Primus' part. {{storylink|Salvage!|#160's Grim Grams}}
* The myth of Primus and Unicron is similar to the duality concepts present in numerous religions.
*The idea of Primus transforming bears some resemblance to an [[The Secret of Cybertron|early script]] for [[The Transformers: The Movie|the original movie]], in which [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] merges with [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and transforms into a super robot to defeat Unicron.
*''Energon'' [http://web.archive.org/web/20041207164548/www.tfpulp.com/archive/energonprod/energonprod.html pre-production notes] detail early ideas the cartoon had for Primus's origin. Presumably non-canon, given that they are not particularly in-line with the "multiversal singularity" origin of the character, they present Primus as an entity consisting purely of energon. Energon, the notes state, is the product of the "genetic material" of the sun interacting with planetary bodies—this, then, appears to be a very literal interpretation of Primus's role as a "light god", presenting him as an actual product of the light of the sun.
*His ''Cybertron'' toy was designed by [[Hirofumi Ichikawa]], which is ironic, considering his dislike for the religious aspects of the ''Transformers'' mythos.
* In an odd case of names overlapping that unintentionally heralds Primus' role as planet, ''[[Wikipedia:The New Adventures of He-Man|The New Adventures of He-Man]]'' retells the adventures of He-Man, summoned to the future plane of "Primus" to defend the planet from the evil mutant forces of Denebria. It is uncertain whether He-Man's Primus can transform.

==See also==
*[[Allspark]]
*[[Vector Sigma]]

==External links==
* [http://www.tfu.info/2006/Primus/Primus/primus.htm Primus at TFU.info]

[[Category:Contest prizes]]
[[Category:Cybertron characters]]
[[Category:Energon characters]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Gods]]
[[Category:Kiss Players characters]]
[[Category:Primus| ]]
[[Category:Revenge of the Fallen characters]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass characters]]
[[Category:Transformers with three modes]]
[[Category:Universe characters]]
[[Category:Wal-Mart exclusives]]

The Transformers (toyline)

2010-06-06T15:08:01Z

72.229.124.145: /* Autobots */

{{disambig2|the original toyline|other uses of ''The Transformers''|Transformers (disambiguation)}}
{{Nav-G1}}

{{bigquote|Look! Two more Transformers to add to our collection!|[[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] is excited to find [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]|"[[Starscream's Brigade]]"}}

'''''The Transformers''''' (retroactively called '''Generation One''' or '''G1''') started as a joint venture between two companies: [[Hasbro]] of America and [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] of [[Japan]]. After an idea to rebrand and sell Takara's ''[[Diaclone]]'' and ''[[Micro Change|Microchange]]'' [[Toy|robot toys]] as a whole new line with a new concept behind it, Hasbro unknowingly would wind up creating what would be one of its longest-running [[franchise]]s.

[[Image:Seekers ad.jpg|right|350px|thumb|Ahh, 1984's book of dreams.]]

In contrast to today's franchises, which tend by design to run 12 to 18 months, ''Generation 1'' was essentially an unbroken line from 1984 to 1991; its logo and packaging format only underwent one major change in that time. Toys tended to linger longer in the line; a few (Starscream, Bumblebee) were even sold for three years in a row (the record for non-re-issues is four years, set by cassettes [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]], [[Rewind]], [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]], [[Ramhorn]], and [[Eject]]). The changing circumstances of retail have made this a thing of the past; toy lines now require yearly rebranding.

The ''Generation 1'' line introduced a number of concepts which would stay with subsequent iterations of the brand. Most prominent among these were [[package art]] showing the character's robot form, [[Tech Spec]]s rating the character's abilities, [[bio]]s giving a personality profile of the character represented by the toy, and (in the Japanese toylines) [[Japanese ID number list|ID numbers]] for each figure to identify them. Other "premiums" which didn't survive the 1980s included [[Robot Point]]s and various mail order exclusives.

In addition to the toy and its weapons and accessories, ''Generation 1'' toys typically included a sticker sheet, instructions showing how to transform the toy and apply the stickers, and a [[Catalog|toy catalog flyer]] showing the entire year's toy line. In the early years of the line, a red plastic "tech spec decoder" and various [[Pack-in material#Mail-order flyers|mail-away offers]] were included as well.

The line began with toys already designed by Takara and other companies, but over time it expanded into numerous original designs and concepts through. While its run ostensibly ended with after seven years with the advent of ''[[Generation 2 (franchise)|Generation 2]]'', it was resurrected almost a decade later in Japan via the ''[[Transformers Collection]]'' line of reissues, supplemented by [[e-Hobby]]-exclusive reissues and new creations. A year later, Hasbro began retooling many of those reissues and selling them in North America as the ''[[Commemorative Series]]''. Even after Hasbro discontinued that line, TakaraTomy continued selling reissues under the ''[[Encore]]'' label. This toyline has changed direction and focus so many times that a year-by-year breakdown is the only way to get the full picture.

See also:

* Japanese ''Generation 1'' mini-franchise toylines:
** 1985—''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)]]''
** 1986—''[[Transformers 2010 (toyline)]]''
** 1987—''[[The Headmasters (toyline)]]''
** 1988—''[[Super-God Masterforce (toyline)]]''
** 1989—''[[Victory (toyline)]]''
** 1990—''[[Zone (toyline)]]''
** 1991—''[[Return of Convoy (toyline)]]''
** 1992—''[[Operation Combination (toyline)]]''

* ''[[Generation 1 (European toyline)]]''
* ''[[Generation 1 (Chinese toyline)]]''

==1984==
===Overview===
[[Image:G1Prowl toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Prowl, one of the 1984 line's more iconic toys. In today's secondary market, he's usually found with his roof broken off. Prowl was redecorated to make two other characters as well, which was pretty common in the first two years.]]
The first two years of ''Transformers'' product in America mostly consisted of toys from the two Takara lines. A wide range of sizes and price points, from $3 Mini-Vehicles up to larger toys costing $20 or more, ensured that every kid could pick up at least a few Transformers, and still have a few left for the Christmas wishlist -- a marketing strategy that continues up to the present day.

The early G1 toys were largely marked by attention to vehicle mode detail, rubber tires, the frequent use of [[die-cast]] metal (particularly on larger toys), and a variety of loose parts which had to be kept track of and attached separately. The early toys were also marked by a lack of posability -- not a single one of the [[Autobot Cars|Autobot cars]] had knee joints, and most had feet that were fused together. The Decepticon jets couldn't do anything but raise their arms forward.

The combination of heavy die-cast and the brittle plastics of the time also made many of the toys fragile; toys such as Prowl and Mirage are infamous for winding up broken.

Due to products coming from different pre-existing product lines, the 1984 toys were highly inconsistent in terms of relative [[scale]]. Later years would not do much to mitigate this issue.

Many of the 1984 toys included the pack-in brochure [[Reinforcements from Cybertron!]]

===Autobots===
'''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Cars]]'''

{{columnlist|3|
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]]
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Gears (G1)|Gears]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]]}}

{{note|Although the official catalogs and the box artwork depict Bumblebee in yellow and Cliffjumper in red, both toys were actually available in both colors. Additionally, a third toy of a similar design was also available in yellow, and sold on Cliffjumper cards. That toy was not officially marketed by Hasbro as a separate character, but was later dubbed "Bumblejumper" by fans, which was shortened to just "[[Bumper (G1)|Bumper]]" by the time he was officially integrated into the fiction as a character in his own right.}}

'''[[Autobot Cars]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Bluestreak]]
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]
* [[Ironhide (G1)/toys|Ironhide]]
* [[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Prowl (G1)/toys|Prowl]]
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]]}}

'''Autobot Commander'''
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]]

===Decepticons===
'''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Cassettes]]'''
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] & [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (available as a two-pack)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] & [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]] (available as a two-pack)

{{note|Another Decepticon Cassette, Buzzsaw, was available with Soundwave.}}

[[Image:Redeco.jpg|right|150px|thumb|L to R: Skywarp, Starscream, Thundercracker]]

'''Decepticon [[Seeker (body-type)|Planes]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]}}

'''Decepticon Communications'''
* [[Soundwave (G1)/toys|Soundwave]] (with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]])

'''Decepticon Leader'''
* [[Megatron (G1)/toys|Megatron]]

{{-}}

==1985==
:''For the toyline released in Japan this year comprising many of these toys and the 1984 figures, see: [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)]]''

===Overview===
[[Image:1985catalogue-diorama.jpg|right|250px|thumb|The 80s! When toy companies actively encouraged you to play with fire!]]

The initial toyline was wildly successful, making "Transformers" a household word for the rest of the 1980s and leading to an ever-expanding product line. 1985's offerings more than doubled those of 1984. Additional cars, jets, and mini-vehicles were released; many of the standard cars and jets were retooled versions of 1984 toys (or of each other, in the case of Grapple and Inferno.)

The line also veered into mechanical dinosaurs and insects, and futuristic vehicles. Some of these toys were designed and manufactured by companies in competition with Takara, among them Jetfire, the Deluxe Insecticons and the Deluxe Vehicles. These toys are among the few G1 toys with good articulation. However, their conflicting origins doomed most of them never to appear in the cartoon, as Takara did not wish to sponsor a show advertising its competitor's products. See ''[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]'' for more.

This year's toys primary pack-in brochures were "[[Earthlings: THE S.T.A.R.S. need your help now!]], and later [[Have the Decepticons defeated us once and for all?]].

In 1985, the Transformers line (with a few deletions) was ported back to Japan, as [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (franchise)|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers]].

===Autobots===
'''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini Vehicles]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]]
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]]}}

{{note|The "Mini-Cars" were renamed into "Mini-Vehicles" beginning with 1985. The 1984 Mini-Cars/Mini-Vehicles were re-released. 1985 Mini-Vehicles were briefly available with extra [[Mini-spy|Mini-Spies]], later replaced the Autobot symbols with rubsigns like the ones first featured on the Mini-Spies, and later shipments of the rubsign versions were available with iron-on patches. The versions of Bumblebee and Cliffjumper that came with the Mini-Spies were available in both yellow and red; the rubsign versions still featured color variants. The Bumper mold was no longer available.}}

'''[[Autobot Cars]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Skids (G1)|Skids]]
* [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Grapple]]}}

{{note|The 1984 Autobot Cars were re-released. All 1985 Autobot Cars sported rubsigns. The European version of Tracks released by Milton Bradley was originally available in red.}}

'''[[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
*[[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]]
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]]
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]]
*[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]]
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]}}

'''[[Jumpstarter|Jumpstarters]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
*[[Twin Twist]]}}

'''Autobot [[Deluxe Vehicle|Deluxe Vehicles]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
*[[Roadbuster]]
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]}}

'''Autobot Air Guardian'''
*[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]

'''Autobot Communicator'''
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]]

'''Autobot Scientist'''
*[[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]]

'''Autobot Motorized Defense Base'''
*[[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]

'''[[Powerdasher]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* "Drill Type"
* "F-1 Type"
* "Jet Type"}}

{{note|The Powerdashers were only available via mail-order. Figure names are in quotes because these figures were not officially named. Names are taken from the Diaclone versions.}}

'''[[Omnibot (G1)|Omnibots]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
*[[Camshaft (G1)|Camshaft]]
*[[Downshift (G1)|Downshift]]
*[[Overdrive]]}}

{{note|The Omnibots were only available via mail order.}}

'''Promotional toys'''
* "[[PepsiCo|Pepsi]]" Optimus Prime

{{note|A limited-edition variant of Optimus Prime was available with additional "Pepsi" stickers on the trailer. The [[Canada|Canadian]] version sported yet another variant with a large sticker covering the entire side of the trailer.}}

* "Cookie Crisp" Jazz

{{note|A variant of the Jazz toy was available as a Cookie Crisp promotional premium via mail order. Unlike the regular version, the "Martini" decals are missing from the doors.}}

====Notes====
* The entire 1984 lineup was still available in 1985, only now sporting [[rubsign]]s.
* Curiously, though animation models exist, Topspin and Twin Twist were also not shown in the cartoon, or even animated for commercials.

===Decepticons===
'''[[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]]
* [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]]
* [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]}}

'''[[Insecticon (G1)|Deluxe Insecticons]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Barrage (Insecticon)|Barrage]]
* [[Chop Shop]]
* [[Ransack (G1)|Ransack]]
* [[Venom (G1)|Venom]]}}

'''[[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]]
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]]
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (giftset)}}

'''[[Triple Changer]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
*[[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]]
*[[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]]}}

'''Decepticon [[Seeker (body-type)|Planes]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
*[[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
*[[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
*[[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]}}

'''Decepticon Military Operations Commander'''
*[[Shockwave (G1)/toys|Shockwave]]

====Notes====
* The entire 1984 assortment of Decepticons was still available in 1985, in updated packaging, now also sporting rubsigns.
* The Deluxe Insecticons made no appearances in the animated series.

==1986==
:''For the nearly-identical toyline (minus Sky Lynx) released in Japan this year, see: [[Transformers 2010 (toyline)]]''

===Overview===
[[Image:Protectobots-collectallfive.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Collect all five! The little ones are cheap, and you can bug your mom to buy you the big one!]]
1986 broke more ground with multiple [[combiner]] teams, two large "city" robots, and a full-length feature film to push a new crop of toys. By this point, Hasbro had gone through almost all of the "suitable" ''Diaclone'' and ''Microman'' toys, and were using up the last of the pre-existing (yet previously unmade) Takara design concepts, mostly in the form of the [[Scramble City]] combiner teams and the two citybots; thus the toys for ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' became the first original designs developed by Hasbro (and also the first of a ''very'' few times that characters' in-fiction designs predated their toy designs). That year also marked the end of rubber tires and die-cast metal in the toys, as shipping and manufacturing costs dictated an all-plastic approach; many toys from that year were available both with and without rubber and die-cast. Though many fans regard this as a drop in quality, it had the effect of creating much sturdier toys.

Starting with 1986, the first Transformers toys - the Mini-Cassettes, the Triple Changers, the newly introduced Special Teams Mini-Vehicles and the [[Special Teams]] Large Vehicles - were available in mixed assortments that contained both Autobot and Decepticon characters. The 1986 toys are still listed as Autobots and Decepticons for simplicity's sake.

Some assortments of the movie character toys included one of four free [[posters]] promoting the [[Decipher the Decepticon]] contest. Many toys included the S.T.A.R.S. advertisement [[You Have Been Chosen.]] Mini Vehicles included an iron-on patch promoting the [[Prizes in Disguise]] contest.

===Autobots===
'''Autobot [[Mini Vehicle|Mini-Vehicles]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]]
* [[Hubcap (G1)|Hubcap]]
* [[Outback]]
* [[Pipes]]
* [[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]]
* [[Tailgate]]}}

{{note|Bumblebee, Beachcomber, Seaspray, Cosmos, Powerglide and Warpath were re-released. All twelve 1986 Mini-Vehicles were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch.}}

'''Autobot [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]'''
* [[Rewind]] & [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (available as a two-pack)
* [[Ramhorn]] & [[Eject]] (available as a two-pack)

'''[[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]]
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]]
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]]
* [[Slingshot]]
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (giftset)}}

'''[[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]]
* [[Groove (G1)|Groove]]
* [[Blades (G1)|Blades]]
* [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]]
* [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]]
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (giftset)}}

{{note|The smaller Aerialbots and Protectobots were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Silverbolt and Hot Spot have never been found with a poster.}}

'''[[Triple Changer]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]]
* [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]]
* [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]}}

{{note|All 1986 Triple Changers were alternatively available with or without a poster.}}

'''[[Autobot Cars]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]]
* [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]]
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]}}

{{note|All three 1986 Autobot Cars were alternatively available with or without a poster.}}

'''Heroes'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Rodimus Prime]]
* [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]]}}

'''Autobot [[City Commander|City Commander]]'''
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]]

{{note|A variant version of Ultra Magnus was available exclusively from KB Toys stores, replacing the diecast parts and rubber tires with plastic parts and sporting unpainted heads.}}

'''Motorized Autobot Space Shuttle'''
* [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]]

'''Autobot [[City-bot|City]]'''
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] with [[Six-Gun]], [[Slammer]], and [[Scamper]]

====Notes====
* A limited edition version of Optimus Prime was available with a "Movie Edition" certificate.
* Sunstreaker, Mirage, Ratchet and Wheeljack, none of which were shipping to regular stores anymore by this point, were made available again via mail order.

===Decepticons===
'''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]'''
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] & Frenzy (available as a two-pack)

{{note|Frenzy was a re-release of the 1986 Decepticon Cassette, now available as a two-pack with the new mold Ratbat rather than with Laserbeak. The two-pack of Ravage and Rumble was also re-released.}}

'''[[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]]
* [[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]]
* [[Wildrider]]
* [[Drag Strip]]
* [[Motormaster]]
* [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] (giftset)}}

'''[[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]]
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]]
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]]
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]]
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]]}}

{{note|While packaged samples might exist, Bruticus was presumably never officially released in giftset form in the USA.<br />The smaller Stunticons and Combaticons were alternatively available with or without an iron-on patch. Motormaster and Onslaught have never been found with a poster.}}

'''[[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]]
* [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]]
* [[Headstrong]]
* [[Tantrum]]
* [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]]}}

{{note|Predaking was never available in giftset form outside of Japan.}}

'''[[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]]'''
* [[Gnaw]]

{{note|All five Predacons as well as Gnaw were alternatively available with or without a poster.}}

'''[[Triple Changer]]s'''
* [[Octane]]

{{note|Blitzwing and Astrotrain were re-released. All 1986 Triple Changers were alternatively available with or without a poster, and Astrotrain and Blitzwing are very difficult to find.}}

'''Decepticon Planes'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]]
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]}}

{{note|Starscream, Dirge, Ramjet and Thrust were re-released. Only Scourge and Cyclonus have been found with or without a poster. The other four jets in the asortment have never been found with a poster.}}

'''[[Battlecharger]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Runabout]]
* [[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]]}}

'''Decepticon [[City Commander]]'''
* [[Galvatron (G1)/toys|Galvatron]]

'''Motorized Decepticon [[City-bot|City]]'''
* [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] with [[Brunt (G1)|Brunt]] and [[Full-Tilt]]

'''[[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
*[[Spectro]]
*[[Spyglass]]
*[[Viewfinder]]}}

{{note|Reflector was only available via mail order.}}

====Notes====
* A limited edition version of Megatron was available with a "Movie Edition" certificate.
* Thundercracker, who was no longer shipping to regular stores by this point, was made available again via mail order.

==1987==
:''For the marginally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[The Headmasters (toyline)]]''

===Overview===
[[Image:Technobots-specialteams.jpg|right|250px|thumb|28 dollars?! But in 1987, that was like... um... factor inflation... multiply by 2.1314159... carry the 1... um... a LOT!]]

1987 was dominated by two sublines, the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] and [[Targetmaster]]s. It also marked the peak of the line's ambition, as it introduced the two-foot-tall [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] toy -- still the largest Transformer ever produced and, at nearly $100 in 1987 dollars, still one of the most expensive.

At the other end of the price scale, the $3 Mini-Vehicles of previous years were replaced by the [[Throttlebot]]s. Apart from them, the line was dominated for the first time by fictional vehicle modes (variously explained as "Cybertronian" or "futuristic") and mechanical monsters and beasts.

The smaller carded toys were sometimes available with a rubber [[decoy]] figure, as well as a bonus mini-comic. Larger toys included the pack-in mail-away brochure [[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]].

===Autobots===
'''[[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]]
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]]
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]]
* [[Lightspeed (Technobot)|Lightspeed]]
* [[Scattershot]]
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (giftset)}}

{{note|The Aerialbots and Protectobots were also re-released. All individual Aerialbots, Protectobots and Technobots were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.}}

'''[[Throttlebot]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Goldbug]]
* [[Chase (G1)|Chase]]
* [[Freeway (G1)|Freeway]]
* [[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]]
* [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]]
* [[Wide Load]]}}

{{note|The Throttlebots were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.}}

'''Autobot [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]]'''
* [[Fastlane]] & [[Cloudraker (G1)|Cloudraker]] (available as a two-pack)

'''Autobot [[:Category:Spies|Double Spy]]'''
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch-Counterpunch]]

'''[[Monsterbot]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Grotusque]]
* [[Doublecross]]
* [[Repugnus (G1)|Repugnus]]}}

'''Large [[Targetmaster]] Autobots'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil]]
* [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt]]}}

'''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] with [[Stylor]]
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] with [[Duros]]
* [[Brainstorm]] with [[Arcana]]
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] with [[Gort]]}}

'''Headmaster Autobot [[City-bot|Base]]'''
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] with [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Cog (G1)|Cog/Gasket/Grommet]]

====Notes====
Metroplex, Rodimus Prime, Wreck-Gar, Ultra Magnus and Sky Lynx were also still available. The Autobot Mini-Cassette two-packs of Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject were re-released.

===Decepticons===
'''[[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]]
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]]
* [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]]
* [[Blot (G1)|Blot]]
* [[Hun-Gurrr]]}}

{{note|[[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] was never officially released in giftset form in the USA.}}

{{note|The Stunticons and Combaticons were also re-released. All individual Stunticons, Combaticons and Terrorcons were alternatively available with or without a rubber decoy.}}

'''Decepticon [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassettes]]'''
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]] & [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]] (available as a two-pack)

{{note|The two-pack of Ratbat and Frenzy was also re-released.}}

'''[[Duocon]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Battletrap]]
* [[Flywheels]]}}

'''Decepticon [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]]'''
* [[Pounce]] & [[Wingspan]] (available as a two-pack)

'''Decepticon [[Six Changer]]'''
* [[Sixshot]]

'''Large [[Targetmaster]] Decepticons'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst]]
* [[Misfire]] with [[Aimless]]
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (Cyclonus)|Nightstick]]
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}

'''Large [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Skullcruncher]] with [[Grax]]
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] with [[Vorath]]
* [[Weirdwolf]] with [[Monzo]]}}

'''Headmaster [[Horrorcon]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Apeface]] with [[Spasma]]
* [[Snapdragon]] with [[Krunk]]}}

'''Headmaster Decepticon [[City-bot|Base]]'''
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] with [[Zarak (Nebulan)|Zarak]] and [[Fasttrack (Scorponok)|Fasttrack]]

====Notes====
Galvatron, Trypticon, the Predacons and the Sharkticon figure Gnaw were also still available.

==1988==
:''For the noticeably different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[Super-God Masterforce (toyline)]]''

===Overview===
[[Image:G1Bomb-Burst toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Bomb-Burst, a typical full-sized Pretender.]]
[[Image:PowermasterOptimusPrime toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Finally! They're selling Optimus Prime again!]]
1988 introduced a new logo design and tagline (More... MUCH more than meets the eye), but otherwise continued the directions of 1987, with a new line of Headmasters and the new [[Powermaster]] gimmicks, and a mixture of realistic and fanciful vehicle forms.

1988 also introduced the [[Pretender]]s, bringing non-transforming figures into the line for the first time. The Pretenders tended to have ''very'' simplified transformations and often unconvincing vehicle modes, though their designs make them among the most well-articulated of all G1 toys. The outer shells, by contrast, rarely featured any articulation beyond a swivel joint at the shoulders.

Other sublines of note included the [[Triggercon]]s, [[Triggerbot]]s, [[Sparkabot]]s and [[Firecon]]s, which took the Throttlebots' place as the line's low-end offerings.

G1 tended to be extremely non-self referential; until 1988, only one existing character, Bumblebee, had ever been revived with a new toy after having his older toy discontinued. That year, however, Hasbro seemingly began to realize the strength of the characters they had developed, as the line featured the return of Optimus Prime in Powermaster form following his death in ''Transformers: The Movie'' two years prior. The following two years would see more 1984/1985 characters return in Pretender and Action Master form.

This year's toys included the pack-in mail-away brochure [[The Autobots Are Under Attack!]].

===Autobots===
'''[[Sparkabot]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Fizzle]]
* [[Sizzle (G1)|Sizzle]]
* [[Guzzle (G1)|Guzzle]]}}

'''[[Triggerbot]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Backstreet]]
* [[Override (G1)|Override]]
* [[Dogfight]]}}

'''Autobot [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|Cassettes]]'''
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (available as a two-pack)

{{note|The Rewind/Steeljaw and Ramhorn/Eject two-packs were also re-released once again.}}

'''Small [[Targetmaster]] Autobots'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer]]
* [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (Nebulan)|Ricochet]]
* [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Nebulan)|Tracer]]}}

{{note|The Large Targetmaster Autobots Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs were also still available.}}

'''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Autobots'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] with [[Muzzle]]
* [[Siren]] with [[Quig]]
* [[Hosehead]] with [[Lug]]}}

{{note|The Large Headmaster Autobots Chromedome, Hardhead, Brainstorm and Highbrow and the Headmaster Autobot Base Fortress Maximus were also still available.}}

'''[[Powermaster]] Autobots'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Getaway]] with [[Rev]]
* [[Slapdash]] with [[Lube]]
* [[Joyride (Autobot)|Joyride]] with [[Hotwire]]}}

'''Powermaster Autobot Leader'''
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] with [[Hi-Q]]

'''Autobot [[Six Changer]]'''
* [[Quickswitch]]

'''Large Autobot [[Pretender]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]]
* [[Cloudburst]]
* [[Waverider]]
* [[Groundbreaker]]
* [[Sky High (Pretender)|Sky High]]
* [[Splashdown]]}}

{{note|Groundbreaker, Sky High and Splashdown were not released in Japan.}}

'''Autobot [[Pretender Beast]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Chainclaw]]
* [[Catilla]]}}

'''Autobot [[Pretender Vehicle]]s'''
* [[Gunrunner (G1)|Gunrunner]]

====Notes====
The Autobot Double Spy Punch-Counterpunch, the Autobot Clones two-pack of Fastlane/Cloudraker and the Monsterbots Grotusque, Doublecross and Repugnus were also still available. The Technobots were re-released.

===Decepticons===
'''[[Firecon]]s'''

{{columnlist|3|
* [[Cindersaur]]
* [[Flamefeather]]
* [[Sparkstalker]]}}

'''[[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]
* [[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]
* [[Nautilator]]
* [[Skalor]]
* [[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]
* [[Snaptrap (G1)|Snaptrap]]
* [[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]] (giftset)}}

{{note|The Piranacon giftset only included five of the six individual Seacons; Nautilator was left out for reasons unknown.}}

{{note|The Terrorcons were also re-released.}}

'''[[Triggercon]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]]
* [[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]]
* [[Windsweeper]]}}

'''Decepticon Cassettes'''
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox (G1)|Beastbox]] (available as a two-pack)

{{note|The Slugfest/Overkill two-pack was also re-released.}}

'''Small [[Targetmaster]] Decepticons'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]
* [[Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]
* [[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}

{{note|The Large Targetmaster Decepticons Triggerhappy, Slugslinger and Misfire were also still available.}}

'''Small [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] Decepticons'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Horri-Bull]] with [[Kreb]]
* [[Fangry]] with [[Brisko]]
* [[Squeezeplay]] with [[Lokos]]}}

{{note|The Large Headmaster Decepticons Skullcruncher, Mindwipe and Weirdwolf, the Headmaster Horrorcons Apeface and Snapdragon and the Headmaster Decepticon Base Scorponok were also still available.}}

'''[[Powermaster]] Decepticons'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] with [[Hi-Test]]
* [[Darkwing]] with [[Throttle (G1)|Throttle]]}}

'''Powermaster Mercenary'''
* [[Doubledealer]] with [[Knok]] and [[Skar]]

'''Large Decepticon [[Pretender]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Skullgrin]]
* [[Bomb-Burst]]
* [[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]]
* [[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]]
* [[Bugly]]
* [[Finback]]}}

'''Decepticon [[Pretender Beast]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]]
* [[Snarler]]}}

'''Decepticon [[Pretender Vehicle]]s'''
* [[Roadgrabber]]

====Notes====
The Deception Clones two-pack of Pounce/Wingspan and the Decepticon Six Changer Sixshot were also still available.

==1989==
:''For the totally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[Victory (toyline)]]''

===Overview===
[[Image:G1Thunderwing toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Thunderwing, a Mega Pretender. This toy commands shocking secondary market prices as a result of the character's prominent appearances in the later Generation 1 comics.]]
By 1989, Hasbro's Transformers releases had been effectively split into two almost distinct sub-lines - Pretenders and Micromasters - that were available concurrently, a separation that was stronger from a marketing standpoint than the Autobot/Decepticon distinction from previous years.

The Pretender subline expanded to include [[Pretender Monster|a combiner team]] and increasingly complex gimmicks, including robots with multiple shells, and outer shells which could transform themselves and even combine with their inner robots.

The 1-inch-tall [[Micromaster]]s attempted to capitalize on the popularity of the Micro Machine toyline. They were originally sold in carded 4-member "patrols", and later with various bases and vehicles. Micromasters tended to have realistically styled vehicle forms. Though the first five patrols featured relatively diverse transformation schemes, as the subline proliferated, their designs would become extremely standardized.

===Pretenders===
====Autobots====
'''Small Autobot [[Pretender]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Pincher]]
* [[Doubleheader]]
* [[Longtooth]]}}

'''Autobot [[Pretender Classic]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]]
* [[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]]
* [[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]]}}

'''Autobot [[Legends (G1)|Legends]]'''
{{columnlist|3|
* Bumblebee
* Grimlock
* Jazz}}

{{note|The Legends figures were identical to the Pretender Classics' inner robots, but lacking the Pretender shell. They were exclusively available from KMart stores. Curiously, Jazz and Bumblebee appear to have switched weapons.}}

'''Autobot [[Mega Pretender]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]]
* [[Vroom]]}}

'''Autobot [[Ultra Pretender]]s'''
* [[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]]

=====Notes=====
* Powermaster Optimus Prime, the Autobot Cassette two-packs of Rewind/Steeljaw, Ramhorn/Eject and Grand Slam/Raindance and the Large Autobot Pretenders were also still available.

====Decepticons====
'''[[Pretender Monster]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Icepick]]
* [[Bristleback]]
* [[Wildfly]]
* [[Scowl]]
* [[Slog]]
* [[Birdbrain]]}}

'''Small Decepticon [[Pretender]]s'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Octopunch]]
* [[Stranglehold]]
* [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]}}

'''Decepticon [[Pretender Classic]]s'''
* [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]

'''Decepticon [[Legends (G1)|Legends]]'''
* Starscream

{{note|The Legends figures were identical to the Pretender Classics' inner robots, but lacking the Pretender shell. They were exclusively available from KMart stores.}}

'''Decepticon [[Mega Pretender]]s'''
* [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]]

'''Decepticon [[Ultra Pretender]]s'''
* [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]]

=====Notes=====
* The Decepticon Cassette two-packs of Slugfest/Overkill and Squawktalk/Beastbox and the Large Decepticon Pretenders were also still available.

===Micromasters===
[[Image:Micromaster-sportscarpatrol-toys.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Here a novelty; soon an infestation.]]
====Autobots====
'''[[Micromaster]] Autobot Patrols'''
* [[Off Road Patrol]] ([[Highjump (G1)|Highjump]], [[Mudslinger]], [[Powertrain]] & [[Tote]])
* [[Race Car Patrol]] ([[Tailspin]], [[Free Wheeler]], [[Roadhandler (G1)|Roadhandler]] & [[Swindler]])
* [[Rescue Patrol]] ([[Seawatch]], [[Stakeout]], [[Fixit (G1)|Fixit]] & [[Red Hot]])
* [[Battle Patrol]] ([[Big Shot]], [[Sidetrack]], [[Sunrunner]] & [[Flak]])

'''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]'''
* [[Erector]] (with [[Crane]])
* [[Overload (G1)|Overload]] (with [[Car carrier trailer]])

'''Micromaster Autobot Stations'''
* [[Hot House]] (with [[Fire station]])
* [[Ironworks]] (with [[Construction station]])

'''Micromaster Autobot Bases'''
* [[Groundshaker]] (with [[ATV]])

'''Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base'''
* [[Countdown (G1)|Countdown]] (with [[Rocket Base|Rocket base]])

====Decepticons====
'''Micromaster Decepticon Patrols'''
* [[Air Strike Patrol]] ([[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]], [[Storm Cloud (G1)|Storm Cloud]], [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] & [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind]])
* [[Sports Car Patrol]] ([[Detour (G1)|Detour]], [[Blackjack]], [[Hyperdrive (Micromaster)|Hyperdrive]] & [[Road Hugger (G1)|Road Hugger]])

'''Micromaster Decepticon [[Micromaster Transport|Transports]]'''
* [[Flattop (Decepticon)|Flattop]] (with [[Aircraft carrier]])
* [[Roughstuff]] (with [[Military transport]])

'''Micromaster Decepticon Stations'''
* [[Greasepit (G1)|Greasepit]] (with [[Gas station]])
* [[Airwave]] (with [[Airport]])

'''Micromaster Decepticon Bases'''
* [[Skyhopper]] (with [[Helicopter]])

'''Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center'''
* [[Skystalker (G1)|Skystalker]] (with [[Interstellar shuttle]])

==1990==
:''For the totally different toyline released in Japan this year, see: [[Zone (toyline)]]''

===Overview===
[[Image:Actionmaster Jazz.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Action Master Jazz, reintroducing a character from the line's early years.]]
Like 1989 before, 1990 also effectively saw two almost distinct Transformers sub-lines being available concurrently: the vastly-expanded Micromasters, and the non-transforming [[Action Master]] figures. The Micromasters came both in the $5 carded patrols and with transforming bases, some of which were quite large. The Actionmasters likewise came as carded figures with small transforming partners, and also with larger boxed vehicles.

The [[Generation 1 Europe (toyline)|European version of the "G1" line]], which continued after Hasbro had abruptly cancelled the line in the USA, would furthermore add the "Classics" sub-line to the mix.

Waning popularity led to the line's cancellation at this point; ''Transformers'' disappeared from shelves for two years, not returning until the debut of ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]''.

===Micromasters===
====Autobots====
'''[[Micromaster]] Autobot Patrols'''
* [[Construction Patrol]] ([[Neutro]], [[Groundpounder]], [[Crumble]] & [[Takedown]])
* [[Air Patrol]] ([[Sky High (Micromaster)|Sky High]], [[Eagle Eye (G1)|Eagle Eye]], [[Blaze Master]] & [[Tread Bolt]])
* [[Monster Truck Patrol]] ([[Hydraulic]], [[Slow Poke]], [[Big Hauler]] & [[Heavy Tread]])
* [[Hot Rod Patrol]] ([[Big Daddy (G1)|Big Daddy]], [[Trip-Up]], [[Greaser]] & [[Hubs]])

'''Micromaster Autobot Combiner Squads'''
* [[Metro Squad]] ([[Wheel Blaze]], [[Roadburner]], [[Oiler]], [[Slide]], [[Power Run]] & [[Strikedown]])
* [[Astro Squad]] ([[Phaser]], [[Blast Master]], [[Moonrock]], [[Missile Master]], [[Barrage (Micromaster)|Barrage]] & [[Heave]])

'''Micromaster Autobot [[Micromaster Combiner Transport|Combiner Transports]]'''
* [[Missile Launcher]] (with [[Retro]] & [[Surge]])
* [[Tanker Truck]] (with [[Pipeline]] & [[Gusher]])

'''Micromaster Combiner Autobot Battlefield Headquarters'''
* [[Battlefield Headquarters]] with [[Full-Barrel]] & [[Overflow]]

=====Notes=====
* The Micromaster Transports Overload and Erector, the Micromaster Stations Hot House and Ironworks and the Micromaster Autobot Rocket Base Countdown were also still available.

====Decepticons====
'''[[Micromaster]] Decepticon Patrols'''
* [[Race Track Patrol]] ([[Roller Force]], [[Barricade (G1)|Barricade]], [[Ground Hog]] & [[Motorhead (Decepticon)|Motorhead]])
* [[Military Patrol]] ([[Bombshock (G1)|Bombshock]], [[Tracer (Decepticon)|Tracer]], [[Dropshot (G1)|Dropshot]] & [[Growl (G1)|Growl]])

'''Micromaster Decepticon Combiner Squads'''
* [[Battle Squad]] ([[Meltdown (G1)|Meltdown]], [[Half-Track (G1)|Half-Track]], [[Direct-Hit (G1)|Direct-Hit]], [[Power Punch (G1)|Power Punch]], [[Fireshot (G1)|Fireshot]] & [[Vanquish (G1)|Vanquish]])
* [[Constructor Squad]] ([[Stonecruncher (G1)|Stonecruncher]], [[Excavator (G1)|Excavator]], [[Sledge (G1)|Sledge]], [[Hammer (G1)|Hammer]], [[Grit (G1)|Grit]] & [[Knockout (G1)|Knockout]])

'''Micromaster Decepticon [[Micromaster Combiner Transport|Combiner Transports]]'''
* [[Cannon Transport]] (with [[Terror-Tread]] & [[Cement-Head]])

'''Micromaster Combiner Decepticon Anti-Aircraft Base'''
* [[Anti-Aircraft Base]] with [[Blackout (G1)|Blackout]] & [[Spaceshot]]

=====Notes=====
* The Micromaster Transports Flattop & Roughstuff, the Micromaster Stations Greasepit and Airwave and the Micromaster Decepticon Jet Command Center Skystalker were also still available.

===Action Masters===
====Autobots====
'''Autobot [[Action Master]] Figures'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]] with [[Anti-tank cannon]]
* [[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]] with [[Turbo Board]]
* [[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer]]
* [[Rollout (G1)| Rollout]] with [[Glitch]]
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]] with [[Heli-pack]]
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] with [[Flight Pack]]
* [[Jackpot]] with [[Sights]]
* [[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] with [[Hydro-Pack]]
* [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] with [[Tyrannitron]]
* [[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]
* [[Kick-Off (G1)|Kick-Off]] with [[Turbo-Pack]]}}

'''Autobot Action Master Action Blasters'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Turbo Cycle]] with [[Prowl (G1)/toys|Prowl]]
* [[Attack Copter]] with [[Over-Run (G1)|Over-Run]]}}

'''Action Master Autobot Vehicles'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Turbo Racer]] with [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]]
* [[Attack Cruiser]] with [[Sprocket (G1)|Sprocket]]}}

'''Action Master Autobot Armored Convoy'''
* [[Armored Convoy]] with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]]

====Decepticons====
'''Decepticon [[Action Master]] Figures'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Soundwave (G1)/toys|Soundwave]] with [[Wingthing]]
* [[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] with [[Scorpulator]]
* [[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]
* [[Shockwave (G1)/toys|Shockwave]] with [[Fistfight]]
* [[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}

'''Decepticon Action Master Action Blasters'''
{{columnlist|3|
* [[Off-Road Cycle]] with [[Axer]]
* [[Turbo Jet]] with [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]}}

'''Action Master Decepticon Attack Vehicles'''
{{columnlist|3|
*[[Megatron (G1)/toys|Megatron]]'s [[Neutro-Fusion Tank]]
*[[Gutcruncher (G1)|Gutcruncher]]'s [[Stratotronic Jet]]}}

==2000==
:''For the line of ''Generation 1'' reissues begun in Japan this year, see: [[Transformers Collection]]''

==2001==
:''For the supplementary, store-exclusive Japanese line of ''Generation 1'' reissues and new creations begun this year, see: [[e-Hobby]]''

==2002==
:''For the North American counterpart to the Japanese ''Generation 1'' revival, see: [[Commemorative Series]]''

==2006==
:''For the ''Titanium Series'' toys with a "Generation 1" sub-label, see: [[Titanium Series]]''

==2007==
:''For the line of ''Generation 1'' reissues begun in Japan this year, see: [[Encore]]''

==2008==
:''For the "Generation 1 Series" toys, see: [[Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]]''

{{DEFAULTSORT:Transformers (toyline), The}}

[[Category:Generation 1| Transformers (toyline)]]
[[Category:Toys]]

Slide

2010-05-31T02:08:53Z

72.229.124.145: /* Toys */

{{factions|autobot}}
:''Slide is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Slide cardart.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Wearing white after Labor Day ''and'' while carrying around hundreds of gallons of oil?]]

When you're as cool as '''Slide,''' everything looks easy. When the heat is on, the trick is to not let them see you sweat. Sure, that might make his squadmates think he's not making an effort, but he doesn't want them to know how much he cares. Keep it cool, boy. Real cool.<ref>''[[More Than Meets The Eye (G1)|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' #6</ref>

His [[Combiner|combiner]] partner on the [[Metro Squad]] is [[Oiler]].

::''French-Canadian name'': '''Glisseur'''

__TOC__
{{-}}
==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1-toy Slide.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Oiler slams on the brakes, cuts Slide loose, and lets him go hurtling toward the enemy to explode in their midst. They're the Crack Suicide Combiner Squad!]]
* '''Micromaster Combiner Metro Squad''' (1990)

: Slide transforms into a white tanker trailer that is intended to be the rear half of a blue and white tanker truck that he forms with his combiner partner [[Oiler]]. He can, of course, combine with any other [[Micromaster Combiner]] to form a new vehicle, as well as connect to any [[Micromaster Transport]]. Slide was only available in a six-pack with his squadmates Oiler, [[Power Run]], [[Roadburner]], [[Strikedown]] and [[Wheel Blaze]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1990/Autobot/Slide/slide.htm More information on Slide at TFU.info]''

===Return of Convoy===
*'''Fire Tanker W Team''' (Micro Trailer W Team, 1991)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''C-365'''
**''Accessories'': Micro Trailer #5

: In Japan, Slide came as part of the [[Fire Tanker W Team]] with Oiler, Wheelblaze and Roadburner. All four components were identical to their [[Hasbro]] releases. The group also came with [[Micro Trailer]] #5.

{{-}}

==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category:Autobots]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Micromasters]]
[[Category:Toy-only characters]]