MediaWiki - User contributions [en]

Mini-Con

2011-03-20T01:15:53Z

72.93.192.29: /* Cybertron */

{{disambig2|the Transformers type "Mini-Con"|the unit of time "minicon"|Units of time}}
:''Mini-Cons are a faction/type of [[Transformer]] in multiple [[Continuity family|continuity families]], most prominently the [[Unicron Trilogy]].''

[[Image:Minicon symbol.png|right|250px|thumb|Intentionally designed to look like the letter "M", the Mini-Con symbol is also reflected in the design of Unicron's helmet]]
'''Mini-Cons''' are a race of small, roughly [[human]]-sized Transformers capable of [[powerlinx]]ing with a larger Transformer to impart extra abilities or greatly increase their strength.

Their origins (when explored) vary depending on the continuity in which they appear. In some timelines they are creations of [[Unicron]], while in others, they are creations of the [[Last Autobot]]. Others are just... there.

==Fiction==
===3H comics===
[[Ramulus]] uses "Mini-Con" as a term of derision, implying that [[CatSCAN]] is timid or insufficiently assertive.

===Unicron Trilogy===
====Animated continuity====
[[Unicron]] created the Mini-Cons to be mindless tools, sent to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] as an agitating element to the Transformers' civil war. The power-enhancing "smart tools" would be unleashed upon the populace, who would snap them up and bond with them, and the war would only get more destructive, as Unicron drank in the negative psychic energies from the death and destruction. Once he'd gathered the power he needed, the Mini-Cons would turn on their supposed masters, incapacitating them, and Unicron would fully awaken to devour the planet and all Transformers on it, eliminating his biggest obstacle to devouring all of existence.

But through a strange warp in space and time that no one really bothered to explain, three [[human]] children from the future—[[Rad White|Rad]], [[Carlos Lopez|Carlos]] and [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]]—were sent to the Mini-Cons' birthing chamber on Cybertron just seconds before the small robots emerged from their pods. As the Mini-Cons had been designed to form mental bonds with other life forms, when Rad touched the Mini-Con who he knew from the future as [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]], High Wire apparently formed his bond then, with Rad... and through the Mini-Cons' shared "soul dimension", the [[Linkage (dimension)|Linkage]], sentience and free will spread throughout the Mini-Cons, forming "souls", and crippling Unicron's plans drastically.

====Dreamwave comics continuity====
[[Image:Mini-cons.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Gotta catch 'em all!]]
Mini-Cons are a second race of Transformer, mostly living in designated sectors by themselves, which left them open to attack when [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] led his Decepticons on capture raids. Through experimentation on prisoners, the Decepticons discovered the Mini-Cons were rewired, their power (disproportionate to their size) could be added to a Transformer through [[Powerlinx]]ing. Mini-Cons are also capable of tapping an extra-dimensional energy source of unknown origin, but are wary of doing this, and most have inhibitors installed to prevent this from happening.

[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]], a Mini-Con refugee from another dimension, led Cybertron's collected Mini-Cons in tapping that dimension's energies and channeling them into an attack on Unicron which left him stranded on the far fringes of space.

After Unicron's defeat, most Mini-Cons re-established their villages in the Mini-Con sector. When Unicron reappeared ten years later, no one went to fetch the Mini-Cons to battle Unicron again, so it seems likely the Mini-Cons' connection to their extra-dimensional power source was severed.

{{note|There is no indication that Mini-Cons are related to Unicron in Dreamwave continuity.}}

====Powerlinx and Evolution====
Mini-Cons have the special ability to actually evolve other machines, from transforming simple cars into jet-powered assault vehicles, to upgrading Transformers to have new weapons spring from their body. The nature of Powerlinxing is emphasized more in the Japanese ''[[Armada (franchise)|Micron Legend]]'' counterpart to Transformers ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]''. Once powerlinked, the Autobot would call out "EVOLUTION!" and a portion of their body would literally reconfigure to become a new weapon. Afterwards, they retained this new ability without the powerlinking of the Mini-Con which granted it. Linking to that Mini-Con again simply enhances their firepower. The Mini-Con is not required in order to use the evolved weaponry afterwards. This has caused some confusion in the Armada viewing audience due to dub issues and the downplaying of the "Evolution" theme. Despite this, the term is used twice in the American series by Megatron.

====Gigantion Mini-Cons====
The exact origin of the Gigantion Mini-Cons is questionable as presented within the context of the show itself. The show offers little to nothing on their genesis, merely their function as "little detail" workers whose brains developed similarly to human children because of this (uh, yeah). [[Snarl (Cybertron)|Snarl]] speculated that they evolved a small stature to adapt to Gigantion like he adapted to the [[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]]. In ''Galaxy Force'', they are stated to have existed since ancient times and controlled the larger Transformers. There are even ancient ruins discovered with inscriptions using ''Armada'' Mini-Con model sheets.

The [[Fun Publications]] fiction has linked these Mini-Cons to those of ''Armada'', which simply has them migrating to Gigantion (as well as the other colony worlds) with the Transformers carrying the [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, offering the only definitive origin of those Mini-Cons. This would also make them creations of Unicron. However, this does not fully line up with the fiction, as the Mini-Cons in Armada are shown appearing in the time of Optimus Prime, years after the world colonization—so the matter is left more than a bit vague.

====Packaging blurb====
Long ago, Mini-Cons fled Cybertron to escape the endless war between Autobots and Decepticons. Many teams were broken up in that war, leaving only a few left living in peace while roaming the universe.<ref>[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]] Armada Series Mini-Con multi-pack packaging blurb.</ref>
===Generation 1===
====Classics====
Mini-Cons were created by the [[Last Autobot]] to cleanse Cybertron of [[Demon]]s and [[Mutant (G1)|Mutants]] before the Autobots returned. {{storylink|The New World}}

===="Eternal Prisoner"====
The latest (as of this update) assortment of [[Micron Booster]]s features Mini-Cons with [[Autobot]], [[Decepticon]], [[Maximal]] and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] insignia. There is little to no information about when this set "takes place".

Similarly, three store-[[exclusive]] Mini-Cons released at the time, [[Torque Gain]], [[Noise Effect]] and [[Wedge Shape]] seem to be in the same boat, especially as Wedge Shape's toy is branded as a Maximal (though his instructions claim him to be a Predacon).

====Beast Wars (Japan)====
[[Dragoyell]] is a combatant in the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]], though his ninja-like powers mean he is rarely seen. His bio and instructions explicitly say he's a Maximal... but his toy is branded as an Autobot. Hmm.

===Live action film series===
Mini-Cons [[Longarm (Movie Mini-Con)|Longarm]] and the [[Guardian Micron]]s exist. Beyond that fact, nothing is known about the nature of Mini-Cons in this continuity.

===Aligned===
Minicons (no dash) are just small Transformers. They include [[Autobot High Council|High Councilor]] [[Ratbat (WFC)|Ratbat]], [[Frenzy (WFC)|Frenzy]], [[Rumble (WFC)|Rumble]], [[Laserbeak (WFC)|Laserbeak]] and [[Ravage (WFC)|Ravage]]. [[Megatron (Prime)|Megatron]] despises them. {{storylink|Exodus: The Official History of the War for Cybertron}}

==Things that are not Mini-Cons==
There have been a number of character or toys that either have Powerlink 'catcher' ports but are not Mini-Cons, or are recolored from Mini-Con molds (often even having the molded-in faction symbol) but who are nonetheless, according to their associated bios or fiction, not actually Mini-Cons.

{{collist|3|
* [[Laserbeak (Cybertron)|''Cybertron'' Laserbeak]] (sometimes)
* [[Search and Destroy Robot]]}}

==Toys==
:Mini-Con toys debuted as the signature element of the ''Armada'' franchise, bringing the "micro [[play pattern]]" back to ''Transformers'' after many years' absence. Much like ''Armada'' itself, the Mini-Cons proved to be a smash hit with fans and kids, and Hasbro scrambled to include them in the subsequent franchises.

:Most Mini-Cons stand around 2" tall, roughly the same size as their [[Micromaster]] predecessors. Most Mini-Cons are considerably more complex, as well; unlike Micromasters, there's no single dominant transformation scheme. With dozens of molds, Mini-Cons cover a wide range of articulation, size, alternate modes, and complexity. Aesthetically, their facial designs tend toward the unorthodox.

:Each Mini-Con includes one or more [[Powerlinx]] ports somewhere on their body, a round peg-slot that allows them to be attached to any "[[Bulk]]" figure with a corresponding Powerlinx peg. These pegs were standard-issue on the larger, original-mold ''Armada'' toys, where at least one such peg could be used to activate various gimmicks on each large figure. Toys from subsequent franchise have featured Powerlinx pegs only as a static feature.

{{note|Because of the overwhelming number of Mini-Con redecos—we're talking well into the hundreds—the following list is of unique first-use ''molds'' only.}}

===Armada===
====3-pack team molds====
[[Image:Armada airmilitaryteam toys.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Air Military Mini-Con Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Adventure Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dune Runner (Armada)|Dune Runner]] (dune buggy)
* [[Iceberg]] (snowcat)
* [[Ransack (Armada)|Ransack]] (jeep)

'''[[Air Defense Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Air Defense Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jetstorm (Armada)|Jetstorm]] (Concorde jet)
* [[Runway]] (supersonic bomber)
* [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]] (space shuttle)

'''[[Air Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Gunbarrel (Armada)|Gunbarrel]] (cargo jet)
* [[Terradive (Armada)|Terradive]] (recon jet)
* [[Thunderwing (Armada)|Thunderwing]] (stealth bomber)

'''[[Destruction Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Buzzsaw (Armada)|Buzzsaw]] (excavator)
* [[Drill Bit (Armada)|Drill Bit]] (mining vehicle)
* [[Dualor]] (tank)

'''[[Emergency Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Firebot (Armada)|Firebot]] (fire engine)
* [[Makeshift (Armada)|Makeshift]] (VTOL plane)
* [[Prowl (Armada)|Prowl]] (police cruiser)

'''[[Land Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Bonecrusher (Armada)|Bonecrusher]] (missile transport)
* [[Knock Out (Armada)|Knock Out]] (armored personnel carrier)
* [[Wreckage (Armada)|Wreckage]] (tracked missile platform)

'''[[Race Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dirt Boss (Armada)|Dirt Boss]] (rally SUV)
* [[Downshift (Armada)|Downshift]] (Le Mans racer)
* [[Mirage (Armada)|Mirage]] (Indy racer)

'''[[Sea Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Oceanglide]] (solar-powered boat)
* [[Stormcloud (Armada)|Stormcloud]] (speedboat)
* [[Waterlog (Armada)|Waterlog]] (hovercraft)

'''[[Space Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Astroscope]] (space station)
* [[Payload (Armada)|Payload]] (rocket transporter)
* [[Sky Blast]] (rocket)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (skateboard)
* [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (dirtbike)
* [[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (motor scooter)

'''[[Street Speed Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Backtrack (Armada)|Backtrack]] (sportscar)
* [[Oval]] (sportscar)
* [[Spiral]] (sportscar)
}}

====Partner Mini-Con molds====
[[Image:Armada Leader1 toy.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Leader-1]]

{{collist|3|
*[[Incinerator (Armada)|Incinerator]] (partner: [[Blurr (Armada)|Blurr]])
*[[Refute]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Hoist]])
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])
*[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Supercon Optimus Prime]])
*[[Nightbeat (Armada)|Nightbeat]] (partner: [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]])
*[[Liftor]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Smokescreen]])
*[[Rollout (Armada)|Rollout]] (partner: [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]])
*[[Longarm (Armada)|Longarm]] (partner: [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]])
*[[Rollbar (Armada)|Rollbar]] (partner: [[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]])
*[[Comettor]] (partner: [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]])
*[[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Super Optimus Prime]])
*[[Crumplezone (Armada)|Crumplezone]] (partner: [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]])
*[[Blackout (Armada)|Blackout]] (partner: [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]])
*[[Inferno (Armada)|Inferno]] (partner: [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]])
*[[Wind Sheer (Armada)|Wind Sheer]] (partner: [[Wheeljack (Armada)|Wheeljack]])
*[[Thunderclash (Armada)|Thunderclash]] (partner: [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]])
*[[Swindle (Armada)|Swindle]] (partner: [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]])
*[[Leader-1 (Armada)|Leader-1]] (partner: [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]])
*[[Ramjet (Armada)|Ramjet]] (partner: [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]])
*[[Rook (Armada)|Rook]] and [[Crosswise (Armada)|Crosswise]] (partner: [[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]])
*[[Dead End (Armada)|Dead End]] (partner: [[Unicron]])
}}

===Energon===
====3-pack team molds====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Energon Saber]] Team'''
*[[Scattor (Energon)|Scattor]] (Concorde)
*[[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]] (space shuttle)
*[[Wreckage (Energon)|Wreckage]] (supersonic bomber)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
*[[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (hoverboard)
*[[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (motorbike)
*[[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (four-wheeler)
}}

====Other====
* Kicker/Highwire 2-pack

===Cybertron===
====Partner Mini-Con molds====
{{collist|1|
*[[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]] (parther: [[Vector Prime|Vector Prime]])
*[[Drill Bit (Cybertron)|Drill Bit]] (partner: [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]])
*[[Stripmine]] (partner: [[Quickmix (Cybertron)|Quickmix]])
*[[Heavy Load (Cybertron)|Heavy Load]] (partner: [[Menasor (Cybertron)|Menasor]])
}}

====3-pack team molds====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Recon Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jolt (Cybertron)|Jolt]] (helicopter)
* [[Six-Speed]] (LeMans race car)
* [[Reverb (Cybertron)|Reverb]] (pickup truck)

'''[[Giant Planet Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Deepdive]] (submarine)
* [[Longarm (Cybertron) | Longarm]] (double-crane truck)
* [[Overcast (Cybertron)| Overcast]] (military cargo plane)
}}

===Classics (2006)===
[[Image:TFC Clear Sky.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Clear Skies Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Demolition Team]]'''
*[[Broadside (Classics)|Broadside]]
*[[Sledge (Classics)|Sledge]]
*[[Wideload (Classics)|Wideload]]

'''[[Dinobot (Classics)|Dinobots]]'''
*[[Knockdown (Classics)|Knockdown]]
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]
*[[Terrorsaur (Classics)|Terrorsaur]]

'''[[Night Rescue Team]]'''
*[[Divebomb (Classics)|Divebomb]]
*[[Firebot (Classics)|Firebot]]
*[[Strongarm (Classics)|Strongarm]]

'''[[Clear Skies Team]]'''
*[[Nightscream (Classics)|Nightscream]]
*[[Steel Wind]]
*[[Thunderwing (Classics)|Thunderwing]]

'''[[Dirt Digger Team]]'''
*[[Dirt Rocket]]
*[[Grindor (Classics)|Grindor]]
*[[Oil Slick (Classics)|Oil Slick]]

'''[[Predator Attack Team]]'''
*[[Dreadwing (Classics)|Dreadwing]]
*[[Overbite (Classics)|Overbite]]
*[[Snarl (Classics)|Snarl]]
}}

===Universe (2008)===
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])

===Micron Densetsu===
*'''Hikari no Unicron''' (campaign prize item)
**''Accessories:'' Chest missile, 6 leg missiles

: The "[[Unicron of Light]]" toy is a [[redeco]] of ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' [[Unicron]] in an emerald, light green, blue, and white color-scheme. This Unicron was the prize for a lucky-draw contest in Japan.

===Power Core Combiners===
[[Image:PCC-toy Chopster.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Chopster (with Smolder)]]
====Partner Mini-Con molds====

{{collist|2|
*[[Airlift (PCC)|Airlift]] (partner: [[Skyhammer (PCC)|Skyhammer]])
*[[Backwind]] (partner: [[Searchlight (PCC)|Searchlight]])
*[[Caliburst (PCC)|Caliburst]] (partner: [[Huffer (PCC)|Huffer]])
*[[Chainclaw (PCC)|Chainclaw]] (partner: [[Icepick (PCC)|Icepick]])
*[[Chopster]] (partner: [[Smolder]])
*[[Groundspike]] (partner: [[Heavytread (PCC)|Heavytread]])
*[[Pinpoint]] (partner: [[Leadfoot (PCC)|Leadfoot]])
*[[Throttler]] (partner: [[Sledge (PCC)|Sledge]])
*[[Waterlog (PCC)|Waterlog]] (partner: [[Undertow (PCC)|Undertow]])}}

{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Attacktix===
[[Image:AttacktixMiniConS1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Goooood.]]
*'''Mini-Con''' (Booster, 2006)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF01
|faction=Autobot
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback - 4/26 (15%) success ratio
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

: The first assortment of Transformers ''[[Attacktix]]'' figures included a "generic" Mini-Con, based on [[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]]. Each Mini-Con figure has 3 points of articulation, including waist and shoulders; however, their shoulders move together due to their gun. One of the shortest, most squat ''Attacktix'' figures, the Mini-Con is very stable despite its small base.

:Its Special Power, "Attackback", allows a free move and attack for any of your in-play Autobot pieces. Mini-Con is an excellent support figure for [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]], whose "Shootback" power allows up to three Mini-Cons to make a free attack.

{{-}}
[[Image:AttackitxMiniConS2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Eeeevil.]]
*'''Minicon''' (Booster, 2007)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF03
|faction=Decepticon
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

:An as-yet unreleased redeco of the ''Attacktix'' "Minicon" (''sic'') piece is set for the second series' Booster Packs, though this time as a Decepticon-aligned piece. It features a color scheme not on any incarnation of the actual [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]]/Skyboom toy, but wouldn't that be neat? The exact details of its Attackback special power are as yet unknown.

: This piece was later characterized as "[[Bunker-Buster]]" in the members-only portion of the [[Fun Publications]] [[Transformers Collectors' Club]] website.

{{canceledattacktix}}
{{-}}

==Notes==
* During the ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' line, the term "Mini-Con" was also the name of a [[size class]] which consisted of three-packs of small toys (which were also individually referred to as "Mini-Cons"). Other size classes from the ''Armada'' line were named "Super-Con", "Max-Con" and "Giga-Con". However, the name "Mini-Con" was the only one actually used in the corresponding fiction. In the toyline, it was ''also'' used for other small figures of the same size that were available as companion figures with the larger toys. Due to its use in fiction, the name was also carried over into subsequent lines such as ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' and ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'', and was used as (part of) the name of a price point again in the ''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' toyline, the "Mini-Con Class", this time consisting of two-packs, and later in the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' toyline, now again available as three-packs.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Micron''' (マイクロン ''Maikuron'')
*''French:'' '''Minimodus''' (Canada)
*''Spanish:'' '''Minimodus'''

==References==
<references/>

==External links==
*[http://www.tfu.info/faction/minicon.htm Mini-Cons at TFU.info]

*[http://www.tfarchive.com/toys/references/mini-cons_microns.php TFArchive's complete Mini-Con/Micron list]

{{stub}}

[[Category:Armada]]
[[Category:Attacktix]]
[[Category:Beast Wars]]
[[Category:Classics]]
[[Category:Cybertron]]
[[Category:Energon]]
[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Movie]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:Mini-Cons| ]]
[[Category:Unicron]]
[[Category:Universe (2003)]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron]]

Mini-Con

2011-03-20T01:15:07Z

72.93.192.29: /* 3-packs team molds */

{{disambig2|the Transformers type "Mini-Con"|the unit of time "minicon"|Units of time}}
:''Mini-Cons are a faction/type of [[Transformer]] in multiple [[Continuity family|continuity families]], most prominently the [[Unicron Trilogy]].''

[[Image:Minicon symbol.png|right|250px|thumb|Intentionally designed to look like the letter "M", the Mini-Con symbol is also reflected in the design of Unicron's helmet]]
'''Mini-Cons''' are a race of small, roughly [[human]]-sized Transformers capable of [[powerlinx]]ing with a larger Transformer to impart extra abilities or greatly increase their strength.

Their origins (when explored) vary depending on the continuity in which they appear. In some timelines they are creations of [[Unicron]], while in others, they are creations of the [[Last Autobot]]. Others are just... there.

==Fiction==
===3H comics===
[[Ramulus]] uses "Mini-Con" as a term of derision, implying that [[CatSCAN]] is timid or insufficiently assertive.

===Unicron Trilogy===
====Animated continuity====
[[Unicron]] created the Mini-Cons to be mindless tools, sent to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] as an agitating element to the Transformers' civil war. The power-enhancing "smart tools" would be unleashed upon the populace, who would snap them up and bond with them, and the war would only get more destructive, as Unicron drank in the negative psychic energies from the death and destruction. Once he'd gathered the power he needed, the Mini-Cons would turn on their supposed masters, incapacitating them, and Unicron would fully awaken to devour the planet and all Transformers on it, eliminating his biggest obstacle to devouring all of existence.

But through a strange warp in space and time that no one really bothered to explain, three [[human]] children from the future—[[Rad White|Rad]], [[Carlos Lopez|Carlos]] and [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]]—were sent to the Mini-Cons' birthing chamber on Cybertron just seconds before the small robots emerged from their pods. As the Mini-Cons had been designed to form mental bonds with other life forms, when Rad touched the Mini-Con who he knew from the future as [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]], High Wire apparently formed his bond then, with Rad... and through the Mini-Cons' shared "soul dimension", the [[Linkage (dimension)|Linkage]], sentience and free will spread throughout the Mini-Cons, forming "souls", and crippling Unicron's plans drastically.

====Dreamwave comics continuity====
[[Image:Mini-cons.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Gotta catch 'em all!]]
Mini-Cons are a second race of Transformer, mostly living in designated sectors by themselves, which left them open to attack when [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] led his Decepticons on capture raids. Through experimentation on prisoners, the Decepticons discovered the Mini-Cons were rewired, their power (disproportionate to their size) could be added to a Transformer through [[Powerlinx]]ing. Mini-Cons are also capable of tapping an extra-dimensional energy source of unknown origin, but are wary of doing this, and most have inhibitors installed to prevent this from happening.

[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]], a Mini-Con refugee from another dimension, led Cybertron's collected Mini-Cons in tapping that dimension's energies and channeling them into an attack on Unicron which left him stranded on the far fringes of space.

After Unicron's defeat, most Mini-Cons re-established their villages in the Mini-Con sector. When Unicron reappeared ten years later, no one went to fetch the Mini-Cons to battle Unicron again, so it seems likely the Mini-Cons' connection to their extra-dimensional power source was severed.

{{note|There is no indication that Mini-Cons are related to Unicron in Dreamwave continuity.}}

====Powerlinx and Evolution====
Mini-Cons have the special ability to actually evolve other machines, from transforming simple cars into jet-powered assault vehicles, to upgrading Transformers to have new weapons spring from their body. The nature of Powerlinxing is emphasized more in the Japanese ''[[Armada (franchise)|Micron Legend]]'' counterpart to Transformers ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]''. Once powerlinked, the Autobot would call out "EVOLUTION!" and a portion of their body would literally reconfigure to become a new weapon. Afterwards, they retained this new ability without the powerlinking of the Mini-Con which granted it. Linking to that Mini-Con again simply enhances their firepower. The Mini-Con is not required in order to use the evolved weaponry afterwards. This has caused some confusion in the Armada viewing audience due to dub issues and the downplaying of the "Evolution" theme. Despite this, the term is used twice in the American series by Megatron.

====Gigantion Mini-Cons====
The exact origin of the Gigantion Mini-Cons is questionable as presented within the context of the show itself. The show offers little to nothing on their genesis, merely their function as "little detail" workers whose brains developed similarly to human children because of this (uh, yeah). [[Snarl (Cybertron)|Snarl]] speculated that they evolved a small stature to adapt to Gigantion like he adapted to the [[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]]. In ''Galaxy Force'', they are stated to have existed since ancient times and controlled the larger Transformers. There are even ancient ruins discovered with inscriptions using ''Armada'' Mini-Con model sheets.

The [[Fun Publications]] fiction has linked these Mini-Cons to those of ''Armada'', which simply has them migrating to Gigantion (as well as the other colony worlds) with the Transformers carrying the [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, offering the only definitive origin of those Mini-Cons. This would also make them creations of Unicron. However, this does not fully line up with the fiction, as the Mini-Cons in Armada are shown appearing in the time of Optimus Prime, years after the world colonization—so the matter is left more than a bit vague.

====Packaging blurb====
Long ago, Mini-Cons fled Cybertron to escape the endless war between Autobots and Decepticons. Many teams were broken up in that war, leaving only a few left living in peace while roaming the universe.<ref>[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]] Armada Series Mini-Con multi-pack packaging blurb.</ref>
===Generation 1===
====Classics====
Mini-Cons were created by the [[Last Autobot]] to cleanse Cybertron of [[Demon]]s and [[Mutant (G1)|Mutants]] before the Autobots returned. {{storylink|The New World}}

===="Eternal Prisoner"====
The latest (as of this update) assortment of [[Micron Booster]]s features Mini-Cons with [[Autobot]], [[Decepticon]], [[Maximal]] and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] insignia. There is little to no information about when this set "takes place".

Similarly, three store-[[exclusive]] Mini-Cons released at the time, [[Torque Gain]], [[Noise Effect]] and [[Wedge Shape]] seem to be in the same boat, especially as Wedge Shape's toy is branded as a Maximal (though his instructions claim him to be a Predacon).

====Beast Wars (Japan)====
[[Dragoyell]] is a combatant in the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]], though his ninja-like powers mean he is rarely seen. His bio and instructions explicitly say he's a Maximal... but his toy is branded as an Autobot. Hmm.

===Live action film series===
Mini-Cons [[Longarm (Movie Mini-Con)|Longarm]] and the [[Guardian Micron]]s exist. Beyond that fact, nothing is known about the nature of Mini-Cons in this continuity.

===Aligned===
Minicons (no dash) are just small Transformers. They include [[Autobot High Council|High Councilor]] [[Ratbat (WFC)|Ratbat]], [[Frenzy (WFC)|Frenzy]], [[Rumble (WFC)|Rumble]], [[Laserbeak (WFC)|Laserbeak]] and [[Ravage (WFC)|Ravage]]. [[Megatron (Prime)|Megatron]] despises them. {{storylink|Exodus: The Official History of the War for Cybertron}}

==Things that are not Mini-Cons==
There have been a number of character or toys that either have Powerlink 'catcher' ports but are not Mini-Cons, or are recolored from Mini-Con molds (often even having the molded-in faction symbol) but who are nonetheless, according to their associated bios or fiction, not actually Mini-Cons.

{{collist|3|
* [[Laserbeak (Cybertron)|''Cybertron'' Laserbeak]] (sometimes)
* [[Search and Destroy Robot]]}}

==Toys==
:Mini-Con toys debuted as the signature element of the ''Armada'' franchise, bringing the "micro [[play pattern]]" back to ''Transformers'' after many years' absence. Much like ''Armada'' itself, the Mini-Cons proved to be a smash hit with fans and kids, and Hasbro scrambled to include them in the subsequent franchises.

:Most Mini-Cons stand around 2" tall, roughly the same size as their [[Micromaster]] predecessors. Most Mini-Cons are considerably more complex, as well; unlike Micromasters, there's no single dominant transformation scheme. With dozens of molds, Mini-Cons cover a wide range of articulation, size, alternate modes, and complexity. Aesthetically, their facial designs tend toward the unorthodox.

:Each Mini-Con includes one or more [[Powerlinx]] ports somewhere on their body, a round peg-slot that allows them to be attached to any "[[Bulk]]" figure with a corresponding Powerlinx peg. These pegs were standard-issue on the larger, original-mold ''Armada'' toys, where at least one such peg could be used to activate various gimmicks on each large figure. Toys from subsequent franchise have featured Powerlinx pegs only as a static feature.

{{note|Because of the overwhelming number of Mini-Con redecos—we're talking well into the hundreds—the following list is of unique first-use ''molds'' only.}}

===Armada===
====3-pack team molds====
[[Image:Armada airmilitaryteam toys.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Air Military Mini-Con Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Adventure Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dune Runner (Armada)|Dune Runner]] (dune buggy)
* [[Iceberg]] (snowcat)
* [[Ransack (Armada)|Ransack]] (jeep)

'''[[Air Defense Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Air Defense Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jetstorm (Armada)|Jetstorm]] (Concorde jet)
* [[Runway]] (supersonic bomber)
* [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]] (space shuttle)

'''[[Air Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Gunbarrel (Armada)|Gunbarrel]] (cargo jet)
* [[Terradive (Armada)|Terradive]] (recon jet)
* [[Thunderwing (Armada)|Thunderwing]] (stealth bomber)

'''[[Destruction Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Buzzsaw (Armada)|Buzzsaw]] (excavator)
* [[Drill Bit (Armada)|Drill Bit]] (mining vehicle)
* [[Dualor]] (tank)

'''[[Emergency Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Firebot (Armada)|Firebot]] (fire engine)
* [[Makeshift (Armada)|Makeshift]] (VTOL plane)
* [[Prowl (Armada)|Prowl]] (police cruiser)

'''[[Land Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Bonecrusher (Armada)|Bonecrusher]] (missile transport)
* [[Knock Out (Armada)|Knock Out]] (armored personnel carrier)
* [[Wreckage (Armada)|Wreckage]] (tracked missile platform)

'''[[Race Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dirt Boss (Armada)|Dirt Boss]] (rally SUV)
* [[Downshift (Armada)|Downshift]] (Le Mans racer)
* [[Mirage (Armada)|Mirage]] (Indy racer)

'''[[Sea Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Oceanglide]] (solar-powered boat)
* [[Stormcloud (Armada)|Stormcloud]] (speedboat)
* [[Waterlog (Armada)|Waterlog]] (hovercraft)

'''[[Space Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Astroscope]] (space station)
* [[Payload (Armada)|Payload]] (rocket transporter)
* [[Sky Blast]] (rocket)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (skateboard)
* [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (dirtbike)
* [[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (motor scooter)

'''[[Street Speed Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Backtrack (Armada)|Backtrack]] (sportscar)
* [[Oval]] (sportscar)
* [[Spiral]] (sportscar)
}}

====Partner Mini-Con molds====
[[Image:Armada Leader1 toy.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Leader-1]]

{{collist|3|
*[[Incinerator (Armada)|Incinerator]] (partner: [[Blurr (Armada)|Blurr]])
*[[Refute]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Hoist]])
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])
*[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Supercon Optimus Prime]])
*[[Nightbeat (Armada)|Nightbeat]] (partner: [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]])
*[[Liftor]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Smokescreen]])
*[[Rollout (Armada)|Rollout]] (partner: [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]])
*[[Longarm (Armada)|Longarm]] (partner: [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]])
*[[Rollbar (Armada)|Rollbar]] (partner: [[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]])
*[[Comettor]] (partner: [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]])
*[[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Super Optimus Prime]])
*[[Crumplezone (Armada)|Crumplezone]] (partner: [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]])
*[[Blackout (Armada)|Blackout]] (partner: [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]])
*[[Inferno (Armada)|Inferno]] (partner: [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]])
*[[Wind Sheer (Armada)|Wind Sheer]] (partner: [[Wheeljack (Armada)|Wheeljack]])
*[[Thunderclash (Armada)|Thunderclash]] (partner: [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]])
*[[Swindle (Armada)|Swindle]] (partner: [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]])
*[[Leader-1 (Armada)|Leader-1]] (partner: [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]])
*[[Ramjet (Armada)|Ramjet]] (partner: [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]])
*[[Rook (Armada)|Rook]] and [[Crosswise (Armada)|Crosswise]] (partner: [[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]])
*[[Dead End (Armada)|Dead End]] (partner: [[Unicron]])
}}

===Energon===
====3-pack team molds====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Energon Saber]] Team'''
*[[Scattor (Energon)|Scattor]] (Concorde)
*[[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]] (space shuttle)
*[[Wreckage (Energon)|Wreckage]] (supersonic bomber)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
*[[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (hoverboard)
*[[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (motorbike)
*[[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (four-wheeler)
}}

====Other====
* Kicker/Highwire 2-pack

===Cybertron===
====Partner Mini-Con====
{{collist|1|
*[[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]] (parther: [[Vector Prime|Vector Prime]])
*[[Drill Bit (Cybertron)|Drill Bit]] (partner: [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]])
*[[Stripmine]] (partner: [[Quickmix (Cybertron)|Quickmix]])
*[[Heavy Load (Cybertron)|Heavy Load]] (partner: [[Menasor (Cybertron)|Menasor]])
}}

====3-packs====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Recon Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jolt (Cybertron)|Jolt]] (helicopter)
* [[Six-Speed]] (LeMans race car)
* [[Reverb (Cybertron)|Reverb]] (pickup truck)

'''[[Giant Planet Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Deepdive]] (submarine)
* [[Longarm (Cybertron) | Longarm]] (double-crane truck)
* [[Overcast (Cybertron)| Overcast]] (military cargo plane)
}}

===Classics (2006)===
[[Image:TFC Clear Sky.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Clear Skies Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Demolition Team]]'''
*[[Broadside (Classics)|Broadside]]
*[[Sledge (Classics)|Sledge]]
*[[Wideload (Classics)|Wideload]]

'''[[Dinobot (Classics)|Dinobots]]'''
*[[Knockdown (Classics)|Knockdown]]
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]
*[[Terrorsaur (Classics)|Terrorsaur]]

'''[[Night Rescue Team]]'''
*[[Divebomb (Classics)|Divebomb]]
*[[Firebot (Classics)|Firebot]]
*[[Strongarm (Classics)|Strongarm]]

'''[[Clear Skies Team]]'''
*[[Nightscream (Classics)|Nightscream]]
*[[Steel Wind]]
*[[Thunderwing (Classics)|Thunderwing]]

'''[[Dirt Digger Team]]'''
*[[Dirt Rocket]]
*[[Grindor (Classics)|Grindor]]
*[[Oil Slick (Classics)|Oil Slick]]

'''[[Predator Attack Team]]'''
*[[Dreadwing (Classics)|Dreadwing]]
*[[Overbite (Classics)|Overbite]]
*[[Snarl (Classics)|Snarl]]
}}

===Universe (2008)===
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])

===Micron Densetsu===
*'''Hikari no Unicron''' (campaign prize item)
**''Accessories:'' Chest missile, 6 leg missiles

: The "[[Unicron of Light]]" toy is a [[redeco]] of ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' [[Unicron]] in an emerald, light green, blue, and white color-scheme. This Unicron was the prize for a lucky-draw contest in Japan.

===Power Core Combiners===
[[Image:PCC-toy Chopster.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Chopster (with Smolder)]]
====Partner Mini-Con molds====

{{collist|2|
*[[Airlift (PCC)|Airlift]] (partner: [[Skyhammer (PCC)|Skyhammer]])
*[[Backwind]] (partner: [[Searchlight (PCC)|Searchlight]])
*[[Caliburst (PCC)|Caliburst]] (partner: [[Huffer (PCC)|Huffer]])
*[[Chainclaw (PCC)|Chainclaw]] (partner: [[Icepick (PCC)|Icepick]])
*[[Chopster]] (partner: [[Smolder]])
*[[Groundspike]] (partner: [[Heavytread (PCC)|Heavytread]])
*[[Pinpoint]] (partner: [[Leadfoot (PCC)|Leadfoot]])
*[[Throttler]] (partner: [[Sledge (PCC)|Sledge]])
*[[Waterlog (PCC)|Waterlog]] (partner: [[Undertow (PCC)|Undertow]])}}

{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Attacktix===
[[Image:AttacktixMiniConS1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Goooood.]]
*'''Mini-Con''' (Booster, 2006)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF01
|faction=Autobot
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback - 4/26 (15%) success ratio
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

: The first assortment of Transformers ''[[Attacktix]]'' figures included a "generic" Mini-Con, based on [[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]]. Each Mini-Con figure has 3 points of articulation, including waist and shoulders; however, their shoulders move together due to their gun. One of the shortest, most squat ''Attacktix'' figures, the Mini-Con is very stable despite its small base.

:Its Special Power, "Attackback", allows a free move and attack for any of your in-play Autobot pieces. Mini-Con is an excellent support figure for [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]], whose "Shootback" power allows up to three Mini-Cons to make a free attack.

{{-}}
[[Image:AttackitxMiniConS2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Eeeevil.]]
*'''Minicon''' (Booster, 2007)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF03
|faction=Decepticon
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

:An as-yet unreleased redeco of the ''Attacktix'' "Minicon" (''sic'') piece is set for the second series' Booster Packs, though this time as a Decepticon-aligned piece. It features a color scheme not on any incarnation of the actual [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]]/Skyboom toy, but wouldn't that be neat? The exact details of its Attackback special power are as yet unknown.

: This piece was later characterized as "[[Bunker-Buster]]" in the members-only portion of the [[Fun Publications]] [[Transformers Collectors' Club]] website.

{{canceledattacktix}}
{{-}}

==Notes==
* During the ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' line, the term "Mini-Con" was also the name of a [[size class]] which consisted of three-packs of small toys (which were also individually referred to as "Mini-Cons"). Other size classes from the ''Armada'' line were named "Super-Con", "Max-Con" and "Giga-Con". However, the name "Mini-Con" was the only one actually used in the corresponding fiction. In the toyline, it was ''also'' used for other small figures of the same size that were available as companion figures with the larger toys. Due to its use in fiction, the name was also carried over into subsequent lines such as ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' and ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'', and was used as (part of) the name of a price point again in the ''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' toyline, the "Mini-Con Class", this time consisting of two-packs, and later in the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' toyline, now again available as three-packs.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Micron''' (マイクロン ''Maikuron'')
*''French:'' '''Minimodus''' (Canada)
*''Spanish:'' '''Minimodus'''

==References==
<references/>

==External links==
*[http://www.tfu.info/faction/minicon.htm Mini-Cons at TFU.info]

*[http://www.tfarchive.com/toys/references/mini-cons_microns.php TFArchive's complete Mini-Con/Micron list]

{{stub}}

[[Category:Armada]]
[[Category:Attacktix]]
[[Category:Beast Wars]]
[[Category:Classics]]
[[Category:Cybertron]]
[[Category:Energon]]
[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Movie]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:Mini-Cons| ]]
[[Category:Unicron]]
[[Category:Universe (2003)]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron]]

Mini-Con

2011-03-20T01:14:50Z

72.93.192.29: /* 3-packs */

{{disambig2|the Transformers type "Mini-Con"|the unit of time "minicon"|Units of time}}
:''Mini-Cons are a faction/type of [[Transformer]] in multiple [[Continuity family|continuity families]], most prominently the [[Unicron Trilogy]].''

[[Image:Minicon symbol.png|right|250px|thumb|Intentionally designed to look like the letter "M", the Mini-Con symbol is also reflected in the design of Unicron's helmet]]
'''Mini-Cons''' are a race of small, roughly [[human]]-sized Transformers capable of [[powerlinx]]ing with a larger Transformer to impart extra abilities or greatly increase their strength.

Their origins (when explored) vary depending on the continuity in which they appear. In some timelines they are creations of [[Unicron]], while in others, they are creations of the [[Last Autobot]]. Others are just... there.

==Fiction==
===3H comics===
[[Ramulus]] uses "Mini-Con" as a term of derision, implying that [[CatSCAN]] is timid or insufficiently assertive.

===Unicron Trilogy===
====Animated continuity====
[[Unicron]] created the Mini-Cons to be mindless tools, sent to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] as an agitating element to the Transformers' civil war. The power-enhancing "smart tools" would be unleashed upon the populace, who would snap them up and bond with them, and the war would only get more destructive, as Unicron drank in the negative psychic energies from the death and destruction. Once he'd gathered the power he needed, the Mini-Cons would turn on their supposed masters, incapacitating them, and Unicron would fully awaken to devour the planet and all Transformers on it, eliminating his biggest obstacle to devouring all of existence.

But through a strange warp in space and time that no one really bothered to explain, three [[human]] children from the future—[[Rad White|Rad]], [[Carlos Lopez|Carlos]] and [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]]—were sent to the Mini-Cons' birthing chamber on Cybertron just seconds before the small robots emerged from their pods. As the Mini-Cons had been designed to form mental bonds with other life forms, when Rad touched the Mini-Con who he knew from the future as [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]], High Wire apparently formed his bond then, with Rad... and through the Mini-Cons' shared "soul dimension", the [[Linkage (dimension)|Linkage]], sentience and free will spread throughout the Mini-Cons, forming "souls", and crippling Unicron's plans drastically.

====Dreamwave comics continuity====
[[Image:Mini-cons.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Gotta catch 'em all!]]
Mini-Cons are a second race of Transformer, mostly living in designated sectors by themselves, which left them open to attack when [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] led his Decepticons on capture raids. Through experimentation on prisoners, the Decepticons discovered the Mini-Cons were rewired, their power (disproportionate to their size) could be added to a Transformer through [[Powerlinx]]ing. Mini-Cons are also capable of tapping an extra-dimensional energy source of unknown origin, but are wary of doing this, and most have inhibitors installed to prevent this from happening.

[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]], a Mini-Con refugee from another dimension, led Cybertron's collected Mini-Cons in tapping that dimension's energies and channeling them into an attack on Unicron which left him stranded on the far fringes of space.

After Unicron's defeat, most Mini-Cons re-established their villages in the Mini-Con sector. When Unicron reappeared ten years later, no one went to fetch the Mini-Cons to battle Unicron again, so it seems likely the Mini-Cons' connection to their extra-dimensional power source was severed.

{{note|There is no indication that Mini-Cons are related to Unicron in Dreamwave continuity.}}

====Powerlinx and Evolution====
Mini-Cons have the special ability to actually evolve other machines, from transforming simple cars into jet-powered assault vehicles, to upgrading Transformers to have new weapons spring from their body. The nature of Powerlinxing is emphasized more in the Japanese ''[[Armada (franchise)|Micron Legend]]'' counterpart to Transformers ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]''. Once powerlinked, the Autobot would call out "EVOLUTION!" and a portion of their body would literally reconfigure to become a new weapon. Afterwards, they retained this new ability without the powerlinking of the Mini-Con which granted it. Linking to that Mini-Con again simply enhances their firepower. The Mini-Con is not required in order to use the evolved weaponry afterwards. This has caused some confusion in the Armada viewing audience due to dub issues and the downplaying of the "Evolution" theme. Despite this, the term is used twice in the American series by Megatron.

====Gigantion Mini-Cons====
The exact origin of the Gigantion Mini-Cons is questionable as presented within the context of the show itself. The show offers little to nothing on their genesis, merely their function as "little detail" workers whose brains developed similarly to human children because of this (uh, yeah). [[Snarl (Cybertron)|Snarl]] speculated that they evolved a small stature to adapt to Gigantion like he adapted to the [[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]]. In ''Galaxy Force'', they are stated to have existed since ancient times and controlled the larger Transformers. There are even ancient ruins discovered with inscriptions using ''Armada'' Mini-Con model sheets.

The [[Fun Publications]] fiction has linked these Mini-Cons to those of ''Armada'', which simply has them migrating to Gigantion (as well as the other colony worlds) with the Transformers carrying the [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, offering the only definitive origin of those Mini-Cons. This would also make them creations of Unicron. However, this does not fully line up with the fiction, as the Mini-Cons in Armada are shown appearing in the time of Optimus Prime, years after the world colonization—so the matter is left more than a bit vague.

====Packaging blurb====
Long ago, Mini-Cons fled Cybertron to escape the endless war between Autobots and Decepticons. Many teams were broken up in that war, leaving only a few left living in peace while roaming the universe.<ref>[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]] Armada Series Mini-Con multi-pack packaging blurb.</ref>
===Generation 1===
====Classics====
Mini-Cons were created by the [[Last Autobot]] to cleanse Cybertron of [[Demon]]s and [[Mutant (G1)|Mutants]] before the Autobots returned. {{storylink|The New World}}

===="Eternal Prisoner"====
The latest (as of this update) assortment of [[Micron Booster]]s features Mini-Cons with [[Autobot]], [[Decepticon]], [[Maximal]] and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] insignia. There is little to no information about when this set "takes place".

Similarly, three store-[[exclusive]] Mini-Cons released at the time, [[Torque Gain]], [[Noise Effect]] and [[Wedge Shape]] seem to be in the same boat, especially as Wedge Shape's toy is branded as a Maximal (though his instructions claim him to be a Predacon).

====Beast Wars (Japan)====
[[Dragoyell]] is a combatant in the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]], though his ninja-like powers mean he is rarely seen. His bio and instructions explicitly say he's a Maximal... but his toy is branded as an Autobot. Hmm.

===Live action film series===
Mini-Cons [[Longarm (Movie Mini-Con)|Longarm]] and the [[Guardian Micron]]s exist. Beyond that fact, nothing is known about the nature of Mini-Cons in this continuity.

===Aligned===
Minicons (no dash) are just small Transformers. They include [[Autobot High Council|High Councilor]] [[Ratbat (WFC)|Ratbat]], [[Frenzy (WFC)|Frenzy]], [[Rumble (WFC)|Rumble]], [[Laserbeak (WFC)|Laserbeak]] and [[Ravage (WFC)|Ravage]]. [[Megatron (Prime)|Megatron]] despises them. {{storylink|Exodus: The Official History of the War for Cybertron}}

==Things that are not Mini-Cons==
There have been a number of character or toys that either have Powerlink 'catcher' ports but are not Mini-Cons, or are recolored from Mini-Con molds (often even having the molded-in faction symbol) but who are nonetheless, according to their associated bios or fiction, not actually Mini-Cons.

{{collist|3|
* [[Laserbeak (Cybertron)|''Cybertron'' Laserbeak]] (sometimes)
* [[Search and Destroy Robot]]}}

==Toys==
:Mini-Con toys debuted as the signature element of the ''Armada'' franchise, bringing the "micro [[play pattern]]" back to ''Transformers'' after many years' absence. Much like ''Armada'' itself, the Mini-Cons proved to be a smash hit with fans and kids, and Hasbro scrambled to include them in the subsequent franchises.

:Most Mini-Cons stand around 2" tall, roughly the same size as their [[Micromaster]] predecessors. Most Mini-Cons are considerably more complex, as well; unlike Micromasters, there's no single dominant transformation scheme. With dozens of molds, Mini-Cons cover a wide range of articulation, size, alternate modes, and complexity. Aesthetically, their facial designs tend toward the unorthodox.

:Each Mini-Con includes one or more [[Powerlinx]] ports somewhere on their body, a round peg-slot that allows them to be attached to any "[[Bulk]]" figure with a corresponding Powerlinx peg. These pegs were standard-issue on the larger, original-mold ''Armada'' toys, where at least one such peg could be used to activate various gimmicks on each large figure. Toys from subsequent franchise have featured Powerlinx pegs only as a static feature.

{{note|Because of the overwhelming number of Mini-Con redecos—we're talking well into the hundreds—the following list is of unique first-use ''molds'' only.}}

===Armada===
====3-pack team molds====
[[Image:Armada airmilitaryteam toys.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Air Military Mini-Con Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Adventure Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dune Runner (Armada)|Dune Runner]] (dune buggy)
* [[Iceberg]] (snowcat)
* [[Ransack (Armada)|Ransack]] (jeep)

'''[[Air Defense Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Air Defense Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jetstorm (Armada)|Jetstorm]] (Concorde jet)
* [[Runway]] (supersonic bomber)
* [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]] (space shuttle)

'''[[Air Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Gunbarrel (Armada)|Gunbarrel]] (cargo jet)
* [[Terradive (Armada)|Terradive]] (recon jet)
* [[Thunderwing (Armada)|Thunderwing]] (stealth bomber)

'''[[Destruction Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Buzzsaw (Armada)|Buzzsaw]] (excavator)
* [[Drill Bit (Armada)|Drill Bit]] (mining vehicle)
* [[Dualor]] (tank)

'''[[Emergency Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Firebot (Armada)|Firebot]] (fire engine)
* [[Makeshift (Armada)|Makeshift]] (VTOL plane)
* [[Prowl (Armada)|Prowl]] (police cruiser)

'''[[Land Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Bonecrusher (Armada)|Bonecrusher]] (missile transport)
* [[Knock Out (Armada)|Knock Out]] (armored personnel carrier)
* [[Wreckage (Armada)|Wreckage]] (tracked missile platform)

'''[[Race Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dirt Boss (Armada)|Dirt Boss]] (rally SUV)
* [[Downshift (Armada)|Downshift]] (Le Mans racer)
* [[Mirage (Armada)|Mirage]] (Indy racer)

'''[[Sea Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Oceanglide]] (solar-powered boat)
* [[Stormcloud (Armada)|Stormcloud]] (speedboat)
* [[Waterlog (Armada)|Waterlog]] (hovercraft)

'''[[Space Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Astroscope]] (space station)
* [[Payload (Armada)|Payload]] (rocket transporter)
* [[Sky Blast]] (rocket)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (skateboard)
* [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (dirtbike)
* [[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (motor scooter)

'''[[Street Speed Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Backtrack (Armada)|Backtrack]] (sportscar)
* [[Oval]] (sportscar)
* [[Spiral]] (sportscar)
}}

====Partner Mini-Con molds====
[[Image:Armada Leader1 toy.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Leader-1]]

{{collist|3|
*[[Incinerator (Armada)|Incinerator]] (partner: [[Blurr (Armada)|Blurr]])
*[[Refute]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Hoist]])
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])
*[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Supercon Optimus Prime]])
*[[Nightbeat (Armada)|Nightbeat]] (partner: [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]])
*[[Liftor]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Smokescreen]])
*[[Rollout (Armada)|Rollout]] (partner: [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]])
*[[Longarm (Armada)|Longarm]] (partner: [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]])
*[[Rollbar (Armada)|Rollbar]] (partner: [[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]])
*[[Comettor]] (partner: [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]])
*[[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Super Optimus Prime]])
*[[Crumplezone (Armada)|Crumplezone]] (partner: [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]])
*[[Blackout (Armada)|Blackout]] (partner: [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]])
*[[Inferno (Armada)|Inferno]] (partner: [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]])
*[[Wind Sheer (Armada)|Wind Sheer]] (partner: [[Wheeljack (Armada)|Wheeljack]])
*[[Thunderclash (Armada)|Thunderclash]] (partner: [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]])
*[[Swindle (Armada)|Swindle]] (partner: [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]])
*[[Leader-1 (Armada)|Leader-1]] (partner: [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]])
*[[Ramjet (Armada)|Ramjet]] (partner: [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]])
*[[Rook (Armada)|Rook]] and [[Crosswise (Armada)|Crosswise]] (partner: [[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]])
*[[Dead End (Armada)|Dead End]] (partner: [[Unicron]])
}}

===Energon===
====3-packs team molds====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Energon Saber]] Team'''
*[[Scattor (Energon)|Scattor]] (Concorde)
*[[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]] (space shuttle)
*[[Wreckage (Energon)|Wreckage]] (supersonic bomber)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
*[[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (hoverboard)
*[[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (motorbike)
*[[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (four-wheeler)
}}

====Other====
* Kicker/Highwire 2-pack

===Cybertron===
====Partner Mini-Con====
{{collist|1|
*[[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]] (parther: [[Vector Prime|Vector Prime]])
*[[Drill Bit (Cybertron)|Drill Bit]] (partner: [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]])
*[[Stripmine]] (partner: [[Quickmix (Cybertron)|Quickmix]])
*[[Heavy Load (Cybertron)|Heavy Load]] (partner: [[Menasor (Cybertron)|Menasor]])
}}

====3-packs====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Recon Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jolt (Cybertron)|Jolt]] (helicopter)
* [[Six-Speed]] (LeMans race car)
* [[Reverb (Cybertron)|Reverb]] (pickup truck)

'''[[Giant Planet Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Deepdive]] (submarine)
* [[Longarm (Cybertron) | Longarm]] (double-crane truck)
* [[Overcast (Cybertron)| Overcast]] (military cargo plane)
}}

===Classics (2006)===
[[Image:TFC Clear Sky.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Clear Skies Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Demolition Team]]'''
*[[Broadside (Classics)|Broadside]]
*[[Sledge (Classics)|Sledge]]
*[[Wideload (Classics)|Wideload]]

'''[[Dinobot (Classics)|Dinobots]]'''
*[[Knockdown (Classics)|Knockdown]]
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]
*[[Terrorsaur (Classics)|Terrorsaur]]

'''[[Night Rescue Team]]'''
*[[Divebomb (Classics)|Divebomb]]
*[[Firebot (Classics)|Firebot]]
*[[Strongarm (Classics)|Strongarm]]

'''[[Clear Skies Team]]'''
*[[Nightscream (Classics)|Nightscream]]
*[[Steel Wind]]
*[[Thunderwing (Classics)|Thunderwing]]

'''[[Dirt Digger Team]]'''
*[[Dirt Rocket]]
*[[Grindor (Classics)|Grindor]]
*[[Oil Slick (Classics)|Oil Slick]]

'''[[Predator Attack Team]]'''
*[[Dreadwing (Classics)|Dreadwing]]
*[[Overbite (Classics)|Overbite]]
*[[Snarl (Classics)|Snarl]]
}}

===Universe (2008)===
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])

===Micron Densetsu===
*'''Hikari no Unicron''' (campaign prize item)
**''Accessories:'' Chest missile, 6 leg missiles

: The "[[Unicron of Light]]" toy is a [[redeco]] of ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' [[Unicron]] in an emerald, light green, blue, and white color-scheme. This Unicron was the prize for a lucky-draw contest in Japan.

===Power Core Combiners===
[[Image:PCC-toy Chopster.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Chopster (with Smolder)]]
====Partner Mini-Con molds====

{{collist|2|
*[[Airlift (PCC)|Airlift]] (partner: [[Skyhammer (PCC)|Skyhammer]])
*[[Backwind]] (partner: [[Searchlight (PCC)|Searchlight]])
*[[Caliburst (PCC)|Caliburst]] (partner: [[Huffer (PCC)|Huffer]])
*[[Chainclaw (PCC)|Chainclaw]] (partner: [[Icepick (PCC)|Icepick]])
*[[Chopster]] (partner: [[Smolder]])
*[[Groundspike]] (partner: [[Heavytread (PCC)|Heavytread]])
*[[Pinpoint]] (partner: [[Leadfoot (PCC)|Leadfoot]])
*[[Throttler]] (partner: [[Sledge (PCC)|Sledge]])
*[[Waterlog (PCC)|Waterlog]] (partner: [[Undertow (PCC)|Undertow]])}}

{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Attacktix===
[[Image:AttacktixMiniConS1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Goooood.]]
*'''Mini-Con''' (Booster, 2006)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF01
|faction=Autobot
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback - 4/26 (15%) success ratio
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

: The first assortment of Transformers ''[[Attacktix]]'' figures included a "generic" Mini-Con, based on [[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]]. Each Mini-Con figure has 3 points of articulation, including waist and shoulders; however, their shoulders move together due to their gun. One of the shortest, most squat ''Attacktix'' figures, the Mini-Con is very stable despite its small base.

:Its Special Power, "Attackback", allows a free move and attack for any of your in-play Autobot pieces. Mini-Con is an excellent support figure for [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]], whose "Shootback" power allows up to three Mini-Cons to make a free attack.

{{-}}
[[Image:AttackitxMiniConS2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Eeeevil.]]
*'''Minicon''' (Booster, 2007)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF03
|faction=Decepticon
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

:An as-yet unreleased redeco of the ''Attacktix'' "Minicon" (''sic'') piece is set for the second series' Booster Packs, though this time as a Decepticon-aligned piece. It features a color scheme not on any incarnation of the actual [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]]/Skyboom toy, but wouldn't that be neat? The exact details of its Attackback special power are as yet unknown.

: This piece was later characterized as "[[Bunker-Buster]]" in the members-only portion of the [[Fun Publications]] [[Transformers Collectors' Club]] website.

{{canceledattacktix}}
{{-}}

==Notes==
* During the ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' line, the term "Mini-Con" was also the name of a [[size class]] which consisted of three-packs of small toys (which were also individually referred to as "Mini-Cons"). Other size classes from the ''Armada'' line were named "Super-Con", "Max-Con" and "Giga-Con". However, the name "Mini-Con" was the only one actually used in the corresponding fiction. In the toyline, it was ''also'' used for other small figures of the same size that were available as companion figures with the larger toys. Due to its use in fiction, the name was also carried over into subsequent lines such as ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' and ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'', and was used as (part of) the name of a price point again in the ''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' toyline, the "Mini-Con Class", this time consisting of two-packs, and later in the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' toyline, now again available as three-packs.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Micron''' (マイクロン ''Maikuron'')
*''French:'' '''Minimodus''' (Canada)
*''Spanish:'' '''Minimodus'''

==References==
<references/>

==External links==
*[http://www.tfu.info/faction/minicon.htm Mini-Cons at TFU.info]

*[http://www.tfarchive.com/toys/references/mini-cons_microns.php TFArchive's complete Mini-Con/Micron list]

{{stub}}

[[Category:Armada]]
[[Category:Attacktix]]
[[Category:Beast Wars]]
[[Category:Classics]]
[[Category:Cybertron]]
[[Category:Energon]]
[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Movie]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:Mini-Cons| ]]
[[Category:Unicron]]
[[Category:Universe (2003)]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron]]

Mini-Con

2011-03-20T01:13:07Z

72.93.192.29: /* Partner Mini-Con */

{{disambig2|the Transformers type "Mini-Con"|the unit of time "minicon"|Units of time}}
:''Mini-Cons are a faction/type of [[Transformer]] in multiple [[Continuity family|continuity families]], most prominently the [[Unicron Trilogy]].''

[[Image:Minicon symbol.png|right|250px|thumb|Intentionally designed to look like the letter "M", the Mini-Con symbol is also reflected in the design of Unicron's helmet]]
'''Mini-Cons''' are a race of small, roughly [[human]]-sized Transformers capable of [[powerlinx]]ing with a larger Transformer to impart extra abilities or greatly increase their strength.

Their origins (when explored) vary depending on the continuity in which they appear. In some timelines they are creations of [[Unicron]], while in others, they are creations of the [[Last Autobot]]. Others are just... there.

==Fiction==
===3H comics===
[[Ramulus]] uses "Mini-Con" as a term of derision, implying that [[CatSCAN]] is timid or insufficiently assertive.

===Unicron Trilogy===
====Animated continuity====
[[Unicron]] created the Mini-Cons to be mindless tools, sent to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] as an agitating element to the Transformers' civil war. The power-enhancing "smart tools" would be unleashed upon the populace, who would snap them up and bond with them, and the war would only get more destructive, as Unicron drank in the negative psychic energies from the death and destruction. Once he'd gathered the power he needed, the Mini-Cons would turn on their supposed masters, incapacitating them, and Unicron would fully awaken to devour the planet and all Transformers on it, eliminating his biggest obstacle to devouring all of existence.

But through a strange warp in space and time that no one really bothered to explain, three [[human]] children from the future—[[Rad White|Rad]], [[Carlos Lopez|Carlos]] and [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]]—were sent to the Mini-Cons' birthing chamber on Cybertron just seconds before the small robots emerged from their pods. As the Mini-Cons had been designed to form mental bonds with other life forms, when Rad touched the Mini-Con who he knew from the future as [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]], High Wire apparently formed his bond then, with Rad... and through the Mini-Cons' shared "soul dimension", the [[Linkage (dimension)|Linkage]], sentience and free will spread throughout the Mini-Cons, forming "souls", and crippling Unicron's plans drastically.

====Dreamwave comics continuity====
[[Image:Mini-cons.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Gotta catch 'em all!]]
Mini-Cons are a second race of Transformer, mostly living in designated sectors by themselves, which left them open to attack when [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] led his Decepticons on capture raids. Through experimentation on prisoners, the Decepticons discovered the Mini-Cons were rewired, their power (disproportionate to their size) could be added to a Transformer through [[Powerlinx]]ing. Mini-Cons are also capable of tapping an extra-dimensional energy source of unknown origin, but are wary of doing this, and most have inhibitors installed to prevent this from happening.

[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]], a Mini-Con refugee from another dimension, led Cybertron's collected Mini-Cons in tapping that dimension's energies and channeling them into an attack on Unicron which left him stranded on the far fringes of space.

After Unicron's defeat, most Mini-Cons re-established their villages in the Mini-Con sector. When Unicron reappeared ten years later, no one went to fetch the Mini-Cons to battle Unicron again, so it seems likely the Mini-Cons' connection to their extra-dimensional power source was severed.

{{note|There is no indication that Mini-Cons are related to Unicron in Dreamwave continuity.}}

====Powerlinx and Evolution====
Mini-Cons have the special ability to actually evolve other machines, from transforming simple cars into jet-powered assault vehicles, to upgrading Transformers to have new weapons spring from their body. The nature of Powerlinxing is emphasized more in the Japanese ''[[Armada (franchise)|Micron Legend]]'' counterpart to Transformers ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]''. Once powerlinked, the Autobot would call out "EVOLUTION!" and a portion of their body would literally reconfigure to become a new weapon. Afterwards, they retained this new ability without the powerlinking of the Mini-Con which granted it. Linking to that Mini-Con again simply enhances their firepower. The Mini-Con is not required in order to use the evolved weaponry afterwards. This has caused some confusion in the Armada viewing audience due to dub issues and the downplaying of the "Evolution" theme. Despite this, the term is used twice in the American series by Megatron.

====Gigantion Mini-Cons====
The exact origin of the Gigantion Mini-Cons is questionable as presented within the context of the show itself. The show offers little to nothing on their genesis, merely their function as "little detail" workers whose brains developed similarly to human children because of this (uh, yeah). [[Snarl (Cybertron)|Snarl]] speculated that they evolved a small stature to adapt to Gigantion like he adapted to the [[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]]. In ''Galaxy Force'', they are stated to have existed since ancient times and controlled the larger Transformers. There are even ancient ruins discovered with inscriptions using ''Armada'' Mini-Con model sheets.

The [[Fun Publications]] fiction has linked these Mini-Cons to those of ''Armada'', which simply has them migrating to Gigantion (as well as the other colony worlds) with the Transformers carrying the [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, offering the only definitive origin of those Mini-Cons. This would also make them creations of Unicron. However, this does not fully line up with the fiction, as the Mini-Cons in Armada are shown appearing in the time of Optimus Prime, years after the world colonization—so the matter is left more than a bit vague.

====Packaging blurb====
Long ago, Mini-Cons fled Cybertron to escape the endless war between Autobots and Decepticons. Many teams were broken up in that war, leaving only a few left living in peace while roaming the universe.<ref>[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]] Armada Series Mini-Con multi-pack packaging blurb.</ref>
===Generation 1===
====Classics====
Mini-Cons were created by the [[Last Autobot]] to cleanse Cybertron of [[Demon]]s and [[Mutant (G1)|Mutants]] before the Autobots returned. {{storylink|The New World}}

===="Eternal Prisoner"====
The latest (as of this update) assortment of [[Micron Booster]]s features Mini-Cons with [[Autobot]], [[Decepticon]], [[Maximal]] and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] insignia. There is little to no information about when this set "takes place".

Similarly, three store-[[exclusive]] Mini-Cons released at the time, [[Torque Gain]], [[Noise Effect]] and [[Wedge Shape]] seem to be in the same boat, especially as Wedge Shape's toy is branded as a Maximal (though his instructions claim him to be a Predacon).

====Beast Wars (Japan)====
[[Dragoyell]] is a combatant in the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]], though his ninja-like powers mean he is rarely seen. His bio and instructions explicitly say he's a Maximal... but his toy is branded as an Autobot. Hmm.

===Live action film series===
Mini-Cons [[Longarm (Movie Mini-Con)|Longarm]] and the [[Guardian Micron]]s exist. Beyond that fact, nothing is known about the nature of Mini-Cons in this continuity.

===Aligned===
Minicons (no dash) are just small Transformers. They include [[Autobot High Council|High Councilor]] [[Ratbat (WFC)|Ratbat]], [[Frenzy (WFC)|Frenzy]], [[Rumble (WFC)|Rumble]], [[Laserbeak (WFC)|Laserbeak]] and [[Ravage (WFC)|Ravage]]. [[Megatron (Prime)|Megatron]] despises them. {{storylink|Exodus: The Official History of the War for Cybertron}}

==Things that are not Mini-Cons==
There have been a number of character or toys that either have Powerlink 'catcher' ports but are not Mini-Cons, or are recolored from Mini-Con molds (often even having the molded-in faction symbol) but who are nonetheless, according to their associated bios or fiction, not actually Mini-Cons.

{{collist|3|
* [[Laserbeak (Cybertron)|''Cybertron'' Laserbeak]] (sometimes)
* [[Search and Destroy Robot]]}}

==Toys==
:Mini-Con toys debuted as the signature element of the ''Armada'' franchise, bringing the "micro [[play pattern]]" back to ''Transformers'' after many years' absence. Much like ''Armada'' itself, the Mini-Cons proved to be a smash hit with fans and kids, and Hasbro scrambled to include them in the subsequent franchises.

:Most Mini-Cons stand around 2" tall, roughly the same size as their [[Micromaster]] predecessors. Most Mini-Cons are considerably more complex, as well; unlike Micromasters, there's no single dominant transformation scheme. With dozens of molds, Mini-Cons cover a wide range of articulation, size, alternate modes, and complexity. Aesthetically, their facial designs tend toward the unorthodox.

:Each Mini-Con includes one or more [[Powerlinx]] ports somewhere on their body, a round peg-slot that allows them to be attached to any "[[Bulk]]" figure with a corresponding Powerlinx peg. These pegs were standard-issue on the larger, original-mold ''Armada'' toys, where at least one such peg could be used to activate various gimmicks on each large figure. Toys from subsequent franchise have featured Powerlinx pegs only as a static feature.

{{note|Because of the overwhelming number of Mini-Con redecos—we're talking well into the hundreds—the following list is of unique first-use ''molds'' only.}}

===Armada===
====3-pack team molds====
[[Image:Armada airmilitaryteam toys.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Air Military Mini-Con Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Adventure Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dune Runner (Armada)|Dune Runner]] (dune buggy)
* [[Iceberg]] (snowcat)
* [[Ransack (Armada)|Ransack]] (jeep)

'''[[Air Defense Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Air Defense Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jetstorm (Armada)|Jetstorm]] (Concorde jet)
* [[Runway]] (supersonic bomber)
* [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]] (space shuttle)

'''[[Air Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Gunbarrel (Armada)|Gunbarrel]] (cargo jet)
* [[Terradive (Armada)|Terradive]] (recon jet)
* [[Thunderwing (Armada)|Thunderwing]] (stealth bomber)

'''[[Destruction Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Buzzsaw (Armada)|Buzzsaw]] (excavator)
* [[Drill Bit (Armada)|Drill Bit]] (mining vehicle)
* [[Dualor]] (tank)

'''[[Emergency Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Firebot (Armada)|Firebot]] (fire engine)
* [[Makeshift (Armada)|Makeshift]] (VTOL plane)
* [[Prowl (Armada)|Prowl]] (police cruiser)

'''[[Land Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Bonecrusher (Armada)|Bonecrusher]] (missile transport)
* [[Knock Out (Armada)|Knock Out]] (armored personnel carrier)
* [[Wreckage (Armada)|Wreckage]] (tracked missile platform)

'''[[Race Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dirt Boss (Armada)|Dirt Boss]] (rally SUV)
* [[Downshift (Armada)|Downshift]] (Le Mans racer)
* [[Mirage (Armada)|Mirage]] (Indy racer)

'''[[Sea Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Oceanglide]] (solar-powered boat)
* [[Stormcloud (Armada)|Stormcloud]] (speedboat)
* [[Waterlog (Armada)|Waterlog]] (hovercraft)

'''[[Space Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Astroscope]] (space station)
* [[Payload (Armada)|Payload]] (rocket transporter)
* [[Sky Blast]] (rocket)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (skateboard)
* [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (dirtbike)
* [[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (motor scooter)

'''[[Street Speed Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Backtrack (Armada)|Backtrack]] (sportscar)
* [[Oval]] (sportscar)
* [[Spiral]] (sportscar)
}}

====Partner Mini-Con molds====
[[Image:Armada Leader1 toy.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Leader-1]]

{{collist|3|
*[[Incinerator (Armada)|Incinerator]] (partner: [[Blurr (Armada)|Blurr]])
*[[Refute]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Hoist]])
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])
*[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Supercon Optimus Prime]])
*[[Nightbeat (Armada)|Nightbeat]] (partner: [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]])
*[[Liftor]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Smokescreen]])
*[[Rollout (Armada)|Rollout]] (partner: [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]])
*[[Longarm (Armada)|Longarm]] (partner: [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]])
*[[Rollbar (Armada)|Rollbar]] (partner: [[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]])
*[[Comettor]] (partner: [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]])
*[[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Super Optimus Prime]])
*[[Crumplezone (Armada)|Crumplezone]] (partner: [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]])
*[[Blackout (Armada)|Blackout]] (partner: [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]])
*[[Inferno (Armada)|Inferno]] (partner: [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]])
*[[Wind Sheer (Armada)|Wind Sheer]] (partner: [[Wheeljack (Armada)|Wheeljack]])
*[[Thunderclash (Armada)|Thunderclash]] (partner: [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]])
*[[Swindle (Armada)|Swindle]] (partner: [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]])
*[[Leader-1 (Armada)|Leader-1]] (partner: [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]])
*[[Ramjet (Armada)|Ramjet]] (partner: [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]])
*[[Rook (Armada)|Rook]] and [[Crosswise (Armada)|Crosswise]] (partner: [[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]])
*[[Dead End (Armada)|Dead End]] (partner: [[Unicron]])
}}

===Energon===
====3-packs====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Energon Saber]] Team'''
*[[Scattor (Energon)|Scattor]] (Concorde)
*[[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]] (space shuttle)
*[[Wreckage (Energon)|Wreckage]] (supersonic bomber)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
*[[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (hoverboard)
*[[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (motorbike)
*[[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (four-wheeler)
}}

====Other====
* Kicker/Highwire 2-pack

===Cybertron===
====Partner Mini-Con====
{{collist|1|
*[[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]] (parther: [[Vector Prime|Vector Prime]])
*[[Drill Bit (Cybertron)|Drill Bit]] (partner: [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]])
*[[Stripmine]] (partner: [[Quickmix (Cybertron)|Quickmix]])
*[[Heavy Load (Cybertron)|Heavy Load]] (partner: [[Menasor (Cybertron)|Menasor]])
}}

====3-packs====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Recon Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jolt (Cybertron)|Jolt]] (helicopter)
* [[Six-Speed]] (LeMans race car)
* [[Reverb (Cybertron)|Reverb]] (pickup truck)

'''[[Giant Planet Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Deepdive]] (submarine)
* [[Longarm (Cybertron) | Longarm]] (double-crane truck)
* [[Overcast (Cybertron)| Overcast]] (military cargo plane)
}}

===Classics (2006)===
[[Image:TFC Clear Sky.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Clear Skies Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Demolition Team]]'''
*[[Broadside (Classics)|Broadside]]
*[[Sledge (Classics)|Sledge]]
*[[Wideload (Classics)|Wideload]]

'''[[Dinobot (Classics)|Dinobots]]'''
*[[Knockdown (Classics)|Knockdown]]
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]
*[[Terrorsaur (Classics)|Terrorsaur]]

'''[[Night Rescue Team]]'''
*[[Divebomb (Classics)|Divebomb]]
*[[Firebot (Classics)|Firebot]]
*[[Strongarm (Classics)|Strongarm]]

'''[[Clear Skies Team]]'''
*[[Nightscream (Classics)|Nightscream]]
*[[Steel Wind]]
*[[Thunderwing (Classics)|Thunderwing]]

'''[[Dirt Digger Team]]'''
*[[Dirt Rocket]]
*[[Grindor (Classics)|Grindor]]
*[[Oil Slick (Classics)|Oil Slick]]

'''[[Predator Attack Team]]'''
*[[Dreadwing (Classics)|Dreadwing]]
*[[Overbite (Classics)|Overbite]]
*[[Snarl (Classics)|Snarl]]
}}

===Universe (2008)===
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])

===Micron Densetsu===
*'''Hikari no Unicron''' (campaign prize item)
**''Accessories:'' Chest missile, 6 leg missiles

: The "[[Unicron of Light]]" toy is a [[redeco]] of ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' [[Unicron]] in an emerald, light green, blue, and white color-scheme. This Unicron was the prize for a lucky-draw contest in Japan.

===Power Core Combiners===
[[Image:PCC-toy Chopster.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Chopster (with Smolder)]]
====Partner Mini-Con molds====

{{collist|2|
*[[Airlift (PCC)|Airlift]] (partner: [[Skyhammer (PCC)|Skyhammer]])
*[[Backwind]] (partner: [[Searchlight (PCC)|Searchlight]])
*[[Caliburst (PCC)|Caliburst]] (partner: [[Huffer (PCC)|Huffer]])
*[[Chainclaw (PCC)|Chainclaw]] (partner: [[Icepick (PCC)|Icepick]])
*[[Chopster]] (partner: [[Smolder]])
*[[Groundspike]] (partner: [[Heavytread (PCC)|Heavytread]])
*[[Pinpoint]] (partner: [[Leadfoot (PCC)|Leadfoot]])
*[[Throttler]] (partner: [[Sledge (PCC)|Sledge]])
*[[Waterlog (PCC)|Waterlog]] (partner: [[Undertow (PCC)|Undertow]])}}

{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Attacktix===
[[Image:AttacktixMiniConS1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Goooood.]]
*'''Mini-Con''' (Booster, 2006)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF01
|faction=Autobot
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback - 4/26 (15%) success ratio
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

: The first assortment of Transformers ''[[Attacktix]]'' figures included a "generic" Mini-Con, based on [[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]]. Each Mini-Con figure has 3 points of articulation, including waist and shoulders; however, their shoulders move together due to their gun. One of the shortest, most squat ''Attacktix'' figures, the Mini-Con is very stable despite its small base.

:Its Special Power, "Attackback", allows a free move and attack for any of your in-play Autobot pieces. Mini-Con is an excellent support figure for [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]], whose "Shootback" power allows up to three Mini-Cons to make a free attack.

{{-}}
[[Image:AttackitxMiniConS2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Eeeevil.]]
*'''Minicon''' (Booster, 2007)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF03
|faction=Decepticon
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

:An as-yet unreleased redeco of the ''Attacktix'' "Minicon" (''sic'') piece is set for the second series' Booster Packs, though this time as a Decepticon-aligned piece. It features a color scheme not on any incarnation of the actual [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]]/Skyboom toy, but wouldn't that be neat? The exact details of its Attackback special power are as yet unknown.

: This piece was later characterized as "[[Bunker-Buster]]" in the members-only portion of the [[Fun Publications]] [[Transformers Collectors' Club]] website.

{{canceledattacktix}}
{{-}}

==Notes==
* During the ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' line, the term "Mini-Con" was also the name of a [[size class]] which consisted of three-packs of small toys (which were also individually referred to as "Mini-Cons"). Other size classes from the ''Armada'' line were named "Super-Con", "Max-Con" and "Giga-Con". However, the name "Mini-Con" was the only one actually used in the corresponding fiction. In the toyline, it was ''also'' used for other small figures of the same size that were available as companion figures with the larger toys. Due to its use in fiction, the name was also carried over into subsequent lines such as ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' and ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'', and was used as (part of) the name of a price point again in the ''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' toyline, the "Mini-Con Class", this time consisting of two-packs, and later in the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' toyline, now again available as three-packs.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Micron''' (マイクロン ''Maikuron'')
*''French:'' '''Minimodus''' (Canada)
*''Spanish:'' '''Minimodus'''

==References==
<references/>

==External links==
*[http://www.tfu.info/faction/minicon.htm Mini-Cons at TFU.info]

*[http://www.tfarchive.com/toys/references/mini-cons_microns.php TFArchive's complete Mini-Con/Micron list]

{{stub}}

[[Category:Armada]]
[[Category:Attacktix]]
[[Category:Beast Wars]]
[[Category:Classics]]
[[Category:Cybertron]]
[[Category:Energon]]
[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Movie]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:Mini-Cons| ]]
[[Category:Unicron]]
[[Category:Universe (2003)]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron]]

Mini-Con

2011-03-20T01:11:22Z

72.93.192.29: /* Partner Mini-Con */

{{disambig2|the Transformers type "Mini-Con"|the unit of time "minicon"|Units of time}}
:''Mini-Cons are a faction/type of [[Transformer]] in multiple [[Continuity family|continuity families]], most prominently the [[Unicron Trilogy]].''

[[Image:Minicon symbol.png|right|250px|thumb|Intentionally designed to look like the letter "M", the Mini-Con symbol is also reflected in the design of Unicron's helmet]]
'''Mini-Cons''' are a race of small, roughly [[human]]-sized Transformers capable of [[powerlinx]]ing with a larger Transformer to impart extra abilities or greatly increase their strength.

Their origins (when explored) vary depending on the continuity in which they appear. In some timelines they are creations of [[Unicron]], while in others, they are creations of the [[Last Autobot]]. Others are just... there.

==Fiction==
===3H comics===
[[Ramulus]] uses "Mini-Con" as a term of derision, implying that [[CatSCAN]] is timid or insufficiently assertive.

===Unicron Trilogy===
====Animated continuity====
[[Unicron]] created the Mini-Cons to be mindless tools, sent to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] as an agitating element to the Transformers' civil war. The power-enhancing "smart tools" would be unleashed upon the populace, who would snap them up and bond with them, and the war would only get more destructive, as Unicron drank in the negative psychic energies from the death and destruction. Once he'd gathered the power he needed, the Mini-Cons would turn on their supposed masters, incapacitating them, and Unicron would fully awaken to devour the planet and all Transformers on it, eliminating his biggest obstacle to devouring all of existence.

But through a strange warp in space and time that no one really bothered to explain, three [[human]] children from the future—[[Rad White|Rad]], [[Carlos Lopez|Carlos]] and [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]]—were sent to the Mini-Cons' birthing chamber on Cybertron just seconds before the small robots emerged from their pods. As the Mini-Cons had been designed to form mental bonds with other life forms, when Rad touched the Mini-Con who he knew from the future as [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]], High Wire apparently formed his bond then, with Rad... and through the Mini-Cons' shared "soul dimension", the [[Linkage (dimension)|Linkage]], sentience and free will spread throughout the Mini-Cons, forming "souls", and crippling Unicron's plans drastically.

====Dreamwave comics continuity====
[[Image:Mini-cons.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Gotta catch 'em all!]]
Mini-Cons are a second race of Transformer, mostly living in designated sectors by themselves, which left them open to attack when [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] led his Decepticons on capture raids. Through experimentation on prisoners, the Decepticons discovered the Mini-Cons were rewired, their power (disproportionate to their size) could be added to a Transformer through [[Powerlinx]]ing. Mini-Cons are also capable of tapping an extra-dimensional energy source of unknown origin, but are wary of doing this, and most have inhibitors installed to prevent this from happening.

[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]], a Mini-Con refugee from another dimension, led Cybertron's collected Mini-Cons in tapping that dimension's energies and channeling them into an attack on Unicron which left him stranded on the far fringes of space.

After Unicron's defeat, most Mini-Cons re-established their villages in the Mini-Con sector. When Unicron reappeared ten years later, no one went to fetch the Mini-Cons to battle Unicron again, so it seems likely the Mini-Cons' connection to their extra-dimensional power source was severed.

{{note|There is no indication that Mini-Cons are related to Unicron in Dreamwave continuity.}}

====Powerlinx and Evolution====
Mini-Cons have the special ability to actually evolve other machines, from transforming simple cars into jet-powered assault vehicles, to upgrading Transformers to have new weapons spring from their body. The nature of Powerlinxing is emphasized more in the Japanese ''[[Armada (franchise)|Micron Legend]]'' counterpart to Transformers ''[[Armada (franchise)|Armada]]''. Once powerlinked, the Autobot would call out "EVOLUTION!" and a portion of their body would literally reconfigure to become a new weapon. Afterwards, they retained this new ability without the powerlinking of the Mini-Con which granted it. Linking to that Mini-Con again simply enhances their firepower. The Mini-Con is not required in order to use the evolved weaponry afterwards. This has caused some confusion in the Armada viewing audience due to dub issues and the downplaying of the "Evolution" theme. Despite this, the term is used twice in the American series by Megatron.

====Gigantion Mini-Cons====
The exact origin of the Gigantion Mini-Cons is questionable as presented within the context of the show itself. The show offers little to nothing on their genesis, merely their function as "little detail" workers whose brains developed similarly to human children because of this (uh, yeah). [[Snarl (Cybertron)|Snarl]] speculated that they evolved a small stature to adapt to Gigantion like he adapted to the [[Jungle Planet (Cybertron)|Jungle Planet]]. In ''Galaxy Force'', they are stated to have existed since ancient times and controlled the larger Transformers. There are even ancient ruins discovered with inscriptions using ''Armada'' Mini-Con model sheets.

The [[Fun Publications]] fiction has linked these Mini-Cons to those of ''Armada'', which simply has them migrating to Gigantion (as well as the other colony worlds) with the Transformers carrying the [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, offering the only definitive origin of those Mini-Cons. This would also make them creations of Unicron. However, this does not fully line up with the fiction, as the Mini-Cons in Armada are shown appearing in the time of Optimus Prime, years after the world colonization—so the matter is left more than a bit vague.

====Packaging blurb====
Long ago, Mini-Cons fled Cybertron to escape the endless war between Autobots and Decepticons. Many teams were broken up in that war, leaving only a few left living in peace while roaming the universe.<ref>[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]] Armada Series Mini-Con multi-pack packaging blurb.</ref>
===Generation 1===
====Classics====
Mini-Cons were created by the [[Last Autobot]] to cleanse Cybertron of [[Demon]]s and [[Mutant (G1)|Mutants]] before the Autobots returned. {{storylink|The New World}}

===="Eternal Prisoner"====
The latest (as of this update) assortment of [[Micron Booster]]s features Mini-Cons with [[Autobot]], [[Decepticon]], [[Maximal]] and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] insignia. There is little to no information about when this set "takes place".

Similarly, three store-[[exclusive]] Mini-Cons released at the time, [[Torque Gain]], [[Noise Effect]] and [[Wedge Shape]] seem to be in the same boat, especially as Wedge Shape's toy is branded as a Maximal (though his instructions claim him to be a Predacon).

====Beast Wars (Japan)====
[[Dragoyell]] is a combatant in the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]], though his ninja-like powers mean he is rarely seen. His bio and instructions explicitly say he's a Maximal... but his toy is branded as an Autobot. Hmm.

===Live action film series===
Mini-Cons [[Longarm (Movie Mini-Con)|Longarm]] and the [[Guardian Micron]]s exist. Beyond that fact, nothing is known about the nature of Mini-Cons in this continuity.

===Aligned===
Minicons (no dash) are just small Transformers. They include [[Autobot High Council|High Councilor]] [[Ratbat (WFC)|Ratbat]], [[Frenzy (WFC)|Frenzy]], [[Rumble (WFC)|Rumble]], [[Laserbeak (WFC)|Laserbeak]] and [[Ravage (WFC)|Ravage]]. [[Megatron (Prime)|Megatron]] despises them. {{storylink|Exodus: The Official History of the War for Cybertron}}

==Things that are not Mini-Cons==
There have been a number of character or toys that either have Powerlink 'catcher' ports but are not Mini-Cons, or are recolored from Mini-Con molds (often even having the molded-in faction symbol) but who are nonetheless, according to their associated bios or fiction, not actually Mini-Cons.

{{collist|3|
* [[Laserbeak (Cybertron)|''Cybertron'' Laserbeak]] (sometimes)
* [[Search and Destroy Robot]]}}

==Toys==
:Mini-Con toys debuted as the signature element of the ''Armada'' franchise, bringing the "micro [[play pattern]]" back to ''Transformers'' after many years' absence. Much like ''Armada'' itself, the Mini-Cons proved to be a smash hit with fans and kids, and Hasbro scrambled to include them in the subsequent franchises.

:Most Mini-Cons stand around 2" tall, roughly the same size as their [[Micromaster]] predecessors. Most Mini-Cons are considerably more complex, as well; unlike Micromasters, there's no single dominant transformation scheme. With dozens of molds, Mini-Cons cover a wide range of articulation, size, alternate modes, and complexity. Aesthetically, their facial designs tend toward the unorthodox.

:Each Mini-Con includes one or more [[Powerlinx]] ports somewhere on their body, a round peg-slot that allows them to be attached to any "[[Bulk]]" figure with a corresponding Powerlinx peg. These pegs were standard-issue on the larger, original-mold ''Armada'' toys, where at least one such peg could be used to activate various gimmicks on each large figure. Toys from subsequent franchise have featured Powerlinx pegs only as a static feature.

{{note|Because of the overwhelming number of Mini-Con redecos—we're talking well into the hundreds—the following list is of unique first-use ''molds'' only.}}

===Armada===
====3-pack team molds====
[[Image:Armada airmilitaryteam toys.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Air Military Mini-Con Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Adventure Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dune Runner (Armada)|Dune Runner]] (dune buggy)
* [[Iceberg]] (snowcat)
* [[Ransack (Armada)|Ransack]] (jeep)

'''[[Air Defense Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Air Defense Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jetstorm (Armada)|Jetstorm]] (Concorde jet)
* [[Runway]] (supersonic bomber)
* [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]] (space shuttle)

'''[[Air Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Gunbarrel (Armada)|Gunbarrel]] (cargo jet)
* [[Terradive (Armada)|Terradive]] (recon jet)
* [[Thunderwing (Armada)|Thunderwing]] (stealth bomber)

'''[[Destruction Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Buzzsaw (Armada)|Buzzsaw]] (excavator)
* [[Drill Bit (Armada)|Drill Bit]] (mining vehicle)
* [[Dualor]] (tank)

'''[[Emergency Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Firebot (Armada)|Firebot]] (fire engine)
* [[Makeshift (Armada)|Makeshift]] (VTOL plane)
* [[Prowl (Armada)|Prowl]] (police cruiser)

'''[[Land Military Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Bonecrusher (Armada)|Bonecrusher]] (missile transport)
* [[Knock Out (Armada)|Knock Out]] (armored personnel carrier)
* [[Wreckage (Armada)|Wreckage]] (tracked missile platform)

'''[[Race Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Dirt Boss (Armada)|Dirt Boss]] (rally SUV)
* [[Downshift (Armada)|Downshift]] (Le Mans racer)
* [[Mirage (Armada)|Mirage]] (Indy racer)

'''[[Sea Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Oceanglide]] (solar-powered boat)
* [[Stormcloud (Armada)|Stormcloud]] (speedboat)
* [[Waterlog (Armada)|Waterlog]] (hovercraft)

'''[[Space Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Astroscope]] (space station)
* [[Payload (Armada)|Payload]] (rocket transporter)
* [[Sky Blast]] (rocket)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (skateboard)
* [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (dirtbike)
* [[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (motor scooter)

'''[[Street Speed Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Backtrack (Armada)|Backtrack]] (sportscar)
* [[Oval]] (sportscar)
* [[Spiral]] (sportscar)
}}

====Partner Mini-Con molds====
[[Image:Armada Leader1 toy.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Leader-1]]

{{collist|3|
*[[Incinerator (Armada)|Incinerator]] (partner: [[Blurr (Armada)|Blurr]])
*[[Refute]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Hoist]])
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])
*[[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Supercon Optimus Prime]])
*[[Nightbeat (Armada)|Nightbeat]] (partner: [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]])
*[[Liftor]] (partner: [[Smokescreen (Armada)|Smokescreen]])
*[[Rollout (Armada)|Rollout]] (partner: [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]])
*[[Longarm (Armada)|Longarm]] (partner: [[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]])
*[[Rollbar (Armada)|Rollbar]] (partner: [[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]])
*[[Comettor]] (partner: [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]])
*[[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]] (partner: [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys|Super Optimus Prime]])
*[[Crumplezone (Armada)|Crumplezone]] (partner: [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]])
*[[Blackout (Armada)|Blackout]] (partner: [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]])
*[[Inferno (Armada)|Inferno]] (partner: [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]])
*[[Wind Sheer (Armada)|Wind Sheer]] (partner: [[Wheeljack (Armada)|Wheeljack]])
*[[Thunderclash (Armada)|Thunderclash]] (partner: [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]])
*[[Swindle (Armada)|Swindle]] (partner: [[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]])
*[[Leader-1 (Armada)|Leader-1]] (partner: [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]])
*[[Ramjet (Armada)|Ramjet]] (partner: [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]])
*[[Rook (Armada)|Rook]] and [[Crosswise (Armada)|Crosswise]] (partner: [[Sideways (RID)|Sideways]])
*[[Dead End (Armada)|Dead End]] (partner: [[Unicron]])
}}

===Energon===
====3-packs====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Energon Saber]] Team'''
*[[Scattor (Energon)|Scattor]] (Concorde)
*[[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]] (space shuttle)
*[[Wreckage (Energon)|Wreckage]] (supersonic bomber)

'''[[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]]'''
*[[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (hoverboard)
*[[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (motorbike)
*[[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (four-wheeler)
}}

====Other====
* Kicker/Highwire 2-pack

===Cybertron===
====Partner Mini-Con====
{{collist|1|
*[[Safeguard (Cybertron)|Safeguard]] (parther: [[Vector Prime (Cybertron)|Vector Prime]])
*[[Drill Bit (Cybertron)|Drill Bit]] (partner: [[Metroplex (Cybertron)|Metroplex]])
*[[Stripmine]] (partner: [[Quickmix (Cybertron)|Quickmix]])
*[[Heavy Load (Cybertron)|Heavy Load]] (partner: [[Menasor (Cybertron)|Menasor]])
}}

====3-packs====
{{collist|2|
'''[[Recon Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Jolt (Cybertron)|Jolt]] (helicopter)
* [[Six-Speed]] (LeMans race car)
* [[Reverb (Cybertron)|Reverb]] (pickup truck)

'''[[Giant Planet Mini-Con Team]]'''
* [[Deepdive]] (submarine)
* [[Longarm (Cybertron) | Longarm]] (double-crane truck)
* [[Overcast (Cybertron)| Overcast]] (military cargo plane)
}}

===Classics (2006)===
[[Image:TFC Clear Sky.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Clear Skies Team]]

{{collist|3|
'''[[Demolition Team]]'''
*[[Broadside (Classics)|Broadside]]
*[[Sledge (Classics)|Sledge]]
*[[Wideload (Classics)|Wideload]]

'''[[Dinobot (Classics)|Dinobots]]'''
*[[Knockdown (Classics)|Knockdown]]
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]
*[[Terrorsaur (Classics)|Terrorsaur]]

'''[[Night Rescue Team]]'''
*[[Divebomb (Classics)|Divebomb]]
*[[Firebot (Classics)|Firebot]]
*[[Strongarm (Classics)|Strongarm]]

'''[[Clear Skies Team]]'''
*[[Nightscream (Classics)|Nightscream]]
*[[Steel Wind]]
*[[Thunderwing (Classics)|Thunderwing]]

'''[[Dirt Digger Team]]'''
*[[Dirt Rocket]]
*[[Grindor (Classics)|Grindor]]
*[[Oil Slick (Classics)|Oil Slick]]

'''[[Predator Attack Team]]'''
*[[Dreadwing (Classics)|Dreadwing]]
*[[Overbite (Classics)|Overbite]]
*[[Snarl (Classics)|Snarl]]
}}

===Universe (2008)===
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (partner: [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]])

===Micron Densetsu===
*'''Hikari no Unicron''' (campaign prize item)
**''Accessories:'' Chest missile, 6 leg missiles

: The "[[Unicron of Light]]" toy is a [[redeco]] of ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' [[Unicron]] in an emerald, light green, blue, and white color-scheme. This Unicron was the prize for a lucky-draw contest in Japan.

===Power Core Combiners===
[[Image:PCC-toy Chopster.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Chopster (with Smolder)]]
====Partner Mini-Con molds====

{{collist|2|
*[[Airlift (PCC)|Airlift]] (partner: [[Skyhammer (PCC)|Skyhammer]])
*[[Backwind]] (partner: [[Searchlight (PCC)|Searchlight]])
*[[Caliburst (PCC)|Caliburst]] (partner: [[Huffer (PCC)|Huffer]])
*[[Chainclaw (PCC)|Chainclaw]] (partner: [[Icepick (PCC)|Icepick]])
*[[Chopster]] (partner: [[Smolder]])
*[[Groundspike]] (partner: [[Heavytread (PCC)|Heavytread]])
*[[Pinpoint]] (partner: [[Leadfoot (PCC)|Leadfoot]])
*[[Throttler]] (partner: [[Sledge (PCC)|Sledge]])
*[[Waterlog (PCC)|Waterlog]] (partner: [[Undertow (PCC)|Undertow]])}}

{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Attacktix===
[[Image:AttacktixMiniConS1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Goooood.]]
*'''Mini-Con''' (Booster, 2006)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF01
|faction=Autobot
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback - 4/26 (15%) success ratio
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

: The first assortment of Transformers ''[[Attacktix]]'' figures included a "generic" Mini-Con, based on [[Skyboom (Energon)|Skyboom]]. Each Mini-Con figure has 3 points of articulation, including waist and shoulders; however, their shoulders move together due to their gun. One of the shortest, most squat ''Attacktix'' figures, the Mini-Con is very stable despite its small base.

:Its Special Power, "Attackback", allows a free move and attack for any of your in-play Autobot pieces. Mini-Con is an excellent support figure for [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]], whose "Shootback" power allows up to three Mini-Cons to make a free attack.

{{-}}
[[Image:AttackitxMiniConS2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Eeeevil.]]
*'''Minicon''' (Booster, 2007)

{{attacktix
|ID=TF03
|faction=Decepticon
|class=Trooper
|special=Attackback
|cost=10
|speed=4
|attacktype=Shooter (small missile)
}}
{{-}}

:An as-yet unreleased redeco of the ''Attacktix'' "Minicon" (''sic'') piece is set for the second series' Booster Packs, though this time as a Decepticon-aligned piece. It features a color scheme not on any incarnation of the actual [[Sonar (Armada)|Sonar]]/Skyboom toy, but wouldn't that be neat? The exact details of its Attackback special power are as yet unknown.

: This piece was later characterized as "[[Bunker-Buster]]" in the members-only portion of the [[Fun Publications]] [[Transformers Collectors' Club]] website.

{{canceledattacktix}}
{{-}}

==Notes==
* During the ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' line, the term "Mini-Con" was also the name of a [[size class]] which consisted of three-packs of small toys (which were also individually referred to as "Mini-Cons"). Other size classes from the ''Armada'' line were named "Super-Con", "Max-Con" and "Giga-Con". However, the name "Mini-Con" was the only one actually used in the corresponding fiction. In the toyline, it was ''also'' used for other small figures of the same size that were available as companion figures with the larger toys. Due to its use in fiction, the name was also carried over into subsequent lines such as ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' and ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'', and was used as (part of) the name of a price point again in the ''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' toyline, the "Mini-Con Class", this time consisting of two-packs, and later in the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' toyline, now again available as three-packs.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Micron''' (マイクロン ''Maikuron'')
*''French:'' '''Minimodus''' (Canada)
*''Spanish:'' '''Minimodus'''

==References==
<references/>

==External links==
*[http://www.tfu.info/faction/minicon.htm Mini-Cons at TFU.info]

*[http://www.tfarchive.com/toys/references/mini-cons_microns.php TFArchive's complete Mini-Con/Micron list]

{{stub}}

[[Category:Armada]]
[[Category:Attacktix]]
[[Category:Beast Wars]]
[[Category:Classics]]
[[Category:Cybertron]]
[[Category:Energon]]
[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Movie]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:Mini-Cons| ]]
[[Category:Unicron]]
[[Category:Universe (2003)]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron]]