MediaWiki - User contributions [en]

Nightmare Planet

2010-07-31T18:18:14Z

74.225.6.69: /* Trivia */

{{episode|
|series=G1toon
|series2=2010
|ep=79
|ep2=24
|prev2=Money is Everything
|next2=Grimlock's New Brain
|image=NightmarePlanet Quintessons watch Daniel.jpg
|caption=
|title="Nightmare Planet"
|production code=700-99
|airdate=[[October 31]], 1986
|written by=[[Beth Bornstein]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''A recurring nightmare of Daniel's turns out to be an experiment by the Quintessons.'''

:''Japanese title:'' 悪夢の惑星 (''Akumu no Wakusei'', "Nightmare Planet")
:''German title:'' "'''Der Alptraum Planet'''" ("The Nightmare Planet")

==Synopsis==
[[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] has been having nightmares involving a giant [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. Worried, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Carly]] ask [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] to come visit him. Rodimus manages to calm Daniel, but then has to leave. After he falls back asleep, a tentacle grabs Daniel...

[[Image:NightmarePlanet Dragon drop.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Rule Two: No make-believe things like, oh, pink dragons and stuff.]]

Meanwhile, Rodimus, [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], and [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] are driving through some thick fog, when the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] attack the [[Autobot|Autobots]]. However, both factions of [[Transformer|Transformers]] are suddenly attacked by monsters, on which their weapons have no effect. It turns out that the [[Quintesson]]s are using Daniel's nightmares to create chaotic monsters which will destroy the unpredictable Autobots and [[Decepticon]]s.

Springer and [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] are captured by a [[dragon]] and taken to a castle. While there, they meet a princess chained in a dungeon, whom Springer unbinds. She tells them of a magic lance which can kill the dragon and claims that her father will give them [[gold]] if they free her. Springer agrees to free the Princess and slay the dragon regardless of the reward, while Razorclaw acts like he's on the verge of coughing up a hairball.

[[Image:Nightmare Planet snake monster.JPG|right|200px|thumb|This scene would probably have played out much differently in ''Kiss Players''.]]

Back at the battle, Rodimus, Magnus, and the Predacons are being threatened by a witch and giant. They manage to dodge a blast from the witch that turns the giant into a toad, and Magnus finds a bucket of water which destroys the witch. However, a giant snake monster appears from the ground and nearly swallows the Transformers, before a plane, piloted by a familiar face, rescues them. The Quintessons realize that Daniel's subconscious mind is assisting the Autobots, so they increase the power to suppress his help. At the castle, Springer is trying to find way out, while Razorclaw has decided to wait until the guards come. Suddenly, Springer thinks of a plan, but requires Razorclaw's help.

[[Image:NightmarePlanetSteed.jpg|left|200px|thumb|]]

Elsewhere, Rodimus, Magnus, and the Predacons find an abandoned amusement park. Heading into the fun house, [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] and [[Tantrum]] are attacked by the mirrors, while [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]] falls down a large hole. Rodimus and [[Headstrong]] are attacked by a giant Galvatron, which is then defeated by a giant Rodimus Prime. Rodimus realizes that they are somehow in Daniel's dream. At the castle, Springer is fighting the dragon, but needs help. Razorclaw refuses to help, but the Princess reminds Razorclaw that the dragon will kill him as well. Razorclaw serves as Springer's mount, and he stabs the dragon, killing it. The castle also disappears, and a yellow brick road appears.

[[Image:NightmarePlanet Rodimus Daniel in bed.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"You won't tell anyone I wet the bed, will you, Hot Rod?"]]

Meanwhile, Rodimus is calling out to Daniel. Shocked, the Quintessons set the machine on its highest level, which will kill Daniel. The dream world begins to deteriorate, but the Princess guides them through the storm. Daniel is able to draw the Quintessons in subconsciously, and the Autobots rescue him. Razorclaw wants to scrap the Autobots, but Headstrong cannot [[Transformation|transform]], preventing them from becoming [[Predaking]]. Razorclaw orders the Predacons to retreat.

Back at home, Daniel wakes up, not remembering what happened, and tells Rodimus that he took control of the dream. Rodimus tells Daniel that he won't have any more nightmares involving Galvatron or snake monsters. Daniel, confused, asks how Rodimus knew about the snakes.
{{-}}

==Featured Characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] (3)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (6)
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (7)

|c2=
* [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] (8)
* [[Tantrum]] (9)
* [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]] (10)
* [[Headstrong]] (11)
* [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] (12)
* [[Predaking]] (13)

|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (1)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (4)
* [[Carly|Carly Witwicky]] (5)

|c4=
* Dream giant [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (2)
* [[Quintesson]]s (14)
* Dream witch (15)
* Dream giant (16)
* Dream [[dragon]] (17)
* Dream damsel in distress (18)
* Dream giant [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]] (19)
}}

==Quotes==
"Well, I guess we're cell mates." 
"Just keep your distance."
:— '''Springer''' and '''Razorclaw'''

"I spent time talking TV with Wreck-Gar."
:—'''Rodimus''' reveals he's been warping his mind.

"Hold up, Headstrong! It's not the real thing! Look at how big he is!" 
"FOOL! Galvatron can be any size he wants!"
:— '''Rodimus Prime''' and '''"Galvatron"''' debate the [[mass-shifting]] issue.

"The fantasy's over, Rodimus Prime. Enough fun for one day." 
"If that's his idea of fun, what does he consider a bad time?"
:— '''Springer''' finds '''Razorclaw''''s thoughts quite...... fun.

==Notes==
===Animation or technical glitches===
* Rodimus Prime's optics change from blue to red and back again several times.
* When Rodimus Prime remarks the giant Rodimus fighting the giant Galvatron is like in Daniel's nightmare, his voice is enhanced to sound like the giant Rodimus.
* There's evidence to suggest this episode had a troubled production, as the finished animation is missing in-between cels in several scenes (leaving the keyframes only). Additionally, the episode under-runs to such an extent that ''two'' [[Secret Files of Teletraan II|secret files]] are tagged onto the end rather than one.
* In one shot, a Quintesson's body is missing, leaving his face floating in air as he talks.

===Continuity errors===
* It's never explained exactly where everyone is during the episode. The opening scene at the Witwicky house implies that it's Earth, yet the ending scenes appear to be on Cybertron. It's never made clear, and it begs the question of how the Predacons are able to run around unhindered on the Autobot-controlled planet. Ditto for the Quintessons, who appear to be operating on the same planet.
* Likewise, just how the Quintessons' magical machine works is never given any explanation. If it can project a real-life version of anything at all, wouldn't it make more sense to just hook it up to one of the Quintessons and have them imagine a really big Transformer-eating Sharkticon?
* What happened to Springer's daring escape plan?

===Real-world references===
* The yellow brick road and the witch being defeated with a bucket of water are both references to ''[[wikipedia:The_Wizard_of_Oz|The Wizard of Oz]]''.

===Trivia===
* Apparently, the Witwicky residence can accommodate giant futuristic Winnebagos comfortably. Considering the fact that Spike's best friend is [[Bumblebee (G1)|a bug]], and that [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|a truck]] was among the friends of the family, the house may have been built to allow the Autobots to be able to walk around inside it.
* Razorclaw appears to find gold valuable. Whether this means it has actual value among the Decepticons, or he just likes shiny things, is unknown.
* This episode is the first to use the new, more heavily synthesized Season 3 background music.
* It's a coincidence that this episode is horror themed and it aired on ''Halloween''. Then again, the [[G.I. Joe]] episode "Nightmare Assault" ''also'' aired on the same day...so maybe not.
* Springer acting as a knight may be a pun: the German word for knight is "Springer".

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1987 — ''Transformers'' — Starscream's Ghost / The Nightmare Planet / The Ghost in the Machine ([[St. Michael Video Library]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Germany.png|20px|Germany]] 1987 — ''Transformers'' — Der Alptraum-Planet ([[Polyband]]) — German audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1990 — ''Transformers'' — Nightmare Planet ([[Tempo Video|Collins Video]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1992 — ''Transformers'' — The Nightmare Planet ([[Tempo Video|Tempo Kids Club]])
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' — DVD Box (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1: Vol. 3 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 3 and Season 4 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 4: Series 3.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season's Three & Four {{sic}} (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2010 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 25th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory)

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/synopses/nightmare_planet.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicles]

[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]

Transformation

2010-07-30T15:49:11Z

74.225.6.69: /* Function */

{{disambigr|Transform|the Japanese image song|Transform!}}
[[Image:OpTransformsSu.jpg|right|400px|thumb|You put your right leg out...]]
'''Transformation''' (or '''Transform''' if you failed English class) is the process by which a [[Transformer]] alters his or her form between modes. It should not be confused with [[reformatting]], a type of full-body upgrade.

The technical details of transformation, as well as the manner in which the art was introduced to the Transformers themselves, vary between [[continuities]]. When the issue is addressed at all, transformation is usually treated as an innovation from some point early in Cybertronian history rather than something that was literally always with them. The Transformers were, at the time of their genesis, simply Cybertronians -- mechanical life-forms -- and became "Transformers" only later. However, just as often in ''Transformers'' fiction the "origin" of transforming is simply not discussed.

In most continuities, transformation is not a trait limited to Cybertronians. Both sentient alien races (such as [[Junkion (species)|Junkions]] and some portrayals of the [[Lithone (species)|Lithones]]) and animals (such as the [[lipole]] on Jupiter's moon [[Io]] or the parasitic [[Scraplet|scraplets]]) exhibit the same ability. The [[Quintesson|Quintessons]] also incorporated transformation into some of their later creations including the [[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]], [[Allicon|Allicons]], and [[Overcharge (G1)|Overcharge drones]]. Some examples of transforming robotic aliens, however, can be traced to colonization in the distant past by Cybertronians. The G1 planet [[Paradron]], as well as the main planets in the [[Cybertron (franchise)|''Cybertron'' franchise]] are examples of this.

== Special transformation types ==
===High-speed transformation===
Some Transformers, specifically the Autobot [[Jumpstarter|Jumpstarters]] and the Decepticon [[Battlecharger|Battlechargers]], are specifically designed to transform much faster than ordinary Transformers, usually taking less than half of an Earth second to switch from robot to alt-mode or vice versa. How much this ability depends on physical versus mental capabilities is unknown. In the [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] G1 continuity, [[Triple Changer|Triple Changers]] were also stated to have unusually fast transformations (roughly twice the normal speed, whatever that is).

===Multiple alternate modes===
[[Image:Quickswitch's various transformations from Dreamwave's More than Meets the Eye .jpg|left|250px|thumb|"How can you (transform) all six?" It's IMPOSSIBLE!!]]
Robots with multiple transformations (Triple Changers, et al.) are a special case. Though there seems to be some aspect of natural aptitude at play in one's ability to master multiple forms (for example [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] comics referred to a "genetic potential" within the [[Spark|sparks]] of such robots), and of course the special physical construction granting those forms, the balance of the matter seems to be one of training. Most Six Changers are said to have mastered their plethora of transformations through rigorous study. The largest number of modes exhibited by any single individual to date is [[Megatron (RID)|RID Galvatron]], who had ten.

===Adaptable bodies===
Some groups of Transformers such as the [[Go-Bots (toyline)|Go-Bots]] use a process similar to reformatting to more radically alter their forms while transforming. This ability to start with one robot and alternate form and transform easily to entirely different variations without extensive mechanical work comes from [[Go-Brillium|unique metals]] in the Go-Bots' bodies, and does not apply to most Transformers.

In the [[Movie (franchise)|Movie]] continuity family, Bumblebee seems to demonstrate this ability in the prequel novel ''[[Ghosts of Yesterday]]''. He descends to the desert planet in his cometary [[Transition form]] and transforms to robot mode. Upon realizing he needs to travel quickly, Bumblebee transforms into a very basic four-wheeled all-terrain vehicle. The narration explains that he created this altmode from an internal memory database of vehicle forms. The entire process seems to take practically no time at all, as if he were just transforming into his alt-mode as all Transformers do. The narration does not imply that this ability is only possessed by Bumblebee, and indeed the movie suggests that all Transformers in this continuity can switch altmodes almost at will.

===Transformation cogs===
[[Image:Transformation cog.jpg|left|200px|thumb|MacGuffin du jour.]]
In the G1 animated series, the city Transformers [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] and [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] are both specifically stated to possess devices known as [[Transformation cog|transformation cogs]] that somehow control their transformation processes, and are essential to allow them to transform at all. Such cogs are rarely mentioned elsewhere in the fiction -- even in other continuities -- so it is not clear if all Transformers require them, or Metroplex and Trypticon are special cases, perhaps because of their size. Other example are that [[Nitrostreak]] ("Unit One" of the [[Maximal Command Security Force]]) had his cog damaged in a firefight with [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]]'s henchmen {{storylink|Dawn of Future's Past|Dawn of Future's Past}}, and in the [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] universe, [[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]] assaulted [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] with one of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave's]] experimental weapons, which overrode his "primary transformation cog", thus trapping Soundwave in his [[alternate mode]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave|Spotlight: Soundwave}}
{{-}}

==Fiction==
[[Image:OP transforms.gif|right|247px|thumb|Optimus Prime: Lord of the Dance.]]
===Generation One===
====Marvel comics====
{{noteukonly}}
[[Unicron]] was the first Transformer, fashioning his metal prison into a robotic semblance of his original form. [[Primus]], watching from a distance, was all like, "Oh ''snap'', robots that turn into things? Why didn't I think of that?" and quickly trained his own children to do the same thing.

Some accounts credit the development of transformation to Megatron and the Decepticons, with the Autobots later copying the technique. This, perhaps, implies that the potential for transformation instilled by Primus was dormant until Megatron realised it, or that it was forgotten and rediscovered at some point.

''It would appear that neglecting to transform between altmode and robot mode at least on occasion had physical feedback consequences: whilst battling [[Flame (UK comic)|Flame]], [[Emirate Xaaron]] was well aware that, having failed to transform for hundreds of years, the shock to his system upon transforming to combat mode had a good chance of killing him. Which just goes to show that Continuing Physical Exercise Is Important For Everyday Health.''

''Just as importantly, neglecting to have all one's body parts connected at the time of attempting transformation was also a very painful, if not impossible, process.''

[[Image:FizzleUK.gif|thumb|left|450px|Sometimes transformers were shown phasing through a patchy cloud. We think this is due to artistic license.]]

{{-}}

====Animated series====
[[Image:Bumblebee transforming.gif|right|213px|thumb|Just lying down is a transformation]]
Transformation was an [[Autobot]] innovation, developed during their first war with the [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] when it became apparent that they could not match their firepower and strength. The art of transformation allowed the Autobots to disguise their forms, thereby allowing for stealthy attacks on their enemies. This strategy met with great success, and the Decepticons were defeated, allowing the era of peacetime known as the [[Golden Age|Golden Age of Cybertron]] to settle in. The Decepticons subsequently adopted transformation technology themselves, coupled with robot-mode [[Flight|flight powers]], and re-ignited the [[Great War (G1)|civil war]]. {{storylink|War Dawn}}

Transformers generally seem able to shift modes at will, although in cases where they have suffered severe physical injuries, transformation is sometimes a strain. In one case, [[A Decepticon Raider in King Arthur's Court|and one case only]], a Transformer indicated that staying in his altmode was too energy consumptive, and had to revert to his robot mode: [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]], when trapped in medieval [[United Kingdom|England]] and low on fuel. This problem seems to almost never come up, even in cases where Transformers are very low on energy, so its significance is unknown. Perhaps walking is simply more energy efficient than moving his tank treads.

====Japanese animated series====
[[Image:Headmasters tf stuck.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Ow.]]
With the introduction of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], transformation was established to be quite a rigorous task that, at least initially, required intense physical and mental concentration to accomplish, honed over a period of in-depth training. These small robots left Cybertron during the wars millions of years ago, but were so young that they had not actually learned how to transform yet. To survive the harsh climate of the [[Master (planet)|planet]] they crash-landed on, they developed [[Transtector|Transtectors]] - normal-sized Transformer bodies that they would be able to connect to - and underwent a period of prolonged, intensive training so that they could learn to transform and link up with them. Even the most promising candidates struggled when they first connected with their Transtectors, spasming and becoming stuck between modes as they attempted to trigger the conversion. {{storylink|The Four-Million-Year-Old Veil of Mystery|The Four-Million-Year-Old Veil of Mystery}}

{{-}}

===''Beast Wars'' and ''Beast Machines''===
''Beast Wars''-era Transformers have their transformation sequences controlled by the same onboard computers which manage a variety of other body functions, such as [[stasis lock]]. Transformation is triggered by a command to this computer, usually done by voice, but sometimes with a thought. These computers may have been a part of the [[Great Upgrade]], and once activated they choreograph the shifting body parts, allowing the Transformer to continue to concentrate on other matters. This is in-line with the Japanese portrayal of transformation, in that it suggests transformation is a mentally rigorous task (at least in the sense that it requires a few seconds of concentration), which is now conveniently removed from the equation.

Post-reformatting, the new [[technorganic]] forms granted to Cybertron's inhabitants lacked on-board computers, requiring them to re-learn the mental disciplines involved. It may be that a technorganic transformation is more difficult even than a traditional transformation, as the reformatted Maximals often reverted to their beast modes upon losing their concentration or emotional "center". This notion that the transformed state requires constant effort may be related to Warpath's statement about his tank mode consuming more energy (mentioned above).

Due to their technorganic nature, the Maximals of Beast Machines do not transform via any recognized mechanical process. Rather, in many cases their limbs actually change shape via an unknown means, presumably part and parcel of their new condition. One of the most prominent examples of this is [[Noble]], who transforms between two extremely dissimilar and wholly organic forms.

===Movie continuity===
[[Image:Movie OptimusPrime highwaytransform1.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Cool to see, but it's a nightmare with regards to [[Optimus Prime (Movie)#toys#Leader Class toys 2|toy accuracy]].]]
Transformation requires an alternate mode which is [[Frenzy (Movie)|generally]] of similar mass to the Transformer's robot mode. Once taking the form, however, the Transformer appears to be able to reorder his physical structure, causing some of the outward appearances of the vehicle mode to disappear. For example, Optimus Prime displays an incredibly complex Transformation where some of his alternate mode's appearances seem to be absorbed into his body or outright disappear. This may be due to the [[self-regenerating molecular armor]]'s possibly fluid [[Trans-scan|trans-scanning]] abilities.
{{-}}

===Animated continuity===
Transforming is something that can be done for exercise. In [[Autoboot Camp]], [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)| Sentinel Minor]] had recruits perform ''transform-ups'', rapidly switching from their robot to their vehicle form while in a [[Wikipedia:prone_position|prone position]].

==The noise==
===Technical description===
Transformation is often accompanied by a [[media:Tf_sound.ogg|distinct noise]]--an 8hz pulse, repeated five times, with each pulse lasting a roughly equal amount of time, whose pitch can be represented by the absolute value of a declining (for alt-mode to robot mode) or increasing (for robot mode to alt-mode) sine wave. In the G1 series, the sine wave generally increased when a Transformer changed to his robot mode, and declined when he converted to vehicle form (or whichever mode was smaller/shorter.) In general, the larger the robot, the deeper the pitch of the sound, and the longer the duration of the pulses. There is no general consensus as to what onomatopoeia should be used to represent this sound.

===Continuity locations===
Within the early years of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|G1 Cartoon]], almost all transformations were accompanied by the Noise in some manner, generally lasting the duration of the transformation sequence and being the only noise made by transformations. ''[[The Headmasters (cartoon)|The Headmasters]]'' began with most Transformers still retaining the Noise, but around a third of the way into the series, its use became more intermittent, particularly for the Autobot Headmasters themselves. ''[[Super-God Masterforce (cartoon)|Super-God Masterforce]]'' still used the sound for the [[Pretender|Pretenders]]' transformations in robot mode, but the Autobot [[Headmaster Junior|Headmaster Juniors]] and Autobot [[Godmaster|Godmasters]] had new sounds, with most of the Decepticons retaining the original. The Noise was dropped completely for ''[[Victory (cartoon)|Victory]]'' and ''[[Enter the New Supreme Commander, Dai Atlas!|Zone]]''. By the era of the [[Beast Wars (cartoon)|''Beast Wars'']], however, most characters made more complicated mechanical-sounding noises when transforming. In spite of this, the rebuilt [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] still made only the Noise when transforming.

The Noise was in fact first heard in the initial Transformers commercial for [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]] of the Marvel Comic, but only as part of the Transformers music track, the actual transformations being depicted with a series of generic mechanical sounds. The Noise was subsequently shown to occur the same as the animated series during television commercials throughout the rest of [[The Transformers (toyline)|Generation 1]] and all the way through ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]''. It appeared in the first commercials for the [[Beast Wars (toyline)|''Beast Wars'' toyline]], featuring a CG clip of [[Optimus Primal|Optimus Primal (bat) vs Megatron (alligator) two-pack]], but was dropped once the commercials started using footage from the [[Beast Wars (cartoon)|''Beast Wars'' cartoon]].

The Noise did not appear again until ''[[Robots in Disguise (cartoon)|Robots in Disguise]]'', where the Noise was heard uniformly among all Transformers at the very beginning of transformation sequences, rather than lasting the duration of the transformation like in the past.

Two new versions of the Noise were heard in ''[[Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'', and then the second version of the ''Armada'' Noise was used in ''[[Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]'' (though not in ''[[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]]''). As with RiD, the timing of the Noise did not seem to correspond to the transformation sequence, instead playing at a random point during the sequence. The original version of the Noise was heard briefly in ''Armada'' as part of one of the background music tracks, and in ''Energon'' on occasion whenever part of the Japanese sound effects track was not completely dubbed over (the Noise being more prominent in ''Super Link'').

In the [[Transformers (2007)|2007 movie]], the original Noise could be heard accompanying a portion of both [[Blackout (Movie)|Blackout]]'s first transformation, and the conversion of the [[Nokia-bot]], though in both instances, a foreground object blocked the view of the robot at that instant, leaving it unclear if the Noise corresponded with any specific moving parts. The Noise could be heard during Bumblebee's off-screen transformation as he saves the kids while escaping Sector Seven, and a new, mixed and appropriately slowed version of the Noise also accompanied [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]]'s later slow-motion transformation.

The Noise accompanies most or all transformation sequences in ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Transformers Animated]]'', even minor ones including battle masks, [[Bumblebee (Animated)|Bumblebee]]'s "stinger" pop-out weapons, Blitzwing's changing of faces, Ratchet's magnets, and [[Sari Sumdac|Sari's]] shape-shifting Key. In the case of smaller, specific parts, the Noise is sometimes played sped up or higher pitched. It was in [[Human Error, Part I|one particular episode]] of ''Animated'' that, for the first time in a series, we see any Transformer actually acknowledged the existence of the Noise in-universe (any more than they would acknowledge the musical score); in this situation manually generating it like any fan would was used as a motivational tool in a virtual environment. This unusual scenario therefore still sheds no light on the actual purpose of the Noise - it just confirmed that they hear it too.

===Function===
At this time, neither the cause of the Noise nor its relationship to a Transformer's ability to transform is known. It may just be a side effect to the transformation process; possibly, it represents the parts moving during transformation.

=="Transform" as a verb==
For reasons relating to intellectual property law, and the need to preserve "Transformers" as a [[trademark]], [[Hasbro]] and [[Takara]] do not use "transform" as a verb to describe this ability of Transformers in printed materials describing products. Instead synonyms such as "convert" and "morph" are used. This does not extend to in-fiction dialog, however.

==See Also==
*[[Transformation (toys)]]
*[[Role of transformation]]

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

Package art

2010-07-30T15:29:14Z

74.225.6.69: /* Machine Wars */

<div style="position:absolute; right:1.15em; top:1.3em; font-size:95%;" id="TemplateUserinfo" class="plainlinksneverexpand">
For more images, please visit the '''[[Package art/Gallery|Gallery]]'''.</div>
{{picsneeded|Generation 2, Machine Wars}}

[[Image:G1_OptimusPrime_boxart.jpg|right|thumb|350px|Box art for [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] in 1984 by [[Jeffrey Mangiat]].]]

Throughout the life of the [[Transformers brand|''Transformers'' brand]], '''package art''' has been one of its most common elements. Though not as widely noted and celebrated as [[Tech Spec|Tech Specs]], it is just as enduring and iconic to the brand. In the fandom, it is also referred to as '''box art''', though it also appears on carded toy packages.

''Transformers'' package art most often serves to portray the toy in the mode that it isn't packaged in. As most Transformers are sold in their non-robot forms, it typically shows them as robots (or whatever their equivalent primary mode is.)

===Generation 1===
[[Image:Thunderwingboxart.jpg|left|200px|thumb|All that hard work and they STILL missed a mode.]]
Every Transformer sold in Generation 1 featured hand-painted artwork on the front of the package, most often showing the robot mode, with the vehicle form of the actual toy visible alongside it through a clear plastic window or bubble. A smaller version of the art was shown as part of the character's [[Bio|biography]] and [[Tech Spec]] profile. Generation 1's package art also showed up in numerous merchandising items, such as [[Action Card|Action Cards]], [[Pack-in material|pack-in flyers]], [[Iron-on patch|iron-on patches]], party hats, and more.

Some toys would also have art depicting their vehicle mode. The [[Jumpstarter|Jumpstarters]] had vehicle art because they were packaged in robot mode, and the [[Triple Changer|Triple Changers]] had art for the vehicle mode the toy wasn't packaged in. The tech specs still used the robot art only. [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] also had boxart for both of his robot modes. Another exception to the rule was the [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]], sold packaged in their identical robot modes, with artwork of their different alternate modes alongside them. Vehicle mode art was generally used only on windowed boxes, since the non-windowed boxes (such as [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]], [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], and [[Countdown (G1)|Countdown]]) had large pictures of all alternate modes on the front.

Package art for the multiple-form [[Pretender|Pretenders]] featured all of their forms: outer shell and both modes of the inner robot. As the multiple-form Mega and Ultra Pretender toys came along, this resulted in some rather crowded package art.

[[Image:G1 boxart at botcon.jpg|right|250px|thumb|When we win the lottery, this is where we're going.]]
The character art for many of the [[Diaclone]]-licensed characters was directly appropriated from their original Diaclone boxes, including Autobot vehicles, Dinobots, and Decepticon cassettes. This style was maintained for all newly-commissioned Generation 1 (and Generation 2) character art, presumably for consistency.

This art style often depicted a somewhat fictionalized version of the robot mode. While the reproduction of the toy's finer details was done very faithfully, the actual poses were often utterly impossible to reproduce given the limited articulation of most ''Generation 1'' toys. Seemingly, the less the posable the toy was, the greater the artistic exaggeration tended to be; thus, the [[Throttlebot|Throttlebots]] and [[Battlecharger|Battlechargers]] were shown with jointed arms, separable legs and posable heads, even though the represented toys lacked all these features.

Some of the first year's character art, such as [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], and some of the [[Seeker]]s, were painted by [[Jeffrey Mangiat]]. A large portion of the 1986 through 1988 character line art was done by [http://www.baboonbooks.com/portfolio/Illustration_images/Transformers/trans_illus.html Richard Marcej], including some if not all of the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]], [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], [[Targetmasters]], [[Powermasters]], [[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]] and [[Pretenders]]. Much of the late-run ''Generation 1'' package art was the work of Japanese illustrator [[Hidetsugu Yoshioka]], whose work brought a dynamic and appealing style to the often blocky and simplistic toys.

A number of the original ''Generation 1'' paintings have appeared for sale at recent [[BotCon|BotCons]], at asking prices starting at $650 and ranging up to several thousand dollars.
{{-}}

====Back of the box art====
[[Image:G1 1984 backofboxbattle.jpg|left|200px|thumb|My name is Optimus Prime. I'm Japanese!]]
For the first five years, the boxed toys of ''Generation 1'' also featured hand-painted, mural-like artwork depicting that year's toyline engaged in battle.

Compared to the fiction which developed around the toys, these paintings often feature some rather surreal elements. Multiples of the same character are shown (sometimes to depict movement, and possibly a result of the ''Transformers'' toys' original fictional origin as piloted mecha), and cars are seen to fly through space. Occasional off-model characters appear as well, such as a red Tracks or a strange-looking Broadside.

The original 1984 painting showed the Transformers battling in deep space. The 1985 toy assortment was shown fighting in Earth orbit, with the planet sustaining some massive damage below them. In 1986, they were on the barren surface of a planet, centered around Metroplex. (1985 and 1986's were painted by Jeffrey Mangiat.) The 1987 battle was once again in deep space, with [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] and [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] as the clear centerpieces; 1988 was likewise set in deep space.

[[Image:SpaceshotAngry.jpg|right|150px|thumb|I'll finish you yet, Dudley Do-Right!]]
With the proliferation of Pretenders and [[Micromaster]] bases in 1989, the standardized back-of-box art was replaced with a series of rather crude and cartoonish hand-drawn scenes, each showing a few of that year's characters engaged in combat, typically the toy type (Micromaster base, Mega Pretender, etc.) that was being sold in the package. The line art for these illustrations was apparently all done by [[Richard Marcej| Richard Marcej]] [http://www.baboonbooks.com/portfolio/Illustration_images/Battle%20Scenes/TransbattleIllus.html], who was creditably also responsible for much of the higher-quality character art from earlier years.

The Action Masters in 1990 did get a more traditional mural painting, showing a battle in low Earth orbit, complete with ground vehicles flying through space.
{{-}}

===Generation 2===
''Generation 2'' featured a combination of retouched (or redrawn-to-look-as-if-it-were-retouched) ''Generation 1'' (obviously for the repainted or retooled ''Generation 1'' toys) and all-new artwork to accompany the new toys. This new artwork was closer in resemblance to the artwork seen in the last years of ''Generation 1'' than the early art.

Some of ''Generation 2'''s package art was reproduced on a series of pack-in [[Real Action Pop-Ups 3-D Transformer Trading Card|Real Action Pop-Ups 3-D Transformer Trading Cards]].

===Beast Wars===
[[Image:Sonar-bw-packageart.jpg|left|150px|thumb|The Batclaw.]]
''[[Beast Wars (toyline)|Beast Wars]]'' continued the painted-art standard of ''Generation 1'', though the artwork tended to exaggerate the beastly qualities of the robot modes. Occasional use of the mutant head feature on the early ''Beast Wars'' toys sometimes led to rather strange results.

[[Image:Rampage-backofthebox.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Terror Claws, the arch nemesis of Echowarrior.]]

Three of the largest ''Beast Wars'' toys (the Transmetals [[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge]], [[Rampage (BW)|Rampage]] and [[Optimal Optimus]]) featured a "schematic" drawing of the toy in robot mode on the back of the box, in blue line-on-black form, alongside a photograph of the actual toy. The drawing had call-outs for such [[Power Plans|bizarre technical details]] as "[[Galva-conductor|galva-conductors]]", "terror claws", "space cruiser wings", and "LED smart missile plasma cannons".

The later Transmetal 2 toys [[Tigerhawk]] and Megatron omitted the line art and used the toy photo to call out the techno-nonsense. These two toys also featured added box art placed so that the toys, visible through the box's plastic window, appeared to be firing their weapons. Megatron, for example, appeared to have a stream of fire spewing from his dragon head's mouth.
{{-}}

===Machine Wars===
''Machine Wars'' was comprised of mostly repaints/retools from the 1992 European ''Generation 1'' toyline and previously unused ''Generation 2''. The only packaging art created for the line was the art for [[Hubcap (MW)|Hubcap]] and [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]]. [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]], [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] used art from the [[The Transformers (toyline)|Generation 1 toys]] they were [[Redeco|redecoes]] of. The Basic jets used recolored [[Predator]] art, and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] used [[Laser Rod]] [[Jolt (G2)|Jolt]]'s art. Oddly, [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] didn't use [[Thunder Clash]]'s art, but instead used a heavily edited version of Laser Optimus Prime's art. (As a result, Prime's box art indicates that the toy has a mouthplate, which is not the case.)

===Beast Machines===
The ''[[Beast Machines (toyline)|Beast Machines]]'' toyline was the first to break with the tradition established by ''Generation 1''. Most packages featured the CGI-rendered robot mode of [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]], rather than the character whose toy was being sold. For the "The Battle for the Sparks" subline, Cheetor was replaced by [[Optimus Primal]] in beast mode. The "Dinobots" subline featured [[T-Wrecks]] in beast mode.

The CGI model of boxed characters who appeared on [[Beast Machines (cartoon)|the show]], such as [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]], appeared on the back of their boxes alongside their profile.

===Robots in Disguise===
''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' restored individual character portrayals to the front of packages... but these were simply computer-enhanced photographs of the actual toys within, often transformed to varying degrees of accuracy. The Japanese ''Car Robots'' releases continued to use the type of CGI boxart used on the Japanese ''Beast Wars'' toys.

===Armada===
[[Image:OptimusPrimeUT-Armada.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Obesity is my destiny!]]
With the new ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' toyline and franchise continuity, Hasbro's ''Transformers'' packaging returned to hand-drawn character art for the first time since the end of ''Beast Wars''. Drawn by artists from [[Dreamwave Productions]], this art followed a comic book style with modern Photoshop colouring, rather than the hand-painted work of ''Generation 1''.

This art was also reproduced onto a collectible sticker that was included with all ''Armada'' toys from the Super-Con size class and upwards.

*The Mini-Con class toys featured a single piece of artwork of one of the Mini-Con team members on the insert tray card
*The Super-Con class toys did not feature artwork directly on the packaging card itself, instead opting to display the collector sticker in the packaging bubble.
*Max-Con, Giga-Con, Super Base and Supreme class toys all featured art directly printed onto the packaging.

{{-}}

===Commemorative Reissues===
The ''Generation 1'' Commemorative Reissue series featured a wide range of previously seen art, from the original 1980s packaging art to the ''Transformers Collection'' reissue artwork by [[Hirofumi Ichikawa]]. Additionally, all-new art by Dreamwave artist/president [[Pat Lee]] was commissioned for several of the later reissues, coupled with a few instances of recycled artwork originally drawn by Lee for the covers of Dreamwave's [[Prime Directive|first ''Generation 1'' mini-series]].

===Universe===
[[Image:KingAtlas-card.jpg|right|120px|thumb|Hey! Come back with my purse!]]
''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' packaging art were mostly by the Dreamwave affiliated artists, but while the penciling was of the same general quality and style of the mainline art, the colouring was often much flatter and lacking in depth. Additionally, some toys featured artwork by Hasbro's in-house artists attempting to emulate the then-popular Dreamwave style, to extremely varied results.

{{-}}

===Energon===
[[Image:Energon Perceptor cardart.jpg|left|100px|thumb|Hahahaha, I've got your purse!]]
The ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' toyline featured the same style of comic artwork first seen in the ''Armada'' line, this time featuring all of the characters included in a toy package where possible (for example, an entire Mini-Con team as opposed to just a single member as seen during ''Armada''). Once again, artists affiliated with Dreamwave Productions provided the artwork. Similarly to ''Armada'', for toys Deluxe class and upwards the packaging art was reproduced on collectible tech spec cards included with paperwork or taped inside the packaging bubble.

{{-}}

===Alternators===
[[Image:Swindleart.jpg|right|100px|thumb|Combaticon Night Fever]]
The ''[[Alternators]]'' toyline originally featured the same style of full-body artwork seen in the other ''Transformers'' toylines at the time, once again by various Dreamwave artists (namely [[Pat Lee]], [[Don Figueroa]], [[Alex Milne]], [[Joe Ng]], [[Guido Guidi]] and [[Marcelo Matere]]). However, when the packaging style switched to the large plastic bubble/cardboard tray configuration in late 2005, the packaging art style—now entirely drawn by Marcelo Matere—was changed to emulate the focused upper torso style seen in the ''Cybertron'' toyline, though the art was coloured more closely to the comic book style.

{{-}}

===Cybertron===
[[Image:Armorhide-UTA.jpg|left|100px|thumb|It's gonna be a Cybertronsical Transformertastic Snit in the [[Pit]]! Only $49.95 on Pay-Per-View!]]
''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'s'' packaging artwork headed in a dramatically different direction to the previous years, dropping the comic book style in favour of focusing on the upper torso of the character while they were in a 'ready to fight' pose, similar to the advertising [[Posters|posters]] of boxing matches. The artwork was drawn mostly by now-freelance ex-Dreamwave artists, and coloured in a style passably similar to the painted ''Generation 1''/''Generation 2'' art.

{{-}}

===Classics===
Similarly to ''Robots in Disguise'', the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' toyline was created as a 'filler' line, to plug the gap between the end of ''Cybertron'' and the beginning of the 2007 live action movie toyline. As such, Hasbro once again returned to using photographs of the toys instead of actual drawn artwork.

A feature of the packaging was a card on the front that, when moved, revealed one of the toy's modes.

===Masterpiece===
''Masterpiece'' figures use photographs for their box art, but also have "real" package art on the covers of their [[Instruction booklet|instruction booklets]] and on their included collectible cards.

===Robot Heroes===
''Robot Heroes'' featured ''extremely'' cute [[Super deformed|super deformed]]-style artwork of the figures.

===Transformers (2007)===
[[Image:Blackout-packageart.jpg|left|100px|thumb|Like most movie characters, he could stab you with his head.]]
[[Image:Brawl-cyber-slammer-boxart.jpg|right|125px|thumb|Cyber Slammer [[Brawl (Movie)|Brawl]], adorable death machine.]]
The majority of the "main line" toys from the [[Movie (toyline)|2007 movie toyline]] featured a very exactingly detailed mugshot of the character (seemingly hand-painted), surrounded by technological greeblies. The characters featured in the film appear to use the movie models as a starting point, though there are some difference in coloration and detail.

In Europe, this art was replaced by a photo of the toy in robot mode, which was also used on the rear of the packaging. Some of this art (as well as the packaging design) was also used by several licensed merchandise manufacturers.

The [[Fast Action Battler]] and [[Cyber Slammer]] sublines had traditional hand-drawn art, but done in a more rounded, 'cuter' style to fit the younger target age group of the toys.

The [[Real Gear Robot|Real Gear Robots]] opted to use a closeup photograph of the toy's upper torso, similarly to ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'', while the Target-exclusive Scout class range of repaints lacked any sort of packaging art.
{{-}}

===Transformers Animated===
[[Image:Prowl-animated-packageart.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Three annoying companions, two bladed mecha stars, and a ninja in a park tree.]]
[[Image:Ratchet-animated-packageart.jpg|right|85px|thumb|Grumpy bot for sale.]]
The ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' line predominantly uses character model and promotional images for the actual [[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Transformers Animated cartoon]], which is a first for the North American Transformers toyline.

The Deluxe packaging features a large image of the character, showing the bulk of their body and generally in an action pose, on the front of the plastic packaging bubble. A different image is used as a smaller mug shot on the side of the bubble and on the back of the card by their quote, possibly making ''Animated'' the first series to give each toy ''two'' unique pieces of character package art.

This layout is replicated for the Voyager size-class toys, though obviously the front and side images are printed on exterior cardboard.
{{-}}

===Universe (2008)===
[[Image:Prowl-universe2008-packageart.jpg|right|100px|thumb|DO NOT WANT]]
The all-new ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' sees a return of comic book-style packaging art, with an upper torso drawing of the character printed either on the carded package or the box. To the amusement of all, some of the art also sees a return of the [[Dull surprise|glassy-eyed, slack-jawed expressions]] first seen during the days of Dreamwave Productions. Artist [[Marcelo Matere]] commented [http://mmatere.deviantart.com/art/Prowl-Classics-boxart-81892593?offset=10#comments on his deviantART page] that Hasbro had requested a more static, statue-like depiction for this line.
{{-}}

===Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen===
[[Image:Demolishor-packageart.jpg|thumb|Demolishor's box art.]]
The return to the live-action movie toyline with ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' sees a return to minimalist character artwork. Instead of the 2007 movie line's head-on, forward-facing headshots, the ''Revenge of the Fallen'' toyline uses three-quarter profiles of the head.

==Japan==

===Generation 1===

[[TakaraTomy|Takara]] followed Hasbro's lead with regard to the packaging design of Transformers, with the vast majority of the character artwork for the first three years of the line being identical to their U.S. releases. In some instances however, Takara utilized different artwork from Hasbro for some of the line's figures, including among others alternate character artwork for Optimus Prime, [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain (white version)]], [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] and Fortress Maximus. Takara also had new artwork in the same style as the preceding Diaclone and Hasbro character artwork created for Japanese-only retail figures, and this artwork style was maintained through to the end of the Japanese Generation 1 run in 1992. In some (but not all) instances where a toy was released in different colors than the Hasbro release, the Hasbro artwork was simply reused with the appropriate modifications, such as [[Quickswitch]] and [[Sixknight]].

====Back of the box art====

For the back-of-box artwork Takara initially reused the 1984 painting for their initial releases in 1985, but later switched to a heavily modified version of Hasbro's 1985 back-of-box art, altered to include several more characters, most prominently [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], while at the same time totally removing the non-Takara toys such as the [[Insecticon (G1)|Deluxe Insecticons]] and [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]. For 1986, Takara had a totally unique piece of artwork in a similar style spotlighting the 1986 Scramble City combiner and citybot toys, in addition to also reusing Jeffrey Mangiat's 1986 mural on other boxes. For 1987 and 1988, Takara again used the same back-of-box artwork as Hasbro, but 1989's [[Victory (toyline)|Victory]] line by necessity used a totally new piece of artwork spotlighting the unique-to-Japan toys. [[Zone (toyline)|Zone]] did away with a fully painted battlescene, the back of the boxes simply including photographs of the main line. 1991's [[Return of Convoy (toyline)|Return of Convoy]] on the other hand had two new battlescenes painted for the line, one spotlighting Sky Garry and Grandus, and the other one appropriately featuring Star Convoy. [[Operation Combination (toyline)|Operation Combination]], like Zone, retained the painted character artwork but did not feature a new battlescene.

===Generation 2===

With the reintroduction of Transformers to Japan in 1995, Takara elected to try a new approach by utilizing computer generated models to represent the characters on the packaging instead of painted artwork.

===Beast Wars===

Takara initially returned to hand drawn artwork for the first several releases of their Beast Wars line in 1997, but rather than repurpose the U.S. artwork for the relevant toys, these were all-new renditions that, where appropriate, were based on the characters' visual appearance in the Beast Wars TV show (Optimus Primal having a mouth, for example). Shortly into the line, Takara abandoned the hand drawn artwork and returned to computer generated models, which were done in a style reminiscent of the Beast Wars animated series.

Takara continued this package style through the two subsequent "Beast" lines, [[Beast Wars II (toyline)|Beast Wars II]] and [[Beast Wars Neo (toyline)|Beast Wars Neo]], with only the [[Auto Roller|Auto Rollers]] using traditional-style box art. [[Beast Wars Metals (franchise)|Beast Wars Metals]] abandoned character artwork on the boxes altogether in favor of larger windows to show off the toys.

===Car Robots===

[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Car Robots]] featured new computer-generated artwork on the line's boxed figures, with carded figures simply featuring the toy's corresponding collectors' card (complete with a CG rendition of the character) placed in a window above the figure.

===Micron Legend===

The [[Armada (toyline)|Micron Legend]] toys, much like Generation 1 before it, simply repurposed the artwork as drawn by Dreamwave Productions. Also like later Generation 1 figures, Takara altered the colors of [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|some]] characters where necessary to reflect their slightly different colors in the Japanese marketplace, and had new artwork done for the [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys#Armada|Magna Convoy DX Set]] in a similar style.

===Super Link===

Consistent with the corresponding animated series, the [[Energon (toyline)|Super Link]] toyline utilized CG artwork taken directly from the character models as used on the TV show.

===Galaxy Force===

As with Super Link before it, [[Cybertron (toyline)|Galaxy Force]] simply used the character's CG models from the accompanying animated series as the character artwork on the boxes. In the cases of non-show characters like [[Buzzsaw (Cybertron)|Buzzsaw]] and [[Runamuck (Cybertron)|Runabout]], hand-drawn artwork was used instead.

==Europe==
[[Image:AltPrimeUSEuro.jpg|right|200px|thumb|No deceptive advertising allowed.]]
For a long time, [[Multilingual packaging|European packaging]] had featured the same box artwork as the toys' respective North American versions (and, in the case of the European exclusive toys from the early Nineties, its own unique artwork). However, during the last waves of ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' (specifically, beginning with the second wave of the Superion Maximus limbs, [[Terradive (Energon)|Terradive]] and [[Windrazor (Energon)|Windrazor]]), the box artwork was replaced with airbrushed [[stock photography|stock photos]] of the toys themselves on European packaging. The same happened with European ''[[Alternators]]'' packaging starting with [[Windcharger (G1)#toys|Windcharger]] and [[Swindle (G1)#toys|Swindle]]. From then on, European ''Transformers'' packaging omitted any artistic renditions of the toys in favor of strictly accurate depictions of the products themselves (at least as "accurate" as Hasbro's early hand-painted/airbrushed prototype stock photography can be).

No official explanation has ever been given by Hasbro, although one of the commonly suggested possible reasons was that some countries might have rigid regulations concerning "deceptive depictions" (i.e. artistic renditions) of products on the packaging.

After the [[Robot Heroes (toyline)|Robot Heroes]] and [[Fast Action Battler|Fast Action Battlers]] from the [[Movie (toyline)|2007 Movie toyline]] had started to feature package art for the European packaging again, this policy was abandoned entirely with the advent of ''[[Transformers Animated (toyline)|Animated]]'' and ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' in 2008, resulting in a full-scale return of character artwork.
{{-}}

==Canada and Central/South America==
[[Image:UniDelWave1CanMex.jpg|left|300px|thumb|It's ''Beast Machines'' all over again!]]
The current ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' line also saw a strange twist for the [[Multilingual packaging|trilingual packaging]] used by Hasbro for the Canadian and Central/South American markets: All the Deluxe Class figures only sport the character art of one "representative" toy per wave (Wave 1: [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]], Wave 2: [[Acid Storm]], Wave 3: [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]) on the front of the card, regardless of which toy actually ''is'' in the packaging. (The artwork on the side of the bubble is correct, though.) The Voyager Class toys, meanwhile, feature no character artwork on the front of the box at all.
{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers Tapestry===
[[Image:TransformersTapestry.jpg|left|100px|thumb|Holy...]]
The [[E-Hobby|e-Hobby]] New Year Special 2008 [[Transformers Tapestry]] is a 750mm x 615mm wall scroll that was released in spring 2008. It featured head and bust shots of the box art of every Transformer released in Japan from 1984 until 1995.
{{-}}

==External links==
*[http://www.botchthecrab.com/archive/ Botch's Transformers Box Art Archive] - covers Generation 1
*[http://pyresdomain.net/TF/BeastBoxArchive/ Pyre's Domain - Beast Wars Box Art Archive]

[[Category:Toys]]

Abdul Fakkadi (G1)

2010-07-24T15:34:57Z

74.225.6.69: /* Notes */

{{disambig2|the evil despot|his noble mirrorverse counterpart|Abdul Fakkadi (SG)}}
:''Abdul Fakkadi is a [[human]] from the [[Generation 1 continuity family|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Fakkadi.jpg|right|250px|thumb|"We want [[Trypticon (G1)|huge Decepticon dinosaurs]] for peaceful, energy-generating purposes."]]
'''Abdul Fakkadi''' (also spelled '''Faghadi''') is the self-professed Supreme Military Commander, President-for-Life, and King of Kings of the [[Socialist Democratic Federated Republic of Carbombya]]. One gets the feeling that if you were to inform him that, by definition, a republic cannot have a king (much less a "King of Kings"), his likely response would be to stare blankly for a long moment, and then order your immediate beheading.

None too bright and none too stable, Fakkadi is concerned primarily with the accumulation of wealth and keeping "fanatics" and "imperialists" away from his homeland's shores. He is not averse to making deals with [[Decepticon]]s to help further these goals.

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 cartoon===
:''Voice actor'': [[Philip L. Clarke]] (English), [[Toshio Ishii]] (Japanese)

[[Image:ThiefNight Fakkadi on camel.jpg|thumb|left|230px]]
When [[Outback]] and [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] came looking for the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]], Fakkadi ordered the [[Autobot]]s to leave his country, and acted offended that Decepticons would use his country as a hiding place. It turned out that the Seekers [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] were hiding there. Whether or not Fakkadi knew is unaddressed. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1}}

Later, Fakkadi made a deal with [[Octane]] to allow him and hide [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] in Carbombya while he recovered after his battle with [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]. Trypticon served as a defense for Carbombya's coasts, while Fakkadi allowed Trypticon and Octane access to Carbombya's [[oil]] fields, making extremely powerful [[Energon (fuel)|Energon]]. However, Trypticon's extreme fuel consumption angered Fakkadi. Worse, all the city did was shoot at passing tourist cruises (though in Trypticon's defense, he did think they were invading ships). Fakkadi threatened to call in the Autobots, but Octane managed to negotiate a deal, where Trypticon stole [[Fort Knox]], and its [[gold]], to appease Fakkadi. However, Fakkadi began forcing Trypticon to steal more monuments, to give Carbombya a thriving tourist trade.

[[Image:ThiefNight Fakkadi holding gold.jpg|thumb|right|220px|"Your offering of cheese pleases me."]]
Unfortunately, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] tracked down Octane, but he was able to appease the Decepticon leader by giving him Carbombyan Energon. Fakkadi refused to deal with the Decepticons, but his Autobot trump card did not have the same effect on Galvatron as it did Octane. Running out of options, Fakkadi tried to send a message to the Autobots, authorizing them to invade Carbombya, but Galvatron imprisoned him. However, the Autobots managed to force the Decepticons away from Carbombya. [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] asked Fakkadi to return the monuments and never ally with the Decepticons again. Fakkadi promised the Autobot leader that he wouldn't make any more deals with the Decepticons, swearing by his relatives' various livestock. {{storylink|Thief in the Night}}

===''Transformers Legends'' anthology===
With his country occupied by [[NATO]] forces, and himself ousted from power, Fakkadi became leader of the [[Carbombian Protection League]], a group of freedom fighters working to take back their country. He was able to do a deal with [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] to purchase advanced weaponry for the cause, however his persistence began to irritate the Decepticon. Swindle finally agreed to deliver the promised weapons, however after the handover took place, Fakkadi was arrested by NATO forces, along with his son-in-law [[Pak Milaton]] and financier [[Anton Surich]]. Protesting loudly that they couldn't do this to him, Fakkadi was pistol-whipped into submission by [[Joseph Bergstrum|Major Bergstrum]]. {{storylink|Two for the Price of One}}

==Notes==
*The portrayal of Abdul Fakkadi as the stereotypical "evil Arab" prompted voice actor [[Casey Kasem]], who himself is of Lebanese descent, to quit the Transformers series.<ref>[http://www.ameu.org/page.asp?iid=108&aid=152&pg=6 Casey Kasem on Arab Defamation in the Media.]</ref>
*Fakkadi is loosely based on real-world politician [[wikipedia:Muammar al-Gaddafi|Muammar al-Gaddafi]], the leader of Libya and, for a time in the '80s, an antagonist of the [[United States of America|United States]]. His grandiose collection of titles, meanwhile, appears to be based on [[wikipedia:Idi Amin Dada|Idi Amin]].
*The spelling of Fakkadi as "Faghadi" is another reference to Gaddafi, who has at least thirty acceptable spellings of his name.

==References==
<references/>

{{DEFAULTSORT:Fakkadi, Abdul}}
[[Category:Fiction-only characters]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Humans]]